Exploring Pittsburgh Part 1: Winning Wyndham At Pittsburgh University Center, Perfect Landing Spot!

While many folks consider Pittsburgh to be one of the largest metro cities in the US, the reality is, Pittsburgh ranks as only the 62nd most populous market. In spite of its estimated population of 306,500, along with a metro area population of 2.36 million, Pittsburgh continues to reforge and reinvent itself into THE Arts City.

When you factor in all the former warehouses and industrial spaces transforming themselves into edgy, cool, art galleries, like the 7-story Andy Warhol Museum for instance, it's no wonder that Pittsburgh's status that once drew comparisons to "The Little (city) Engine That Could" has clearly shown that it can and continues to do so.

With so much rich history, mind-blowing architecture and an Iconic University of Pittsburgh conveniently located smack dab in the center of this metro Tootsie Pop, visitor's find themselves enamored with a plethora of entertaining and educational choices.

Nestled comfortably on the University of Pittsburgh's campus, lies the Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center, a must-stay for anyone traveling to Pittsburgh, be it their first visit or their 100th. Boasting deluxe room accommodations, a Club Level exercise area and a lounge with private key access, Wyndham at Pittsburgh University Center has left no stone unturned.

In addition to all of the sophisticated luxuries Wyndham travelers have come to expect, their Bridges Restaurant and Lounge, with it's revamped menu and beautiful outdoor Al Fresco dining veranda, provide delicious dining options to both their guests and local residents seeking outstanding breakfast, lunch, dinner/fine dining options. Bridges lounge area combines classy, eye-catching ambience and perfect lighting with top-drawer service and an extensive bar menu that will satisfy the pickiest guest.

At the heart of any memorable stay lies a first-class staff and Wyndham at Pittsburgh University Center is no exception. Patricia (Patty) Iannotta, is their Director of Sales and Marketing with a hotel/sales background second to none-and it shows: Patty, herself, a graduate of University of Pittsburgh, has the sort of "skin in the game" within the scope of her hometown that combine's home-grown, unmatched knowledge of the city and all of its attractions, expertise and relationships with a virtual "Who's Who" of Pittsburgh and a masterful sense of what makes every guest and visitor to Pittsburgh tick and the best direction to point them in with respect to maximizing both their stay in Pittsburgh as well as their experience at Wyndham University Center. Imagine a living, breathing encyclopedia of Pittsburgh knowledge, combined with the friendliest, most accommodating Concierge and you've summed up Patty Iannotta.

On day one, my lovely daughter and I joined Patty for a scrumptious breakfast at Bridges, prepared to perfection. Patty prepared me for what was to become a memorable stay at their first-class property, along with all the bells and whistles (and more). Truly a proud advocate of her native city, Patty made us feel welcome and valued as first-time guests at her prestigious hotel. Patty combines personable service with first hand knowledge and tremendous insight, while going the extra-mile for all of her treasured guests.

Accommodations were anything but antiseptic, like so many standards stays. The rooms are exceptionally spacious, generously well-appointed and beautifully decorated with just the right colors and tasteful designs. Wyndham thought of everything, being sure to include all the creature-comforts, including plush, relaxing lounging chair's and ottoman's for reading or watching television. Bathrooms are clean, large and nicely stocked with all the accouterments (and more), including powerful blow dryers, one of a kind shampoos, lotions and soaps as well as premium conditioners and lotions. Refrigerators are available upon request and private safe's have been newly added as a standard feature in every room to protect valuables.

A 100% smoke-free facility, knowing I was on assignment, along with an extended stay, Patty and her staff were accommodating to the letter: When our needs dictated a refrigerator, Iannotta and staff did not disappoint. They provided it, along with complimentary Wi-Fi, complimentary shuttle (say goodbye to Uber when staying at Wyndham due to their vast resources), and even during an exciting weekend featuring the National Bodybuilding Championships and the Pittsburgh Marathon one day apart, this incredible Wyndham location did not miss a beat-From their head of maintenance, Vern Connor, to Matt, Sean and Cierra at the front desk, every moment at the Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center felt like a vacation within a vacation.

Surrounded by University of Pittsburgh, it's beautiful neighborhoods and Carnegie Melon University, the Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center could not be more centrally located or better positioned for guests and visitor's to Pittsburgh. The hotels indoor pool, fitness center and proximity to all the culture and fun brimming in this high energy, artsy, beautiful area, if anything, Pittsburgh could be perceived as the nation's best kept (city) secret but the word seems to have gotten out as Forbes and many other publications grade Pittsburgh in several of it's Top 10 lists and for good reason.

For livability, stretching the dollar, great food, education (Pitt is ranked as one of the top Universities in the world) tech, art, music and incredible museum's that never disappoint, Pittsburgh is a force to be reckoned with-even their crime rate is low.

With so many wonderful options on the table, one of our top choices to explore turned out to be brand new "SUPER. NATURAL. Exhibit at the relaxing and exhilarating Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a stellar green leader whose mission is to "educate all with beauty and importance of plants," while simultaneously "advancing sustainability and promoting human and environmental well-being, through action and research; and to celebrate it's historic greenhouse. And celebrate we did. After so many enjoyable outdoor tours of Pittsburgh, walking, jogging, driving and shuttling, Phipps was the perfect respite to share with my daughter and one of her favorite destinations.

