Pittsburgh: the home of sports and yinzers. Though a small city in comparison to other major cities, Pittsburgh has its own unique charm with friendly people and a culture all its own. I used to dislike growing up in the 'burgh for its size and how tight-knit suburban life was making me want to escape. As I got older, I discovered how much character it had and realized Pittsburgh was a place I could never be without. These are the best things about the Steel city.

1. Our sports teams are top notch

There's a reason we're dubbed the City of Champions. From the Steelers to the Pirates and the Penguins, there's no doubt that Pittsburgh has some of the best sports teams around. Our six Super Bowl wins and recent Stanley Cup victory speaks for itself. Watching a game on T.V. is always exciting, but actually attending one is even better. We also can't forget the large, loyal fan base for the black and gold. Don't even dare to disrespect the Terrible Towel.

2. The friendly town natives

Pittsburgh's reputation for having terrible and aggressive drivers is made up for by being rated one of the friendliest towns in the country. Whether you stop a yinzer on the street for directions, good restaurant recommendation or a chat on the T, we'll be more than happy to comply with out-of-town folk in hopes of making them feel like the city is home.

3. Primanti Brother's Sandwiches

Primanti's has been a Pittsburgh favorite since 1933, and with a shop on nearly every corner, you can indulge in the famous delicious sandwiches topped with your choice of meat, french fries, tomatoes and cole slaw. What more could you possibly want on a sandwich? This place ranks high on my recommended go-to places when you're visiting the city.

4. Our oddly charming dialect

Pittsburghese is usually the subject of mockery from non-natives and even me being a Pittsburgher myself, I poke fun at it from time to time. Living near the city, I never noticed that we had an "accent" until I had gotten older and went out-of-town more often. Though some may say it's "ugly," I find it weirdly charming. I know one thing's for sure: Yinz guys go dahn-tahn for a hoagie, not a sub. I drink pop, not soda. Don't even fight me on the gum band vs. rubber band debate. If you do, well, you're a jag-off.

5. Mount Washington

When you take the coveted incline ride up to Mount Washington, you get a beautiful overlook of the whole city in all its glory especially at night with all its dazzling lights and sounds. There are also plenty of high-end restaurants and bars that make this place a hot-spot for tourists.

6. The Strip District/South Side

Don't let the name phase you. The Strip District or "The Strip" located near the Allegheny River, is a foodie's paradise. This section of the city is bursting with flavor and culture as you get access to delicious food and groceries at low prices as well as an array of small businesses fit for good shopping. You can't forget a splash of Pittsburgh history at the Heinz History center. You also can't forget Market Square for good concerts and great public art. If you're hungry for nightlife, South Side is the place to be with its array of cool bars and clubs. Saturday nights will never be the same.

7. Kennywood Park

Located in West Mifflin, Kennywood is a classic Pittsburgh amusement park full of old-school rollercoasters and other rides and the best food you will ever eat. It's blasphemy to pass up on Potato Patch fries, and don't even think about skipping out on deep-fried Oreos or the Golden Nugget Dip cone after riding the Jack Rabbit 20 times.

8. The overall beauty of the city

From the Cathedral of Learning to a bike ride at The Point, there's nothing quite like the beauty and atmosphere of Pittsburgh. It may be small, but it has plenty of character. I know there is no other place I'd rather call home.