The fortunes of Carnegie, Heinz and Clay were made in the entrepreneurial and historic Downtown Pittsburgh district, where the French Fort Duquesne once stood. While a sense of history and innovation runs through this central zone, glitzy skyscrapers and leafy parks now characterize it. In Downtown Pittsburgh, visit museums and monuments to piece together the impact of the steel industry on the city’s growth.

Understand the local customs and traditions by heading to Market Square at the core of the district. Purchase food and crafts from the Market Square Farmers Market on Thursdays in summer. All types of activities, events and games keep the whole family entertained on this pedestrianized plaza.

Watch the Pittsburgh Penguins play a National Hockey League game in the PPG Paints Arena. For other Pittsburgh sports, visit nearby PNC Park and Heinz Field, which host baseball and football. Relive classic athletic moments in the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum.

Leading across the river to North Shore are three mustard-colored passages: the Andy Warhol Bridge, the Roberto Clemente Bridge and the Rachel Carson Bridge. Enjoy views of these behemoths from leafy Allegheny Riverfront Park. Sit down for a picnic in Point State Park, which has a glorious fountain and the Fort Pitt Block House.

Steel played a huge role in the development of the city. Look up at its tallest skyscraper, the U.S. Steel Tower that rises high above the downtown area.

Downtown Pittsburgh marks the center of the city, where the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio rivers come together. Ride the metro to the stations of Gateway, Steel Plaza or First Avenue and get around the zone by bus or on foot. You can also travel by train to Pittsburgh Union Station in the northeastern corner of the district.

While you’re in the city, be sure to check out nearby areas such as East Allegheny, South Shore and the Strip District.