Living in Pittsburgh with kids means your kids probably said “Carnegie” before they said Elmo. From science to music to natural history, there’s a museum for that. This list of our favorite family spots in Pittsburgh is enough to keep you busy for weeks. Bonus: we also loaded up our Pittsburgh events calendar with kid activities so get out there and explore!
photo: Thomas Chappell via flickr
Pittsburgh Zoo
This zoo sits on 77 acres of park land where it exhibits more than 4,000 animals representing 475 species, including 20 threatened or endangered species. Visit the clouded leopard cubs and then head over to the polar bear enclosure.
7370 Baker St.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: pittsburghzoo.org
Bicycle Heaven
Bicycle Heaven is the world’s largest bicycle museum and bike shop. Visit and check out all the historical gear they have on display.
1800 Preble & Columbus Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: bicycleheaven.org
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
A green oasis in the middle of Pittsburgh’s vibrant Oakland neighborhood, Phipps has provided a world-class garden experience to its visitors since 1893. Visit to discover breathtaking seasonal flower shows and special exhibits, a nationally-recognized orchid collection, butterflies, botanical gardens, fun family activities and much more.
1 Schenley Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: phipps.conservatory.org
photo: Carnegie Museum via yelp
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Carnegie Museum of Natural History is the place for kids to discover science and the wonders of the natural world. Dig for bones in Bonehunters Quarry, get hands-on with real and replica specimens in Discovery Basecamp, grind corn in a Hopi home and more. Dinosaurs are just the beginning! Free family-activities, touchables, and Bonehunters Quarry available each weekend and weekdays during the summer.
4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: carnegiemnh.org
USS Requin
Come aboard to learn how 80 men used their expertise, humor and sheer ingenuity to carve out a rough and adventurous life during USS Requin’s (SS 481) lengthy defense and scientific missions, some of which are still classified to this day! State-of-the-art and battle ready when she set out just days before the end of World War II, Requin holds the distinction of being the Navy’s first Radar Picket submarine.
1 Allegheny Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: carnegiesciencecenter.org
Point State Park
Serving as a key strategic spot during the French and Indian War, this National Historic Landmark and park offers stunning views of the city and a variety of outdoor recreation.
601 Commonwealth Pl, Bldg A
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: dcnr.state.pa.us
Schenley Park
Situated in the heart of Oakland, Schenley Park has come to be Pittsburgh’s civic park. Created in 1889 with land donated by heiress Mary Schenley, the park now contains 456 acres of trails, woods and attractions.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: pittsburghparks.org
Carnegie Museum of Art
CMOA collects, preserves and presents artworks from around the world to inspire, sustain and provoke discussion, and to engage and reflect multiple audiences.
4400 Forbes Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: cmoa.org
photo: Brittany S. via yelp
Carnegie Science Center
Whether you’re seeking a science adventure, or just looking for things to do in Pittsburgh, Carnegie Science Center is a fun-filled destination guaranteed to ignite the “Wow!” in everyone. Visit Pittsburgh’s most-visited museum, with four floors of interactive exhibits.
1 Allegheny Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: carnegiesciencecenter.org
Randyland
Randyland is the home of artist, Randy Gilson. Located in the Mexican War Streets district of Pittsburgh’s Northside, the Randyland courtyard welcomes visitors to come and explore the public art displays in and around the property. Using paints, plants, plastic animals, yard sale finds and discarded construction materials, creator Randy Gilson has transformed his home and surrounding buildings into a colorful Pittsburgh landmark. This vibrant set of buildings is a centerpiece that continues to attract both tourists and locals.
1501 Arch St.
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: randy.land
Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
There’s lots of creative, fun and educational exhibits to explore throughout the Children’s Museum. Tackle illusions, perception and phenomena in the Attic. Roll up your sleeves and explore many things that drive, fly and roll in the Garage.
10 Childrens Way
Pittsburgh, PA
Online: pittsburghkids.org
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Pittsburgh
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Pittsburgh events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms.
—Kate Loweth
