Best Boutique Hotels in Pittsburgh

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Pittsburgh

Known as the Steel City, Pittsburgh is often equated with its industrial history but peel back the layers, and you’ll find there’s a lot more to this dynamic city than its gritty past. Spend a few days in Pennsylvania‘s second-largest city, and you’re sure to be impressed by its world-class museums, impressive food scene, and a plethora of nature-filled activities.  

Culture vultures will love spending time in the historic Cultural District. Tucked away in the heart of downtown, along the Allegheny River, you’ll find a range of theaters, concert venues, and lush parks in this part of town. 

Explore a bit further up the river, and you can go shopping and gallery hopping in the Strip District’s trendy revamped warehouses. Or, for a different view of the skyline, hop on one of the many cruises along the Allegheny! 

Head across the river, and you’ll definitely want to stroll through the historic Point State Park, explore the huge collection of art at the Andy Warhol Museum, and get educated at the Carnegie Science Center

From spending a family-friendly day at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium to partying the night away at one of the many trendy bars in the Strip District, Pittsburgh has something exciting to offer any type of traveler!

Pittsburgh is also home to a variety of historic hotels, riverside retreats, and art-filled boutique hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Pittsburgh to help you plan your perfect getaway!

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Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh: Best Boutique Hotels

It’s no surprise that some of the best hotels in Pittsburgh are clustered around the downtown area. Downtown is perfectly positioned at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers, which merge to create the Ohio River. So the location couldn’t be more picturesque! 

This is hand down the best place to stay if this is your first time in Pittsburgh. Plus, all of the shops, restaurants, and concert venues of the Cultural District are right outside your door. 

If you’re planning on an action-packed vacation, pick a hotel on the North Side (or North Shore), and you’ll never get bored. Sports fans will be able to walk to Heinz Stadium and PNC Park (home of the Steelers and Pirates, respectively). Plus, major attractions like the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Science Center, and the Mattress Factory are all close by.

For those looking to let loose and enjoy Pittsburgh’s vibrant nightlife scene, look no further than the Strip District! The area’s former warehouses and wholesale markets have been transformed into all sorts of trendy boutique hotels, swanky cocktail bars, and gourmet bistros. 

Lawrenceville is yet another hip revitalized neighborhood. Stay here, and you’ll be surrounded by vibrant art galleries, popular bars, and cool shops. This is definitely the coolest part of town to stay! No matter which part of town you decide to base yourself in, the city’s metro system makes getting around town a breeze.


The 12 Best Hotels in Pittsburgh

1. The Industrialist Hotel

The Industrialist Hotel is set in a historic building in the heart of the Central Downtown Historic District. You’ll be able to walk to all sorts of shops and restaurants. Plus, the metro is just a short stroll away, so getting around the city is a cinch! 

The stylish guest rooms are all outfitted with mid-century furniture, retro decor, and modern ensuites with complimentary Nest toiletries. You’ll also have free Wi-Fi and a marble-topped workstation if you need to get some work done during your trip. Or, if you just want to relax, you can always order room service and watch your favorite Netflix show on the smart TV.

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to mingle with friends, head down to The Industrialist Lounge for handcrafted cocktails and a refined menu of light bites. For more substantial meals, The Rebel Room serves up excellent modern American dishes and expertly mixed cocktails.

Explore the hotel, and you’ll also find a maker space – which hosts all sorts of cool events – as well as a state-of-the-art gym.


2. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh

It’s no secret that Kimpton Hotel Monaco is the coolest boutique hotel in Pittsburgh! This art-filled hotel is housed in a 1903 Beaux Arts-style building, offering the perfect blend of historic intrigue and luxurious amenities. Plus, the Cultural District, Market Square, and Mellon Square Park are just steps away.

The Gatsby-esque rooms feature plush beds with tufted green headboards, chandeliers inside gilded birdcages, and spa-like ensuites with Atelier Bloem toiletries. If you’re in town for a special celebration, it’s well worth splurging on the 1,008-square-foot Emperor Suite. You’ll love the lavish living room, 6-person dining table, and regal bathroom complete with a free-standing tub.

Head up to the rooftop bar in the evenings, where you can mix and mingle with fellow guests during the complimentary wine hour. If you want to keep the party going, the seasonal rooftop Biergarten specializes in European beer and German-inspired bites. If that’s not enough, The Commoner serves up a creative menu of locally sourced American tavern fare.

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3. Distrikt Hotel Pittsburgh

If it’s not apparent already, Pittsburgh is chock full of incredible historic hotels, and Distrikt Hotel is yet another example. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Distrikt Hotel is housed in a former Salvation Army Building dating back to 1924. So expect to find all sorts of original limestone, woodwork, and stained glass throughout this Gothic Revival-style building. 

Whether you’re in town for work or play, Distrikt Hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll love the plush platform beds with leather headboards, handy workstations, and subway-tiled walk-in showers. The Keurig coffee makers, mini-fridges, and Bluetooth charging stations are nice added touches. 

