Graduation season always gets me a little emotional — even when I’m not the one walking across the stage! And this year, the energy is going to be electric at the Carlow University Graduation at the Pittsburgh Convention Center.
If you’re heading into Pittsburgh to celebrate someone special, first of all — congrats to you and your grad! Second, you’re in for a treat. Spring in Pittsburgh is so underrated.
The streets around downtown and the Strip District are buzzing this time of year. Think sidewalk cafes, riverfront trails full of bikers and joggers, and patios with live music tucked into every corner. You’ll want to get here a little early and soak it all in.
The graduation ceremony itself will be unforgettable — Carlow is all about community, heart, and lifting people up. Expect plenty of proud tears, decorated caps, and a sea of green and white. And after? Don’t just rush home. Make it a celebration weekend!
Here’s a little cheat sheet for a perfect graduation trip:
- Friday night: Dinner at DiAnoia’s Eatery (seriously, get the homemade pasta), then a stroll through the Strip.
- Saturday: Graduation day! Bring tissues. Afterwards, hit up The Milkshake Factory for a celebratory treat.
- Sunday: Chill brunch at Pamela’s Diner, then maybe a lazy walk through Point State Park before heading home.
Local tip: If you want to make your stay stress-free, skip the overpriced hotels downtown. Rivers and Steel City Homes has affordable, beautiful homes nearby — stocked with everything you could possibly need (yes, even laundry pods and good coffee). It’s the perfect cozy home base for celebrating all weekend long without feeling cramped or rushed. 🏡✨