Pittsburgh Convention Center: Plan Your Event, Parking & Arrival
The Pittsburgh Convention Center is officially the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, located at 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. The riverfront venue hosts conventions, public exhibitions, professional conferences, trade shows and special events.
Use this guide to check upcoming events, current garage pricing, the correct entrance, hotel choices, airport transportation, floor plans and accessible visitor services before you travel.
Main parking entrance on 10th Street
Attached to the convention center.
Current posted rate range according to parking duration.
Pittsburgh Convention Center Events: October–November 2026
The venue’s official calendar includes industry conferences, professional meetings and public consumer shows. Admission and hours are controlled by the relevant event organizer.
| Event | Published dates | Visitor action |
|---|---|---|
| Marcellus Power Connection Conference | October 20–21, 2026 | Check conference registration |
| BUILD ON 2026 | October 22–23, 2026 | Verify organizer agenda |
| Three Rivers Information Security Symposium | October 22, 2026 | Confirm credentials |
| Society of Actuaries Meeting & Exhibit | October 25–28, 2026 | Review badge pickup |
| Pittsburgh Job Fair | October 29, 2026 | Check public entry instructions |
| Pennsylvania Bridal & Wedding Expo | November 1, 2026 | Check admission and show hours |
| WITCON 2026 | November 5, 2026 | Confirm event registration |
| Pittsburgh Pet Expo | November 6–8, 2026 | Review public ticket and pet policies |
| AVS 72nd International Symposium | November 9–13, 2026 | Check exhibit and session access |
Find an event and get the correct ticket
- Open the official calendar. Select the relevant date or search for the event name.
- Read the event listing. Confirm whether the event is public, private or limited to registered delegates.
- Check organizer admission rules. Look for ticket prices, age restrictions, badge collection and daily opening times.
- Confirm your lobby and hall. Exhibition halls and meeting rooms occupy different levels.
- Complete registration through the official organizer. Save your ticket or badge confirmation.
Official David L. Lawrence Convention Center event calendar ↗
Pittsburgh Convention Center Parking Rates
The attached Convention Center Garage has approximately 700 spaces and is accessed from 10th Street. ParkPGH publishes regular and event parking rates.
Regular posted rate
Regular posted rate
Regular posted rate
Regular posted rate
Regular posted rate
Up to 15 hours when event pricing applies
Regular vs. Event Parking
| Parking duration | Regular rate | Event-rate treatment |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 hours | $8 | Event pricing may replace standard rate |
| 2–6 hours | $12 | Listed event price: $15 up to 15 hours |
| 6–8 hours | $14 | Listed event price: $15 up to 15 hours |
| 8–15 hours | $16 | Listed event price: $15 up to 15 hours |
| 15–24 hours | $30 | Listed event price: $30 |
Garage Hours
| When | Published schedule |
|---|---|
| Monday–Friday | 6 AM–11 PM |
| Saturday–Sunday | Normally closed except for events |
| Large events | Opening and closing arrangements can differ |
| Overnight parking | Confirm entry and vehicle retrieval arrangements |
Check current Convention Center Garage prices and availability ↗
Garage Entrance, Height Clearance & Backup Parking
The official venue directions identify 10th Street as the garage entrance. Parking clearance is especially important for tall vans, roof racks, trucks and oversized vehicles.
Limit listed by ParkPGH for the first level.
Lower clearance listed for the second level.
How to park without a wrong turn
- Set navigation to the garage. Use 139 10th Street, Pittsburgh, rather than only the venue’s Fort Duquesne Boulevard address.
- Read the entrance rate board. Confirm regular or event pricing before proceeding.
- Check clearance signs. The first and second garage levels have different listed height limits.
- Park and save your location. Note the floor, nearby elevator and parking payment information.
- Use the event lobby shown on your confirmation. Allow time to reach your assigned registration area.
Backup parking when the garage is full
ParkPGH also tracks downtown garages such as Grant Street Transportation Center, Smithfield & Liberty and Theater Square. Compare their rates, hours and walking routes before choosing an alternative.
