Unlocking Pittsburgh: Navigating and exploring the local secrets of our host city

Abstract

P ittsburgh is known as the only city with an entrance, due to the breathtaking views for travelers coming through the Fort Pitt Tunnel onto the top deck of the Fort Pitt Bridge overlooking the city. From this vantage point, the confluence of all three rivers and the glittering skyscrapers of downtown are visible, creating a dramatic reveal of the city during both day and night. This iconic moment has been immortalized by creatives who call Pittsburgh their hometown in such films as Anything's Possible, the directorial debut of Billy Porter, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower, based on the coming-of-age novel by Stephen Chbosky. Make sure to have your own main character playlist cued up for your trip through the Fort Pitt tunnel if you are arriving by car from the south or west.ACRL 2023 attendees traveling downtown from the Pittsburgh airport will have the opportunity to experience this spectacular entrance first-hand. The airport is about 20 miles from downtown and the trip can take from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the traffic. A variety of transportation options are available for travelers exiting the airport at baggage claim. Tickets on the 28X Bus (Airport Flyer) are $2.75 paid in cash at the farebox upon boarding the bus (exact change is required). Alternatively, a taxi or car service will cost approximately $40 depending on the day and time. Those conference-goers who are coming into Pittsburgh by train will disembark at Union Station, just steps away from many of the ACRL conference hotels.