Pittsburgh had its moment on the national football stage, and the region delivered.
I spent most of Friday and Saturday in Downtown Pittsburgh and on the North Shore, taking in the NFL Draft events, walking around, talking with visitors and soaking up a weekend that felt equal parts football festival and Pittsburgh pride.
It was a blast.
I started both days in Moon, parking at the park-and-ride lot and taking Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s Football Flyer into town. It was quick and easy. As a public transit fan, it was a great way to invite suburbanites and people who don’t think about public transit to experience a big event and skip the traffic, letting someone else handle the drive.
The bus rides became part of the experience. I met people from Ohio, Illinois, California, Washington state and New England. Some were staying in hotels around Moon, Robinson and the airport area. Others had driven in from Ohio for the day. There were Browns fans, Chargers fans, Bengals fans, Ravens fans (ugh) and, yes, even Eagles fans (boo!).
Terrible Towel display
That was one of the best parts of the weekend: Seeing so many different fan bases walking around Pittsburgh. Team jerseys, hats and shirts were everywhere — on the bus, Downtown, along the North Shore and even at the Sheetz in Moon. There is something funny and wonderful about walking into a Sheetz and seeing a mix of Steelers, Browns, Ravens, Vikings, Cowboys and Bengals gear all in one place.
That does not happen every day.
Steely McBeam
Downtown and the North Shore were packed with things to see and do. There were displays, fan experiences, photo opportunities (managed to get a selfie with Steely McBeam!) and plenty of reasons to stop every few feet and look around. The giant Terrible Towel display was a highlight. So were the Lombardi trophies, because let’s be honest, Pittsburgh knows a thing or six about those.
I also spotted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and saw plenty of well-known Pittsburghers throughout the weekend.
Roger Goodell NFL commissioner
One of my favorite moments was watching Montour High School graduate Michael Keaton present a draft pick. (You might know him as Batman.)
Michael Keaton
There were plenty of those moments.
I watched Pat McAfee host a kicking contest at Heinz Field — yes, I still call it Heinz Field — and got walked on the field. For any football fan, that is a pretty cool experience. For someone from Pittsburgh, it hits a little differently. You look around and think of all the games, all the players, all the memories and all the times that stadium has been part of the region’s story. (*hits play on “Renegade”*)
After the draft events, I spent some time walking around Downtown. I stopped into the Silly Goose gift shop, the second location of the store that started in Jim Thorpe, Pa. The owner has become well-known on social media among Pennsylvanians for his dry humor and fun personality, so it was nice to check out the Pittsburgh version in person.
Silly Goose on Wood Street in Pittsburgh
And, because no good Downtown outing is complete without a treat, I got ice cream from Millie’s.
What I loved most was not just the draft itself. It was seeing people experience Pittsburgh.
The NFL Draft gave us a chance to show off a little.
I hope the fans who came here had a great time. I hope they tell people back home that Pittsburgh was worth the trip. And more than anything, I hope they come back.
Because as fun as the draft was, it was only one weekend. There is so much more Pittsburgh waiting for them.
Like sands through the hourglass… the drama around the impending death of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette just keeps getting more convoluted.
On Jan. 7, Block Communications dropped a bomb on the region: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette — a newspaper that’s been part of this community’s civic fabric for nearly 240 years — will publish its final edition May 3, and the entire operation will cease to exist.
This isn’t just another checkmark in the long casualty list of American journalism. This is the newspaper that defined reporting in Pittsburgh, that held power accountable and that offered depth few outlets even attempt anymore.
And soon, it will be gone.
How did the PG get here?
In July 2020, the Post-Gazette declared an impasse in contract negotiations with the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh and unilaterally altered employees’ terms of employment, including health care. (Federal labor authorities later ruled those actions violated labor law.)
That decision sparked a newsroom strike on Oct. 18, 2022, that stretched on for more than three years, officially ending Nov. 13, 2025. PG journalists had been without a contract since 2017.
More recently, a federal appeals court upheld a ruling requiring the company to honor its labor obligations. Block Communications sought a stay from the U.S. Supreme Court. When the justices refused to grant it, the company chose closure over compliance.
The scramble to save something — anything
Since the Blocks refused to comply with the ruling, local groups and individuals have announced a flurry of plans — to expand coverage, remind readers they exist, build something new or attempt to acquire PG assets to keep something alive.
Nearly 50 newsroom staffers who did not strike have called for new union elections and proposed either saving the paper or starting a new one.
Those 49 staffers appear ready to bend the knee. “In today’s media landscape, we must be realistic, not idealistic,” they wrote collectively, adding that they want to “change the tone of our union’s relationship with the Post-Gazette.” Because that has ever worked well for unions.
