About Pittsburgh
Once a blue collar bastion in the midst of America’s Rust Belt, Pittsburgh has since transformed into a modern and easy-going riverfront city. One where attractions can be found around every corner, and where good food - be it from Jewish, Italian, German or Polish - can be ordered from every block. The city also offers many outdoor recreation opportunities along its hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, with rivers perfect for a laid-back day of fishing. There are also many cultural pursuits, including the Carnegie museums and Science Center to see and explore, as well as a few well known sports attractions--perfect for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Pittsburgh offers many picturesque reception venues - including both modern and vintage buildings from minimalist offerings to the extravagantly ornate - as well as many local services who can help with them. Featuring top-notch caterers, bakers and local entertainment, you’ll have no problem having a successful (and enjoyable) reception event. And with a wide range of activities to do after - from hiking to swimming to shopping - you’ll have no choice but to have a good
- Interesting Fact
Once inhabited by the Shawnee Tribe, Pittsburgh became a strategic and economic center for future European settlers, and still has a rich history of different cultures today.
Reception Options in Pittsburgh, PA
- Reception Rentals
Need a tent for a large outdoor space? No problem. Dinner service for 200? You’re covered. Pittsburgh party rental companies are equipped to meet your every party need, from audio/visual equipment to bounce houses to champagne flutes for a midnight toast. Some companies also offer full-service reception planning and work with different vendors to provide you with a one-stop reception experience.
- Catering
Whatever food you want for your reception, there is a one-hundred-and-one percent chance one of Pittsburgh’s restaurants have it on the menu. From soul food to seafood, one of the city’s talented chefs can whip up the perfect spread for your reception event.
Bistro To Go
Preparing eye-popping fresh foods for local events for more than 15 years, Bistro To Go has been voted Best Comfort Food Restaurant in the city by Pittsburgh Magazine. They offer several themed menu options to suit a variety of gatherings, including tailgate, Oktoberfest, breakfast and fall harvest, among others.
- Reception Entertainment
Pittsburgh’s live music scene is lively, and its many talented local bands are always available to provide music at events of all kinds. The city is also home to companies specializing in DJ/emcee services, costumed character actors, magicians, dancers and more. Some companies also offer inflatables for younger guests and can provide dance floors and lighting for an all-night party.
- Bakeries
Tasty desserts are just a phone call away from one of Pittsburgh’s many bakeries. You can find almost anything to suit your sweet tooth, from gourmet French pastries to custom cakes and Italian sweet breads. There are also a few Pittsburgh bakeries that cater to vegan and gluten-free customers as well.
Reception Planning Companies in Pittsburgh, Pennesylvania
- Hello Productions
With an all-women powerhouse planning team, Hello Productions is a creative force for wedding receptions, corporate events, social gatherings and more. The company offers full-service planning services to make reception planning an enjoyable experience. Whether it’s a graduation reception, an after-wedding bash or an intimate dinner party, Hello Productions can handle everything and provide day-of coordination so you can enjoy your special day.
- Olive & Rose Events
At Olive & Rose, the focus is on helping you make the best possible decision to create the reception you’ve always dreamed of. The company offers planning for a variety of events large and small, and has a network of quality Pittsburgh vendor partners to take care of all your needs, from invitations to catering.
- Irie Event Design
After more than a decade of experience in Pittsburgh’s event planning and music industries, founders Sarah and Shaunden created Irie Event Design to bring hip, modern trends to the city’s wedding design industry. The planning team specialize in finding ways to integrate music into all their clients' events, as well as doing their homework to ensure their clients’ visions are met and are on-budget.
Pros and Cons of Hosting a Reception in Pittsburgh
Pros:
- Great food scene
Pittsburgh is home to world-class restaurants helmed by talented chefs, and that includes many authentic ethnic establishments, particularly old country Europe.
- Local sports
Pittsburgh loves professional sports, and there are many to choose from for a day out with friends and family.
- Music and arts scene
Pittsburgh has many museums, cultural attractions and a robust live music scene.
Cons:
- Seasonal weather
As it sits at the confluence of two rivers, Pittsburgh is incredibly humid and hot in the summer and very cold and icy in the winter. Hills make driving in winter difficult.
- Traffic
Pittsburgh is a city of bridges, and you’re likely to get stuck on one if you try to cross at the wrong time of day. The downtown area is triangular and is especially difficult to navigate.
- Hills everywhere
Outside of the downtown area, Pittsburgh mainly consists of hills large and small. Walking to your destination may get tiring.
Famous Reception Locations in Pittsburgh, PA
Find a reception venue nearby one of these fantastic Pittsburgh attractions for something to do before or after the event!
- The Duquesne Incline
Take a ride up Pittsburgh’s tallest hill in a vintage trolley to get a stunning view of the city below, which USA Today Weekend Magazine calls one of the “10 Most Beautiful Views in America.” You can stroll around the observation deck and take in some historical exhibits before heading back down to the river valley below.
- Kennywood
Guests who love the adrenaline rush of roller coasters will be right at home in Kennywood. The city’s historic landmark amusement park features three vintage wooden coasters alongside Pennsylvania’s tallest and fastest new age thrill rides. The park also features unique food, games, a historic carousel and activities for visitors of all ages.
- Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium
With themed exhibits and interesting residents, including polar bears, Philippine crocodiles and even the world’s largest rat, visitors won’t be short on things to do at this attraction’s 77 acres of land and sea animal displays. The Zoo also features daily shows and feedings and many virtual and live events throughout the year.