The best time to visit Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is in the spring, from March to May, and in the fall, from September to October. In these shoulder months, the weather is comfortable and mild, and sunny days with little rainfall are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. May and September are also fantastic months to experience the city’s culture and entertainment scene, with loads of events and festivals to enjoy.
While Pittsburgh’s winters are cold and wet and summers are typically hot and humid, spring brings balmy days with bright blue skies and lots of sunshine. Temperatures start warming up, and by mid-May, days are enjoying temperatures in the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C), and evenings are lovely and cool. Climes cool down in the fall, but the city transforms into a mosaic of color, and it’s a wonderful time to be out and about.
Still not sure when to visit Steel City? Get the low down on the highs and lows with this complete Pittsburgh weather guide by season and month!
Got more travel plans on the horizon? Check out our other weather & when to go guides and our Pennsylvania Travel Guide for more tips & recommendations on when to visit, where to go & what to do on your vacation!
Weather in Pittsburgh, PA
By season
Spring
Spring in Pittsburgh follows the adage, “in like a lion, out like a lamb.” The season begins with cold, wintry weather and blossoms into gloriously sunny days. It’s a beautiful time of the year to visit, with the city’s many parks coming alive with blooming flowers, green trees, and singing birds.
The spring weather in Pittsburgh, however, can be quite variable, with mild days and occasional bursts of cold and hot weather. Temperatures gradually increase from lows of 45°F (-1°C) and highs of 55°F (12°C) in March to lows of 55°F (12°C) and highs of 80°F (27°C) by the end of May.
It’s common to see a bit of snow or sleet during March, and April can be a rainy month with occasional thunderstorms. By May, temperatures are usually quite pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain showers.
Spring is a popular time to visit Pittsburgh, so expect slightly higher airfares and hotel rates.
Summer
Summer in Pittsburgh is all about the outdoors! Hiking, biking, movie screenings, and weekly concerts mark the start of summer in June and continue until the end of August.
The summer weather is typically warm and humid, with the odd shower. June is the wettest month of the year in Pittsburgh, with up to 4.3 inches of rain, but temperatures are comfortable. June sees lows of 60°F (16°C) and highs of 80°F (27°C), while the mercury moves higher in July and August to 82°F (28°C).
Humidity levels can be high, particularly in July and August, making the air heavy and sticky. Thunderstorms are also common during summer, with occasional heavy rainfall and lightning.
Despite the heat and humidity, summer is a popular time for outdoor activities in Pittsburgh, and you’ll find plenty to do. Festivals are also a summer season highlight, including Three Rivers Arts Festival in June and the Greek Food Festival and Picklesburgh in July.
Pittsburgh is a popular summer destination, so flight and accommodation prices are higher during this time of the year.
Fall
Summer temperatures may be cooling down, but Pittsburgh transforms into a spectacle of beauty during the fall. As the air turns crisp, the foliage on the surrounding western foothills of the Allegheny Mountains starts changing color, turning the city into a tapestry golden hue.
Fall is a welcome breath of fresh air after summer’s heat and crowds. This magical time of year brings cool fronts and mild temperatures with the odd drizzle here and there. Temperatures range between lows of 64°F (18°C) and highs of 89°F (32°C) in September to lows of 43°F (6°C) and highs of 68°F (20°C) in November.
Hotel, airfare, and attraction prices tend to drop during the fall, making it an excellent time to visit for budget travelers. You might find prices at popular Pittsburgh hotels are slightly higher on weekends when the Steelers are playing football on home ground.
Winter
Pittsburgh winters may be chilly and snowy, but with plenty of exciting winter events and festivals and indoor entertainment, it’s a great time of the year to visit.
Pittsburgh’s winters are relatively mild compared to cities further north. Days are pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from lows of 32°F (0°C) to highs of 58°F (14°C) in December and lows of 35°F (1.5°C) to highs of 61°F (16°C) in February. Nights are crisp and might have the occasional snowfall; however, heavy snowfall is rare, and the city usually only gets a few inches in the coldest months.
The winter season is also the cheapest time to visit the city, so it’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Just make sure to bundle up and carry an umbrella!
Get into the Christmas spirit by watching the Holiday Show and Tree Lighting at Klyde Warren Park and the Annual Candlelight at the Pittsburgh Heritage Village.
