As the former center of the American steel industry, “vacation” may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Pittsburgh, but put aside all your prejudices and preconceived notions about the “Steel City”, because not only is it one of the 10 cleanest cities in America, but it’s a great place for an affordable, fun-filled vacation. And with a variety of comfortable and affordable hotels in Pittsburgh and many attractions that cost nothing, it’s one of the best vacation destinations today!

From the obvious tourist spots like Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Mellon Museums to some of the city’s best-kept secrets, there are plenty of fun and entertaining offerings in this cosmopolitan city. Here are some ideas to help get your vacation off to a great start:

o Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh. Explore everything from art to archaeology, science and soup cans in the Carnegie collection of Pittsburgh museums (the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Science Center and the Andy Warhol Museum). Over 100 years old, this cultural institution has helped millions explore their own definition of beauty, discover fascinating theories, and look back in time. If you want to see what this unique collection of museums has in store for you, head to 4400 Forbes Avenue and visit the Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, take a trip to the Science Center at One Allegheny Avenue, or discover the art of Andy Warhol at 117 Sandusky Street. Admission prices vary.

or Pittsburgh Pirates. Head over to PNC Park to watch America’s favorite pastime unfold. With prices for home games starting at just $8, this is one of the most affordable places to catch a game in the entire league. If, after the game, you still haven’t had your fill of sports fun, head to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum to see unique artifacts and interactive exhibits celebrating the region’s rich sports tradition. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4-17.

o Ride a bike on the Heritage Trail. For just $10 a year, you can join the community bike program at Friends of the Riverfront and spend as much time as you like riding the 37-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which takes you along both banks of the Allegheny, Mononghahela and Ohio. If you’ve brought a backpack or messenger bag, pack a lunch and stop for a meal on the banks of one of the rivers and watch people from all over the world walk, bike and float. Best of all, whether you’re in town for a few days or a frequent traveler, you can use your annual membership to check out a bike anytime you’re in town.

or The National Aviary. Explore America’s only non-profit indoor bird. Conveniently located near many Pittsburgh hotels, this one-of-a-kind location features more than 600 birds from around the world, including many species rarely found in other zoos or aviaries, such as white-tailed trogons, scarlet-headed blackbirds, and white-tailed tanagers. blue winged mountain Some of the aviary’s most popular residents include Benito the Hyacinth Macaw and he’s roommate Killer (a Green-winged Macaw), who are trained and perform in occasional educational displays. For a little fun, the aviary also features several interactive exhibits, including the new Penguin Point and Lories & Friends, which allows visitors to hand-feed some of the aviary’s birds. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8.50 for children 2 and older, and free for children 2 and under.

or Kennywood. Over 110 years old, this amusement park is an iconic landmark loved by millions. And while it’s one of the oldest parks in the country, its rides and games are all about modern, exciting fun for kids of all ages. With death-defying SwingShot and heart-pounding Pitt Fall, plus fun-filled water rides, classic racing games, carousels and kids’ games, you can spend a carefree day playing like a kid. Admission ranges from $9.99 to $33.99 depending on age and desired pass.