Looking for Pittsburgh kids attractions that will thrill your kids?
Pittsburgh has lots of fun for families. It offers museums and outdoor places perfect for kids!
Let’s discover Pittsburgh’s top spots for families. Together, we’ll make memories to cherish with your kids.
Exploring Pittsburgh with Kids
Pittsburgh is great for family fun, with lots to do for all ages. There’s something here for everyone, from learning and outdoor fun to experiencing the city’s culture. Let’s see what Pittsburgh has ready for you and your crew.
Museums Galore
Begin your journey at Pittsburgh’s famous museums. Carnegie Science Center is loved by families for its interactive exhibits and awesome planetarium. The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh lets kids play creatively, take part in hands-on activities, and join art workshops. Also, the Andy Warhol Museum displays the art of the city’s own famous artist.
“Pittsburgh’s museums offer a wide range of exhibits that are perfect for kids and families. They get to dive into arts, sciences, and history.”
Outdoor Adventures
Pittsburgh shines with outdoor activities. Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium to see incredible animals. Kennywood Park is where the fun’s at with thrilling rides and shows for all. At Point State Park, enjoy picnics, walks, and beautiful city views.
Cultural Delights
Experience Pittsburgh’s lively arts and culture with your family. Enjoy a show by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra or the Children’s Theater Series. The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers stunning gardens and teaches about eco-friendly living.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium |
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| Kennywood Park |
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| Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens |
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Historical Gems
Explore Pittsburgh’s history at interesting sites. The Senator John Heinz History Center has exhibits on Western Pennsylvania’s history. Frick Pittsburgh shows a well-kept mansion and gardens. The Duquesne Incline offers amazing city views from an old cable car.
Parks and Playgrounds
Pittsburgh’s parks are perfect for free play and outdoor fun. Schenley Park has picnics, hikes, and a free pool. Riverfront Park is great for biking or walking with river views. At The Frick Environmental Center, learn about the environment through fun exhibits.
Pittsburgh is full of fun places for families. From cool museums to adventures outside, there’s lots to make lasting memories. The city promises fun for everyone.
Pittsburgh Children’s Museums
Pittsburgh’s children’s museums are a top choice for fun and learning. They have interactive exhibits and activities that spark kids’ interest. Whether into science, arts, or history, Pittsburgh has a museum for every child.
The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is a favorite. It’s on the city’s North Side and aims to make learning fun for all kids. It offers “The Studio” for art creation, “Waterplay” for water experiments, and “The Garage” for building projects. There’s plenty to keep kids busy and learning.
For science-loving kids, the Carnegie Science Center is perfect. It’s beside the Ohio River and packed with hands-on science exhibits. Kids can travel through space in the Buhl Digital Dome or see the Miniature Railroad & Village. It’s a place where young minds can thrive on curiosity.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium offers a look at animals up close. Kids can see everything from elephants to penguins. They also get a chance to explore marine life at the PPG Aquarium. It’s a great way for kids to learn about different species.
Children’s Museum Comparison
| Children’s Museum | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh | North Side | Interactive exhibits |
| Carnegie Science Center | Ohio River | Science and technology focus |
| Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium | Highland Park | Interaction with animals |
Pittsburgh’s museums are full of learning adventures for kids. They can dive into art, science, history, and wildlife. These visits can spark a lifelong love for learning. Take your family to these places in Pittsburgh and make memories that last.
Outdoor Adventures in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is full of outdoor fun for kids. There are beautiful parks, thrilling amusement park rides, and lots of activities that create lasting memories.
1. Discover the Beauty of Pittsburgh’s Parks
Pittsburgh’s parks are stunning and great for many outdoor activities. At Schenley Park, you can have picnics, play frisbee, or just enjoy the nature. It’s known for its green spaces and paths.
Visit Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for more than just fun. It lets you walk through beautiful gardens, see exotic plants, and learn about nature conservation.