By month
January
January can be pretty chilly in Pittsburgh, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 22°F (-5°C) to an average high of 36°F (2°C). They often drop below freezing, so bundle up and dress in layers when exploring the city.
During January, daylight hours in Pittsburgh are relatively short, with an average of about nine hours of daylight. It’s a fun time to take advantage of indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and theaters to escape the cold temperatures and limited sunlight.
January is considered the off-season, and you may find some fantastic hotel deals. Flights to Pittsburgh can also be cheaper during this time of year if you avoid the holidays.
Key events in January
- Pittsburgh Ice Festival
- Restaurant Week
- Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Gallery Crawl
February
Pittsburgh still experiences chilly temperatures in February, with an average low of 25°F (-4°C) and an average high of 39°F (4°C). However, as the month progresses, temperatures slowly rise, providing a glimmer of hope for the impending spring season.
Days are still relatively short, with an average of about 10 hours of daylight. However, this can provide a unique and cozy atmosphere for exploring indoor attractions and participating in winter festivities. February is also one of the drier months in Pittsburgh, with little chance of rain.
Accommodation and flight prices are reasonable in February, but availability can depend on specific events or conferences in the city.
Key events in February
- Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest
- Pittsburgh Winter Warm-Up
- Pittsburgh Auto Show
March
Spring is slowly beginning to emerge, and March is one of the best times of the year to visit Pittsburgh. The month starts with cold temps ranging from 24°F (-4°C) to 44°F (7°C), but by the end of the month, spring is starting to bloom with the mercury floating between 35°F (1.5°C) and 56°F (13°C).
March also brings longer days with an average of about 12 hours of daylight, making it a great month for exploring outdoors and taking in the scenery. Expect the odd rain shower interspersed with sunny days.
Along with the good March weather comes loads of fun things to do in Pittsburgh! Join the city in celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a parade that runs through the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, and enjoy traditional Irish music, dance, and plenty of green attire!
Accommodation prices in Pittsburgh can vary depending on the time of year, but March is typically considered the low season; you should easily find great deals on hotels and flights.
Key events in March:
- Patrick’s Day Parade
- Pittsburgh Home and Garden Show
- Maple Sugaring at the Succop Nature Park
- Pittsburgh Glass Center’s Art on Fire
April
April really gets into the swing of spring! Nights are still quite cool at around 41°F (5°C), but days are balmy at around 62°F (17°C) with an average of about 13 hours of daylight, making it an enjoyable time to be outside. Showers tend to be shorter and less frequent, and sunny and mild days are the norm.
April is a great time to be out in the sun. Celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd with a festival in Market Square or lace up your running shoes and join thousands of other runners for the Pittsburgh Marathon.
April is a less busy time to visit, so you can often find good deals on accommodations and flights. However, booking in advance is always a good idea to ensure availability and get the best prices.
Key events in April
- Pittsburgh Earth Day
- Pittsburgh Marathon
- National Cherry Blossom Festival
- Strip District Market / Bloomfield Saturday Market
May
May is a wonderful time to visit Pittsburgh, with warm weather and lovely sunny days. Temperatures range from lows of 53°F (12°C) to highs of 73°F (23°C) throughout the month, ideal for exploring the city and its beautiful surroundings. You can enjoy up to 14 hours of sunlight daily and the odd rain shower – nothing a light jacket won’t cure.
Accommodation and flight prices are reasonable in May, and availability is good. You’ll find a range of options from budget-friendly to luxurious, so there’s something for every type of traveler.
Key events in May
- Pittsburgh Wine Festival
- Phipps Conservatory Spring Flower Show
- Pittsburgh Taco Festival
- Three Rivers Arts Festival
June
Summer is on the way with warm, sunny days and cool nights. June is the perfect time to get out and about and enjoy the city’s beautiful parks or tackle some popular Pittsburgh day trips. You can expect temperatures to range between 60°F (16°C) and 80°F (27°C) and long days, with the sun setting as late as 8:45 pm by the end of the month.
June does see a fair share of rain, with an average of 3.5 inches spread over the month, so be sure to pack a rain jacket or umbrella.
Despite the rain, it’s a busy month for events and festivals in Pittsburgh, with the Three Rivers Arts Festival continuing from May. You can also join in the fun at the Pittsburgh Pride celebration and the Pittsburgh JazzLive International Festival.
