Charlotte Shields-Rossi | a&e editor

Spring in Pittsburgh means tanning on Rooney Field (or beach), catching a Pittsburgh Pirate’s game at PNC Park or just enjoying the warm weather with friends. It can be tempting to sit around and wait for the cold weather to break and for spring semester to finally feel like spring. But this winter the city and surrounding area have numerous events to help you either escape the cold or embrace it.

National Aviary

Most birds flew south for winter. Lucky for bird enthusiasts, those kept at the National Aviary weren’t allowed to. Located in the North side, The National Aviary is home to more than 500 birds and 150 different species. The animals are free to roam around giving you an up-close look. Included in the ticket is daily feedings and meet and greets with various species. Adults pay $20.95, while members get free admission. For information on hours, daily schedules and reserving tickets visit aviary.org.

Schenley Park

For more outdoorsy students, visit Schenley Park located in the Oakland neighborhood. In the summer months, parkgoers can be found swimming and picnicking. But the area also has a lot to offer during the colder seasons — including ice skating and sledding at Flagstaff Hill. For more information on Schenley Park, including a park map visit pittsburghparks.org

PPG Paints Arena — Various dates

If you enjoy watching people on the ice more than you enjoy being on it, make sure to check out a Pittsburgh Penguins hockey game. College students can score discounted tickets by signing up for GetGo Student Rush with their university email address. If hockey is not your thing, keep an eye out for upcoming concerts and events hosted at the arena. For an event schedule, ticket prices and purchasing visit ppgpaintsarena.com.

Phipps Conservatory: Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: Blooming with Love — Jan. 10 to March 15

In just a few months, spring will be in full swing with colorful blooms everywhere, in the meantime you can stop and smell the flowers at Phipps Conservatory, located in the Oakland neighborhood. The newest exhibit showcases orchids and bonsai trees with special lighting and artwork. Students get discounted pricing at $19.95 and members get free admission. For information on hours and reserving tickets visit phippsconservatory.org.

Totally Rad Vintage Fest — Jan. 10 to 11

Escape the cold in the Monroeville Convention and Events Center for The Totally Rad Vintage Fest. Indulge in some retail therapy by browsing clothes, home goods, toys and records from the 80’s, 90’s and Y2K era. The festival also includes a free-play vintage arcade, “Rad Rewind Museum,” and various nostalgic photo opportunities. Tickets start at $8 if purchased online and $12 in person. For information and ticket purchasing visit totallyradvf.com

Pittsburgh Restaurant Week Winter 2025 — Jan. 12 to 18

If you find yourself tired of dining hall food or instant ramen and are craving a comfort meal to warm you up, Pittsburgh Restaurant Week has you covered. The event highlights various cuisines that Pittsburgh has to offer at a discounted price. If you can’t land on a place to eat, spin their Restaurant Roulette Wheel to make the decision for you. For a list of participating restaurants and their discounts visit pittsburghrestaurantweek.com.

Groundhogs Day in Gobbler’s Knob — Feb. 2

An hour and a half away from Pittsburgh is Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Gobbler’s Knob, in Punxsutawney, is home of the iconic weather prognosticator Punxsutawney Phil. Watch the groundhog take center stage and predict if spring will come early this year. But with only a 35% accuracy rate according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, maybe take his prognostication with a grain of salt. The event is free but prepare to get there early, for specific locations and times visit groundhog.org.

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place — Until March. 1

If you don’t mind the cold, bundle up and strap on some skates to visit the UPMC Rink at PPG Place for some ice skating. If the cardio has you feeling peckish afterward, the rink’s location Downtown is surrounded by numerous nearby eateries. For students looking to save money, make sure to visit Wednesday night for a 50% discount — just make sure to bring a valid Student ID. Full price for adults is $12, with an additional $5 for ice skate rentals. For information on hours, promotions and purchasing tickets visit therinkatppgplace.com.

Charlotte Shields-Rossi can be reached at shieldsrossic@duq.edu