2. Experience Thrills at Amusement Parks
Kennywood Park offers excitement with its rides. This historic park has rides ranging from big roller coasters to small kiddie ones. It’s fun for all ages.
For water fun, Sandcastle Water Park is the best. It has water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. It’s perfect for cooling off in the summer.
3. Hit the Trails
The Three Rivers Heritage Trail is perfect for hiking and biking. It offers views of Pittsburgh’s rivers, bridges, and skyline. It’s scenic and picturesque.
Frick Park is great for adventurous kids. It has trails, playgrounds, and a nature center. You can explore and learn about local wildlife together.
4. Venture into Point State Park
Point State Park combines natural beauty with history. Walk on scenic paths, have picnics, or watch the city’s fountain. It’s at the tip of Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle.
The park is a great place to start boat tours. This lets you and your kids see the rivers and learn about Pittsburgh’s history.
| Outdoor Adventures in Pittsburgh | Description |
|---|---|
| Schenley Park | Expansive green spaces and walking trails |
| Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Enchanting gardens and educational exhibits |
| Kennywood Park | Historical amusement park with thrilling rides |
| Sandcastle Water Park | Exciting water slides and wave pool |
| Three Rivers Heritage Trail | Scenic trail with stunning river views |
| Frick Park | Wooded trails and nature center |
| Point State Park | Scenic pathways and historic sites |
Pittsburgh is a family paradise for outdoor adventures. From parks to rides to trails, it has everything for fun. Plan your visit and make unforgettable memories in the Steel City.
Animal Encounters in Pittsburgh
A family trip to Pittsburgh isn’t complete without visiting its awesome zoos and wildlife centers. These places let your kids meet all sorts of animals up close. They can see everything from big lions to cute penguins.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium takes you on a fantastic journey. You’ll go through different areas like the African savannas and underwater worlds. Your children will love watching sea otters play and stingrays glide. They’ll also learn about saving animals and their homes.
If your children love sea creatures, then Pittsburgh Pirates Cove is perfect. It’s an indoor water park filled with 30,000 gallons of water, colorful fish, sea turtles, and sharks. Your kids will be thrilled to touch and learn about these sea animals.
Dolphin Encounter Show
“The Dolphin Encounter Show at the Pirates Cove is something you can’t miss. It lets kids see how smart and agile dolphins are through fun shows. You’ll all be wowed by what these amazing animals can do!” – Sarah, a Pirates Cove visitor.
The National Aviary is great for those who love birds. It’s a special place where your kids can meet and feed different birds. They’ll see everything from colorful parrots to big eagles. The Aviary teaches kids about birds and helps them love nature.
Don’t leave these animal adventures out of your Pittsburgh trip plans. Your children will not only have fun, but they’ll also learn to love and respect nature. These experiences will give them memories to last a lifetime.
| Zoo/Wildlife Center | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium | Highland Park | – Diverse animal exhibits – Educational programs – African savanna replica |
| Pirates Cove | North Ridgeville | – Indoor aquatic park – Dolphin Encounter Show – Touch tanks |
| National Aviary | North Shore | – Interactive bird encounters – Hand-feeding opportunities – Educational programs |
Interactive Science Centers
Dive into Pittsburgh’s interactive science centers with your children. These places make learning fun with hands-on activities. They captivate young minds and spark curiosity.
The Carnegie Science Center is a gem in Pittsburgh’s crown. Here, kids can enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits and programs. They can explore outer space in SpacePlace, learn about robots in Roboworld, or dive into aquatic life in the Miniature Railroad & Village®. Plus, there’s a planetarium for star gazing.
The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is another great spot for families. It blends art, science, and play together. Children can play with water at the Waterplay exhibit, get creative in MAKESHOP®, or make art in the Art Studio. There are also special events and workshops for more fun.
Love natural history? Visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History with your kids. It offers a trip through time and the natural world. There, children can learn about dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and much more. The interactive displays cover geology, paleontology, and anthropology.
These interactive science centers mix education and entertainment. They make learning exciting for kids of all ages.
