free field trips in pittsburgh

The Ultimate List of Completely Free Things to Do in Pittsburgh

As one of the top destinations in the region, it isn’t hard to find great things to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. However, if you are looking for free things to do in Pittsburgh that can be a bit trickier.

Compared to Philadelphia , Pittsburgh’s museums and cultural attractions are more likely to charge, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t dozens of free things to do in Pittsburgh. In fact, I was able to find more than 40 great things to do in the city that are not just free and almost free in Pittsburgh, but completely free.

So, whether you are looking for a free museum, a free walking tour, or a free gallery, check out this list below to help you save money on your trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

(Looking for more free things to do in PA? Check out our list of free things to do in Philly ,  free things to do in Lancaster, PA , fun and free things to do in Harrisburg , and the best free museums in Pennsylvania .)

• The view from Mount Washington:  If you’re going to do one free thing when you visit Pittsburgh, make it Mount Washington. Located on a hillside on Pittsburgh’s South Shore, the park along the edge of this hillside provides an amazing view of downtown Pittsburgh. For more information on what to see when you visit, check out my full article about this amazing and free view .
• Allegheny Observatory:  Located in Pittsburgh’s Riverview Park, Allegheny Observatory offers free tours on Thursday and Friday nights from April through October. Visitors have a chance to learn about the observatory and look through its powerful telescope. While tours are free, reservations are required. Find out more here .
• Public Art in Public Places Self-Guided Walking Tours: If you’re looking to explore some of Pittsburgh’s best public art, the Office of Public Art has put together five great walking tours for various parts of the city. Explore both traditional art pieces as well as architectural art while exploring the city. You can find out more here .

• Randyland:  Probably the most colorful and happiest place in Pittsburgh, Randyland has to be experienced to be believed. The work of local artist Randy Gilson, Randyland is a fascinating place to visit, and a talk with Randy can’t be missed. Find out more in my full article about visiting Randyland .
• Ride the T Downtown: If you want to get around downtown Pittsburgh for free, hop on the T, the city’s light-rail system. Rides between the six stops downtown (Allegheny to First Avenue) are completely free all the time. This makes travel around downtown Pittsburgh incredibly easy. For more information, check out this map of Pittsburgh’s T .
• Drive up Canton Avenue: The steepest street in the US and the second steepest in the world is located on the outskirts of Pittsburgh in the Beechview neighborhood. Canton Avenue is less than 700 feet long, but its 37% grade is seriously steep. Vehicles are only allowed to drive up the street, but even that was very intimidating, and I felt like my car would fall back any second. For more information, read our article about driving up Canton Avenue .

• Nationality Rooms: Located inside the Cathedral of Learning, the tallest academic building in the western hemisphere, the Nationality Rooms are a collection of thirty room designed to represent the many cultures that have made Pittsburgh such a diverse city. While the 18 rooms of the first floor require a small fee to enter, the 12 newest rooms on the third floor are free whenever there is no class being held in them. For more information about visiting, check out this article that I wrote about the Nationality Rooms .
• Experience Gravity Hill:  Gravity Hill is located in North Park, a few miles north of the city. At Gravity Hill, it appears that cars, balls, and water will roll uphill. Is this an optical illusion or a natural phenomenon? Decide for yourself. Find out how to visit in our article about Pittsburgh’s Gravity Hill .
• The Frick Art Museum: One of the city’s best European art museums is the free Pittsburgh Frick Art Museum. Located in the Point Breeze neighborhood, this museum is known for its collection of Italian and French art. Also on the grounds is the free Car and Carriage Museum, Children’s Playhouse, and Greenhouse. Find out more in my article about The Frick .

