7 Ways to Enjoy Pittsburgh’s Rivers This Summer

The rivers that flow through Pittsburgh are what make our city so spectacular. Here are seven ways to soak up their beauty this summer:

🛶 Paddle Down River

Venture Outdoors has a new dock Downtown near the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, equipped with a fleet of kayaks and an accessible launch area for renters with disabilities. Book a two-hour solo or tandem kayak rental through their Kayak Pittsburgh program or take an excursion, like sunrise and sunset paddling. Want to go with a group of friends or coworkers? Check out Venture Outdoors’ kayaking option for 10+ people.

If you’re feeling extra brave, try paddleboarding with Three Rivers Outdoors Co. at the Allegheny RiverTrail outpost in Aspinwall. 3ROC also has kayak and canoe rentals, plus supplies for a river beach day like hammocks, firepits, and chairs.

🛟 Check Out RiverLife’s ‘Shore Thing’

Pittsburgh has a new way to experience the riverfront with RiverLife’s 4,500-square-foot floating platform that’s “part gathering spot, part creative lab.” The hub has art supplies, a floating library, cards, and boardgames. Plus, it’ll host special events like DJ nights, live music, yoga flows, and other workout classes.

⛴️ Cruise on a Riverboat Tour

Immerse yourself in scenic views and Pittsburgh history while cruising on a Gateway Clipper sightseeing tour. The boat boards at Station Square on the Monongahela River, then carries you along the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers while a captain points out interesting landmarks and shares local lore along the way. Look for special cruises with dinner, wine tastings, and live music.

🛥️ Float on a Boat

Pretend you’re in paradise aboard Cruisin’ Tikis, a tropical-themed bar on the river. Make it a daycation or plan a special evening on the water for Zambelli fireworks nights. The boat can pick you up along the North Shore Trail or at the marina at Station Square.

Want to choose your own adventure? Rent a pontoon for a full day of relaxing on the water. Pittsburgh Boat Rental’s 18-foot boats can fit up to 10 people, with a deck area for sunbathing, shaded seating, and a bluetooth stereo for cruising with your favorite tunes.

🌊 Rent a Jet Ski

Catch some thrills on the water with Steel City Jet Ski Rentals. You can book anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours, and roam between the McKees Rocks Bridge on the Ohio, the Hot Metal Bridge on the Monongahela, and the 40th Street Bridge on the Allegheny.

🧺 Eat Alfresco on the Allegheny

Grab a burger and fries from The Foundry Table and Tap on the North Shore, sit on a deck overlooking the water at Redfin Blues on Washington’s Landing, or enjoy an evening of family fun during Summer Fridays at Allegheny RiverTrail Park in Aspinwall. The series features craft beer from Trace Brewing, food trucks, and live local music. Don’t forget a blanket or camp chair!

🚲 Bike Along the Riverfront

Take your own bike or rent some wheels from POGOH to ride along the 35-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Catch stunning city views no matter what side of the river you’re on — and don’t forget to stop and admire art installations along the way. The path connects to the Great Allegheny Passage, which can take you all the way to Washington D.C.