Explore Pittsburgh’s Holiday Magic on the Holiday Nights, Lights, and Sights Trolley Ride
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, minimal physical exertion required
Overview
Discover the festive sparkle of Pittsburgh with an adults-only vintage trolley ride that takes you through the city’s best holiday lights, iconic decorations, and festive markets during the season. Cozy, charming, and uniquely local.
Holiday Nights, Lights, and Sights Trolley Ride
Adults (18+) only • 1.5 hours • Adult bevs. permitted • Fridays + Saturdays during the holidays
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of Pittsburgh's holiday season on a vintage-style trolley ride! Enjoy festive music, stunning light displays, and cozy stops at iconic locations, including the historic holiday tree and the bustling holiday market. Perfect for friends and couples, this unique tour combines nostalgia with modern comfort for an unforgettable evening.
Sells out quickly - book early!
Duration
1.5 hours
Tours run Fridays and Saturdays from November 28th to December 27st, 2025.
About
Join us for a special evening ride to see the best of Pittsburgh's holiday displays and activities from the comfort of a vintage-style trolley. Listen to festive holiday music while taking in the sights and lights! Adult beverages (wine and beer) are permitted on the trolley limited to the amount you can place under your seat (no large coolers).
The Holiday Nights, Lights, and Sights Trolley Ride is a 1.5-hour long holiday sightseeing shuttle throughout Pittsburgh.
Beginning in the Strip District, our route takes you to downtown Pittsburgh.
The trolley will make its way past the Joseph Horne's historic holiday tree. After that the trolly continues to PPG Plaza where you can enjoy a 20-minute stop to explore the holiday market in Market Square, take photos with the tree and ice skating rink at PPG Place, or check out the Spirits of Giving from Around the World international Santas display.
The trolley ride continues to the city's Official Christmas Tree at the City-County Building, followed by a 10-minute stop at the U.S. Steel Tower to experience the Pittsburgh Crèche (the larger-than-life nativity scene). We return to the Strip District where there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy! This tour is perfect for couples, friends, colleagues, invite 'em all!
The Trolleys
Our gorgeous fleet of 1920s-style trolleys offer panoramic windows, authentic woodwork, and detailing reminiscent of the streetcars that once were a staple of transportation in the City of Pittsburgh. While you’ll step back in time when you step inside one of our trolleys, you’ll also enjoy the modern amenities of air-conditioning, heating, and custom audio for a comfortable and exciting experience.
We take great care to keep our trolleys in pristine condition and maintain all of the details that make a Pittsburgh trolley car experience so special!
Adventure Tips
Dress Warmly
Temperatures can drop in the evenings, so bring layered clothing for warmth throughout the ride.
Book Early
Tours run only on Fridays and Saturdays during the holidays and tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Arrive On Time
The trolley departs promptly, so arriving 15 minutes early ensures you won’t miss the start of the experience.
Limit Distractions
As an adults-only ride, enjoy the calm atmosphere by limiting loud conversations and phone use to enhance the collective experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels often dart playfully near the holiday markets.
- You might spot winter birds like cardinals perched on decorated trees.
History
Pittsburgh’s trolley system played a major role in the city’s development in the early 20th century, and this ride honors that legacy with its vintage vehicles.
Conservation
The tour promotes sustainable tourism by encouraging use of public transportation and limiting vehicle emissions through shared group rides.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pittsburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during chilly evening rides.
winter specific
Gloves and Hat
Essential for protecting extremities from cold while waiting or boarding.
winter specific
Comfortable Footwear
Helpful for walking to and from the trolley stop.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the dazzling holiday lights and festive moments during the ride.