With the summer almost completely underway, I decided to put together a Pittsburgh Summer To-do List of different events and places for everyone who either lives in the area, or is visiting the area, to mark on their calendar. I cannot go a whole summer in Pittsburgh without visiting most of these places. Some concerts and destinations may be more suitable for different age groups, but there are plenty of great things for people of all ages to enjoy in the Pittsburgh area this summer! These are just a few.

Summer Places/Events to attend:

Kennywood Park: No summer is complete without a trip to Kennywood Park. Kennywood is a fun place for people of all ages to enjoy. Plus, the park features the new Black Widow ride. Check it out.

Pittsburgh Pirates game: I know 20 losing seasons in a row does not sound appealing, but the Bucs are currently in a battle for first place. Regardless of their record, go watch a game in America’s nicest ballpark and enjoy some great baseball and an awesome atmosphere while you are at it.

Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium: Like Kennywood, a trip to the zoo is a summer-must. One of the best zoos in the United States, the Pittsburgh Zoo is a great place to spend a summer day with family or friends. And yes, there is a new baby sea lion.

Idlewild Park and Soak Zone: Take a drive with the family down Route 30 to Idlewild Park and Soak Zone in Ligonier, PA. Rated America’s Best Kid’s Park, Idlewild is a great family atmosphere, including one of my childhood favorite rides, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. My brother and I took a ride on the trolley at Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood last summer and still enjoyed it. Keep in mind I am 21 years old and he is 18. 

Sandcastle Waterpark: Located right along the Mon River, Sandcastle is a close summer getaway. Have some fun in the sun in Pittsburgh’s only waterpark. Sandcastle also features the new Dragon’s Den slide this summer.

Pittsburgh Area Swimming/Wave Pools: There are plenty of pools in the city of Pittsburgh and in the surrounding areas, like the giant North Park pool. You can also take a dip in one of the area’s wave pools, located in Boyce Park, Settler’s Cabin, and South Park. For more information, visit: http://www.alleghenycounty.us/parks/fees/pools.aspx and http://www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us/parks/swimming.htm

Pittsburgh CLO Production: Sometimes you just need to escape the heat. There are many shows coming to the Benedum Center this summer for you to check out. These shows include A Chorus Line, Annie, Fiddler on the Roof, and the Addams Family. For tickets and showtimes visit: http://www.pittsburghclo.org/

Pittsburgh Steelers Training Camp: In late July, the Steelers head to nearby St. Vincent College in Latrobe for Training Camp. The public is welcome to these practices and many dedicated fans get a chance to see their favorite athletes up close and personal on the practice field. Head out to Latrobe to see your favorite members of the black and gold gear up for another Super Bowl run.

Summer Concerts: Here are just some of the most popular music artists coming to perform in Pittsburgh this summer. Some very popular concerts that return every summer in Pittsburgh are Dave Matthews Band and Kenny Chesney. I am most looking forward to the August 4^th Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa show at First Niagra Pavilion. This concert features a couple of hometown guys coming back to the Steel City to perform their first large-venue show in front of the home crowd. Wiz usually puts on a great show as well. It should be a great time!

Here are just a few of the big names coming to Pittsburgh:

Jimmy Buffet: June 28^th @ First Niagra Pavilion:

Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw: June 30^th @ Heinz Field:

Dave Matthews Band: July 13^th @ First Niagra Pavilion:

Zac Brown Band: July 15^th @ First Niagra Pavilion

Summer Jam w/ Rick Ross, Wale, Tyga, Meek Mill & More: July 21^st @ CONSOL Energy Center

Toby Keith: July 27^th @ First Niagra Pavilion

Wiz Khalifa and Mac Miller: August 4^th @ First Niagra Pavilion:

Big Time Rush with Cody Simpson: August 5^th @ First Niagra Pavilion:

American Idol Live: August 14^th @ CONSOL Energy Center

Jason Aldean with Luke Bryan: August 17^th @ First Niagra Pavilion