One of the coolest things about this hotel is the 10th-floor rooftop terrace, where you can glimpse panoramic city views while looking out over the Monongahela River. This is the perfect place to watch the sun sink over the city before heading out for the evening!   


4. Omni William Penn Hotel

If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat in the heart of the Business District, Omni William Penn Hotel is the best hotel in Pittsburgh. Since opening its doors in 1916, the hotel has played host to movie stars, business moguls, and heads of state – so expect nothing but the best! 

You’ll love relaxing in the sophisticated rooms, which boast beautiful carpeting and drapery, colonial-style cherry wood furnishings, and luxe marble baths. The in-room coffee makers, beverage chillers, and MP3 compatible alarm clock radios are cool extra features.

If you want to keep up with your workout routine, there’s a 24-hour executive gym onsite. However, the hotel also offers thoughtful in-room fitness kits if you’d rather work out in the privacy of your luxury room. 

In the evenings, you can opt to lounge around in your bathrobe and order room service or get all dressed up and dine in one of the many hotel restaurants. From watching sports and drinking beers in The Tap Room to dining on award-winning locally sourced dishes at the Terrace Room, you’ll be spoiled for choice!


5. Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel

Set in the historic Fulton Building – right on the Allegheny River – the iconic Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel stands proud as one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh. Not only is the riverside setting picture-perfect, but you can walk to all of the Cultural District’s theaters and concert venues, as well as the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, PNC Park, and Heinz Field. 

Before heading out for the day, you can fill up on steak and eggs, avocado toast, or brioche French toast at the hotel’s restaurant, Braddock’s Rebellion. In the evenings, Braddock’s Street Side serves up seriously good cocktails, as well as farm fresh American mains. And, if you need to get some work done or want to work out, the hotel also features a business center and fully outfitted gym.

You’ll love crashing out in your stylish room at the end of a fun-filled day. All guest rooms boast mid-century decor, an eclectic selection of art, and designated workstations. While all the rooms offer excellent views, we highly suggest getting one of the rooms overlooking the Allegheny River!

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6. Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty

One of the best boutique hotels in Pittsburgh, Hotel Indigo is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a hotel in the East Liberty neighborhood. Plus, this hotel is pet-friendly if you want to bring your furry friend along! 

Each of the 135 guest rooms is inspired by East Liberty’s 1920s theater culture. You’ll love the plush beds, hardwood floors, and spa-like marble baths with Aveda toiletries. Wake up in the mornings, and brew your morning cup of joe with the Keurig coffee maker before heading down to the 24-hour gym for your morning workout. 

For a hearty breakfast, head over to the hotel’s restaurant Wallace’s Whiskey Room and Kitchen, where you can fill up on American breakfast classics from farm fresh three-egg omelets to indulgent eggs, biscuits, and gravy. With creative handcrafted cocktails and 16 local beers on tap, this is also the perfect spot to gather with friends after an adventure-filled day on the town.


7. Fairmont Pittsburgh

Whether you’re in town for work or pleasure, Fairmont Pittsburgh has everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Plus, the Four Diamond Fairmont Pittsburgh is just steps from all of the attractions in the Cultural District, including the Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts

This is also one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh if you’re traveling with your dog. The friendly staff will offer you a dog-friendly map of the area’s green spaces and walking trails, a plush dog bed, water and food bowls, and more! 

But your furry friends aren’t the only ones that will get pampered. The hotel boasts a luxurious health club and spa where you can treat yourself with massages and facials. The luxury extends to the rooms, which all feature stylish furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping city views, and standard four-fixture bathrooms. 

If you’re feeling lazy, you can order a leisurely breakfast or dinner from the hotel’s restaurant straight to your room. Or, if you feel like going out, you can sip seasonal cocktails at Andy’s or enjoy modern American dinners at the hotel’s fl.2 (Floor 2) restaurant.


8. TRYP by Wyndham Pittsburgh/Lawrenceville

If you’re looking for the coolest hotel in Pittsburgh, look no further than TRYP! This hip hotel just happens to be located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood, which was dubbed as “The Coolest Neighborhood in America” by TIME and Money magazines.  

Set in the former 1937 Washington Education Center, each floor of the hotel boasts local art installations and works inspired by the trade that was once taught in that space. You can also expect all sorts of artsy events to be held at the hotel throughout the year.

The forward-thinking rooms are outfitted with industrial-chic decor, original artwork, and beautifully appointed ensuites. Depending on what you’re looking for, some rooms offer unique amenities, from bunk beds to stationary workout bikes.

One of the coolest things about TRYP is the rooftop bar, where you can gather with friends and sip sunset drinks. After pre-dinner drinks, head down to the main restaurant for creative, locally sourced dishes. Think seared bourbon-glazed salmon, herbed ricotta gnocchi with mushrooms, and handmade pierogis.

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9. The Westin Pittsburgh

The Westin is the ideal choice if you’re in town to attend an event or conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. With a direct indoor walkway connecting you to the Convention Center, the location couldn’t be more convenient! Plus, after you’re done with work for the day, you’ll be within walking distance of all of the restaurants and shops that line the buzzing Cultural District.

