Are We There Yet?
Pittsburgh is within 500 miles of more than half the U.S. population, including the major cities of Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Washington D.C. It is also located less than 90 minutes of flying time from 20 states and Canada.
Time Zone
Pittsburgh is located in the "Eastern" U.S. Time Zone, 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-5 GMT). Daylight Saving Time is observed from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October.
What to Wear / What to Pack
When packing for your visit to Pittsburgh, think layers, no matter what the season.
- December - February
During the cold months of December, January, and February, Pittsburgh becomes a winter wonderland. Hat, gloves, scarf - and skis if you're adventurous - are all a must! Pack for snow, but be ready for a possible mid-winter break when temperatures sometimes reach into the 50s. Averages high temperatures are in the mid-to-upper 30s. - March - April
When early spring has sprung, you'll want to get outside and really experience Pittsburgh first-hand. Bring jackets, sweaters, and other "layers" to enjoy the warming temperatures and chilly evenings. Average highs in the 50s. - May - June
Pittsburgh is often a bit rainy at this time of year, so don't forget to pack an umbrella! Add in golf slacks, sweaters, and a light windbreaker and you're set for just about any of our unpredicatable weather. Average highs in the low 70s. - July - August
Grab your bathing suit and sandals and head for the water. Summer in Pittsburgh is hot, but fun. Average highs in the low-to-mid 80s. - September - October
Light sweaters are in, as well as your hiking boots, as I'm sure you'll want to get out and enjoy the gorgeous fall leaves of Western Pennsylvania. Average highs in the low-to-mid 60s. - November
Jackets, sweaters, and the occasional hat or pair of gloves are perfect for November. Days are brisk, nights are chilly - with average highs in the upper 40s.
Sales Tax
Clothing, groceries, and specialty foods are all sold tax-free, so plan to stock up! Sales tax is 6% through most of Western Pennsylvania, but is 7% in Allegheny County, including Pittsburgh.
Wine, Beer, and Liquor Sales
Beer can usually be found by the case or keg at local beer distributors, and by the six-pack at many area taverns. Wine and liquor is only available by the bottle at state stores, which are now open 7-days per week, but with limited Sunday hours. Beer and wine are not usually avilable through grocery stores.
Speed Limit & Other Motorist Laws
Maximum speed limit is 65 MPH on most major highways and 25 MPH in most city neighborhoods. Seat belts are required for all front-seat passengers and for back-seat passengers under the age of 19. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 must be buckled into an approved booster seat, while children under the age of four must be properly restrained in an approved child safety seat. Headlights should be used when it is raining and when driving through active construction zones.
Money Talks
ATMs are located throughout the city, especially at convenience stores and Giant Eagle stores. If you need to go to a bank, they're generally open Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4 pm, with some larger branches operating with extended hours and some weekends.
