Pittsburghers like to brag about the fact that Southwestern Pennsylvania fully experiences all four seasons, and, indeed, observing the changing colors of the natural landscape here is quite a joy—especially for Californians and other West Coasters who’ve grown accustomed to passing annually through two seasons only: hot and cold.

Choosing the perfect time to visit is really nothing more than a matter of personal inclination. When snow falls, the winter season here (late December–early April) is absolutely gorgeous, yet the months of January and February can be unbearably cold; even native Pittsburghers tend to hibernate during this time of the year.

Pittsburgh summers are often scorching hot and dripping with humidity, although this is also the season during which the city comes alive with the most vigor and excitability. What’s more, a score of important festivals and events takes place during the summer.

Fall is a particularly lovely time to visit Pittsburgh. There’s nothing quite like the sight of the city’s green leaves turning to shades of yellow, red, and brown before falling to the sidewalks. The weather is also evenly pleasant, with days that are cool but not cold and evenings that might best be described as light-jacket weather: sharp and brisk.