When I suggested to my editors at Made In PGH that I write a piece about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, it was mostly because it’s a great live sports environment that’s fun, affordable, and family friendly — and I thought that more people should know about what I thought was Pittsburgh’s least well-known pro sports team.
However, that must have been a mistake, because it seems like everyone already knows!
Image via Pittsburgh Riverhounds Instagram
When I went to see the Riverhounds for the first time this season on September 11th, I couldn’t have been prouder to have found the parking lot so packed with tailgaters that finding a parking spot was an intense challenge. In a city like Pittsburgh that is so spoiled for live sports, both professionally and at the college level, I’d honestly wondered how a professional soccer team would be doing almost a decade after settling in at Highmark Stadium in Station Square.
The truth is, there’s no reason to have worried. The Pittsburgh Riverhounds, in my opinion, provide one of the best live sports experiences in the city — one that’s friendly, casual, and enjoyable for everyone from college students to families to die-hard soccer fans.
Image via Kaidia Pickels
Not to mention, it’s got one of the best views of the city, no matter where you sit!
As I’m writing this, the Riverhounds sit in second place in the Atlantic Division of the USL Eastern Conference and have spent much of the season in first place as well. This team is full of talent (as evidenced by the fact that I witnessed them trounce Loudoun United five to nothing last week).
However, whether you’re an avid fan or know nothing about the beautiful game, attending a Riverhounds game this fall should absolutely be on your list, because there’s truly something for everyone.
For the foodies and the adult beverage fans, the Highmark Stadium Pub boasts a tavern-like bar with indoor and outdoor seating that features a menu with a range of draft selections, tasty bar snacks and fresh pizza. There are also several concession stands throughout the stadium with additional cans and drafts and typical arena snacks like popcorn, pretzels, and nachos. (Some may know that Highmark Stadium famously used to sell $1 beers before kickoff, and while I’m not in the business of starting rumors, they may return at some point.)
Families will be pleased to know that Riverhounds tickets are quite affordable, typically between $15 and $25 with some premium seats priced higher, closer to $50. Of course, there are no bad seats in the house, and some of the best views even come from near the Pub or in the team’s spirited supporters section, located on opposite ends of the field.
Image via Kaidia Pickels
Where else can you get this close to the action, and for about the cost of one beer at some of the city’s other sports venues?
If I’ve convinced you that a Riverhounds game sounds like a great way to spend an evening, you’re in luck: four regular-season games remain, and the team and fans alike are optimistic about some postseason match-ups as well. Visit the Riverhounds website for tickets and additional info about upcoming games — and let’s go Hounds!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.