• St. Anthony’s Chapel:  This small chapel located in Troy Hill is home to the largest collection of Catholic relics outside of the Vatican. The chapel has more than 5,000 relics that have been certified by the church as being authentic. These include bones of the Apostles, pieces of Jesus’ cross, and part of Mary’s shawl. The chapel offers free self-guided tours and guided tours at various times. Find out more in our full article about St. Anthony’s Chapel .
• Westinghouse Atom Smasher: Sitting in an industrial field in a residential area east of downtown you’ll find the abandoned Westinghouse Atom Smasher. The world’s first industrial particle accelerator, this piece of America’s nuclear history was instrumental in the early research of nuclear energy. Find out everything you need to know about visiting in our article about the Westinghouse Atom Smasher .
• Walking tour of Pittsburgh: This one-hour, self-guided audio tour of downtown Pittsburgh will guide you through some of the city’s most interesting sites. Tours are available for a free download in 11 different languages and take you to 15 different spots in the area. Find out more and  download the tour here .

• Bicycle Heaven: Bicycle Heaven is the world’s largest bicycle store and museum and features hundreds of vintage bicycles. Many of these bikes are rare antiques and some were even used in Hollywood productions. Find out more about visiting this amazing museum in our article about Bicycle Heaven .
• La Hutte Royal: What looks like a normal home from the outside is actually one of Pittsburgh’s most interesting art installations. Every room in this three-story home has been creatively reimagined as a unique art installation. Find out more about touring the home on their website .
• Outdoor Garden at Phipps Conservatory:  While Pittsburgh’s Phipps Conservatory isn’t free to visit, they do have one garden that is. The Outdoor Garden is a beautiful space located adjacent to the main conservatory and offers a nicely landscaped space that is free to explore and offers great views of the Cathedral of Learning. Find out more here .

• West End Overlook: There are many great spots for great views of downtown Pittsburgh, but one of the best is West End Overlook. From here, you can get a perfect view of the Point, as well as the North Shore and South Shore. For more information, read our article about West End Overloo k and many of the other great vantage points in the city.
• Pittsburgh Banjo Club Performances: If you love banjos, you won’t want to miss the free, public practices by the Pittsburgh Banjo Club. Every Wednesday from 8-11pm, the club holds a practice session at Elks Lodge #339 on Pittsburgh’s North Side. While food and drinks are available, visitors are welcome to come just to check out the free performance. Find out more on the Pittsburgh Banjo Club’s website .
• Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden: Located in downtown Pittsburgh, the Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden features over 100 different plants. These plants range from those featured in the Bible to those with Biblical names. The garden welcomes visitors to take a self-guided tour through their replica of ancient Israel. Find out more about visiting on the garden’s website .

• The remains of Forbes Field: From 1909-1970, Forbes Field was the home of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team. When the team moved, the stadium was torn down in 1971 to make room for the University of Pittsburgh. However, that doesn’t mean the stadium has been lost to the ages. In fact, two parts of it remain: a portion of the outfield wall and home plate. Find out where you can see these original remains of Forbes Field .
• Hiking in Frick Park: Frick Park is Pittsburgh’s largest park and features miles and miles of wooded trails throughout its 600+ acres. The park also features a great playground, a dog park, and great bird watching destinations. For more information, visit the park’s website .
• Exhibitions at the Society for Contemporary Crafts:  Since 1971, the Society for Contemporary Crafts has been focused on providing free exhibitions for non-mainstream art. Their exhibitions feature art in a variety of mediums and from a very broad range of subjects. They also offer drop-in activities for both children and adults that are also free. Find out more about their current exhibitions on the society’s website .

• The Center for PostNatural History: Pittsburgh has many strange museums, but the Center for PostNatural History might be one of the strangest. The world’s only museum dedicated plants and animals that have been intentionally altered by man, this small museum features a variety of fascinating specimens, including their ‘Biosteel’ goat. Find out more about visiting in our article on the museum .
• North Shore Water Steps:  If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off on a hot summer day, the North Shore Water Steps are a great destination. This 8,000-square-foot water feature is made entirely of sandstone and features cascading water and a number of shallow pools. Find out more about this unique attraction on their website .

