November is when hockey season truly feels alive in Pittsburgh. The air gets crisp, the skyline glows earlier in the evening, and black-and-gold jerseys fill the streets around PPG Paints Arena. If youβre planning a trip to catch a Penguins game this November, this guide has everything you need β the full home schedule, what to expect, where to eat, what to do, and why staying with Rivers & Steel City Homes (riversandsteel.com) is the smartest move youβll make.
π November Penguins Home Schedule β PPG Paints Arena
| Date | Opponent | Why It Matters |
| Thu, Nov 6 | Washington Capitals | Classic rivalry: Crosby vs. Ovechkin era nostalgia. |
| Sun, Nov 9 | Los Angeles Kings | West Coast speed meets Eastern grit. |
| Sun, Nov 16 | Nashville Predators (Matinee) | Early game β family-friendly, perfect for kids and first-timers. |
| Fri, Nov 21 | Minnesota Wild | Friday night energy + solid defense matchup. |
| Sat, Nov 22 | Seattle Kraken | Newest NHL team meets old-school hockey town. |
| Wed, Nov 26 | Buffalo Sabres | Thanksgiving Eve β expect packed stands and great atmosphere. |
| Sat, Nov 29 | Toronto Maple Leafs | Historic Original Six franchise + passionate traveling Leafs fans. |
Game times are typically between 7:00β7:30 p.m., except Nov 16βs earlier family matinee.
π¨ Where to Stay: Rivers & Steel City Homes
Forget cramped hotel rooms. Stay like a local with Rivers & Steel City Homes, boutique short-term rentals located in some of Pittsburghβs best neighborhoods β minutes from PPG Paints Arena.
Why Travelers & Hockey Fans Prefer Rivers & Steel:
- β Closer to PPG Paints Arena than many hotels (locations in Oakland, Greenfield, South Side, North Side).
- β Full kitchens, living rooms & parking β ideal for groups, families, or friends traveling together.
- β Warm, local touches: coffee stocked, guidebooks, restaurant recommendations, even board games for post-game hangs.
- β Book direct at riversandsteel.com for the best rates and no hidden booking fees.
π Best Game Day Eats (Before or After the Game)
Whether you want to grab food near PPG Paints Arena or explore local favorites close to your Rivers & Steel stay, here are the canβt-miss spots:
Near PPG Paints Arena:
- Burgatory (PPG Arena Level) β Custom burgers + milkshakes.
- Slice on Broadway β Classic Pittsburgh pizza inside the arena.
- TΓ€kΕ or Condado Tacos (Downtown) β Modern tacos + margaritas.
On Your Way Home to Your Rental:
- Primanti Bros (Strip District) β Iconic Pittsburgh sandwiches with fries inside.
- Big Jimβs (Greenfield) β Old-school Italian-American comfort food.
- Apteka (Bloomfield) β Unique Eastern European-inspired vegan food.
- The Pub Chip Shop (South Side) β Pie shop + late-night snacks.
π Fan Tips for a Smooth Game Day
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Arrive 60β90 min early | Avoid lines and explore the arena shops and warmups. |
| Parking? Plan ahead | Use the Second Avenue Garage, Melody Tent Lot, or walk/Uber from your Rivers & Steel rental. |
| Dress in layers | Arenas are cold β hoodies, light jackets, beanies are perfect. |
| Traveling with kids? | Go on Nov 16 (matinee) + stay in a Rivers & Steel family-friendly home for easier naps/meals. |
| Thanksgiving Week Games (Nov 26 & 29) | Book accommodations early β these games and holiday weekends fill up fast. |
π Make It a Weekend: Things to Do in Pittsburgh
If you’re staying for a night or a long weekend, youβll have plenty to explore:
Near Downtown & the Arena:
- Market Square β Coffee, live music, fall markets.
- PPG Place Ice Rink β Opens mid-November β magical downtown skating.
- Heinz History Center β A must for sports fans (Roberto Clemente, Penguins history & more).
Neighborhood Adventures:
- Strip District Morning Trip β Coffee at La Prima, biscotti, pierogies.
- Oakland (near Rivers & Steel homes) β Museums, Pitt Cathedral of Learning, Schenley Park trails.
- Mount Washington β Take the incline for skyline views β especially stunning after a night game.
π November Vibes & Holiday Touches
- Early Month = Peak hockey energy + fall leaves around the rivers.
- Mid-Month = First snow flurries, hot chocolate, scarves and jerseys season.
- Thanksgiving Week = Buffalo & Toronto games, family in town, and time to stay somewhere cozy and comfortable instead of cramming into guest bedrooms β thatβs where Rivers & Steel comes in.
β Ready to Book Your Stay?
Whether you’re coming for one game or planning a full hockey weekend, make it stress-free and memorable with a local stay.
π Book direct at: riversandsteel.com
π Stay close to the arena, explore real Pittsburgh neighborhoods, and enjoy space to relax after a big win.
Planning your trip? Our year-round guide to things to do in Pittsburgh keeps everything in one place — see the full Pittsburgh events calendar, or book your stay near the action.
