There is plenty to see and do in this vibrant city -- which finds itself in the midst of redevelopment in many communities.
My husband and I have visited Pittsburgh often. If you've never been, consider a trip out -- and a stay in one of the many excellent bed and breakfasts in the city and the surrounding area.
Bed and Breakfasts in Pittsburgh
While in town, we stopped by several B&Bs and had the opportunity to tour most of those. Following are brief descriptions of some of the inns we visited.
The Inn on the Mexican War Streets
The innkeepers at this Northside inn are busy converting a carriage house behind mansion into a 30-seat country French-style restaurant with white-glove service and a 60-seat pub on the second floor. Nestled in a neighborhood with many current renovation projects, the Inn on Mexican War Streets sits across the street from The Commons, a wide-open park. However, a drive in the wrong direction will quickly place you in a part of town where renovation hasn't caught on. Still, the inn itself -- former home of financier and department store baron Russell H. Boggs -- offers six suites and two executive suites (private kitchens and offices) and the owners are part of an active revitalization in this part of the city.
Morning Glory Inn
This inn, the inside of which we were able to see only by peeking in though the entrance door (we saw the innkeeper driving out just as we arrived) sits in Pittsburgh's South Side, an area full of eclectic shops, taverns, clubs, restaurants and galleries. The Morning Glory Inn is an 1862 home with five guest rooms and an 1890 Chickering Grand Piano. Amenities available include a copy machine, printer and fax; rooms are equipped with private phones, digital answering machines and modem connections.
Inn on Negley
Located in the historic Shadyside area (a very nice part of the city), the Inn on Negley has managed to capture a more modern feel despite the fact that most of it is located in an 1884 home. (Some of the inn is in a more recent addition.) The history can be felt with the period furnishings and antiques, the decorative plasterwork and the original wood floors. Most of the seven rooms include a fireplace and Jacuzzi, and private phones with voice mail and dataports will appeal to business travelers. One block away is Walnut Street, home to some of the most unique dining and eating opportunities in Pittsburgh. (This B&B was formerly known as The Appletree Bed and Breakfast.)
