When it comes to airports, most travelers think of long security lines, waiting at the gate, and grabbing a quick bite before boarding their flight. But at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), the experience can be much more enjoyable. With a focus on showcasing local flavor and unique retail options, Pittsburgh International Airport offers travelers a chance to enjoy a piece of Pittsburgh’s renowned culture, even while on the go.
For those flying in or out of Pittsburgh, there’s a world of local shopping and dining options available, giving travelers a taste of the Steel City without having to leave the terminal. Whether you’re looking to savor a classic Pittsburgh sandwich, pick up local artisan goods, or explore specialty shops featuring regional favorites, PIT offers something for everyone.
Pittsburgh International Airport: An Overview
Before diving into the details of shopping and dining, it’s worth getting a sense of what makes Pittsburgh International Airport stand out. Located approximately 20 miles west of downtown Pittsburgh, PIT serves as the main airport for Western Pennsylvania. It’s a hub for travelers both domestic and international, and it has been recognized for its efficiency, customer service, and overall traveler experience.
One thing that sets PIT apart is its commitment to featuring local businesses and products. The airport’s dining and shopping options go beyond typical chain restaurants and generic gift shops. Instead, PIT highlights Pittsburgh’s unique culinary and retail scene, allowing travelers to get a taste of the city without ever leaving the airport.
From local breweries to family-owned eateries and unique shops that reflect Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage and modern innovation, Pittsburgh International Airport offers a rich experience that goes beyond mere convenience. For visitors and locals alike, it’s a chance to connect with the city, whether you’re flying in for business or heading home from a weekend getaway.
Local Dining at Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh is known for its rich food culture, and that’s reflected in the dining options at the airport. From iconic sandwiches to craft beer, you can find a variety of local favorites right inside the terminal. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout dining options available at Pittsburgh International Airport.
1. Primanti Bros.: A Pittsburgh Icon
When you think of classic Pittsburgh food, one name often comes to mind: Primanti Bros. Famous for their “almost famous” sandwiches stacked with meat, cheese, coleslaw, and fries all between two slices of thick Italian bread, Primanti Bros. is a must-try for any traveler passing through Pittsburgh International Airport.
Primanti Bros. has been a local favorite since its founding in 1933 in the Strip District, and its unique style of sandwich-making has become synonymous with Pittsburgh’s working-class roots. At the airport location, you can enjoy the full range of their menu, including their iconic sandwiches like the Pittsburgher or the Capicola & Cheese, alongside other casual fare like wings, salads, and burgers.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before your flight or a satisfying meal after a long journey, Primanti Bros. offers a true taste of Pittsburgh that you won’t want to miss.
2. Local Craft Beer: Voodoo Brewery
Pittsburgh has a thriving craft beer scene, and Voodoo Brewery brings that experience to travelers at Pittsburgh International Airport. Voodoo Brewery, a staple of Western Pennsylvania’s craft beer community, offers a variety of locally brewed beers, each with its own unique flavor profile.
At their airport location, travelers can sample some of the brewery’s best-known beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. Whether you’re grabbing a beer to enjoy with your meal or sitting down for a flight of local brews, Voodoo Brewery provides a relaxing spot to unwind before your departure.
If you’ve got time to spare, try pairing your beer with some light snacks or shareable plates from the menu. Voodoo’s laid-back, community-driven vibe makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a taste of Pittsburgh’s burgeoning craft beer culture.
3. Burgh Sportz Bar
For sports fans, Burgh Sportz Bar offers the perfect blend of Pittsburgh sports culture and good food. As a city with passionate fanbases for the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates, Pittsburgh takes its sports seriously—and that’s reflected in this airport bar and restaurant.
Burgh Sportz Bar is decked out with TVs showing live games, sports memorabilia, and plenty of Pittsburgh pride. The menu includes a variety of pub favorites, such as burgers, wings, and fries, as well as local craft beers on tap. Whether you’re grabbing a bite to eat before catching your flight or stopping by for a drink while watching a game, Burgh Sportz Bar is a lively and energetic spot that celebrates Pittsburgh’s love of sports.
4. Penn Brewery
For travelers looking to experience authentic Pittsburgh cuisine with a historical twist, Penn Brewery is a fantastic choice. As one of the city’s oldest breweries, Penn Brewery has been brewing traditional German-style beers since 1986, and their airport location offers travelers the chance to enjoy their award-winning brews in a casual setting.
In addition to the beer, Penn Brewery offers a menu that features some classic Pittsburgh and German dishes, such as bratwurst, pretzels, and sauerkraut. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, you can also order sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrees. With its long-standing roots in Pittsburgh’s beer scene, Penn Brewery is a great place to enjoy local flavors before or after your flight.
5. The Strip Market
For travelers who want to grab some snacks, sandwiches, or take-home goodies that reflect Pittsburgh’s famous Strip District, The Strip Market is a must-visit. Located inside the airport, this market-style eatery offers a curated selection of local products, from fresh deli sandwiches to Pittsburgh-made snacks, candy, and beverages.
