The City of Pittsburgh has several nicknames which have stood the test of time. One of these is “City of Champions,” which alludes to the oversized success of the professional sports teams that call Pittsburgh home. Together, the city’s three professional sports teams – the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins, lay claim to 16 championships.
For sports fans with disabilities, Pittsburgh is a great place to attend events. ADA compliant, wheelchair accessible stadiums are a reality, allowing fans an equal opportunity to participate in the city’s championship culture. Find further information on the accessibility of Pittsburgh sports venues below.
Pittsburgh Pirates (MLB)
Founded in 1892, the Pittsburgh Pirates have had a long history in the Steel City, and are the 4th oldest team in Major League Baseball history. The Pirates have won five World Series championships, most recently in 1979.
Since 2001, the Pirates have played ball at PNC Park, a modern facility with excellent wheelchair access. PNC Park is located at:
115 Federal Street
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15212
The ballpark is located just three blocks from the North Side light rail station. The North Side station is fully wheelchair accessible and is within the downtown free fare zone. Fans making their way to the ballpark from downtown may also enjoy crossing the Allegheny River via the iconic Roberto Clemente/6th Street Bridge.
For information on ADA seating and tickets to Pittsburgh Pirates games, visit www.mlb.com/pirates.
To read a detailed review of wheelchair accessibility at Pirates games, read my article on an Accessible Gameday with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)
The six Super Bowl championships won by the Pittsburgh Steelers are the most won by any team in NFL history. Founded in 1933 and having more than 600 wins, the team ranks 4th in the league in total victories. The Steelers are an important part of Pittsburgh culture, and the “Steeler Nation” is filled with pride in the team’s accomplishments.
The Steelers play at Heinz Field, which opened prior to the 2001 football season and seats more than 69,000 fans. The stadium is located at:
100 Art Rooney Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15212
The stadium is located directly across the street from the Allegheny light rail station. Allegheny Station is fully wheelchair accessible and is within the downtown free fare zone.
For information on ADA seating and tickets, visit www.steelers.com. For additional information on accessibility at the stadium, read the stadium’s Disabilities Guide at www.heinzfield.com.
Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)
With five Stanley Cup trophies, the Pittsburgh Penguins have also done their fare share in contributing to the city’s championship atmosphere. The Penguins most recently hoisted the cup in 2017, successfully defending their 2016 title and the first team to do so since the Detroit Red Wings in 1998. The team plays hockey at PPG Paints Arena, which opened in 2010. The arena is located at:
1001 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219
The PPG Paints Arena is only 0.3 miles from the Steel Plaza light rail station. Steel Plaza Station is fully wheelchair accessible, and is located within the city’s free fare zone.
For information on ADA seating and tickets to Pittsburgh Penguins games, visit www.nhl.com/penguins.