Convention Center Entrances, Drop-Off & Arrival
The venue has accessible East and West Lobby entrances along 10th Street. Large events may designate a specific lobby, exhibition hall or registration station.
| Purpose | Where to start |
|---|---|
| General visitor | 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard |
| Driving / parking | 10th Street Convention Center Garage entrance |
| Accessible passenger drop-off | East or West Lobby curb cut-outs along 10th Street |
| Registration desk | Your event organizer’s assigned lobby and level |
| Exhibitor freight | Organizer-assigned dock and move-in instructions |
| Westin hotel connection | Level 3 skywalk or designated garage connection |
Driving approaches to downtown Pittsburgh
- From Pittsburgh International Airport: I-376 East through the Fort Pitt Tunnel, then follow the Fort Duquesne Boulevard/Convention Center approach.
- From the north: I-79 South to I-279 South, then toward Fort Duquesne Bridge and the 10th Street Bypass.
- From the south: I-279 North through Fort Pitt Tunnel and Bridge toward downtown.
- From the east: Follow the I-376 downtown approach and current navigation instructions.
Construction, lane restrictions and downtown traffic may affect these approaches. Use current navigation for the final street turns.
David L. Lawrence Convention Center Floor Plans & Layout
The convention center has four main levels with exhibition halls, meeting rooms, ballrooms, outdoor terraces and a connection to The Westin Pittsburgh.
Square feet in official facility overview
Square feet on Level 2
Including lecture halls
Square feet, Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom
Approximately 250 seats each
Main facility levels
What is on each floor?
| Level | Main facilities | Visitor relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 76,500 sq. ft. exhibition space, East/West Lobbies, administrative areas | Public arrivals and designated show halls |
| Level 2 | 236,900 sq. ft. column-free exhibition space, three large halls | Major trade shows and expos |
| Level 3 | Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom, 38 meeting rooms and terraces | Conferences, banquets and Westin skywalk |
| Level 4 | 13 meeting rooms, two lecture halls and North Terrace | Breakouts, presentations and meetings |
Finding your exhibition hall or breakout room
- Read the full room designation. Write down the hall, room number and floor.
- Use the venue floor plan. Select the appropriate level rather than relying only on the lobby map.
- Find registration first. The badge desk may be on a different level from your session.
- Check elevators and escalators. Allow extra time if switching between exhibit and ballroom levels.
- Use the current organizer map. Temporary partitions, show layouts and security boundaries can alter routes.
Official convention facilities, floor plans and meeting resources ↗
Hotels Near Pittsburgh Convention Center
Downtown Pittsburgh and the neighboring Strip District have several practical hotels for conventions. Compare the event room block, parking, breakfast, and the actual walk to your assigned lobby.
The Westin Pittsburgh
1000 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
A major convention hotel with an indoor skywalk connection from Level 3 of the convention center.
Best for: Attendees prioritizing weather-protected access and large-group meeting convenience.
Check: Garage or valet fees, breakfast, hotel room block and availability.
Drury Plaza Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown
745 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Historic downtown hotel within the broader convention district, known for breakfast and evening food offerings.
Best for: Visitors wanting included food benefits and a central business-district setting.
Check: Overnight parking and the convention registration route.
Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown
1247 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
A practical downtown hotel near the convention center and Senator John Heinz History Center.
Published benefit: Hilton lists complimentary self-parking for standard vehicles and free breakfast.
Check: Availability of complimentary spaces during large events.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh Downtown
1410 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Suite-style accommodation toward the Strip District, practical for longer stays and visitors who want kitchen facilities.
Best for: Multi-day exhibitors, business groups and families.
Check: Hotel parking and walking distance to the event lobby.
Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown
945 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Business-oriented hotel close to downtown dining and the convention facility.
Best for: Short conferences and travelers who prefer a standard hotel stay.
Check: Breakfast, parking and group booking options.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh
620 William Penn Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Design-focused downtown hotel for visitors combining professional meetings with dining and cultural activities.
Best for: Premium business stays and convention-adjacent travel.
Check: Total room cost and parking arrangements.