In a separate effort, former Penguins executive Kevin Acklin is attempting to line up investors to convert the Post-Gazette into a nonprofit newsroom. In an interview with Axios Pittsburgh, Acklin said he had a “good opening conversation” with Allan Block, CEO of Block Communications.
“We feel strongly that converting to a nonprofit is a very attractive alternative to shutting down the Post-Gazette,” Acklin said. “I am hopeful the present ownership group recognizes the importance of the paper to the ongoing vitality of our city.”
Meanwhile, the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh has launched its own initiative — Pittsburgh Alliance for People-Empowered Reporting, or PAPER — aimed at carrying forward the spirit of PG journalism outside Block ownership. The union recently held a virtual meeting that it says drew 145 attendees, despite technical hiccups.
“You made it very clear that you’re eager for an alternative to the Block-owned PG — for something that authentically connects our communities and better reflects the concerns of working-class people,” the guild wrote in a follow-up message. The group plans a public launch in the coming days.
And if all of that weren’t enough, the Tribune-Review announced it will launch a weekend “Pittsburgh” print edition starting May 9. A weekly printed summary of news is not a daily newsroom embedded in the region it serves. Trib staffers are already stretched thin covering Westmoreland County, the Alle-Kiski Valley and whatever drives clicks online.
(Also: why this wasn’t launched before the PG’s closure is anyone’s guess — and speaks volumes.)
A fractured news ecosystem
Pittsburgh won’t technically become a “news desert” when the Post-Gazette closes. There are other news outlets — and operations masquerading as news outlets — that all provide some level of journalism or information sharing.
Public Source. Next Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh Magazine. CityCast Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle. Pittsburgh Business Times. Axios Pittsburgh. Plus television and radio: KDKA-TV, WTAE, WPXI, WESA and KDKA Radio.
None of them offers the depth, breadth or daily accountability journalism the Post-Gazette once provided. Some, in fact, often rely on the PG for their own reporting.
That fragmentation has been happening for years as the paper downsized following circulation cuts, ad revenue losses and Block dysfunction: Suburban weeklies reduced to ad circulars, websites with little original reporting, influencer feeds posing as news, PR firms pushing spin, communications teams rebranded as “content creators.”
You already have to work to find real reporting on Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Removing the Post-Gazette doesn’t simplify the ecosystem — it makes it harder.
The PG’s decline also mirrors a national trend. Locally, the region has lost countless newspapers that once covered suburban communities, school boards and borough councils. With those losses went community calendars, nonprofit announcements and everyday civic information.
People used to look in one place to understand what was happening around them. Now they must subscribe to a patchwork of newsletters, Facebook groups and alerts — and still get less news.
Newspapers helped build community
“The local newspaper not only informs citizens but also helps build community among its readers,” Andrew Conte wrote in his 2022 book, “Death of the Daily News: How Citizen Gatekeepers Can Save Local Journalism,” which examined the closure of the McKeesport Daily News.
Conte references political scientist Robert Putnam’s “Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community,” which argues that social capital — networks of trust and civic participation — has been eroding for decades. Putnam also found a link between newspaper readership and civic engagement.
Without newspapers, it becomes harder for people to share information, build trust and participate meaningfully in public life.
The trance we didn’t notice
Conte also cites media theorist Marshall McLuhan, who warned about society’s failure to recognize how new media reshape behavior.
“If we continue in our self-induced subliminal trance, we will be their slaves,” McLuhan said, referring to electronic media of the time — notably, television.
He died in 1980, three years before the internet.
Apply that logic to cable TV, video games, computers, smartphones, streaming, social media — and now AI. There may never have been a moment more hostile to shared facts and verified information than now.
A less informed public and fractured communities create fertile ground for misinformation, distrust and apathy. Chaos.
This isn’t nostalgia
I love news. I love newsrooms.
But this isn’t nostalgia. It’s a sober assessment from someone who’s worked in journalism and understands what quality reporting actually looks like — as both a journalist and a reader.
Pittsburgh’s civic discourse — what we know, what we debate, who we hold accountable — is poorer without its paper of record. In May, we’re going to find out just how much poorer.
If you’ve ever wondered how Pixar creates its iconic animated films, the answers await you at “The Science Behind Pixar,” an immersive exhibit at the Carnegie Science Center.
After experiencing this immersive, hands-on journey myself, I can confidently say this exhibit is a must-see for fans of animation, science and storytelling alike.
Opened in May 2024 and extended through Jan. 26, the two-story, 12,000-square-foot exhibition transforms the PPG Science Pavilion into “PIXARburgh,” drawing visitors of all ages to dive into the fascinating intersection of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) that fuels Pixar’s creative magic.
