VisitPITTSBURGH Celebrates 90 Years of Service to Pittsburgh Tourism
Pittsburgh’s Official Tourism Organization Marks a Milestone 90th Anniversary
(PITTSBURGH, PA) – VisitPITTSBURGH, the official tourism marketing and promotion agency of the Pittsburgh region, is proud to celebrate its 90th anniversary this month. Established in 1935, and originally incorporated on June 8, 1935, VisitPITTSBURGH has been dedicated to promoting Pittsburgh as a premier travel destination for leisure visitors, convention attendees, and sports fans.
What began as a small initiative to showcase the city’s potential has evolved into a powerhouse of economic impact, generating $6.8 billion for the county and $377 million in state and local tax revenue in 2024, in addition to the 42,600 tourism-supported jobs within the industry. As the organization enters its tenth decade of operation, the mission continues to remain committed to boosting visitation to the area, fostering economic growth, and elevating Pittsburgh’s reputation globally.
VisitPITTSBURGH staff and board members, together with tourism partners, community leaders, and regional stakeholders, attended a celebration nine decades in the making on Thursday, June 5, at the Steelers Hall of Honor, inside of Acrisure Stadium. The event honored the organization’s legacy and ongoing contributions to Pittsburgh’s dynamic visitor economy.
“Our progress has only been possible through the dedication of our team and the collaboration of partners across Allegheny County—from local businesses and cultural institutions to sports teams and community leaders,” said Jerad Bachar, President & CEO of VisitPITTSBURGH. “Together, we’ve built an inclusive, forward-thinking tourism landscape rooted in authenticity and pride. As we look to the future, we remain committed to sustainability, innovation, and inclusion—ensuring Pittsburgh continues to thrive as a top-tier destination for years to come.”
In line with VisitPITTSBURGH’s mission, a 10-year tourism development plan was recently designed, created to enhance connectivity, boost the visitor experience, and support workforce development. The 10-year development plan includes more than 40 strategies and 80 unique action items that together form a roadmap for the development, management, and marketing of tourism assets in both the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County.