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 seven Pittsburgh river activities.
Pittsburgh River 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.
Story by Emma Rive / Photography Courtesy of Gateway Clipper Fleet
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