10 years after Chiluly at Phipps, the Pittsburgh conservatory's tradition of glass art continues-and boy, does it ever! This blockbuster exhibit does not disappoint, featuring gorgeous Glass Art by renowned Jason Gamrath. Featuring super-sized glass flowers (with some standing up to 14 feet tall), each handcrafted to showcase the intricate details and vibrant patterns found in nature, Master glass artist Gamrath's beautiful colors and shapes blend beautifully with the natural plant flora that's woven throughout the exhibit.

This mesmerizing exhibit was underscored during the etherial butterfly segment that brought color, movement and life to the Phipps experience, making it both exciting and memorable. SUPER. NATURAL. is a must-do for visitor's, Pittsburgh residents, students, their families and anyone visiting the region. I can see why so many first-time visitor's to Phipps Conservatory become frequent guests. Phipps staff provide a wonderful respite to exhale from the everyday.

The day after arrival, I went for a scenic run and just beyond Phipps Conservatory, (see photo), the area surrounding the venue proved to be a gorgeous nature region near the University. The timeless backdrop of the Steel City houses some vast expanses of forests, woods and rivers where visitor's can run, power-walk and take in nature without venturing too far from the University campus.

Right nearby the parks and outdoor restaurant venue's sits the Iconic Cathedral of Learning, my personal favorite. When you step into it's hallowed halls for the first time, you cannot help but become awestruck by its unparalleled architecture, classic beauty and greatness. As I looked up toward its gawking ceiling, I quietly wondered how many students might have chosen Pitt as their University knowing that this truly timeless structure would become their study hall. There's not a better place of study and solitude at any competing University in the country and more likely the world. To think, that in 1924, 17,000 citizens, men and women and 97,000 children contributed their precious dimes to support it's structure is an amazing story in itself. The Cathedral of Learning is a must-see during any visit to Pittsburgh and conveniently located on campus, within walking distance to the Wyndham University Center.

During our quality time spent together, we had the opportunity to explore lovely neighborhoods in Shadyside and Squirrel Hill and struck gold in Pitt's area, Oakland, when we hit the jackpot and stumbled into the once a year, "Free Comics Saturday" celebrated in comics shops nationwide and on this day, on Craig Street near the campus. My daughter and I received 4 comics each before purchasing a throwback/underground comic from the late 70's.

We dined at an amazing Turkish Kebab House restaurant in Squirrel Hill for lunch that day, enjoying delectable Lamb Kebab's, rice, pita and delicious salad combinations. For dessert we splurged on Rita's Italian Ice that combined Italian ice and ice cream-talk about decadence! SO good!

One of our favorite late night dinners was Bridges Steakhouse Burger, at Wyndham University Center, featuring Natural Black Angus beef, grilled to perfection, along with a generous variety of incredible toppings at no extra charge! I personally ordered mine topped with grilled mushrooms, fresh onion, tomatoes, pepper jack cheese for a little heat, sweet peppers, hot peppers and to top it off, a fried egg, making it a gourmet burger with toasted bun and crispy fries-exceptionally yummy! Our server was a gem, very attentive, responsive, and friendly-we could not have been happier with the service at Bridges. In fact, during our visit, I met a prestigious Department Head from Carnegie Melon University who could not have been kinder or more enthusiastic about his hometown. We shared a late snack, coffee and premium hot cocoa topped off with fresh whipped cream, really hit the spot.

Bridges has something for every taste pallet and their late night dining and snack options are second to none.

During our stay, I also had the privilege of hosting a last minute business meeting at Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center, but instead of vying for one of their well-appointed conference rooms, since my meeting was spontaneous and more of a 1 on 1, I opted for their quiet mezzanine overlooking the lobby and was surprised by the quiet privacy, coupled with spacious view of the lobby and surrounding area leading into their modern lounge. Needless to say, the business meeting was a pleasure in a relaxed atmosphere. Another outstanding bonus: Guests who need a ride to a restaurant, event or any other destination within 3 miles of the hotel may skip the Uber ride by requesting Wyndham's accommodating (Free) shuttle, proof that they've surely thought of everything.

To a person, from their Director of Sales & Marketing/Patty Iannotta, to their prompt variety of services, to the outstanding front desk team, to their Wi-Fi Center, spiffy housekeeping crew and to their super-friendly Maintenance Manager, Vern Connor, Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center is one of Wyndham's true gems. It's no wonder business is crackling at this easy to stay at hotel, where a happy staff go out of their way to make their guests feel like they've got a second home when staying in Pittsburgh. Put simply, there's no better choice, period.

For more information, visit their website: www.wyndham.com/hotels/47154 and for reservations call: 1-800.UNIV.CTR For corporate groups or anything creative/outside the box, ask for Patty Iannotta, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Stay tuned for part 2 of my Series, where next time I'll be exploring and uncovering more Pittsburgh treasures like The Andy Warhol Museum, The Mattress Factory and or (Roberto) Clemente Museum during our stay at Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center.

Photos courtesy of Beck Holko/Jayhawk Media