Compare hotels before booking
| Priority | Start with |
|---|---|
| Indoor convention access | The Westin Pittsburgh |
| Complimentary standard-vehicle parking | Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown |
| Kitchen / longer stay | Homewood Suites Pittsburgh Downtown |
| Food included with stay | Drury Plaza, Hampton Inn or eligible suite-hotel packages |
| Central downtown business setting | Courtyard, Westin, Drury Plaza or Hotel Monaco |
Airport, 28X Airport Flyer, Light Rail & Downtown Transit
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is the main air gateway for visitors. Downtown hotels near the convention center can also be reached by taxi, rideshare and public transit.
| Transport | Useful for | Check before departing |
|---|---|---|
| 28X Airport Flyer | Public airport-to-downtown travel | Current PRT stops, fare and timetable |
| Taxi / rideshare | Direct hotel or convention arrival | Airport pickup and traffic |
| Rental vehicle | Regional trips beyond downtown | Parking and garage clearance |
| PRT Light Rail | Travel within the downtown area | Closest useful station and route |
| Walking | Nearby hotel-to-venue visits | Weather, riverfront routes and baggage |
From Pittsburgh Airport using the 28X
- Find the 28X Airport Flyer. Follow airport public-ground-transport signs and check the latest boarding location.
- Check the fare and departure time. Use Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s current information rather than an old travel guide.
- Travel toward downtown Pittsburgh. Select a convenient stop for the convention center or your hotel.
- Complete the final segment. Use pedestrian directions or a short permitted connection.
- Save your return schedule. Particularly important for early departures or evening flights.
Pittsburgh Regional Transit schedules, fares and 28X updates ↗
Pittsburgh International Airport official information ↗
Pittsburgh Convention Center Map & Driving Directions
The venue sits beside the Allegheny River, between Pittsburgh’s Cultural District and the Strip District. Use the garage destination for driving and your event lobby for passenger arrival.
Accessibility, Wheelchairs & Sensory Assistance
The convention center provides accessible arrival routes, garage spaces, elevators and other visitor services. Some event-specific accommodations must be arranged with the organizer.
Accessible Parking
Accessible garage parking is located on the first level, near entrances serving event spaces and elevators.
Passenger Drop-Off
East and West Lobby areas on 10th Street have accessible curb cut-outs and suitable building entrances.
Elevators & Restrooms
Accessible elevators with Braille signage serve the building levels. Accessible and family restroom facilities are provided.
Sensory Support
The venue participates in KultureCity’s sensory-inclusive program. Ask staff about available sensory support and designated spaces.
Visitor assistance steps
- Check your event room and floor. Identify any route or seating requirement.
- Contact the organizer. Arrange interpreters or event-specific assistance where required.
- Contact the venue coordinator. Confirm accessible parking, wheelchair access or sensory accommodations.
- Use the correct lobby. East and West Lobby entrances provide accessible routes.
Accessibility coordinator: 412-325-6135
Visitor Entry, Bags, Food, Wi-Fi & Event Rules
Different exhibitions have different ticket, security and bag requirements. Confirm the rules for the specific event rather than assuming all public shows have the same policies.
| Visitor concern | Practical guidance |
|---|---|
| Event ticket or badge | Follow organizer registration and identification requirements. |
| Backpacks and purses | Check event-specific bag restrictions before arrival. |
| Outside food | Generally restricted; ask about medically necessary or dietary accommodations. |
| Food on site | Concession service varies by scheduled event. |
| Guest Wi-Fi | Complimentary service is provided in designated public areas, not necessarily exhibit halls. |
| Photography and recording | Rules depend on organizer and activity. |
| Re-entry | Confirm before leaving the event area. |
| Wheelchair assistance | Contact the venue ahead of time for availability and access rules. |
Before-you-leave checklist
- Save event tickets or registration confirmation.
- Confirm the exact lobby, hall and public-door time.
- Verify parking hours and vehicle clearance.
- Read the specific event bag and security policy.
- Arrange accessibility services if needed.
- Check whether food concessions will operate.
- Allow additional arrival time for large events.
- Keep your hotel’s address and return route available.
How to Book David L. Lawrence Convention Center for an Event
The center rents exhibition halls, ballrooms and meeting facilities for qualifying events. Published rental schedules and planning resources help organizers request accurate proposals.