A behind-the-scenes look at Pixar’s movie-making process
From the moment you step into “The Science Behind Pixar,” you’re invited to explore the complex world of animation.
The exhibit features more than 50 hands-on activities that break down the intricate steps Pixar takes to bring beloved films like “Toy Story,” “Monsters Inc.” and “Finding Nemo” to life.
At various interactive stations, you can:
Design a robot friend for WALL-E by using magnetic body parts to experiment with how minor changes can impact storytelling.
Adjust lighting on a set from “Up” to see how color and brightness can create entirely different moods.
Control cameras on a large recreation of a set from “A Bug’s Life” to understand how perspective shapes the storytelling process.
These experiences provide a deeper appreciation for the technological brilliance and artistic creativity that go into Pixar’s films.
The exhibit also delivers unforgettable photo moments with life-size recreations of fan-favorite characters. Snap selfies with Buzz Lightyear, Sulley, Mike, Dory, Nemo and WALL-E. These vibrant displays are perfect for Pixar fans of all ages and make for incredible keepsakes.
Pixar’s magic lies in its ability to merge science and creativity, and this exhibit captures that fusion perfectly.
“As Pittsburgh’s most-visited museum, the Science Center strives to connect visitors of all ages with science that ignites curiosity that endures for a lifetime,” Carnegie Science Center Director Jason Brown said in a news release.
Why you should go
Whether you’re a long-time Pixar fan, a STEM enthusiast or simply curious about how animated movies are made, “The Science Behind Pixar” offers something for everyone. It’s an eye-opening, hands-on exploration of the meticulous processes behind the films that have touched our hearts for decades.
Its run was extended for a few more weeks! Don’t miss your chance to explore this one-of-a-kind exhibit before it closes on Jan. 26.
Blending old and new in an amusement park probably isn’t easy.
And it’s especially not easy at Kennywood, where Pittsburghers aren’t always up for change.
But as the park preserves its past, routine maintenance is necessary.
And, as such, the park’s 96-year-old, only-one-left-in-America Racer won’t open for Kennywood’s Phantom Fall Fest.
Its last day was Sept. 16.
In a blog post, Kennywood explains that the roller coaster’s lift hills need replaced and retracked. More than 1,000 feet of lumber will be used. The work will be completed by the park’s in-house team.
“They’ll start with the left lift hill this year, followed by the right lift hill next year,” Mark Frazee, Kennywood’s content manager, wrote in the post.
Of course, it’s not Kennywood’s only restoration project this offseason.
Pittsburgh…are you ready for it? With Taylor Swift’s two “Eras Tour” Pittsburgh shows at Acrisure Stadium (I still call it Heinz Field) approaching (June 16 and June 17!), here is a look at everything you need to know before going — from parking to transportation to bag policies and so much more.
Much of this information has been condensed from the Acrisure Stadium site. Visit that site for more information.
Who is opening for Taylor Swift?
Girl in Red and Gracie Abrams will open for Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh on June 16.
Girl in Red and Owenn will open for Taylor Swift in Pittsburgh on June 17.
When will Taylor Swift start performing?
Based on previous shows, it seems that Taylor Swift will probably take the stage around 8 p.m.
How long does the concert last?
The show begins at 6:30 p.m. Taylor Swift typically features 44 songs, meaning she performs for about three hours, including two secret songs that change each show.
Swiftburgh! From the Carnegie Science Center to Primanti Bros., here are 13 things to do during your June 16-17 weekend in Pittsburgh for Taylor Swift.
Oh, and here is what the stadium likely will look like with the stage.
Arrive early
While the show begins at 6:30 p.m., and Taylor Swift likely goes on around 8, it’s recommended to arrive early. This can ensure you have ample time to pass through security, find your seats, use the restroom, get something to eat and check out the Taylor Swift merch (more on that in a bit).
For Steelers games, the stadium opens two hours before kickoff. This site will be updated once the stadium opening time is known.
What is the Acrisure Stadium bag policy?
Acrisure Stadium enforces a “clear bag policy,” limiting the size of bags to no bigger than 12 inches by six inches by 12 inches. Small clutch purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5” are also permitted, with or without a handle or strap, and need not be clear. Bags must be made of clear plastic, vinyl or PVC.
Small clutch purses — with a max size of 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches — with or without a handle or strap can be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.
A 1-gallon reusable storage bag (think: Ziploc) is permitted.
An exception is made for medically necessary items with inspection at the gate. Diapers and wipes are permitted in a clear bag. Diaper bags are not permitted.
Each member of a family, including children, will be able to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse.
