National Geographic Calls Pittsburgh One of the Best Places in the World for 2012, Thanks to Economic Turnaround, Cultural Offerings and "Quirky" Charm

With a "natural setting that rivals Lisbon and San Francisco, a wealth of fine art and architecture, and a quirky sense of humor," Pittsburgh qualifies as one of the best places in the world for 2012, according to National Geographic magazine.

National Geographic Photo

"On all counts, the Steel City’s transformation over the past quarter century qualifies as revolutionary," NatGeo said in an article on its website titled "Extreme Metropolitan Makeover."

"Its mourning for its industrial past long concluded, this western Pennsylvania city changed jobs and reclaimed its major assets: a natural setting that rivals Lisbon and San Francisco, a wealth of fine art and architecture, and a quirky sense of humor."

The world's authority on world travel and exploration included Pittsburgh in a list titled "Best of the World 2012" that also includes exotic and historic locations in Thailand, Croatia, Iceland, Canada and many more.

In addition to its economic and environmental revitalization, and its naturally beautiful setting, Pittsburgh is distinguished by it architectural and cultural landmarks, National Geographic said.

"Pittsburgh’s century-wide swath of architectural styles persuaded British film director Christopher Nolan to use downtown as a stand-in for Gotham City in this summer’s Dark Knight Rises," the article reads. "Sustainable design has transformed Victorian landmarks like the glass-domed Phipps Conservatory and created contemporary ones like the swooping waterfront convention center (see photo).

CLICK HERE to read the National Geographic posting.