So, I'm going to AC! Finally, after living within *literal walking distance* for more than 6 years, I am finally going to the con! I've never been to any kind of con, so it'll be a fun learning experience for me.

Figure I might as well take the time to put out some info regarding Pittsburgh if you're coming here for AC, since I'm a native! And I'm happy to answer questions, too.

Primary thing: *don't bother with downtown.* (or, dahntahn, as we say.) AC might be there, as are some hotels you might stay in, but otherwise, it's not particularly interesting, fun, or really worth sticking around. (Besides the Point State Park and the riverwalk, those are nice and pretty.) Pittsburgh is an incredibly "decentralized" city, so to speak: the "downtown" area is only a very tiny part of the city, and one that I really think isn't worth the time if you want to go get food, explore the city, see the sights, etc. It's not like it's bad or you're in danger or anything, it's just boring and overpriced. Check out the Strip District, North Side, South Side (all of which are within walking distance from the Convention Center), and Oakland, Bloomfield, and Squirrel Hill (among others) for far, far, far better food, things to do, stuff to see, and just a much better representation of the city overall! If you want restaurant or things to do suggestions, do ask! I was roommates with someone really involved in the food scene here, as well as just... living here, so I know soooo many of the best places around for all kinds of cuisine, and all the best fun things to do.

Second thing: oh my god if you can avoid driving please do so. Pittsburgh is an absolutely *awful* city for driving, in literally every way, shape, and form. The infrastructure sucks, the layout makes no sense, everything hates you. There's a reason multiple self-driving car companies have done, and are still doing, test drives around Pittsburgh, and that's because, *if you can drive in Pittsburgh, you can drive ANYWHERE.* Take advantage of our public transit or walk! In the downtown and north side area, the light rail (known as the T) is entirely free. Bus fare is $2.75 for 3 hours of unlimited rides. We have a robust bikesharing program including electric-assist bikes, and a (sometimes) pretty good bike route network. Pittsburgh is also pretty darn pedestrian friendly for the most part. If you must drive, use caution, pay attention to what's up next (because it gets confusing, fast,) and never trust that anything will make sense.

Thirdly: Don't be too worried here. Obviously, keep your wits about you and don't just leave stuff out in the open or expect everyone to be honest (or not weird), but Pittsburgh is a pretty darn safe city for the very most part. You won't get stabbed or shot out in the open or anything. Obviously, it's still a city, and bad stuff does happen, but it really is pretty alright around here.

Fourthly: Enjoy the sights! Be a tourist! Pittsburgh isn't really a "touristy" city, so attractions may be slightly lacking in that department, but what it does mean is that none of it is the kind of predatory low-quality stuff you'd get elsewhere. Stuff to do here is legitimately high quality and really nice (outside of downtown, and maybe the Gateway Clipper. Even that's not bad, though.), so don't be afraid to go and see the sights. Take the Incline (seriously, it's really awesome and the view you get is unparalleled.), go to the museums, etc. It's legitimately nice to do. And keep your eyes out for random cool things scattered around, there's artifacts of Pittsburgh's industrial past and lots of weird and cool art in random places around for you to discover.

Last, and most specifically: Don't go to "Peace, Love, and Little Donuts." It's a donut shop nearby that's gained a bit of fame. The owner is an absolute, monstrous piece of fucking shit, entirely unfitting the name the store has. Don't be fooled.


And that's a long winded post of random stuff! I honestly doubt more than like, 2 people are going to actually find this useful, but, hey. It's something! And if you're going, feel free to message me if you want to say hi and grab a lunch or coffee or drink or something!

See yinz 'round!