• First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh: I’ve been in many churches in Pennsylvania, but few are as beautiful as Pittsburgh’s First Presbyterian Church. While there is no official tour of the building, its beauty is worth taking the time to see. The stained glass windows inside the church were designed by a variety of well-known artists, including Tiffany and Co. Find out more about the church on their website .
• Miller Gallery at Carnegie Mellon University: If you want to see some of the best upcoming artists in the Pittsburgh area, head to the Miller Gallery on the campus of Carnegie Mellon University. This Contemporary art gallery features primarily the works of students of the university with frequently rotating displays. To see what’s currently showing, head over the Miller Gallery’s website .

• Fort Pitt Blockhouse:  Built in 1764, the Fort Pitt Blockhouse is the oldest remaining structure in Pittsburgh (and the oldest structure west of the Allegheny Mountains). Originally part of Fort Pitt, the blockhouse is now a gift shop, but also has a small museum with artifacts related to the fort. The interior retains much of the feel of an 18th-century fort. For information about operating hours, visit the website of the Fort Pitt Blockhouse .
• Walking Tour of Allegheny Cemetery:  Allegheny Cemetery is one of Pittsburgh’s largest and oldest burial grounds. This 300-acre cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and features many beautiful gravestones and several famous inhabitants. The cemetery has put together this free walking tour that takes visitors past some of the most famous and interesting burial sites in the cemetery. You can find the walking tour here .
• The Wooden Roslyn Place: If you like unusual sites, Roslyn Place definitely fits the bill. Made entirely of wooden blocks, this 18-house cul-de-sac is the last street in Pittsburgh made entirely of wood. In fact, it might be the only such street in Pennsylvania. Click the link to find out more about visiting Roslyn Place .

• Heinz Memorial Chapel: Completed in 1938, Heinz Memorial Chapel was built by John Heinz (of Heinz Ketchup fame) to honor his late mother. The chapel is now owned by the University of Pittsburgh and sits adjacent to the Cathedral of Learning. This impressive chapel is unlike any other church you’ll find in the city. Find out more about visiting on the chapel’s website (and don’t miss the 360-degree tour).
• Whirlwind Downtown Walking Tour: If you are really interested in the history of the buildings and sites of downtown Pittsburgh, this self-guided walking tour is for you. Despite calling it a “whirlwind tour” this guide lists 34 stops with enough history to fill a book. However, if you want the most possible detail in your tour of the city, this free self-guided walking tour of Pittsburgh is a great resource. Get your copy here.
• Spray Parks: Pittsburgh is home to five Spray Parks that are sure to keep you cool on a hot day. Fully accessible for kids of all ages, and even those in wheelchairs, these spray parks will keep you playing all day. Find out more about their locations on the city’s website .

• Baseball Hall of Famers Gravesites: If you want to honor some of Pittsburgh’s best baseball players, you’ll be delighted to know that there are three Baseball Hall of Famers buried inside the city limits. The most well-known is Josh Gibson, who played his entire career in the Negro Leagues. To find out more about the three players buried in Pittsburgh, as well as three others buried in Allegheny County, check out our full article on their gravesites .
• Highland Park Super Playground: If you’re looking for a great playground for the kids, look no further than the Highland Park Super Playground. Located in the same park as the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium , this playground features a large wooden castle, tire swings, and picnic tables. Find out more about it here .
• Mellon Park Walled Garden: Located in Mellon Park, the Walled Garden is a beautiful and historic garden. However, while it is nice during the day, it is best visited at night thanks to a recent art installation. Designed to honor a local resident, the ground near the garden comes alive at night with lights designed to recreate the night sky on the night of Ann Katharine Seamans’ birth. Find out more about this unique attraction on Discover the Burgh .

