620 William Penn Place, Pittsburgh, Pa. (412) 471-1170, www.monaco-pittsburgh.com
Cost: Rooms starting at $209; suites starting at $569
Drive time: 4 hours, 30 minutes
The scoop: Kimpton’s Western Pennsylvania property offers all of the funky design quirks and top-notch services expected in its boutique hotels. Despite its 248 rooms, it manages to maintain an intimate vibe. Located across from Mellon Square park in the Golden Triangle—the downtown district where the famed three rivers meet—puts it within walking distance of mandatory first-timer destinations as Point State Park and the Andy Warhol Museum.
Amenities: Boutique-like perks include a yoga mat in every room, Atelier Bloem bath supplies, an evening wine hour in the lobby, and bikes to ride around town.
Don’t Miss: Pittsburgh has a legitimate claim as a foodie town. Try the succulent lamb burger or the Amish chicken at the Commoner, Monaco’s on-site eatery run by Wyatt Lash, formerly of Chester County’s beloved Whip Tavern. Venture a few blocks away to Meat & Potatoes, where the tender Hudson Valley duck breast is one of many menu highlights.