Nurture Your Child’s Curiosity
- Encourage your children to ask questions and dive into science with hands-on activities.
- Use workshops and special events to deepen their understanding of science.
- Talk about scientific discoveries to grow their love for learning and thinking skills.
- Visit these science centers often to keep their science passion strong.
Inspire a Lifelong Love for Science
Pittsburgh’s interactive science centers offer more than just fun. They can spark a lifelong passion for science in your kids. With hands-on experiences, you can inspire their curiosity, boost their creativity, and support their learning journey.
Discover the wonders of science together with your children. Watching them develop a love for the world around them is rewarding.
Immerse in Arts and Culture
Pittsburgh is famous for its lively arts and culture scene. It offers many activities that spark creativity and capture attention at any age. You’ll find theaters, galleries, and cultural events ready to welcome your family.
The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust is a big part of the city’s art world. It’s a nonprofit group that puts on a variety of performances and shows all year. Their Children’s Theater Series has plays perfect for kids that bring magical worlds to life.
Visit the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh if your kids love making art. This museum has art shows by kids and workshops where young artists can get creative. It’s a place where your child can try out different art styles and techniques.
Exploring Art Galleries
The Andy Warhol Museum is a must-see in Pittsburgh. It’s in the North Shore area and shows art by the famous Andy Warhol. The museum has fun, interactive exhibits that let you get hands-on with art. Take your kids to see Warhol’s unique work and learn about contemporary art.
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton
Check out the Senator John Heinz History Center for a mix of history and art. This big museum has exhibits about Pittsburgh’s history and its artists. Your family can see paintings and sculptures that tell the city’s story.
The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra offers amazing music nights. Their concerts are great for all ages. See the power of music at one of their live shows.
Artistic Festivals and Events
Pittsburgh’s art scene shines at its festivals and events. The Three Rivers Arts Festival is a ten-day art party. Families can wander through art booths, listen to music, and try art activities together.
The Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater Festival is another fun event. It brings global and local theater to the city for a week full of shows. Your kids will love the storytelling and puppetry they see.
Exploring Pittsburgh’s arts and culture is a great way to make memories. Your family will enjoy theater, art galleries, and festivals. These activities will spark your imagination and inspire you.
| Art and Culture Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Pittsburgh Cultural Trust | Nonprofit organization that presents diverse performances and exhibitions |
| Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh | Interactive museum with art exhibits and workshops for young artists |
| Andy Warhol Museum | Showcases the works of iconic artist Andy Warhol and offers interactive exhibits |
| Senator John Heinz History Center | Museum exploring Pittsburgh’s history and artistic heritage |
| Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra | Experience breathtaking musical performances by a world-class orchestra |
| Three Rivers Arts Festival | 10-day celebration of visual arts, music, and performance |
| Pittsburgh International Children’s Theater Festival | Week-long event featuring international theater, puppetry, and storytelling |
Sports and Recreation in Pittsburgh
If your kids love sports, Pittsburgh is a great place to be. The city boasts several pro sports teams and modern stadiums. Here, you can catch football, baseball, basketball, or hockey games. It’s fun for every fan. Watching a game live is unforgettable. It also lets your family dive into Pittsburgh’s vibrant sports vibe.
Baseball fans, head to PNC Park. This beautiful stadium is on the North Shore and has amazing views. Watch the Pittsburgh Pirates play here. The atmosphere is perfect for families.
“Rooting for the home team in PNC Park is an experience like no other. The energy of the crowd and the beauty of the stadium make it a fantastic outing for the whole family.” – Sarah, local Pittsburgh resident
Love football? Then Heinz Field is your spot. It’s the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. This place is known for its exciting NFL games. You’ll feel the electric atmosphere. Fans are passionate, and the team’s history adds to the fun.
Basketball fans should see the Pittsburgh Panthers at the Petersen Events Center. You’ll get caught up in the excitement of college basketball. This facility gives you a great view of the intense action.
