Triple the rivers, triple the fun! Pittsburgh is home to the Allegheny, the Ohio, and the tongue-twister—say it with me—the Monongahela. Or you could keep it simple and just say the Mon. Whatever you call the river, Pittsburgh is one of the best cities for outdoor watersports with custom cruises, paddleboarding, and more. Here are 10 Pittsburgh river activities.
Pittsburgh Three Rivers Water Activities
Cruisin’ Tikis Pittsburgh
Board at North Shore location near PNC Park, or at the Marina at Station Square
Great for birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a night out on the town to see the sunset over the city.
Gateway Clipper
Board at 350 West Station Square
The Gateway Clipper is a Pittsburgh classic that gives you spectacular views of PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, and the Point State Park fountain. With options for dining cruises, sightseeing cruises, dance & music cruises, or kids’ cruises, the Gateway Fleet has something for everyone.
Kayak Pittsburgh
Options in North Park Lake Boat House, James Sharp Landing, or Heinz Key Landing
Float and paddleboard your way through North Park, Sharpsburg, or a pop-up location downtown with Venture Outdoors’ kayaking program. Every rental goes to community and youth outdoor programs, so you’re also supporting a good cause.
USS Requin (SS 481) Submarine
Enter through Daniel G. and Carol L. Kamin Science Center
Get under the waves with the Daniel G. and Carol L. Kamin Science Center’s submarine, included with admission to the museum. This submarine might not go anywhere physically, but it’s a trip back in time — the USS Requin originally set out just days before the end of World War II!
Pittsburgh’s Pirate Ship
Can board at North Shore Riverfront Park, but we can also operate from Allegheny Landing, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Point State Park, and the South Shore Riverfront Park
Pittsburgh doesn’t just have a sports team called the Pirates—we also have our very own pirate ship. Pittsburgh pirate ship The Kraken is fun for adults and kids alike. Founded by Commodore Evan Weaver who created it to give back to the community after over a decade of Naval experience, so you’re sailing with a pro!
Steel City Jet Skis
Boarding sites vary, riders can go up the Allegheny River to the Highland Park Bridge, to the Ohio River to the West End Bridge, or up the Monongahela River to the Fort Pitt Bridge
For the adrenaline junkies out there, rent a jet ski from downtown and make big waves in any of the Three Rivers. Call for 10% off bookings for 4 jet skis or more to take a group of friends.
Redfin Blues
100 Waterfront Drive, accessible by car with parking on Washington’s Landing or by foot from the Strip District
If you’re squeamish about boats, here’s some waterfront dining! Head over to Washington’s Landing, a little island oasis on the Allegheny between the Strip District and Troy Hill for seafood and great views at Redfin Blues.
North Shore Water Steps
North Shore Riverfront Park
Okay, so this one is not technically on the Three Rivers but we’ll still count it anyways. Right along the North Shore Riverfront Park next to PNC Park you’ll find stone steps with water flowing over them. Kiddos can get their feet wet and cool down in the water while adults take in the views on the water’s edge. Plus, we’re pretty sure it uses water from the Allegheny River anyways.
Rush Hour Boat Charter
Board at Landing Marina at 238 Station Square dr., Pittsburgh, 15219
Looking for an intimate boat experience on the Three Rivers? Rush Hour Boat Charter accommodates one to six passengers on a comfortable 34′ Cruiser Yacht. These private charters go at a smooth, three to five knot pace with a bring your own food and beer policy. Whether you’re sailgating a Pirates’ game, celebrating a birthday, or just taking in the sights, Rush Hour is the way to set sail.
Venture Outdoors
Various Locations
Other than running Kayak Pittsburgh, Venture Outdoors also puts on a number fo outdoors events on the water. In case you don’t feel up to exploring on your own, Venture Outdoors shows you how to kayak, paddleboard, or even fish. They also feature special occasions like paddling under the Fourth of July fireworks or a full moon.
Story by Emma Rive
Photography Courtesy of Gateway Clipper Fleet
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