• Point State Park:  Point State Park is the only one of Pennsylvania’s state parks that’s located within the Pittsburgh city limits. This urban park features a beautiful fountain and is popular with both city residents and visitors. Don’t miss the recreated outline of Fort Pitt on the grassy area in the center of the park. Find out more about Point State Park on its official website .
• St Paul Cathedral: Completed in 1906, St. Paul Cathedral is the largest Catholic Church in Pittsburgh. While it might lack the history of some of the city’s other churches, its beauty makes it well-worth visiting. Find out more about it on the church’s website .
• The Workers Sculpture: The Workers Sculpture gets my vote for the coolest public art display in Pittsburgh. Commissioned in 1997, this statue is made out of steel repurposed from surrounding industrial sites. Located along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, the sculpture commemorates Pittsburgh’s great industrial Heritage. Find out more about it here .

• Top of the Cathedral of Learning: While there are taller buildings in Pittsburgh, there is no publicly-accessible point higher in a Pittsburgh building than the 34th floor of the Cathedral of Learning. After stepping off the elevator, you’ll have to look through rather small and oddly-shaped windows, but the view from the top of the building is quite stunning on a beautiful day.
• The Strip District: Pittsburgh’s Strip District is full of restaurants and shops, and it’s this bustle of activity that draws visitors to this part of Pittsburgh. Walking down the streets, looking at the unique options in the variety of ethnic grocery stores, and exploring Pittsburgh’s cultural past is completely free. If you’re looking for a bit of a guide, my friends at Discover the Burgh have put together a great one .
• The Kelso Museum of Near Eastern Archeology: Located inside the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Kelso Museum of Near Eastern Archeology features items that the seminary has personally collected during 90 years of archeological work in Israel, Jordan, and Syria. They also feature very historic tablets and scrolls from the region. Find out more about visiting the museum on their website .

• Trinity Cathedral:  This beautiful downtown church was originally built in 1871 and features a stunning stained-glass window and several unique architectural features. However, the real interest at the church is the burial grounds that surround it. This cemetery contains some of the oldest graves in the city, including Revolutionary War soldiers, Native American chiefs, and Dr. Nathaniel Bedford, the founder of the University of Pittsburgh. Find out more in our article about churches to visit in Pittsburgh .
• Johnny Angel’s Ginchy Stuff: Located next to the aforementioned Bicycle Heaven, Johnny Angel’s Ginchy Stuff is part museum and part music shop. The museum covers the history of Johnny Angel, one of Pittsburgh’s most well-known local musicians and includes his impressive collection of memorabilia from his 50+ year career. For more information, check out this great recap from my friends at Discover the Burgh .
• Old Allegheny County Jail Museum Self-Guided Tour: Completed in 1886, the Old Allegheny County Jail used to house the city’s criminals. Today, portions of the cell block have been restored, and visitors are invited to take a self-guided tour through the museum. Tours are available on most Mondays. Make sure to check the calendar on this website to ensure that it is available when you want to visit.

• Cinema in the Park: For two months every summer, Pittsburgh’s parks welcome movie lovers to check out some great movies under the stars. These free weekly movies run in seven different parks throughout the city. Find out more on the city’s website.
• Civil War Room: While the Civil War Room is located just outside the city limits in Carnegie, it’s worth the short trip to see. This room is the best-preserved Grand Army of the Republic post in the country and is a time capsule of American history at the communities Carnegie Free Library. Find out everything in our article about the Civil War Room .
• Summer Farmers’ Markets: During the summer months Pittsburgh is home to farmers’ markets throughout the city. These markets offer a great chance to sample local produce or just take a stroll through a colorful and vibrant scene. Information on the markets and their operating times can be found here .

Do you know of any other completely free things to do in Pittsburgh’s city limits? Let us know in the comments section below.

Want to explore even more? Check out our list of fun facts about Pittsburgh ,  explore the best things to do in the city , or visit a waterfall near Pittsburgh .

Great places to stay in Pittsburgh

• Renaissance Hotel - One of the city's highest-rated hotels on Trip Advisor.
• Residence Inn North Shore - The perfect hotel for sports fans
• Hampton Inn and Suites - The only downtown hotel with free parking
• Hyatt Place - Great value near great attractions
• Find more great places to stay on Vrbo!

