Pittsburgh isn’t just a city of steel and bridges; it’s a place where urban charm meets natural beauty. Its hilly terrain and riverfront trails make it ideal for bike touring, offering a mix of scenic views, historic neighborhoods, and lively districts. The city’s well-connected bike lanes and dedicated trails make exploring by bike both enjoyable and practical. Whether you want a leisurely ride through downtown or an active day sampling local brews, Pittsburgh’s bike tours deliver unique experiences that reveal the city’s character in a way few other activities can.
For travelers eager to see Pittsburgh from the saddle, there’s a range of options—from guided city explorations to combination tours that include beer tasting. The two best bike tours, highlighted below, showcase the city’s architectural beauty, vibrant neighborhoods, and brewing culture. These tours are tailored to different interests and fitness levels, offering something for all looking to get off the beaten path on two wheels.
1. Pittsburgh: Beauty of the Burgh Bike Tour
At number 1 is the Pittsburgh: Beauty of the Burgh Bike Tour, a 3-hour guided ride that takes you through four downtown neighborhoods. For just $59 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Pittsburgh’s architecture, history, and scenic river trails. The tour is quite popular, holding a 4.9/5 rating from 29 reviews, and reviewers love its combination of leisurely pace and rich storytelling.
What makes this tour stand out is how it balances educational content with easy riding. Your guide will point out landmarks along the river trails and urban streets, sharing stories about the city’s past, including its industrial roots and modern revitalization. Riders get to visit the Strip District, a hub of food vendors and local shops, and explore the Northshore, home to iconic sports stadiums and cultural venues. The route is mostly flat and in bike lanes, making it accessible for most skill levels. Many reviews mention how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge made the experience stand out. One reviewer even noted, “I learned a lot on my first visit to Pittsburgh,” emphasizing the tour’s educational value.
Bottom Line: This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors and anyone wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and scenic riverfronts.
2. Pittsburgh: Bike and Brewery Tour
Taking the number 2 spot is the Pittsburgh: Bike and Brewery Tour, a 3.5-hour adventure that combines cycling with craft beer tastings. For $89 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want to experience Pittsburgh’s brewing scene alongside exploring its historic districts. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, it’s clear this tour appeals to beer lovers and casual cyclists alike.
This tour covers four of Pittsburgh’s well-known historic districts, with visits to four local breweries. Your guide will share insights into the city’s brewing history, which dates back to the early 19th century, and explore the future of beer in Pittsburgh. The ride includes stops for tasting craft beers, making it both a cultural and flavorful experience. The route is designed to be manageable, cycling through lively neighborhoods filled with interesting architecture and local color. One reviewer noted that the guide was knowledgeable about the brewing process, adding depth to the tasting experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you’re a fan of craft beer and want a fun, active way to explore Pittsburgh’s historic districts while enjoying some of the city’s best local brews.
How to Choose Between These Pittsburgh Bike Tours
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your interests and how active you want your experience to be. If you’re looking for a rundown of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and landmarks with relaxing riding, the Beauty of the Burgh Bike Tour offers excellent value and a scenic route. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those interested in history and architecture.
On the other hand, the Bike and Brewery Tour caters to those who enjoy craft beer and want to combine sightseeing with tastings. It’s slightly longer and more specialized, making it perfect if you want a lively, flavorful experience.
Both tours are best booked in advance, especially during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level and whether you prefer a more leisurely ride or a more energetic one with local drinks along the way. Think about your main interest—culture and history or food and drink—and pick the tour that best matches your style.
Pittsburgh’s bike tours serve up a great mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and local flavor. For a relaxed introduction, the Beauty of the Burgh Bike Tour is hard to beat. If your idea of a good day involves cycling and craft beer, then the Bike and Brewery Tour offers a lively, flavorful ride. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you secure a spot on these popular excursions and make the most of your Pittsburgh visit.