May Packing List for Pittsburgh — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Lightweight Rain JacketEssential

  Essential for staying dry during May showers, as Pittsburgh still sees 15 days of precipitation.

• Cardigan or Fleece JacketEssential

  Perfect for cool evenings when temperatures drop to around 49°F, or for a breezy evening at PNC Park.

• T-shirts and BlousesEssential

  The base of your layered outfits for pleasant days with highs reaching a comfortable 70°F.

• Jeans or Comfortable PantsEssential

  Ideal for walking around the university campuses in Oakland or exploring the Strip District.

• Comfortable Walking ShoesEssential

  A must for exploring Pittsburgh's neighborhoods and riverfront trails on foot.

• SocksEssential

  Pack a mix of lighter and slightly warmer socks to adjust to the day's temperature.

• UmbrellaEssential

  Don't leave it behind; with 15 rain days, your chances of needing it are high.

• Day Bag or BackpackEssential

  To carry your layers, water, and umbrella as the weather changes throughout the day.

• Reusable Water BottleEssential

  Stay hydrated as you walk Pittsburgh's hills, especially on warmer days.

Clothing

• Lightweight Rain JacketEssential

  Essential for staying dry during May showers, as Pittsburgh still sees 15 days of precipitation.

• Cardigan or Fleece JacketEssential

  Perfect for cool evenings when temperatures drop to around 49°F, or for a breezy evening at PNC Park.

• T-shirts and BlousesEssential

  The base of your layered outfits for pleasant days with highs reaching a comfortable 70°F.

• Jeans or Comfortable PantsEssential

  Ideal for walking around the university campuses in Oakland or exploring the Strip District.

• A Dressier OptionRecommended

  For enjoying a nice meal or a performance in the Cultural District.

Footwear

• Comfortable Walking ShoesEssential

  A must for exploring Pittsburgh's neighborhoods and riverfront trails on foot.

• Water-Resistant SneakersRecommended

  A great choice to handle damp streets from frequent rain without needing heavy boots.

• Flats or LoafersOptional

  A versatile option that can be dressed up or down for various activities.

• SocksEssential

  Pack a mix of lighter and slightly warmer socks to adjust to the day's temperature.

Accessories

• UmbrellaEssential

  Don't leave it behind; with 15 rain days, your chances of needing it are high.

• Sunglasses and SunscreenRecommended

  Be prepared for the sunny days that make May one of the best times to visit Pittsburgh.

• Day Bag or BackpackEssential

  To carry your layers, water, and umbrella as the weather changes throughout the day.

• Baseball CapOptional

  Good for sunny days or for showing support at a Pirates baseball game.

Gear

• Portable ChargerRecommended

  Keep your phone ready for photos of the lush green landscape from Mount Washington.

• Reusable Water BottleEssential

  Stay hydrated as you walk Pittsburgh's hills, especially on warmer days.

• Picnic BlanketOptional

  Perfect for a sunny afternoon relaxing in the grass at Point State Park.

• CameraRecommended

  May is a beautiful month to capture the city in full bloom.