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More nearby places worth exploring

Pittsburgh’s Bicycle Heaven: The World’s Largest Bicycle Museum

Visiting the Harmony Museum to Learn about Western PA’s Religious Roots

The Amazing Story of the Abandoned Westinghouse Atom Smasher in Pittsburgh

Learning about the Whiskey Rebellion at the Bradford House

Find more things to do in the pittsburgh region.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

30 thoughts on “The Ultimate List of Completely Free Things to Do in Pittsburgh”

Thanks for the great ideas. I am a hometown girl (born and raised in Pittsburgh) living and working in the Poconos. I try to get home as often as I can. Your ideas are great for things to do. Thank you.

You’re welcome, Nadia. I hope you enjoy your travels throughout Pennsylvania.

La Scuola d’Italia Galileo Galilei offer free Italian Films once or twice a month, on Friday evenings. There are also free group conversations, story time for kids, music and games for kids on Saturdays, and so much more!! All FREE!!!

http://www.scuolagalileo.org

Three Rivers Arts Festival, Shadyside Arts Festival, Gallery Crawls :). Love my city!

Awesome fireworks!

How about the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Pric in Schenley Park. No charge to enter the show grounds to watch the only vintage street races in the country. It’s been going for 34 straight years!

The City of Pittsburgh’s “Jazz Under The Stars” at Riverview Park during the Summer….. Presenting Pittsburgh’s finest Musicians.

The Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh

The Allegheny City Historic Gallery is free to the public. Northside historic photos, 433 East Ohio Street.

Market Square has kids activities during the summer, I believe it was Tuesdays last summer, Roving Art Cart in different areas through out the summer, Blue Slide park, Beechwood farms has hikes/activities in Pittsburgh area, Castle Park in Cranberry, PA, Soergel’s play area/animals in Wexford, North Park parks/fishing, Squaw Valley Park which has nice area for bikes/scooters, and playing in the creek, and fishing, Shaler library has tons of free activities, Cranberry has summer movies in the park

I was an art student s in the mid 60’s and saw this Point Park being build. I even sketched on the Bridge to Nowhere and often went to Penn Station when it was falling apart. I’m proud of the city of my nativity and wish I could visit more often. Oh, and by the way, try eating at the Oyster House located in Market Square. Even if you don’t eat or drink anything, it’s worth the visit.

Great memories, Diana. I’m not a Pittsburgh native, but I still wish I could visit more often than I do. Pittsburgh is such a great city.

4 nights a week there are free comedy shows. You can find them at pghcomedy.com

Free Pittsburgh Cultural Trust JazzLive concerts every Tuesday in the Cultural District. At Katz Plaza in the warm months and inside at the Backstage Bar in other months. Three Rivers Arts Festival, JazzLive International Festival, free family activities during the Children’s Theater Festival and First Night Pittsburgh fireworks and countdown to midnight concert.

Kelso Museum of Near Eastern Archaeology

Shakespeare in the Parks is free theatre. Check the website.

Um… Fort Pitt Blockhouse is not the oldest structure west of the Allegheny Mountains. The San Miguel chapel in NM is much older… https://sanmiguelchapel.org/ . I believe there are other structure older also.

Interesting. Just going off of the information available online and at the site. I’ll have to look into it more.

Free outdoor summer concert at Hartwood Acres on Sunday nights and South Park on Friday nights. Check out Allegheny County Parks schedule.

Thanks for this creative list. Every local university should provide a link to new students, who often limit their exploration of the city to their campus and the bars of the South Side. For folks on fixed incomes, including retirees, this is a great reference tool.

If you are going to suggest areas of the city, like the Strip District, Market Square is a good addition. Also the paved trials on our rivers (Waterfront Mall’s is a good example) are worth a look.

Local museums often have “free days” promoted on their websites. Finally, annual membership to museums and zoos usually include free admission; while not “free,” it’s a great way to support local organizations and get a great benefit for a year.

Glad it’s helpful, and thanks for the additional suggestions.

