I always find that the best way to remember a trip is through the souvenirs I bring home — and nowhere does unique, handcrafted, and authentic shopping better than Pittsburgh. This city isn’t just known for its steel industry or sports teams; its vibrant art scene and community of local artisans make it a treasure trove for anyone looking to find something truly special.
Over my multiple visits to Pittsburgh, I’ve made it a mission to seek out the best places to shop for souvenirs that tell a story—whether it’s a hand-painted ceramic bowl, a quirky Pittsburgh-themed T-shirt, or an artisan-made leather wallet. Today, I want to share with you the best shopping centers and traditional markets where you can discover these gems, along with my personal experiences, honest pros and cons, and some insider tips to make your shopping trip both fun and budget-friendly.
1. The Waterfront – Homestead, PA
Location: 1 Waterfront Place, Homestead, PA 15120
How to get there: Located about 10 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh by car or Uber. There’s also a Park & Ride bus service from the city center.
My Experience:
The Waterfront is a modern shopping complex set on the banks of the Monongahela River. This place combines a picturesque setting with an extensive range of shops and eateries. It’s a great place to find popular souvenirs alongside unique Pittsburgh goods.
Pittsburgh Sports Store
If you want something that screams Pittsburgh pride, this store is a must-visit. They carry a variety of official team merchandise, from jerseys to caps to signed memorabilia. The quality is authentic, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. I picked up a Steelers vintage-style tee here that became an instant favorite souvenir.
Pros:
- Huge selection of authentic Pittsburgh sports gear
- Helpful staff who share local sports stories
- Frequent discounts, especially during the season (check their website or app for promo codes)
Cons:
- Prices can be a bit higher than generic souvenir shops, but you’re paying for authenticity.
- Sometimes crowded on game days or weekends.
Tips: Book your parking early if you’re visiting on a weekend; it can fill up quickly.
The Market District at The Waterfront
Adjacent to the sports store, this smaller marketplace hosts local artisans selling handmade goods—from jewelry to artisan soaps to custom woodwork. I discovered a jeweler who crafts delicate earrings inspired by Pittsburgh’s bridges. I bought a pair as gifts for my family, and they loved the uniqueness.
Pros:
- Supports local artisans directly
- Great variety of handmade goods you won’t find anywhere else
- Friendly vendors willing to tell the story behind each item
Cons:
- Limited hours on weekdays
- Some items are on the pricier side due to their handmade nature
Amenities & Extras
The Waterfront also offers excellent dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, perfect for recharging after a shopping spree. I highly recommend stopping at The Cheesecake Factory or California Pizza Kitchen for a family-friendly meal.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Booking: No reservation needed for shopping; parking costs around $5 for the first two hours. For special events or holiday shopping, check The Waterfront’s website for extended hours and deals.
2. SouthSide Works
Location: 424 S 27th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
How to get there: Easily accessible from downtown Pittsburgh by a short 10-minute drive or via the 71 bus line.
SouthSide Works is a lively outdoor shopping district with a distinct industrial-chic vibe, thanks to its location in the former steel mills area. This place feels more youthful and artsy compared to The Waterfront, making it ideal if you want something edgy and trendy.
Stores I Loved:
- Artisan Boutique: This shop is a treasure chest of locally crafted art, handmade stationery, and unique souvenirs. I was drawn to their hand-printed Pittsburgh skyline posters, which made for perfect wall art.
My Experience: The staff were incredibly welcoming and spent time explaining the artists’ inspirations behind each piece. Prices are reasonable, especially for quality handmade work.
Pros:
- Wide range of affordable handmade art and gifts
- Regularly rotating local artists featured
- Easy parking and good public transport access
Cons:
- Smaller space, so sometimes limited stock
- Open mainly during regular business hours (Monday to Saturday)
- The Pittsburgh Made Store: A specialty store entirely dedicated to products made in Pittsburgh—from gourmet food items like jams and hot sauces to hand-thrown pottery and textiles. I bought a handcrafted leather wallet here, which was beautifully made and felt like a lifetime investment.
Pros:
- Genuine local products only
- Helpful staff eager to share Pittsburgh’s artisan stories
- Occasional in-store tasting events for food items
Cons:
- Some products are pricey, but the quality justifies the cost
- Not as large as typical malls, so fewer shopping options
Food & Entertainment
SouthSide Works is packed with trendy restaurants and bars. After shopping, I stopped at Fathead’s Brewery for a local craft beer and their famous pretzel bites—an excellent way to soak in the local vibe.
Parking: Plenty of paid parking lots nearby; public transport runs frequently and reliably. I recommend downloading the Port Authority of Allegheny County app for live bus schedules.
