Pittsburgh is a city that packs a punch. It’s not just about steel and bridges—although those are impressive—but also about its lively neighborhoods, underground legends, and diverse culinary scene. If you’re visiting, getting a feel for what makes this city tick can be best experienced through a well-chosen tour. We particularly like the Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats for its delicious insights into local flavors and its friendly, knowledgeable guides. Its blend of iconic foods and modern twists makes it a tasty way to explore downtown. For a fun, interactive experience, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt takes you on a digital adventure through Pittsburgh’s streets, perfect for families or groups who want to add some friendly competition to their sightseeing. And for those intrigued by the spooky side of the city, the Pittsburgh Ghosts Haunted Tour offers a chilling walk through haunted sites steeped in tales of the past. Whether you’re after food, fun, or fright, Pittsburgh’s tours offer a little of everything.
Quick Overview
Below, we’ve rounded up the best city tours in Pittsburgh, covering a range of interests. From tasting local bites to solving puzzles or exploring ghosts, each provides a unique way to see the city. For more details, visit each tour’s page – for example, Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats. Now, let’s explore the options.
1. Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats in the Steel City +6 Tastings
At number one, we have Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats, which has earned a perfect 5.0-star rating from 38 reviews. Priced at $95 per person for about three hours, this tour offers an immersive stroll through Downtown Pittsburgh’s most iconic food spots. Led by guides who are passionate about the local scene, you’ll sample six different tastings that showcase Pittsburgh’s evolution from industrial hub to culinary hotspot. The tour includes stops at Point State Park, where you can soak in views of the confluence of rivers, and Market Square, with its lively atmosphere and historic architecture.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on both comfort foods and regional specialties—from classic Pittsburgh hot dogs to innovative modern dishes. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides like Emily and Rob make the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer said, “Best food tour I have ever been on,” highlighting its quality and depth. The tour’s length allows for a relaxed pace, perfect for those wanting an in-depth taste of the city’s food heritage without rushing.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for food lovers who enjoy walking and want a comprehensive look at Pittsburgh’s culinary scene. The $95 price reflects good value, considering the six tastings and rich storytelling.
2. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Pittsburgh by Operation City Quest
For a different kind of adventure, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt offers a lively two-hour exploration of Pittsburgh’s landmarks for just $10 per person. Using a smartphone app, you’ll race around downtown, finding clues, taking photos, and completing challenges. This experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who prefers a self-guided, game-like approach to sightseeing.
What makes this tour unique is its flexibility—you can explore in any order, and the remote host via chat is there to help if you get stuck. Reviewers love the surprises along the way, like posing with a policeman’s vintage car or joining in local traditions. One participant noted, “It helped us get familiar with the city, and we had a lot of fun doing what we wanted.” The activity encourages teamwork and offers a memorable way to see Pittsburgh in a short amount of time.
Bottom line: If you’re on a budget, enjoy interactive experiences, or want a family-friendly activity, this scavenger hunt is a smart pick. Its low price and flexible format make it a great value.
3. Pittsburgh Ghosts Steel City Haunted Tour
The Pittsburgh Ghosts Haunted Tour takes you on an eerie one-hour walk through the city’s darker side, with a rating of 4.5 stars from 16 reviews. Led by guides who are well-versed in Pittsburgh’s haunted tales, this tour explores iconic locations like the Pittsburgh Playhouse, University of Pittsburgh, and the Old Allegheny Jail Museum. Expect ghost stories ranging from spectral apparitions to mysterious whispers that supposedly still linger.
What makes this tour special is its focus on local legends and haunted architecture, creating a spooky yet fascinating experience. Visitors have described guides like Shay or Josh as enthusiastic storytellers who bring the city’s ghostly lore to life. For instance, tales of the Lady in White watching from the balcony or ghostly figures wandering Gothic halls enliven the night. Priced at $24.75, it’s an affordable way to combine history and hauntings.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike, this short but spooky tour provides well-paced storytelling. It’s perfect for an evening outing that’s both entertaining and insightful.
4. Pittsburgh City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge
Next, the Pittsburgh City Scavenger Hunt offers a fun, smartphone-based outdoor activity for $10 per person. Over two hours, your team will follow clues across downtown landmarks, from Market Square to lesser-known spots. The game encourages photo-taking, puzzle-solving, and friendly competition, with the option to ask a live remote guide for hints.
What makes this tour stand out is its broad appeal—whether you’re a group of friends, a family, or coworkers, everyone can participate. It’s stroller and service animal friendly, making it accessible for most. The game leaves you with a collection of photos and memories of Pittsburgh’s historic and modern sites, making it both a sightseeing tool and a keepsake.
Bottom line: This is an engaging, budget-friendly activity for those who enjoy puzzles and exploring at their own pace. Its social aspect makes it suitable for a variety of groups.
$10.00 per person
5. Pittsburgh Art Walk Southside Flats Steel City Scavenger
Finally, the Pittsburgh Art Walk provides an art-focused adventure through Southside Flats. For about 1.5 hours at $14.99 per person, you’ll explore murals, galleries, and hidden artistic treasures via an app-based scavenger hunt. This experience caters to those interested in Pittsburgh’s creative side and urban art scene.
What sets it apart is its emphasis on local art and community, helping you discover murals and installations you might otherwise miss. Perfect for art lovers or those wanting a more culture, it also offers a fun way to walk off some of the city’s famous comfort foods. While it’s new and reviews are limited, the interactive format promises an engaging discovery experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for art enthusiasts or travelers seeking a relaxed, community-centered activity, this tour adds a creative twist to exploring Pittsburgh.
$14.99 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Pittsburgh Visit
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re a foodie wanting a deep dive into local flavors, the Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats is a top pick. For a lively, family-friendly outing, the scavenger hunts by Operation City Quest or 3Quest Challenge make for fun, interactive adventures. If your trip leans toward spooky stories or history, the Haunted Tour offers a quick, atmospheric experience.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the food tasting or haunted walk. Consider the season—summer offers longer daylight hours for walking tours, while autumn’s chill adds to the ghost stories. Finally, check if the tours fit your group’s pace and interests—some favor cultural exploration, others adventure and fun.
Final Thoughts
Pittsburgh’s range of city tours offers something for every traveler. Food lovers will appreciate Savor Pittsburgh Hidden Eats’s in-depth tastings, while fans of puzzles or games can enjoy the scavenger hunts with friends or family. Those intrigued by the city’s mysterious side will find the Ghosts Haunted Tour a perfect fit.
Whether you choose a tasty journey, a playful hunt, or a spooky walk, these experiences give you a deeper connection to the city. We recommend booking in advance and choosing the tour that best matches your curiosity and schedule. With so many options, Pittsburgh is ready to surprise and delight—so get out there and explore!