Tom from Pittsburgh on 1/20/2019 10:59:21 AM:
The train station borders downtown Pgh and an area known as the "strip district". The Strip District is an old location where fresh produce would come in by train and be made available to local merchants. "Strip" does not refer to the generally popular connotation. The Strip still has it's fruit stores and cheese shops, but it's also more geared to restaurants, hotels and entertainment. Very safe during daylight hours. The old original "Primanti's" is also located in the Strip and is open 24/7 if want to ride down Smallman St. about 6 blocks or so.
The area around the train station is also near the bus station and can get a little shaky after 10 or 11 pm, but not really what I would call a dangerous area. As always, just be alert to whats going on around you. The area is generally well lit and well patrolled by the police. Also, there are several nice hotels within 3 block of the train station: Homewood Suites ($116), Hampton Inn ($118), and Marriot ($111) so you won't be on the street very long - 2 minute bike ride at best. I also am planning a C&O/GAP bike ride in late spring. Going from DC to Pgh though. Hoping for better weather as I cancel twice last spring/summer. Good luck to you.