go_laura

Hi All,

We're traveling to Pittsburgh July 1- 4 for husband's 50th birthday, and he'd like to stay at a hotel that has a great view of PNC Park (we already have tix for 7/2 game against Phillies).

Suggestions?

Thanks,
Laura

bachslunch

I don't remember there being anything in the area (certainly no places to stay or eat) other than the various stadiums and arenas for the city's four sports teams, plus a subway stop. And I don't remember hearing anything positive about the area north of where the stadiums are until you reach the Italian Market area stretch.

For what it's worth, I walked south of the Italian market several blocks in search of a cheesesteak joint that was supposed to be first-rate, Cosmi's Deli. The cheesesteak was indeed excellent, but the place is a local convenience store with an added place to cook cheesesteaks and a deli counter (and no seating), and the area went downhill in a big hurry once I left where Geno's and Pat's is located (at the bottom end of the Italian Market). I walked with purpose to the place, got the sandwich go, and then hastened back up north to South Street, where I found a place to sit and eat the sandwich. My understanding is that the area pretty much stays bad between Cosmi's and the stadiums.

joethekay

There is a Spring Hill Suites across from PNC Park.
In my estimation this is one of the finest ballparks in the country.

bachslunch

Oops, sorry, misread your post. The game's in Pittsburgh, not Philadelphia.

Can't help you there.

go_laura

Bachslunch, that was funny, I'm actually from Philly myself, so I was reading along, saying to myself, "Wait a minute, this is starting to sound like Philly!" as I have been to THAT ballpark countless times. While this is off my original topic and I'd still love to hear more ideas for hotel overlooking ballpark in Pittsburgh, I can't resist asking...I don't think highly of Pat's OR Geno's for a cheesesteak, is Cosmi's worth the trip, do you think?

theatrelover

You might check whether the Hilton or the Renaissance have rooms which overlook PNC Park. They are both across the river from the park but I do not know whether any rooms overlook the park. We stayed at the Omni which was easy walking distance to the park and everywhere else and we got an excellent rate from them

bachslunch

go_laura, like you I was seriously underwhelmed by cheesesteaks at Geno's and Pat's. Have tried cheesesteaks at several Philadelphia spots and would place these two at the bottom of my personal list.

I indeed think Cosmi's is worth going to, but I'd drive there, pick the sandwich up to go, and drive elsewhere to eat it. Was definitely not crazy about the neighborhood it's in.

My top spot for cheesesteaks would be Jim's, but I'd put Cosmi's in second place. On an earlier thread I ranked them in order top to bottom as Jim's, Cosmi's Deli, Rick's, Tony Luke's ballpark, Dolce Carini, Campo's, Sonny's, Pat's, Geno's. Note that I tried Rick's when they were at Reading Terminal Market -- haven't been to their new location at the Bellevue.

Trekker5211

The Renaissance is the only hotel that has rooms that actually can see the field. Most rooms there have a view - you could call though and ask for one with a wider view.

also, the Fairmont, which just opened, seems to have views into the park... but I don't have experience with it.

The Hilton, Springhill Suites, etc. only give you views of the exterior.

go_laura

Thanks for the replies! I am going to look into the Renaissance and the Fairmont. Just heard that the 3 river Regatta is that weekend and have no idea how big a deal that is or isn't in Pittsburgh; am hoping it doesn't affect finding a hotel room, or things being too crowded that weekend. Guess we'll find out!

Bachslunch, my cheeseteak vote will always be only with John's Roast Pork Have had them at most of those others and they don't even come close. Tho' never had one at Dolce Carini's and they're probably my favorite pizza in Philly, so will have to try that!

Trekker5211

The Regatta won't effect hotel rooms too much... most of the crowds you'll see will be locals.

And though downtown may be a bit more crowded than usual, the major crowds will just be along the rivers - not mobbing downtown sidewalks.