Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on September 18, 2024.
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October in Pittsburgh is often when fall makes itself known. The temperatures drop rapidly, fall colors reach their peak, and the end-of-year slowdown starts becoming much more apparent.
But that doesn't mean you have to slow down in your explorations of the city, as it turns out October is another great month where you can get out and enjoy the city!
So if you are looking for things to do in Pittsburgh in October, check out the following options.
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Doors Open Mighty Monongahela Boat Tour
Doors Open Pittsburgh offers some rather amazing tours throughout the year, including getting into skyscrapers downtown, historic buildings, and more. On their Mighty Monongahela tour, taking place October 19th in 2024, you can explore the Mon on a 90 minute tour that goes into the area's history in greater depth than you may get on other tours!
Halloween Attractions
There are many great Halloween attractions in Pittsburgh to check out in October.
From Phantom Fall Fest at Kennywood to area haunts like Hundred Acres Manor, Castle Blood, Zombies of the Corn, and more, you really can get your scare on this month!
For those who are scare-averse, be sure to check out for lights-on, behind-the-scenes tours for a scare-free experience, too!
Autumnfest at Seven Springs
Most Pittsburghers think of Seven Springs Mountain Resort as a winter destination thanks to its ski slopes, but this one has a lot to do year-round!
The celebration of fall typically occurs over multiple weekends in September and October with their annual Autumnfest (typically the first three Saturdays and Sundays in October). Here you can get into fall fun with artisan crafts, chair lift rides in the resort to go hiking, listen to live music, celebrate Oktoberfest (select weekends), and so much more.
Chase Fall Colors at Area Parks
In the mood to get out in nature and check out the fall colors near Pittsburgh? There are a number of area parks you may want to check out that look absolutely gorgeous when the leaves start to change. From Schenley Park in the city to McConnells Mill State Park and Laurel Hill State Park, you have a number of great spots to go explore!
Smoketoberfest at the East End Popup
While Roundabout Brewing is no longer, the North Shore popup space has found great new owners in East End Brewing. They're keeping the spirit of the popup alive in October with the return of the immensely popular Smoketoberfest event.
In 2024, Smoketoberfest will take place on October 19th from 2 to 6 pm and will feature smoked brews from six breweries, smoked food from several local producers (including one of our favorites- Blowfish BBQ), live music, and a whole lot more. Tickets are $45 and get a souvenir mug, a full pour of beer from your favorite brewery, and tickets to sample food from all the vendors on site.
Phipps Fall Flower Show
We often lament the fact that, much like fall, Phipps Conservatory's Fall Flower Show feels far too short. Running just about three weeks, this one is a limited time special that you really must seen.
In 2024, the Fall Flower Show's theme is Rhythm & Blooms and takes a musical approach to all things flowers. Be sure to check out the exhibits during the limited run from October 5th to 27th!
• Traveling to Pittsburgh soon? Find a flight deal.
• In need of a room? Check out hotel and apartment prices.
• Don't overlook picking up a rental car or day tours as well!
Pittsburgh Oktoberfest in Market Square
While there are many great Oktoberfest celebrations in Pittsburgh from late September to early October, downtown Pittsburgh is getting into the fun with a new event in 2024- the aptly named Oktoberfest Pittsburgh.
This event runs from October 3rd to 13th and will transform Market Square into a Bavarian village with decorations, games, music, and ample beer. Be on the lookout for ample event programming as well as a 60-foot tall Ferris Wheel on the Sixth Street Bridge!
Pittsburgh Ghost Tour
Looking to get acquainted with Pittsburgh's dark side? A pre-Halloween ghost tour is in order with the folks at Haunted Pittsburgh. This two-hour tour covers some of the city's most famous hauntings- hilarious, insidious, and otherwise.
After the ghost tour grab a drink at The Commoner or the Biergarten at the Hotel Monaco.
Allentown Night Market
Head to Pittsburgh's Allentown neighborhood for a night of fun at the Allentown Night Market on October 5th from 7pm to 11pm. Check out local independent artists, music, food and beverage, and so much more after the sun sets!
Sports in October
Although we would always hope for the Pirates to make it into the post-season for October, it wasn't in the cards in 2024.
Thankfully, there are a number of great games coming up throughout the month! The Penguins come out of pre-season with regular season games on the 9th, 16th, 18th, 29th, and 31st in October!
The Steelers play three home games in 2024 on October 6th, 20th, and 20th, the Pitt Panthers play at home on October 12th and 24th, and the Riverhounds play their final games on October 12th and 26th at 7pm!