PPG Place - A close up of a street sign with a city in the background
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PPG Place

4.5
·150 reviews·Pittsburgh, United States

A breathtaking complex of glass skyscrapers with a vibrant plaza, offering a magical ice rink in winter and refreshing fountains in summer.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical ice skating ambiance

CrowdHigh
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PPG Place - A close up of a street sign with a city in the background

PPG Place

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical ice skating ambiance

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking complex of glass skyscrapers with a vibrant plaza, offering a magical ice rink in winter and refreshing fountains in summer.

4.5
(150 reviews)

"The architecture of building and the water fountain show was beautiful. Took nice pics."

Vertical photo
TIP

⛸️ Ice Skating Deals

Student nights offer great discounts! Enjoy skating for as low as $5.50 on Wednesdays.

📸 Golden Hour Photos

The glass buildings are stunning at sunset. Catch incredible reflections for memorable photos.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place

PPG Place Plaza

Glide into winter magic at this iconic outdoor ice rink, surrounded by dazzling glass skyscrapers and a festive holiday tree.

Glass Skyscraper Architecture

Glass Skyscraper Architecture

PPG Place Complex

Admire the futuristic, turret-like glass towers that reflect the sky, creating a unique and dignified presence in the city skyline.

Market Square Charm

Market Square Charm

Adjacent to PPG Place

Discover a vibrant hub of local restaurants and shops, perfect for a post-exploration meal or a relaxing break.

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Planning Your Visit

Winter Wonderland Magic

Experience the enchanting PPG Place ice rink, a beloved winter tradition. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Check the schedule for special events and themed nights.

Architectural Marvel

Marvel at the stunning glass architecture of PPG Place. Visit during golden hour for breathtaking reflections and photo opportunities. Explore the surrounding Market Square for dining and local charm.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical ice skating ambiance
Crowd
High
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Fountains and relaxing plaza
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I finally met Blossom from Powerpuff Girls! 🌸 did you grow up watching any Cartoon Network shows? @Cartoon Network @Cartoon Network Hotel #CartoonNetworkHotel #CartoonNetwork #LancasterPA #Lancaster #PowerpuffGirls
@itsbritc
80.8K likes • 623.3K views

⛸️ Ice Skating Deals

Student nights offer great discounts! Enjoy skating for as low as $5.50 on Wednesdays. Instagram

📸 Golden Hour Photos

The glass buildings are stunning at sunset. Catch incredible reflections for memorable photos. Instagram

Visit PPG Place & Market Square in Pittsburgh's Downtown district to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, marvel at the fascinating architecture, and dine at a variety of local restaurants! #fyp #pittsburgh #pennsylvania #downtownpittsburgh #usa #city #ppg #ppgplace #ppgindustries #marketsquare #marketsquarepittsburgh #aesthetic #travel #trip #roadtrip #travelinfluencer #viral #postitfortheaesthetic #s...
globerisetravel
21 likes • 181 views
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place is officially open for the season! ⛸️✨ Get ready to glide into the season at this iconic Downtown destination, surrounded by the breathtaking glass skyscrapers of PPG Place and a dazzling 65-foot illuminated holiday tree. The rink offers an unmatched winter wonderland experience that’s perfect for skaters of all ages! ❄️🎄 After your time on the ice, stroll over to Mark...
visitpittsburgh
19.3K likes • 470.2K views

🍽️ Market Square Dining

Explore diverse food options in Market Square, right next to PPG Place. Instagram

💡 Pre-Concert Fun

Consider Barcadia for games or Con Alma for jazz before a PPG Arena concert. Reddit

Friday night ice skating at PPG place ❄️⛸️🥶🎄🎄🎅🏻 #pittsburgh #pittsburghpa #412 #pittsburghbeautiful #bestofpittsburgh
pghdroneguy
270 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛸️ Ice Skating Deals

Student nights offer great discounts! Enjoy skating for as low as $5.50 on Wednesdays. Instagram

📸 Golden Hour Photos

The glass buildings are stunning at sunset. Catch incredible reflections for memorable photos. Instagram

🍽️ Market Square Dining

Explore diverse food options in Market Square, right next to PPG Place. Instagram

💡 Pre-Concert Fun

Consider Barcadia for games or Con Alma for jazz before a PPG Arena concert. Reddit

🏙️ Architectural Appreciation

Notice the unique turret-like corners and how the glass reflects the clouds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(150 reviews)

Reviews Summary

PPG Place is widely praised for its stunning, futuristic glass architecture that significantly enhances the Pittsburgh skyline. Visitors love the dynamic reflections and the plaza's transformation into a magical ice rink in winter or a relaxing fountain area in summer. Its prime location next to Market Square adds to its appeal with abundant dining options.