Current published facility rental examples
| Space | 2026–27 published daily base rate |
|---|---|
| Hall A | $10,464 |
| Hall B | $7,915 |
| Hall C | $4,330 |
| Halls A, B & C combined | $22,742 |
| Hall D | $3,658 |
These are published space-rental starting figures, not complete event quotes. The venue also uses net-square-foot pricing and other terms. Labor, equipment, catering, utilities and services can create substantial additional costs.
Prepare your event proposal
Event Specifications
- Preferred dates and alternatives
- Expected attendance
- Number and size of booths
- Required meeting rooms
- Seating and stage configuration
- Hotel room block requirements
Operating Requirements
- Freight move-in/move-out
- Internet and audiovisual
- Catering and concessions
- Security and staffing
- Power, rigging and equipment
- Accessibility and signage
Booking process
- Review the venue’s floor plans. Determine which halls or rooms suit your event.
- Check the 2026–27 rental guidelines. Understand base rental amounts and other charge categories.
- Contact the booking coordinator. Provide dates, attendance and space requirements.
- Request an itemized quotation. Ask about staffing, utilities, catering and move-in arrangements.
- Review the proposed agreement. Confirm final space, services, deadlines, deposits and cancellation terms.
Booking office: 412-325-6161
Email: lnovacek@pittsburghcc.com
What to Do Near the Pittsburgh Convention Center
The venue’s Allegheny River location makes it possible to combine a conference with downtown restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront walking.
Strip District
Popular for markets, restaurants, food shops and Pittsburgh specialty businesses. Useful for a meal before or after a convention.
Senator John Heinz History Center
Western Pennsylvania history museum in the nearby Strip District area. Check exhibit hours and admission.
Cultural District
Downtown theaters, galleries and performing arts venues offer evening activities after conference sessions.
Allegheny Riverfront
The convention center provides access toward the riverfront and Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Weather and event operations may affect access to specific areas.
Pittsburgh Convention Center: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Pittsburgh Convention Center’s official name?
Its official name is the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The venue is located in downtown Pittsburgh beside the Allegheny River.
2. What is the Pittsburgh Convention Center address?
The address is 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222. Drivers entering the attached garage should use its 10th Street entrance.
3. How much does Pittsburgh Convention Center parking cost?
Current posted regular garage rates are $8 for up to two hours, $12 for two to six hours, $14 for six to eight hours, $16 for eight to fifteen hours, and $30 for fifteen to twenty-four hours. Listed event pricing is $15 for up to fifteen hours or $30 for fifteen to twenty-four hours.
4. Where is the Pittsburgh Convention Center parking entrance?
The attached 700-space Convention Center Garage is accessed from 10th Street. ParkPGH lists 139 10th Street as its address.
5. Is the convention center parking garage open on weekends?
ParkPGH lists standard hours of 6 AM to 11 PM Monday through Friday, with weekends normally closed except for events. Confirm the operating schedule for your particular event.
6. What hotels are near Pittsburgh Convention Center?
Nearby hotels include The Westin Pittsburgh, Drury Plaza Pittsburgh Downtown, Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown, Homewood Suites Pittsburgh Downtown, Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown and Kimpton Hotel Monaco.
7. Which hotel is connected to Pittsburgh Convention Center?
The Westin Pittsburgh at 1000 Penn Avenue connects to the convention center through an indoor skywalk accessible from the venue’s third level and designated garage levels.
8. How do I get to the Pittsburgh Convention Center from the airport?
Travelers can use Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s 28X Airport Flyer toward downtown Pittsburgh, or take a taxi or rideshare. Check the latest stop locations, fares and service times before traveling.
9. Is the Pittsburgh Convention Center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue provides accessible garage spaces, entrances, elevators and restrooms. Its accessibility coordinator can be reached at 412-325-6135 for additional assistance.
10. Where can I find Pittsburgh Convention Center events and tickets?
The official Pittsburgh Convention Center events calendar lists upcoming shows, conventions and meetings. Open the relevant event listing and follow the organizer’s admission, ticketing or registration instructions.
Official Sources & Contact Information
These sources support the parking rates, venue specifications, calendar, accessibility and booking information in this guide. Prices, events, services and operating hours may change.
Information reviewed October 17, 2026. This independent visitor guide is not operated by David L. Lawrence Convention Center, its parking operator or event organizers. Always verify current event admissions, parking signs and operating hours.