I’ve lived here all my 60 years and you’ve given me new places to visit! Great site–THANK YOU!

Not to make this an ad, but we have a small charter bus company with 2 restored antique buses- it’s great way for groups to get around city. Check us out!

Great info!

Thank you! This is SO informative!

Thank you for this wonderful list! Our exchange student from Germany is visiting us and Pittsburgh will be a first for him and his American siblings.

My family and I love to travel as well. Are you considering creating more Uncovering sites for international voyages? I will follow you on Facebook 🙂

Thanks for the website. We are planning to visit Pittsburgh this October and have found it very interesting.

A point to consider is that the link to the downloadable walking tours seems to be broken.

Great post, Jim. These are a bunch of Free stuff to do in Pittsburgh. I only knew 10 of these. haha. My fave is going to Randyland. Who wouldn’t love to take a photo on their colorful buildings, so Instagram worthy.

Jim, fun list—thanks. One correction, please: the Rodef Shalom Biblical Garden is on the border of Oakland and Shadyside, not in downtown Pittsburgh.

Yet another addition to fun, free, Pittsburgh activities. Every Wednesday from May through the end of September is Dancing in the Park, under the tent in Schenley Plaza in Oakland. There is a different type of dance each week, no experience expected, there are lessons, and no partner needed. https://www.pittsburghparks.org/park-events All are welcome, some of the dances are DJed and some are with live bands.

The Randy Pausch lighted bridge on the Carnegie Mellon campus is worth a glimpse after dark!!!

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Top free things to do in pittsburgh.

​Who said you have to spend money to have a good time?

Not us! Here are the top free things to do in Pittsburgh.

Did you know? From Picklesburgh to Light Up Night and everything in between, many of Pittsburgh's biggest annual events and festivals are completely free. View our annual events page , summer festivals , fall festivals , holiday events or city-wide events calendar to find affordable activities and events for every season.

Free Events & Festivals

Bicycle heaven.

The world's largest bicycle museum (and adjoining shop) are free year-round for visitors, but donations are appreciated! See a wide variety of antique and vintage bicycles, custom-built bicycles, and rare bicycles from around the world as well as a collection of bicycle-related artifacts and memorabilia, including posters, photographs and artwork.

Downtown Walking Tours

See skyscrapers, soak up stories, scarf down a sandwich and more! Download one or all six free self-guided walking tours of downtown Pittsburgh to learn surprising tales from the past and see the best classic and modern skyscrapers. These tours, created by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation, are one of the best ways to experience Pittsburgh's rich architectural history! Download Tour Here

If you happen to be touring downtown on the first or third Mondays of the month through October, stop by the Old Allegheny County Jail Museum between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. when a docent is available to tell the story of this historic building.

Old Allegheny County Jail Museum Self-Guided Tours

The Old Allegheny County Jail, as seen in the film "Mrs. Soffel," was completed in 1886 to the designs of Boston architect H. H. Richardson and in use until July 27, 1995. A portion of one of the cell blocks has been preserved as the "Old Allegheny County Jail Museum." Enter the facility through the main Ross Street entrance (between 5th and Forbes avenues behind the Courthouse) or through the courtyard arch on Fifth Avenue. At either entrance, you will have to go through security. Open Mondays (except on government holidays), Feb-Oct, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

View from Mt. Washington

Drive up McArdle Roadway to Mt. Washington any evening to see why USA Weekend called this vantage point "one of the Top 10 most beautiful views in the country." Daytime views are great too, and sightseeing can be paired with a visit to the Emerald View Park , a 257-acre green space.

Step It Up for An Urban Adventure

Go on an urban adventure and get a workout, too! Pittsburgh boasts more than 700 outdoor stairways within the city limits. You can climb more than 24,000 vertical feet if you tackle them all! Learn more about all the hiking and biking trails plus waterways - all waiting to be explored.