The Strip Market is the perfect place to pick up a quick, portable meal before boarding, or to grab some unique Pittsburgh treats to bring home as a souvenir. With its focus on local, high-quality products, it’s a great reflection of the Strip District’s eclectic and bustling food scene.
Local Shopping at Pittsburgh International Airport
While the dining options at PIT reflect the city’s culinary history, the shopping experiences offer a chance to discover local products, souvenirs, and gifts that are unique to Pittsburgh. Whether you’re picking up a last-minute gift or browsing for something special to commemorate your trip, the shops at Pittsburgh International Airport are worth exploring.
1. PG&H: Local Artisans
One of the most exciting additions to Pittsburgh International Airport is PG&H, a retail store that features handmade products from local artisans. Pittsburgh has a thriving maker community, and PG&H brings the best of these local crafters to the airport, offering a wide range of products from home goods to jewelry, clothing, and accessories.
From handcrafted ceramics to beautiful woodwork and locally designed textiles, PG&H offers travelers a chance to take home a unique piece of Pittsburgh’s creative culture. It’s the perfect place to find a meaningful souvenir or a gift that reflects the craftsmanship and artistry of the region. For anyone who appreciates handmade, one-of-a-kind items, PG&H is a must-visit shop.
2. Black & Gold: Pittsburgh Sports Gear
No trip to Pittsburgh would be complete without celebrating the city’s sports teams. Whether you’re a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates, Black & Gold is the place to shop for officially licensed team gear.
From jerseys to hats, hoodies, and other fan apparel, Black & Gold has everything a Pittsburgh sports fan could want. You can pick up memorabilia, souvenirs, or the latest team merchandise to show your Pittsburgh pride wherever you go. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or grabbing a gift for a fellow sports fan, Black & Gold offers a comprehensive selection of Pittsburgh sports gear.
3. Pittsburgh Exchange
For travelers looking for a diverse selection of gifts and souvenirs, Pittsburgh Exchange is a go-to shop. This boutique-style store offers a curated mix of Pittsburgh-themed items, including T-shirts, mugs, magnets, postcards, and more. If you’re in search of something to remember your trip by, Pittsburgh Exchange has a wide variety of items that celebrate the city’s unique culture and history.
In addition to traditional souvenirs, Pittsburgh Exchange also carries locally made products such as food items, small-batch soaps, and candles. It’s a great place to find thoughtful gifts that reflect the essence of Pittsburgh, whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or yourself.
4. Hudson News: Last-Minute Essentials and Pittsburgh Mementos
Of course, no airport would be complete without a reliable newsstand, and Hudson News delivers on all fronts. While it’s a convenient spot to pick up travel essentials, snacks, and reading material, Hudson News also offers a variety of Pittsburgh-themed products, from books about the city’s history to Steelers and Penguins gear.
If you’re in need of a quick souvenir or want to grab a Pittsburgh T-shirt or mug before boarding your flight, Hudson News is a solid option for last-minute purchases. While it carries many typical airport items, it also highlights Pittsburgh’s rich culture and sports legacy.
5. Tech on the Go
For travelers who need to grab some last-minute tech accessories or gadgets, Tech on the Go offers a wide range of electronics and accessories. Whether you forgot your phone charger, need a new set of headphones, or want to pick up a portable power bank, this store has everything you need to stay connected on your journey.
While not necessarily a “local” store in the traditional sense, Tech on the Go is an essential stop for any traveler who wants to make sure they’re equipped with the right tech for their trip.
Enhancing Your Experience at Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport has made significant efforts in recent years to transform the airport into more than just a place to catch a flight. With new initiatives focused on passenger comfort, local culture, and sustainability, the airport continues to evolve to meet the needs of modern travelers.
1. Relaxing and Recharging
If you have a long layover or simply want to relax before your flight, PIT offers plenty of comfortable seating areas, charging stations, and even quiet zones where you can unwind. Many of the dining areas and shops provide seating where you can enjoy your meal or browse products in a leisurely atmosphere.
2. Connecting to Pittsburgh’s Art and Culture
Pittsburgh International Airport is also home to several art installations and exhibits that celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. From local artists’ works to large-scale public art pieces, these exhibits add a creative touch to the airport’s terminals. Keep an eye out for rotating art displays as you walk through the airport—it’s a great way to connect with Pittsburgh’s vibrant art scene.
Conclusion: A Local Experience at Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport is more than just a travel hub—it’s a reflection of the city’s culture, food, and craftsmanship. With an impressive array of local dining options and unique shopping experiences, travelers can get a taste of Pittsburgh’s iconic flavors and discover products that celebrate the city’s heritage.
Whether you’re picking up a Primanti Bros. sandwich, sampling a local craft beer, or browsing handmade goods from local artisans, PIT offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the best of Pittsburgh before or after their flight.
Next time you find yourself at Pittsburgh International Airport, take a moment to explore the local shopping and dining options—you might just discover something new about the Steel City.
