Weekend in Pittsburgh | Acrisure Stadium

There’s something about college football weekends that just hits different — the travel, the excitement, and the energy of seeing your team play somewhere new. When UT took on Pitt at Acrisure Stadium (home of the Steelers), it wasn’t just another game — it was a full experience. Between the stadium atmosphere, the food, and the city itself, Pittsburgh made for one of those weekends that sticks with you.

Acrisure Stadium Experience

If you’ve never been, Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field) sits right on the river and gives you one of the best views in football. It’s got that perfect mix of historic Pittsburgh grit and modern design — wide concourses, great sightlines, and plenty of energy no matter where you sit. Whether you’re in the lower bowl or up high, you’ll still catch skyline views and feel that hum of excitement that Pittsburgh brings to every game.

Food-wise, this stadium doesn’t mess around. Start with a Primanti Bros. sandwich — stacked with fries, coleslaw, and your choice of meat — it’s a Pittsburgh classic. There are also stands serving pierogies, cheesesteaks, and BBQ options that hit the spot. Drinks are easy to find, too — grab a local craft beer like Iron City or go for a lemonade or cold brew if you’re skipping alcohol.

The crowd? Electric. Pitt fans are passionate but fun, and when you mix that with traveling SEC fans, the energy turns up even more. Working the game from the stadium was unreal — the noise, the view of the river, and the sea of colors in the stands make it one of the best college football environments I’ve experienced.

Friday: Arrive & Get a Feel for the City

Settle in and explore the North Shore first — it’s where the stadium sits and where a lot of the action happens. Walk the riverfront trail, grab dinner at Burgatory or Southern Tier Brewery, and take in the views of the city lights reflecting off the water.

If you’ve got extra time, cross one of Pittsburgh’s many bridges (there are over 400!) and check out the Strip District for unique shops and quick eats.

Saturday: Explore Pittsburgh Your Way

Whether you want to relax, stay busy, or dive into the city’s history, Pittsburgh has a little of everything:

• For the Relaxer: Spend the morning walking through Point State Park, where the three rivers meet. Grab coffee at Commonplace Coffee and enjoy the views.

• For the Explorer: Ride the Duquesne Incline up Mount Washington for panoramic views, then walk through the South Side for food and local shops.

• For the History Buff: Visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History or the Heinz History Center — both are well worth a few hours.

• For the Foodie: Try The Strip District Market, sample pierogies, and stop by Primanti Bros. again (you’ll want round two).

Sunday: Game Day at Acrisure Stadium

Wake up early and take a walk along the North Shore Riverwalk — you’ll see tailgates starting hours before kickoff. Once you’re inside, soak it in: the sound of the band, the view of the river, and 60,000 fans ready to go.

Grab something from your favorite concession stand (my go-to is a Primanti sandwich and a lemonade) and enjoy every second. It’s the kind of stadium that makes even a workday feel like you’re part of something bigger.

After the game, stick around the North Shore for a postgame meal or drink — places like Stage AE, Rivertowne Brewery, and Tequila Cowboy are packed with fans, music, and energy.

If You’re Planning Your Own Weekend

Pittsburgh’s an easy city to make the most of in 2–3 days. It’s walkable, full of views, and has a proud, sports-obsessed culture that welcomes visitors. Whether you’re there to cheer on your team, work the game, or just explore, it’s one of those cities that surprises you with how much it has to offer.