"Hey, we are Vicky 🇵🇪 and Malte 🇩🇪 from the travel blog Traveling Is Our Passion. For a full one-day Pittsburgh guide, check out our blog!

PPG Place is one of the coolest spots in Pittsburgh! The glass buildings look super futuristic, and the whole area has a great vibe. Our friends told us, that in winter, there’s a huge ice skating rink in the middle. In summer, the plaza turns into a relaxing space with fountains—perfect for a quick break while exploring the city.

It’s also right next to Market Square, where you’ll find great food options. If you're into architecture, don’t miss checking out the reflections on the glass—especially at sunset. A must-see in downtown Pittsburgh!"

Traveling Is Our Passion

"Architecture that enhances the Pittsburgh skyline. While steel and glass buildings are sometimes derided for lacking beauty, this structure's turret-like corners lend an air of dignity to the building, while the plentiful glass reflects the clouds for viewers at street level. As a first-time visitor to Pittsburgh, this building captured my attention."

Iowa Reviewers

"Beautiful architectural design that symbolizes Pittsburg as the strong steel capital. These glass buildings were built with class and they’re gorgeous."

RCS S

What People Like

Impressive glass architecture
Iconic ice rink
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Can be crowded in winter
Limited public access inside buildings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

PPG Place is centrally located in Downtown Pittsburgh. Public transportation, including buses and the light rail 'T' system, serves the area. Many hotels are within walking distance, especially those near the PPG Paints Arena. Instagram

Yes, there are several parking garages near PPG Place, including the PPG Place Garage and others in the vicinity. It's advisable to check parking rates in advance. Reddit

For events at PPG Arena, consider public transport or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles. If you have extra time, explore nearby attractions like PPG Place and Market Square. Reddit

Absolutely! Numerous hotels are located near PPG Place and the PPG Paints Arena, offering convenient access for visitors. [^SEO]

Yes, PPG Place is easily walkable from many downtown Pittsburgh landmarks, including Market Square and the Cultural District. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the PPG Place plaza and its exterior architecture is free. Tickets are only required for specific events, such as ice skating or any ticketed exhibitions within the buildings. Instagram

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place typically operates during the winter season. Hours vary, so it's best to check the official PPG Place website or social media for the most current schedule. Instagram

Admission for ice skating usually involves a fee for entry and skate rental. Look out for special promotions like 'Student Night' for discounted rates. Instagram

The PPG Place complex is a working office and retail space, so its common areas are generally accessible during business hours. The plaza itself is a public space, and seasonal attractions like the ice rink have specific operating periods. Instagram

PPG Place offers various spaces for events, including the Wintergarden. Inquiries about booking and costs, such as for a PPG Wintergarden wedding, should be directed to their event management. [^SEO]

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Enjoy the stunning glass architecture, take photos, relax by the fountains in summer, or go ice skating in winter. The surrounding area also offers dining and shopping. Instagram

Absolutely! The unique glass architecture, especially during sunset or with the ice rink, provides fantastic photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

It's a large, festive outdoor rink on the plaza, surrounded by impressive glass buildings and a holiday tree, offering a magical winter experience. Instagram+1

Yes, the plaza features beautiful fountains that are a relaxing focal point, especially during the warmer months. Instagram

PPG Place is adjacent to Market Square, offering numerous dining options, and is also close to Pittsburgh's Cultural District. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Market Square, located right next to PPG Place, is packed with diverse restaurants. You can also find rooftop dining options nearby. Instagram+1

While PPG Place is primarily an office and retail complex, the ground level and adjacent areas, particularly Market Square, offer a wide array of dining establishments. Instagram

Yes, there are restaurants with rooftop terraces in the vicinity of PPG Place, offering unique dining experiences with city views. Instagram

You'll find a variety of cuisines, from sushi and American fare to international options, in the restaurants surrounding PPG Place and in Market Square. Instagram

For drinks and a great vibe, consider Con Alma, a jazz bar in the Cultural District, or explore the many bars in Market Square. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire plaza offers stunning angles of the glass skyscrapers. The ice rink in winter and the fountains in summer are prime photo locations. InstagramReddit

Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting and reflections on the glass. Evenings with the ice rink lit up are also magical. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around large buildings due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone. Instagram

The building's unique glass facade, turret-like spires, and how it reflects the sky and surrounding environment make it highly photogenic. Reddit

Locals often recommend capturing the reflections on the glass, especially during sunset, and the festive atmosphere around the ice rink during winter. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

PPG Place offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The impressive glass architecture can spark curiosity in children, and the central plaza is a great open space for them to explore. During winter, the UPMC Rink at PPG Place is a major highlight, providing fun for all ages. Consider visiting during the day to avoid peak crowds, especially if you have younger children. Instagram

Nearby Market Square offers kid-friendly dining options, making it easy to grab a bite. While the buildings themselves are mostly offices, the exterior and the plaza provide ample space for family enjoyment. The fountains in summer can also be a source of entertainment. Remember to check for any special family-friendly events hosted at the plaza throughout the year.