For ice hockey action, visit PPG Paints Arena in the summer. Watch the Pittsburgh Penguins show off their skills on ice. The game’s speed makes it thrilling to watch. Plus, the arena provides a fantastic experience for fans of all ages.
If your family likes being active, Pittsburgh also has lots to offer. The city’s parks feature activities like hiking, biking, and various sports fields. You can play soccer with your kids or spend an afternoon at a family-friendly spot.
Professional Sports Teams in Pittsburgh
| Sport | Team | Stadium |
|---|---|---|
| Football | Pittsburgh Steelers | Heinz Field |
| Baseball | Pittsburgh Pirates | PNC Park |
| Basketball | Pittsburgh Panthers | Petersen Events Center |
| Hockey | Pittsburgh Penguins | PPG Paints Arena |
Pittsburgh offers both watching games and joining in on sports. This city’s lively sports spirit and excellent facilities promise fun outings for families. Every visit is an adventure.
Educational and Historical Sites
Visit Pittsburgh’s top places with your kids to delve into its deep history. These spots mix education with fun, giving an exciting experience. They’ll catch the interest of young minds.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Enter the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for a journey through time. Here, kids can see ancient fossils, beautiful gems, and exciting exhibits. They can learn about different habitats, the time of dinosaurs, and join in activities.
Frick Park Historical Society
The Frick Park Historical Society lets you peek into Pittsburgh’s history. By touring the park, kids learn about its scenery and historic spots. They discover the city’s old industries with stories and interactive displays.
The Fort Pitt Museum
At the Fort Pitt Museum, go back to early American frontier life. Located in Point State Park, it offers a close look at Pittsburgh’s influence on the nation. Through fun displays and real forts, kids see the lives of soldiers, tribes, and pioneers.
Fricks Lock Village
Live the late 1800s at Fricks Lock Village. It presents a living history with its original schoolhouse and store. Guided tours and demos teach kids about early Western Pennsylvania settlers.
“Pittsburgh’s historical and educational sites let kids learn and have fun at the same time. They can explore the natural world, local history, or experience life in the past. These attractions promise an unforgettable and rich learning experience.”
Make plans to visit these kid-friendly spots in Pittsburgh. They combine education with fun games and stories. Your family trip will be both memorable and educational for your children.
Playgrounds and Parks
You can’t beat the outdoor fun at Pittsburgh’s playgrounds and parks for family-friendly activities. These places let your kids run, play, and meet new friends in the open air.
Let Your Kids Unleash Their Energy
Kids can release all their energy at Pittsburgh’s playgrounds. They offer climbing, slides, and swings for endless entertainment. Watch them as they go down slides, tackle obstacles, and play make-believe.
The Frick Park Play Area is a favorite among families. It’s in the city’s heart, with lots of green space, big trees, and play structures. Here, children can climb, slide, and swing, while you relax in a peaceful setting.
Explore the City’s Beautiful Parks
But Pittsburgh’s parks offer more than playgrounds. They’re great for picnics, biking, and walks. Visit Point State Park for beautiful river views and the famous Fountain. Or hike in Schenley Park to see scenic trails, lush trees, and wildlife.
Don’t miss Highland Park, known for its gardens and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. It’s a chance to play in the park and then explore the zoo. Your kids will love learning about animals from around the world.
Plan Your Outdoor Excursion Today
Remember to include Pittsburgh’s playgrounds and parks in your family plans. They are perfect for fun, adventure, and time with your family. From swings to nature trails and picnics, you’re sure to make unforgettable memories in these welcoming spots.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh is a great place for family trips. It has many attractions that kids will love. From interactive museums to outdoor fun, there’s plenty for every child.
The city offers a wide range of activities. Your kids can learn, play, and make memories. Plan your visit to Pittsburgh for an amazing adventure with your family.
Visit the children’s museums or see the animals at the zoo. Enjoy outdoor adventures too. Pittsburgh has so much for families to do. Explore the city and spend quality time with your kids.
