Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on January 23, 2024.
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On the surface it seems like February is the month where things quiet down in Pittsburgh. Winter is at its coldest, the month is short, and overall life moves at a slower pace than months in the more vibrant seasons of the year.
That being said, there are a number of things to enjoy in Pittsburgh throughout the month, and whether you want to get outdoors or stay warm inside we've got you covered in this one!
Covered Bridges in Washington County
Did you know that neighboring Washington County has the 2nd highest concentrations of covered bridges in Pennsylvania? Did you also know that covered bridges are incredibly gorgeous in the winter surrounded by snow?
We're guessing not, which makes February the perfect time to make a trip around Washington County to check out these beautiful pieces of architecture!
Skiing at Seven Springs
Located about an hour southeast of Pittsburgh, the ski resort of Seven Springs is one of our favorite trips outside of the city in the winter.
Although you could make a whole weekend (or week) out of enjoying this resort during the winter, it is an easy trip for those looking to make a long day of it in the middle of winter when the slopes are at their finest. (And, if you're motivated for more, Seven Springs is home to some of the best snow tubing in PA!)
After a long day out skiing, be sure to stop at Christian Klay Winery for a glass of wine before the journey home.
Center for PostNatural History
Post-natural history is an unusual study, as it covers anything that has been genetically altered by man.
This can simply be man breeding two unique flowers together to produce a new flower altogether, or it can be as complex as splicing spider DNA into goats such that their milk produces spider's silk (yes, that has really happened and one of those goats is stuffed and on display at the museum).
If you've ever wanted to learn more about the world of genetic engineering, this museum in Garfield (albeit with limited operating hours) is well worth the visit.
Looking for more in Garfield? Grab a pizza at Spak Brothers, Vietnamese food at Tram's Kitchen in neighboring Bloomfield, or a cup of coffee at Constellation Coffee.
Spirits of the Burgh
Do you love our local Pittsburgh distilleries as much as we do? The brand new Spirits of the Burgh festival is for you!
The team behind the popular beer festival, Beers of the Burgh, are launching a new event in 2024 celebrating all things spirits. Sample spirits and cocktails from over 20 area producers like Liberty Pole Spirits, Maggie's Farm Rum, Noire Expedition, and more at The Pennsylvanian on February 17th from 6 to 9 pm!
Performances at the City of Asylum
The City of Asylum organization in Pittsburgh's North Side is perhaps one of the most unique in the city. One of the group's main goals is to bring in writers who were exiled or persecuted abroad and give them a safe place to continue their writings or to publish a memoir.
There are many public outreach nights setup throughout the year, including jazz, poetry, and other live readings at their performing arts venue on North Avenue. In 2024, they have several great events scheduled including Jazz Night on Thursdays, I Am Ukraine on the 3rd, Pulitzer Prize Winner Hisham Matar on the 6th, and Alla Boara Italian Folk Music on the 11th to name a few.
If you're looking for a bite to eat in the North Side after the performance, check out Nicky's Thai, Monterey Pub, Penn Brewery, or even grab a meal on-site at 40 North!
Nationality Rooms at the Cathedral of Learning
The Cathedral of Learning is an impressive building for a number of reasons. It is one of the tallest educational buildings in the world, the lobby looks like something out of Harry Potter, and the first few floors are filled with themed “nationality rooms” which mimic classrooms from different countries and various historical periods from around the world.
Visit this one when school is not in session to take a self-guided tour of these gorgeous class rooms, and be sure to take the elevator to the 36th floor when you're done for some pretty awesome views of Pittsburgh!
While in Oakland, pay K-Town Snack Bar, or Butterjoint a visit for a great meal!
Church Route on the South Side Slopes
The hills of the South Side Slopes may not be for the faint of heart, but if climbing staircase after staircase for incredible city views along the Church Route is a challenge you are up for, we can assure you that you will not be let down.
Our favorite walk is a slightly modified version of the popular path, which can be found at the link at the beginning of this section.
Find a New Wine Bar
Pittsburgh's wine bar scene has been exploding at a rapid pace in recent years, and there are a number of great options to check out in and around the city. From the old favorites of Allegheny Wine Mixer to First and Third Fridays at Palate Partners, to options like Spill or Mary's Vine, there are a number of great choices for lovers of wine when exploring!
Watch a Movie at Row House Cinema
For our last pick for the month, we are thinking of people who don't want to do much at all when the weather is at its coldest. For you, we recommend checking out a classic film at Row House Cinema in Lawrenceville. This arthouse theater features many favorites throughout the month and allows guests to take in a beverage from the craft beer seller Bierport (next door) to enjoy during the film as well.
Movies here tend to fall within weekly themes, and February 2nd-8th is Feel Good February with gems like Groundhog Day and Big Fish to name a few, followed by Love Languages from February 9th-15th with In the Mood for Love and Romy and Michele's High School Renuion!
This makes for a perfect indoor activity in winter if we ever heard of one! After, find a restaurant to enjoy nearby in Lawrenceville to complete your relaxing day.
Sports in February
The dead of winter means that it is prime hockey season, and all eyes are on the Penguins as they continue their quest for another cup! Home games in February 2024 are on the 6th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 22nd, and 25th, giving you numerous opportunities to cheer the team on to victory.
Pitt basketball is also busy throughout the month with home games on the 31st, 3rd, 17th, and 24th, too!
Shows in February
Although February tends to be a bit of a quite month in the Burgh, there are a number of great shows to check out to end our list.
Up first, the Pittsburgh Symphony has many shows throughout the month including Life Every Voice on the 3rd, Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet on the 9th to 11th, Bohemian Spirit: Dvorak on the 16th to 18th, Fiddler on the Roof on the 23rd to 25th, and more!
The Pittsburgh Ballet will be performing Beauty and the Beast at the Benedum Center on select nights running from February 16th to 25th and PNC Broadway will be winding down its run of My Fair Lady through the 4th.