The Allegheny Observatory

Take a free evening tour and see the night sky in a whole new light. The visit includes a short presentation, tour of the building and an opportunity to look through the telescope. Reservations are required and the observatory operates on a seasonal schedule.

The Frick Art & Historical Center

Take a step back in time to the gilded age in this beautifully preserved series of buildings and gardens right here in Pittsburgh. The best part? It is completely free to tour the grounds, The Frick Art Museum permanent collection and Car and Carriage Museum.

Nationality Rooms at University of Pittsburgh & Heinz Memorial Chapel

Tour 30 classrooms designed to represent distinct nationalities and cultures. Housed in the university's beautiful Cathedral of Learning building, these amazing classrooms are a must-see. Just be aware, these are active classrooms during the semester, so specific rooms may be occupied for classes!

Farmers Markets

Starting in late spring and going all through the fall months, our farmers markets are something to behold. Try local foods, meet area farmers and mix with the locals at one of many fresh farm stands.

Take a Sunset Selfie at Pittsburgh's Most Famous Views

We are a city of gorgeous hills and vistas. Discover our best views and scenic overlooks and see if you can grab a selfie at each one! Point State Park and West End Overlook are two of our favorites!

Fort Pitt Block House

Built in 1764, it is the only surviving structure of the original Fort Pitt , and is the oldest building in Pittsburgh. It tells the story of western Pennsylvania's role during the French & Indian War and the American Revolution. Musket balls and rifle locks are two of the featured artifacts on display.

PPG Place and Market Square

There's no cost to walk around beautiful Market Square and PPG Place, located next to each other in the heart of Downtown. You might see fountains going off in the summer, ice skaters and holiday lights in the winter, plus artisan markets, live music, a holiday shopping village and more in this happening area.

Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park

Bring your blanket and some snacks and enjoy free Cinema in the Park ! This program takes over local parks throughout the city to show free movies. Each location offers something different, whether you want to be in the heart of the action at Schenley Plaza or just take in scenic views from the West End Elliott Overlook.

Final Fridays

Mingle with some of the top artists and entrepreneurs in the city each month at the glittering Rose Way for Final Fridays , located right by The Warhol! Rainbow walls, live music and a canopy of lights make this free event one of the best secrets in Pittsburgh. A cash bar and food truck is also available.

Trundle Manor

When I asked the ChatGPT AI the top hidden gem in Pittsburgh, Trundle Manor was the top answer! A self-styled tourist trap, take a personal tour of the bizarre collection of taxidermy, weapons, medical devices and much more. While the tour is free, donations are appreciated!

Kelso Museum

The Pittsburgh Theological Seminary has had biblical archaeology as a focus since 1908, eventually expanding into the Kelso Museum that highlights daily life in ancient times for those in modern day Israel, West Bank and Jordan. Admission and lectures are all free.

The Strip District

The smells and sights are always free in the Strip , a vibrant, walkable neighborhood full of international food, fresh markets, local beverages and tons of shopping. The Strip is a great stop any time of year even if you're just browsing.

St. Anthony's Relics

St. Anthony is the Catholic saint you pray to to find lost things, and a fitting person for St. Anthony's Chapel , which houses the largest collection of Christian relics outside of the Vatican. Remember, this is an active place of worship, so please remain silent and dress modestly as you visit the Chapel.

Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden

Visit the Biblical lands without ever leaving the city! The Biblical Botanical Garden is the largest garden of its kind in North America, and the only one with ongoing research and publication! Waterfalls, streams and deserts adorn this garden with 100+ plants labeled with corresponding biblical verses.

Monuments and Redbuds Tours

You can see some of the best monuments in the city without ever entering a museum. Go on our North Shore walking tour to see the site of the Immaculate Reception and much more, and in the springtime walk this same route to see the redbuds in bloom.

Dog Days of Summer

Bring your pup for some four-legged fun at parks throughout Pittsburgh for a summer evening of fun and games. Giveaway bags full of treats are also passed out at this free event .

