I'm traveling by train (first time ever) from Pittsburgh to Chicago in June. Because the train leaves before 6:00 a.m., I 'd like to stay the night before in a hotel in downtown Pittsburgh so I won't have to get up at 3:00 a.m. to make the commute from my daughter's house. Anybody have any suggestions? I don't even know where the train station is located, but don't feel that the hotel has to be right around the corner. I'm sure I'd be able to get a taxi from the hotel - from wherever it is in the city - to the station. Love to have some advice.

JVP
Deep in the Heart of Texas

The train station is right smack in the downtown area. There are several decent chain hotels in the area, although since I stay near the University, I don't have one to recommend. Here's a map, the train station is at the intersection of Grant and Liberty, near the Convention Center.

If you have time for dinner, I can give some recommendations a short cab ride away.

Thanks, Amy. Good map. I'm thinking that the Renaissance would be a good choice. Love to have your suggestions for dinner.

JVP
Deep in the Heart of Texas

For restaurants--A few blocks from the Renaissance is Cucina, a Latin American tapas/seafood place I haven't been to yet but my son (who does know his food) likes. Very close to downtown is the "Strip" District (no, not meaning what you think!)which is an area of reclaimed warehouses, interesting food shops, etc. Lidia's there has excellent Italian food in a fun setting with good service. The walk from there back to your hotel at night might feel a little desolate, but they'll call you a cab if you wish. Further afield in Squrrel Hill is a great Japanese place with wonderful sushi, Chaya .

I've added the restaurants to my Pittsburgh file. Thanks a lot.

JVP
Deep in the Heart of Texas

For a family-run Italian restaurant, try Zarras in upper Oakland (a cab ride from downtown).

We had stayed HERE when we were in Pittsburgh and it is right downtown, not far from the Heinz Auditorium and with a view of the sports parks across the 6th ave bridge.

It was an older hotel with a lot of history and we truly enjoyed it for both comfort and location.

This got my vote.. Renaissance Hotel.. Downtown Pittsburgh

Remensin, Doug & Judith - many thanks for your comments. I've copied them into my file for Pittsburgh.

JVP
Deep in the Heart of Texas

The Renaissance is a very nice hotel.

However, Fairmont is opening their new hotel in downtown Pittsburgh the end of March and it's supposed to be fantastic. (It's in the same building as my husband's office). Great location in downtown. About 7-8 blocks from the train station.

The Westin Convention Center Hotel is right across from the train station. It has a fairly good seafood restaurant located in its lobby.

Other downtown restaurant suggestions, all nearby, include Nine on Nine and Cafe Zao.