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting PPG Place itself is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly attraction. Admiring the architecture and enjoying the plaza space costs nothing. For an affordable activity, look for 'Student Night' at the ice rink, which offers significantly discounted prices for skating. Instagram

To save on food, explore the diverse options in Market Square, where you can often find more reasonably priced meals compared to sit-down restaurants in other areas. Packing snacks and water can also help manage costs. Walking is the best way to get around downtown, so consider staying in a hotel within walking distance to save on transportation. Reddit

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

PPG Place provides a romantic backdrop, especially during the winter months. Ice skating hand-in-hand at the UPMC Rink, surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations, is a classic romantic experience. Instagram+1

Visiting during golden hour to capture stunning sunset photos together adds another layer of romance. Afterward, explore the dining options in Market Square or enjoy a cozy drink at a nearby bar. The architectural beauty of the buildings themselves offers a sophisticated and visually appealing setting for a romantic stroll.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Glass Architecture

PPG Place is instantly recognizable for its striking architectural design, a complex of six glass skyscrapers that dominate the Pittsburgh skyline. Completed in 1984, the buildings were designed to pay homage to PPG Industries' (formerly Pittsburgh Plate Glass) heritage. The complex features nearly 20,000 pieces of glass, giving it a futuristic and shimmering appearance. The unique turret-like corners and spires lend an air of dignity and visual interest, making it stand out from typical steel and glass structures. Reddit

Visitors often remark on how the glass facades reflect the sky, clouds, and surrounding cityscape, creating dynamic and ever-changing visual experiences. This effect is particularly captivating during golden hour, when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the buildings. The architecture is not just about aesthetics; it symbolizes Pittsburgh's transition and its continued strength as a modern city. InstagramReddit

While the buildings are primarily office spaces, the central plaza is a public area that transforms with the seasons. In summer, it's a refreshing oasis with fountains, and in winter, it becomes a magical winter wonderland centered around the UPMC Rink. The sheer scale and reflective nature of the glass make PPG Place a must-see for anyone interested in modern architecture or simply looking for a visually impressive landmark. Instagram

Winter Magic: The Ice Rink Experience

During the winter months, the PPG Place plaza transforms into the UPMC Rink, one of Pittsburgh's most beloved seasonal attractions. This outdoor ice skating rink is a major draw, offering a festive and memorable experience for locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by the dazzling glass skyscrapers and often featuring a towering, illuminated holiday tree, the rink provides a picturesque setting for skating. Instagram

Skating here is a popular activity for all ages, from families to couples looking for a romantic outing. The atmosphere is enhanced by holiday decorations and the general buzz of the city during the festive season. It's a quintessential Pittsburgh winter experience, drawing crowds who come to enjoy the ice, the lights, and the unique urban backdrop. Instagram

Tips for enjoying the rink include checking for special promotions, such as 'Student Night' which offers significantly reduced prices, making it an affordable option for many. Visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays can help avoid the largest crowds, allowing for a more relaxed skating session. The rink is a key reason many people visit PPG Place during the holiday season. Instagram

Beyond the Glass: Exploring the Surroundings

PPG Place is not an isolated attraction; its location in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh places it adjacent to other vibrant areas. Directly connected to the plaza is Market Square, a bustling hub that offers a wide array of dining and entertainment options. From casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, Market Square provides a perfect spot to refuel after exploring PPG Place or before heading to an event. Instagram

For those attending events at the nearby PPG Paints Arena, PPG Place and Market Square offer excellent pre- or post-event activities. Reddit users suggest places like Barcadia for a fun, game-filled experience or Con Alma, a jazz bar in the Cultural District, for a more relaxed evening with great drinks. This proximity makes PPG Place a convenient starting point for a night out in the city. Reddit

The Cultural District, also within easy walking distance, offers theaters and live performances, further enhancing the area's appeal. Whether you're interested in architecture, dining, entertainment, or simply soaking in the city's atmosphere, the area around PPG Place provides a rich and varied experience. Instagram

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