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Booking: No reservation needed for shops; restaurants often accept reservations, especially on weekends.
3. Strip District Market (Traditional Market)
Location: Along Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
How to get there: A short 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from downtown Pittsburgh. Accessible by bus routes 54 or 87.
The Strip District is one of Pittsburgh’s oldest and most beloved neighborhoods, filled with street vendors, food stalls, and small shops selling everything from fresh produce to handmade goods. This is where you can feel Pittsburgh’s soul beating the loudest.
My Favorite Shops and Finds:
- Penn Mac Market: A classic Pittsburgh institution known for its enormous selection of Italian specialties, including imported olive oils, cheeses, and handmade pasta. It’s a fantastic place to pick up edible souvenirs or gift baskets.
I once brought home their famous “Sausage and Peppers” mix that was an absolute hit with my family.
Pros:
- Incredible variety of food and drink souvenirs
- Great for trying authentic Pittsburgh street food while shopping
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff
Cons:
- Can get crowded on weekends and Saturdays
- Some items may be perishable—plan accordingly
- The Handcrafted Market: Set up on weekends, this market features local crafters selling everything from pottery to knitwear. I bought a gorgeous hand-painted ceramic mug here, which has become my favorite morning coffee companion.
Pros:
- Direct access to artisans
- Affordable prices for unique handmade gifts
- Opportunity to chat with creators about their craft
Cons:
- Open mainly on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly
- Weather-dependent, as some stalls are outdoors
Food Stalls and Street Eats
No visit to the Strip District is complete without grabbing some street food. I highly recommend:
- Primanti Brothers: Known for their signature sandwiches stuffed with fries and coleslaw inside. The sandwich is messy but worth every bite.
- Vendors selling pierogis: A Pittsburgh staple—try the cheese and potato variety!
Safety Tip: Street food here is generally safe, but I always recommend eating from vendors who prepare food fresh and have visible health inspection certificates.
Transportation & Convenience
The Strip District is pedestrian-friendly and perfect for a half-day of exploration. Public transportation is reliable; you can catch buses from downtown or even use a rideshare service for convenience.
4. Ross Park Mall
Location: 1000 Ross Park Mall Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
How to get there: About 15 miles north of downtown Pittsburgh, reachable by car or bus route 28.
Ross Park Mall is Pittsburgh’s premier shopping destination for those seeking a mix of luxury brands and local boutiques.
Highlights:
- Local Artisan Pop-Up Shops: Ross Park often hosts pop-up events featuring Pittsburgh makers. During my visit, I found a pop-up with local candle makers, and I bought a limited-edition scent inspired by Pittsburgh’s rivers.
- L.L. Bean & Nordstrom: While these are national chains, their stores here often feature collaborations with local artists, especially in their home goods sections.
Pros:
- Wide selection of shops and brands in one place
- Regular promotions and holiday sales
- Ample parking and family-friendly amenities
Cons:
- Less focused on strictly local products
- Can be busy during peak seasons and weekends
5. East End Food Co-op
Location: 7516 Meade St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208
How to get there: Located in the Shadyside neighborhood, about 5 miles from downtown Pittsburgh, accessible by bus routes 71 or 61.
Though primarily a grocery co-op, the East End Food Co-op has a fantastic local artisan section where you can find handmade chocolates, locally roasted coffee, and unique Pittsburgh-themed gifts.
Why I Recommend It:
The co-op is a treasure trove for foodies who want authentic local flavors packaged as souvenirs. Their staff is always eager to recommend products, and the shop itself is clean, well-organized, and welcoming.
Pros:
- Focus on organic, sustainable local products
- Frequent tastings and educational events
- Easy to combine with a visit to the nearby neighborhood of Shadyside
Cons:
- Smaller souvenir section compared to dedicated gift shops
- Not open 24/7, so check hours before visiting
Shopping in Pittsburgh is an experience that goes beyond just buying souvenirs—it’s about connecting with the city’s culture and supporting its thriving local artisans. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of traditional markets or the sleek convenience of modern shopping centers, Pittsburgh offers options for every taste and budget.
My Top Tips:
- Plan your visits during weekdays if possible to avoid crowds.
- Use local apps and websites to check for pop-up artisan events or markets.
- Don’t hesitate to chat with vendors—they’re often happy to share stories about their craft and even offer discounts.
- Always check for parking deals or public transport passes to save money.
For bookings and up-to-date store hours, I recommend using Yelp, Google Maps, or the official websites of each shopping center. Many places now offer online reservations or gift orders, which is perfect if you want to guarantee that special item before you arrive.
