Christmas Sparkle: A Festive Journey Through Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh comes alive with holiday cheer during the Christmas season, and "Christmas Sparkle: A Festive Journey Through Pittsburgh" offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s most iconic yuletide attractions. This guided tour showcases the dazzling lights, grand displays, and architectural marvels that transform the Steel City into a winter wonderland. From the grand Point State Park Fountain to the enchanting Wintergarden at PPG Place, the tour promises to immerse visitors in the festive spirit and provide insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage. With so much to discover, it’s no wonder this tour has become a must-do for locals and visitors alike.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided tour showcasing iconic holiday sights and attractions in the vibrant city of Pittsburgh.
• Explore the enchanting Wintergarden at PPG Place, featuring twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and holiday-themed exhibits.
• Admire the striking architecture and festive displays at the Fifth Avenue Place commercial complex.
• Immerse in the joyful holiday atmosphere of the Cultural District, home to performing arts venues and art galleries.
• Learn about Highmark’s commitment to the community and its modern high-rise headquarters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The ‘Christmas Sparkle: A Festive Journey Through Pittsburgh’ tour provides a 2-hour experience for up to 4 participants, with prices starting from £7,471 per group.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour takes visitors on a festive journey through the city, showcasing its most iconic holiday sights and attractions. From the grand Point State Park Fountain to the enchanting Wintergarden at PPG Place, the tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Pittsburgh’s holiday magic.

Along the way, you will marvel at twinkling light displays, discover serene winter landscapes, and experience the vibrant cultural district.

Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary takes guests on a captivating journey through Pittsburgh’s most iconic holiday destinations. Visitors will first marvel at the grand Point State Park Fountain, a beloved landmark that serves as a dazzling centerpiece during the festive season.

Following this, the group will spend 20 minutes exploring the enchanting Wintergarden at PPG Place, where they can enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of twinkling lights and serene winter landscapes.

Next, the tour moves to the striking Fifth Avenue Place, allowing guests 20 minutes to admire its architectural beauty adorned with holiday decor.

The Cultural District and Highmark, each with their own 20-minute stops, showcase Pittsburgh’s vibrant arts scene and holiday spirit.

The tour concludes at the serene Point State Park.

Point State Park Fountain

At the heart of the tour lies the iconic Point State Park Fountain, a beloved landmark that serves as a dazzling centerpiece during the festive season. Visitors will marvel at the fountain’s grandeur as its waters cascade against the backdrop of the city’s skyline, creating a stunning visual display.

Fountain Facts
Height	150 feet
Installed	1974
Water Flow Rate	6,000 gallons per minute

The fountain’s towering presence and the rhythmic movement of its water features make it a must-see attraction on the tour. As the shimmering jets dance in the air, they create a mesmerizing light show that enchants visitors and sets the tone for the rest of the festive journey through Pittsburgh.

Wintergarden at PPG Place

After admiring the grandeur of the Point State Park Fountain, the tour proceeds to the captivating Wintergarden at PPG Place, where visitors enjoy a festive wonderland of twinkling lights and enchanting displays.

For 20 minutes, the group explores this indoor oasis, marveling at the elaborate holiday decor and the serene atmosphere it creates.

The Wintergarden features a stunning glass atrium, where visitors can stroll along the winding paths and admire the larger-than-life Christmas trees adorned with sparkling ornaments.

The space also showcases a variety of holiday-themed art installations and interactive exhibits, providing a truly magical experience that captures the essence of the season.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fifth Avenue Place

Next, the tour group spends approximately 20 minutes exploring the impressive Fifth Avenue Place, a prominent office and retail complex in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. Visitors marvel at the building’s sleek, modern architecture and the vibrant holiday decor that adorns its sprawling atrium and surrounding public spaces.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Striking modern design with glass and steel facade
Holiday Decor	Elaborate Christmas trees, twinkling lights, festive displays
Atrium	Expansive open space with high ceilings and natural light

The tour group wanders through the bustling atrium, admiring the festive atmosphere and taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season at Fifth Avenue Place.

Cultural District, Pittsburgh

The tour group now heads to the vibrant Cultural District of Pittsburgh, known for its array of performing arts venues, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.

They’ll spend 20 minutes exploring this lively neighborhood, which is home to the famous Heinz Hall, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s grand concert hall.

Nearby, the Benedum Center hosts Broadway musicals and other live performances.

As they stroll along the streets, the group will admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden art galleries showcasing the work of local artists.

With its festive lighting and holiday decor, the Cultural District immerses visitors in the joyful spirit of the season.

Highmark

From the Cultural District, the tour group makes its way to Highmark, a prominent health insurance provider headquartered in Pittsburgh.

This 20-minute stop allows participants to marvel at the company’s impressive headquarters, a modern high-rise with a sleek, glass-and-steel exterior that stands out against the city’s historic skyline.

Guides will point out the building’s architectural features and share insights into Highmark’s role in the local community.

The company is known for its commitment to philanthropy and community engagement, with the Highmark building serving as a symbol of the organization’s prominent presence in Pittsburgh.

Visitors may even spot Highmark employees bustling in and out of the building, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the tour.

Meeting Point

As the tour comes to a close, participants reconvene at the main Christmas tree in the center of Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh – the designated meeting point for the ‘Christmas Sparkle’ experience. This iconic location serves as the perfect gathering spot, allowing the group to reflect on the memorable sights and sounds encountered throughout the festive journey.

The meeting point offers several convenient advantages:

• Easily accessible and centrally located in the heart of the city
• Ample seating and gathering space around the towering Christmas tree
• Nearby access to public transportation and parking
• Opportunity to continue exploring the vibrant Market Square on one’s own
• Ability to say farewell to the tour guide and fellow participants

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The guide can accommodate visitors with mobility needs, and the locations on the itinerary have accessible facilities. Participants should inform the tour company of any special requirements when booking.

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour has a maximum group size of 4 participants, so families with children are welcome to join. Advance reservations are required, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of £7,471 per group of up to 4 participants, regardless of age or student status.

Are Professional Photos Included in the Tour Price?

No, professional photos are not included in the tour price. The tour price covers only the services of a professional local tour guide to lead the group during the 2-hour sightseeing experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator is flexible and willing to tailor the itinerary and experience to meet the specific needs and interests of private parties.

Recap

The ‘Christmas Sparkle: A Festive Journey Through Pittsburgh’ tour offers a delightful way to experience the city’s iconic holiday sights and attractions.

Participants will be enchanted by the twinkling lights, grand Christmas trees, and vibrant displays as they explore the city’s architectural and cultural landmarks.

It’s the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and discover the magic of Pittsburgh during the holiday season.

You can check availability for your dates here: