A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pittsburgh vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Edmonton, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a friendly, cultural, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Edmonton travel costs.

Pittsburgh and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pittsburgh than Edmonton. While Edmonton is larger than Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pittsburgh is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Edmonton is more popular for its shopping. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". Also, Pittsburgh is famous for Mount Washington. Edmonton is well known for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Pittsburgh different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edmonton and Pittsburgh. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Edmonton and Pittsburgh.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Edmonton. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.


Is the Food Better in Pittsburgh or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Pittsburgh is very good for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Pittsburgh or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Pittsburgh is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Pittsburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Edmonton is great for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Edmonton. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Pittsburgh or Edmonton Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Pittsburgh and Edmonton are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Pittsburgh offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Edmonton is a family-friendly place to visit. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Pittsburgh or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Edmonton is a nice place to visit for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Edmonton is a good city for couples to visit. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Pittsburgh or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Pittsburgh and Edmonton both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Edmonton has a few public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.


Is Pittsburgh or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Edmonton

Pittsburgh and Edmonton are notable when it comes to walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

Edmonton is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pittsburgh or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Pittsburgh than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pittsburgh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

Families should spend more time in Pittsburgh than Edmonton. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Pittsburgh, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Edmonton than Pittsburgh. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edmonton that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pittsburgh than Edmonton if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pittsburgh.


  • How many days in Pittsburgh or Edmonton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pittsburgh 2-3 
    Edmonton 1-2

One day in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

The city of Pittsburgh offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edmonton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Pittsburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pittsburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Pittsburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Edmonton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Pittsburgh is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Edmonton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Edmonton or Pittsburgh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Pittsburgh Prices
    USA Prices
    Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pittsburgh $220
    Edmonton $191

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $220, while the average daily cost in Edmonton is $191. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Pittsburgh and Edmonton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Edmonton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Edmonton $202
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Edmonton

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh or Edmonton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Pittsburgh


Hotels in Edmonton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices and Edmonton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Edmonton $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $241
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $120
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $120
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Prices for flights to both Edmonton and Pittsburgh change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Pittsburgh $94
    Edmonton $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Handmade Sushi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Pittsburgh: $75
  • Downtown Pittsburgh Hidden Eats Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $95

Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

Some typical examples of dining costs in Edmonton are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $7.26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Edmonton $91

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Pittsburgh's Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Echoes from the Iron Forge: Pittsburgh Phantoms Ghost Tour: $32
  • Reel Pittsburgh Movie Tour: $33
  • Black & Gold Sunset Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Holiday Lights Tour: $33
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $45
  • Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour: $45
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $50

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Edmonton are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton City Highlights 2 Hour E-Scooter Tour: $93
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour, E-Bike Upgrade Avail.: $99
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based: $4.00
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $146
  • Edmonton Food Walk Tour: $102
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $54
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • Edmonton Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • 3-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour With Guide: $4.02
  • City Bike Tour, Highlights and River Valley: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pittsburgh $33
    Edmonton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


When comparing the travel costs between Pittsburgh and Edmonton, we can see that Pittsburgh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pittsburgh Expensive? and Is Edmonton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Pittsburgh and Edmonton, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.