Explore the hotel, and you’ll find the 10,000-square-foot WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, which is filled with state-of-the-art exercise and cardio equipment, including Peloton bikes. Once you work up an appetite, you can raid the hotel’s market pantry for light snacks and refreshing drinks or grab a latte and pastry at the onsite Starbucks. For something more substantial, Bills Bar & Burger serves up hearty salads, burgers, and snacks. 

When you’re ready to crash out for the night, you’ll love relaxing in the hotel’s modern rooms. Luxuriate in the marble ensuite, get comfy on the Westin Heavenly Bed, and catch up with your favorite HBO shows with the flat-screen TV.


10. Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh Downtown

Located right in the heart of the Cultural District, Courtyard by Marriott is surrounded by all sorts of excellent restaurants and just down the road from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. From a 24-hour fitness center to contemporary guest rooms, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

The spacious rooms boast 12- to 17-foot vaulted ceilings, comfy sitting areas with sofa-beds, and spacious workstations. You’ll love that you can have relaxing movie nights with the 55-inch HDTV, brew your morning coffee with the in-room coffee maker, and keep cold drinks in the mini-fridge.

Start your day with a hearty made-to-order breakfast and espresso drink at the hotel’s The Standard Market & Pint House. If you don’t feel like researching where to dine at night, the restaurant also has an excellent menu of American mains and creative cocktails. If you do want to sample one of Pittsburgh’s excellent eateries, August Henry’s City Saloon, the Meat and Potatoes gastropub, and Bakersfield Tacos are just steps away from the Marriott.


11. Cambria Hotel Pittsburgh – Downtown

If you’re looking for a home away from home in the city, Cambria Hotel is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh. The hotel features spacious studios or suites with one or two bedrooms, so it’s the perfect pick if you’re traveling with a group of friends or as a family.

The standard studios boast plush pillow-top beds with down pillows, two flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view movies, and modern ensuites. You’ll also have a microwave, coffee maker, and fridge to help you make yourself right at home. If you need more space or are planning on an extended stay, booking one of the suites is well worth it for the separate bedroom(s) and living room. 

When you’re not relaxing in your suite, go for a swim in the indoor pool, soak your aching muscles in the hot tub, or keep up with your workout routine in the fitness center.  If you’re hungry, Cambria is home to a full-service restaurant, which serves up creative American fare and a long list of local craft beer.

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12. Pittsburgh Marriott City Center

If you’re a sports lover, the award-winning Pittsburgh Marriott City Center is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh. PPG Paints Arena is right across the street if you’re in town to catch a Pittsburgh Penguins match. Plus, Heinz Stadium and PNC Park (home of the Steelers and Pirates, respectively) are both just across the Allegheny River. 

From plush pillow-top beds to blackout curtains, the rooms have everything you need for a restful night’s sleep. Plus, the high-tech rooms feature iPod docking stations, 55-inch flat-screens with premium movie channels, and high-speed internet (for an added fee). 

When you’re not out on the town or relaxing in your room, you’ll love doing laps in the indoor pool, taking a steam in the sauna, or fitting in your daily workout in the hotel’s state-of-the-art gym. You can also grab your morning coffee at the onsite Starbucks, or if you’re looking for a more leisurely option, Crafted North dishes out huge American-style breakfasts. This is also a prime spot to mingle over evening cocktails and craft brews!

That completes our list of the 12 best Pittsburgh hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Pittsburgh? Comment below so we can add them to the list!


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best historic hotel in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh is chock full of incredible historic hotels, and Distrikt Hotel is one of the best. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Distrikt Hotel is housed in a former Salvation Army Building dating back to 1924. So expect to find all sorts of original limestone, woodwork, and stained glass throughout this Gothic Revival-style building.

What hotel in Pittsburgh offers a 24-hour gym?

If you want to keep up with your workout routine, Omni William Penn Hotel has a 24-hour executive gym onsite. The hotel also offers thoughtful in-room fitness kits if you’d rather work out in the privacy of your luxury room.

What hotel in Pittsburgh is pet-friendly?

Fairmont Pittsburgh is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh if you’re traveling with your dog. The friendly staff will offer you a dog-friendly map of the area’s green spaces and walking trails, a plush dog bed, water and food bowls, and more!

What is the best Pittsburgh hotel near David L. Lawrence Convention Center?

The Westin is the ideal choice if you’re in town to attend an event or conference at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. With a direct indoor walkway connecting you to the Convention Center, the location couldn’t be more convenient!

What hotel in Pittsburgh is near the PPG Paints Arena?

If you’re a sports lover, the award-winning Pittsburgh Marriott City Center is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh. PPG Paints Arena is right across the street if you’re in town to catch a Pittsburgh Penguins match. Plus, Heinz Stadium and PNC Park (home of the Steelers and Pirates, respectively) are both just across the Allegheny River.


About the Author:

  • Justine Lopez

    Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust!

    In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond.

    When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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