Accommodation prices and flight availability in June can vary depending on the dates you’re looking for, but prices are reasonable.
Key events in June
- Three Rivers Arts Festival
- Pittsburgh Pride celebration
- Pittsburgh JazzLive International Festival
July
Summer arrives in the city with a bang, and days are bright and sunny, with temperatures reaching the mid-80s°F (around 29°C). Nights are cooler in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and ideal for getting out and about and enjoying outdoor park performances. Humidity levels are also relatively high, and you can expect a few rain showers, but they are a welcome respite from the heat.
Summertime is festival time, and you’ll find lots on the go, from the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix to the Pittsburgh Blues and Roots Festival. If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss Picklesburgh, a festival dedicated to all things pickled.
Although July is peak tourist season in Pittsburgh, you’ll still be able to find affordable flights and accommodations if you book in advance. Many hotels and vacation rentals offer special summer deals, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip.
Key events in July
- Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix
- Pittsburgh Blues and Roots Festival
- Picklesburgh
August
As July rolls into August, the hot weather doesn’t abate, and August is another hot month. Mornings dawn at 64°F (18°C) and heat up to around 84°F (29°C). It’s a fantastic time to experience outdoor spaces like the Point State Park and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.
Longer daylight hours and minimal chance of rain make this month perfect for getting out on the water at events like the Three Rivers Regatta.
August is also considered the high summer season, so flights and accommodation can be more expensive.
Key events in August
- Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival
- Three Rivers Regatta
September
The hot weather and summer crowds begin to wane in September, and temperatures cool down significantly, making it one of the best months to visit Pittsburgh. The days are still fairly warm, in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C), but evenings are becoming cool in the mid-50s°F (around 13°C).
Days also begin to get shorter in September, with an average of around 12 hours of daylight per day, and rainfall is frequent, so you may want to pack an umbrella just in case.
September is ideal for visiting Pittsburgh’s cool museums and cultural institutions and enjoying festivals like the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival and the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts.
September is considered a shoulder season, and prices for hotels and flights are usually more affordable compared to the peak summer months.
Key events in September
- Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival
- Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts
October
As the air begins to cool and the foliage transforms into the warm hues of the fall, October is a wonderful month to experience the Steel City. Temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (12°C to 18°C), and you can still enjoy up to 11 hours of daylight daily. Sunny days are interspersed with showery ones, but the spectacular fall foliage in the city’s parks and neighborhoods make up for the rain!
Accommodation and flights are reasonably priced in October, making it a great time to visit. Just be sure to book in advance if you plan to attend one of the city’s popular fall festivals, such as the Pittsburgh Irish Festival or the Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival.
Key events in October
- The Pittsburgh Irish Festival
- Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival
- Pittsburgh Zoo ZooBoo
November
November marks the beginning of the cooler weather in Pittsburgh, and temperatures float between the mid-30s and the mid-50s Fahrenheit (1°C to 12°C). The days are getting shorter, with just nine hours of daylight daily, and it’s one of the rainiest months of the year, so be sure to pack an umbrella!
Despite the cooler temperatures and rainy weather, November can still be a great time to travel to Pittsburgh. Many of the city’s museums and art galleries offer a respite from the cooler temperatures, and the fall foliage makes for some beautiful sightseeing around the city, including the left Mount Washington neighborhood.
November tends to be a less busy time for tourism, so watch out for great deals on hotels and flights.
Key events in November
- Light Up Night
- Pittsburgh International Auto Show
December
By December, winter has set in, and although the winters here aren’t as freezing as they are further north, you’ll still experience cold temperatures and icy rain with a chance of snowfall. Temperatures range from lows of 24°F (-4°C) to highs of around 41°F (5°C) during the day.
Visiting attractions in December can be a magical experience, as Pittsburgh is known for its holiday events and decorations. The city’s downtown area comes alive with lights, decorations, and festive occasions. The annual Light Up Night celebration kicks off the holiday season with a lighting ceremony, fireworks, and other fun activities.
December is a popular time to go to Pittsburgh, so accommodation and flight prices are higher during the holiday season—book in advance to ensure availability.
Key events in December
- Light Up Night
