Recent “Best of the World” honor underscores momentum heading into Pittsburgh’s landmark tourism year in 2026
PITTSBURGH, PA — VisitPITTSBURGH, in partnership with the Senator John Heinz History Center, officially opened the new VisitPITTSBURGH Welcome Center this morning during a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by regional leaders, tourism partners, and community members.
The new Welcome Center, located on the first floor of the Smithsonian-affiliated Heinz History Center, represents a major milestone in the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance Pittsburgh’s reputation as a leader in tourism, hospitality, and authentic experiences—momentum strengthened by Pittsburgh’s recent selection as one of only 25 “Best of the World” destinations for 2026 by National Geographic.
“This new Welcome Center is more than a visitor hub; it’s an entry point to our city,” said Jerad Bachar, President & CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. “Here, visitors will be welcomed in like neighbors, and Pittsburghers will be invited to reconnect and explore their own backyard in new ways.”
Tourism remains a powerful economic driver for the region. More than 21 million visitors travel to Allegheny County each year, generating $6.9 billion in direct visitor spending and supporting over 42,000 jobs across hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions.
“With its close proximity to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh, and the Strip District, I can’t think of a better location for the new Welcome Center than the Heinz History Center,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. “Opening this new Welcome Center the same week that we open the new Pittsburgh International Airport underscores that Pittsburgh is ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome all of our new and returning visitors.”
The opening comes at a crucial moment, arriving just ahead of peak holiday travel season and what is expected to be a landmark year for Pittsburgh tourism in 2026.
Next year, the city will welcome major global events, including the 2026 NFL Draft, the 2026 Carnegie International, and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Together, these events are expected to attract millions of visitors to the region.
“As the #1 History Museum in America and one of Pittsburgh’s premier attractions, the Heinz History Center is the perfect place for visitors to learn about our region and understand why Pittsburghers are so proud,” said Andy Masich, President & CEO of the History Center.
The Heinz History Center location will soon be joined by another Welcome Center inside the newly opened terminal at Pittsburgh International Airport, expanding VisitPITTSBURGH’s ability to connect with visitors from the moment they arrive.
The VisitPITTSBURGH Welcome Center is free and open to the public during the museum’s regular operating hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
For photos of today’s announcement, click here.
About VisitPITTSBURGH
VisitPITTSBURGH is the official tourism marketing and promotion agency of the Pittsburgh region. The organization is dedicated to hosting business, sports, and leisure events for Allegheny County.
About the Heinz History Center
The Senator John Heinz History Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum and home to six floors of exhibitions celebrating Western Pennsylvania’s rich history and heritage. Voted as the #1 History Museum in America by USA TODAY and “Pittsburgh’s Best Museum” by Pittsburgh Magazine, the History Center is located at 1212 Smallman Street in the Strip District.