Among other bags not permitted include: Backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, computer bags, other types of purses, cinch bags, tote bags and seat cushions.
What can I take into Acrisure Stadium?
In addition to following the bag policy above, guests are able to bring the following items:
Food — of any kind — contained in a clear plastic bag
Factory-sealed plastic bottles of water or soft drinks that are a maximum size of 24 ounces
Still photography cameras with a lens that is 6 inches or less in length not contained in a case
Hand-carried jackets, blankets or other items that will be searched
Leave these items at home or in the car
Any non-clear bag exceeding the bag policy rules
Apparel or signage displaying profane or abusive language
Alcoholic beverages
Balls of any kind, including full-size footballs
Banners/signs on poles
Battery-operated items (i.e. light up clothing)
Cans, coolers of any type, glass bottles or thermoses
Laser pointers
Noisemakers
Selfie Sticks
Single-purpose video cameras or still-photography cameras with a lens longer than 6 inches
Strollers or seat cushions
Weapons/any item that may be deemed to be a projectile
Any other item deemed dangerous or inappropriate
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Wheelchair policy
Acrisure Stadium has a limited number of wheelchairs available for use during events. Generally, these can be obtained at the Guest Service Locations located at Stadium Gates and Guests Service 104, located near the FedEx Great Hall. You will be required to deposit your driver’s license in order to use a wheelchair.
Guests looking to store a walker or wheelchair may do so at the Guest Services room closest to their ticketed seat.
Re-entry policy
Exit and re-entry is not permitted at Acrisure Stadium. In the case of a medical emergency, proceed to the Guest Services Kiosk at Gate B.
Stadium Wi-Fi
Guests can access free Wi-Fi by selecting the “Acrisure Stadium Public” option on your device.
Aisle obstruction
Standing or sitting in section aisles is prohibited. Guests may not stand in aisles or obstruct others from viewing the event. Aisles must be kept clear.
Banners/Signs
Banners and signs are permitted but must be in good taste, the stadium says. Management reserves the right to determine what signs are in violation of stadium policy and confiscate signs that are in violation stadium policy.
Signs or banners cannot obstruct another fan’s view and cannot cover any stadium signage. They may not contain commercial messages, logos or political endorsements.
Signs cannot interfere with any messaging placed by the event.
Banners or signs that are attached to poles will not be permitted. Banners are not permitted to be displayed in or outside the “Luxury Suites.”
Buy your merch online
Reports from other Taylor Swift shows indicate that wait times for merch lines can be as high as an hour. Save time, save your frustration and just buy online! Trust me!
Battery-operated items
Battery-operated items such as posters, lights or clothing are not permitted into Acrisure Stadium.
Individual cell phone chargers
According to an April 2023 story in the Beaver County Times, individual cell phone chargers, including a charging block and cord, and external rechargeable battery packs, are permitted in the stadium. Security staff members might ask to inspect the device when entering the stadium.
Cashless
Acrisure Stadium is a cashless facility. An accessible ATM is located inside Gate B. Credit and debit cards are still accepted, as well as Apple and Google Pay.
Comments and concerns
For comments and concerns on event day, text PITT33 to 69050 with your issue and location or call the guest hotline at 412-697-7766. For assistance on non-event days, call 412-697-7150 and press 4.
First Aid
There are five First Aid locations throughout Acrisure Stadium. Medical services are provided before, during, and after each event. In the event of a medical emergency, please notify the nearest stadium personnel.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas can be taken into Acrisure Stadium but are not permitted to be open.
“We Connect”
Guests can register members of their party with Acrisure Stadium team members to assist stadium staff in the event an individual becomes separated from their party.
Registration is available at all four Guest Services rooms: Behind Section 104 in the FedEx Great Hall, Lower Level North behind Section 123, Upper Level East behind Section 504 and Upper Level West behind Section 528.
Transportation to Acrisure Stadium
Sure, you can drive there. But between congestion and parking, good luck. Find details here.
Your best bet is to use public transportation.
Pittsburgh Regional Transit offers multiple bus routes and light rail transit lines near Acrisure Stadium.
Using PRT’s trolley/light rail: All lines (red, blue and silver) service Allegheny Station (closest to the stadium) and North Side Station (near PNC Park).
In addition, you could exit the light rail train at Wood Street Station or Gateway Station and walk across the Andy Warhol, Rachel Carson or Fort Duquesne bridges.
Single ride fare cost is $2.75. So, roundtrip would cost $5.50. Recommend getting a ConnectCard, but trains take exact cash. You can get a ConnectCard at most T stations. More details.
Bus routes near Acrisure Stadium: 14 and 18. Both have stops right outside the stadium. Additional routes within walking distance or with a transfer can be found here.
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