Open Streets

The last Sunday of May, June and July mean the return of Open Streets , the free community event that shuts down miles of city streets for you to enjoy via foot or bike. Activity hubs scattered throughout the route are packed with kids activities, exercise programs, live music and more.

Karpeles Manuscript Library

The former Holy Innocents Church has been wonderfully repurposed into the free Karpeles Manuscript Library . Rotating exhibitions here feature historical documents from the realms of literature, science, religion, music and art.

Free Live Music

Relax and enjoy some free music at one of Pittsburgh plazas, clubs or delicious restaurants .

Relax and enjoy a FREE weekly jazz series taking place at the Liberty Magic Theatre in the heart of the Cultural District. This popular music series, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, showcases some of the region’s finest jazz musicians every Tuesday.

Pittsburgh Banjo Club

You'll receive a friendly welcome from the loyal crowd that gathers to sing along during the club's polished Banjo Night , which typically include 20 or more banjo players with a little brass backing from a tuba and horns.

The mood is lively, the beer is cheap and the entry at the door is free (just ring the buzzer). Every Wednesday at 8 p.m. at the Allegheny Elks #339 (you don't need to be a member).

Pittsburgh Opera's Brown Bag Opera Concerts

Tune your ears once a month at the Bitz Opera Factory for free, intimate concerts at noon. Bring your lunch and a friend and get the opportunity to meet the performers after the performance!

Music on the Lawn

The Southside Works is rocking every Friday during summer from 6-10 p.m. with Music on the Lawn ! Free live music as you enjoy this beautiful shopping and entertainment area, what else could you need?

Jam on Walnut

Shadyside also brings live music to the neighborhood throughout the summer months, with all proceeds benefitting Animal Friends! The music is free, but the tempting shops and restaurants adorning the streets here might get in the way of a truly free evening.

Summer Concert Series

Live music fills outdoor amphitheaters in South Park and Hartwood Acres with new bands each week of summer through Labor Day! Bring your folding chairs and your leashed furry friends, too!

See why The New Yorker magazine said: "If Pittsburgh were situated somewhere in the heart of Europe, tourists would eagerly journey hundreds of miles out of their way to visit it."

Gallery Crawls

Come "crawl" the galleries during these free quarterly showcases of art and entertainment in the heart of Downtown's Cultural District. Get started at any gallery.

Unblurred: First Fridays on Penn

Penn Avenue comes to life on #Unblurred: First Friday as local artists line the 4800-5500 blocks with photography, painting, music, dance and more as you shop local businesses.

Troy Hill Art Houses

See a full-size, working lighthouse built within an existing house as part of the Troy Hill Art Houses project. All three houses can be toured for free by appointment. A fourth house is coming to complete this project in spring 2024.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Troy Hill Art Houses (@troyhillarthouses)

Gallery Closed

It's always free, and always open (despite being closed). That's the whole point of Gallery Closed , a unique art gallery you can only access by peering in two windows from the street at rotating exhibitions. You can't miss the gigantic historic plaque on the exterior of the building as well.

Miller ICA at CMU

The Miller Institute for Contemporary Art can be found on the campus of the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University. Free to the public, the museum produces touring exhibitions, art projects, events and publications all centered around societal issues.

Create your own walking tour of public art and check out the fantastic murals that bring color and life to our 90 neighborhoods. Follow our mural blog for some ideas to get you started, or follow the Homewood Experience and their custom mural route.

Pittsburgh Art in Public Places Downtown Walking Tour

Take a walking tour of Pittsburgh's public art and see why Pittsburgh consistently ranks among the best arts destinations in the country. Tour four different Downtown areas to learn more about public art, such as the sculpture in Mellon Square, the eyeball-shaped benches in Katz Plaza and the blue text on the Convention Center. Download the Free Guides .

Pittsburgh Art in Public Places Oakland Walking Tour

Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood, conceived in the 1890s as a cultural center with grand buildings and broad avenues, remains a hub for culture as well as education and medicine. Explore 26 works of public art in this historic neighborhood, which features interesting architecture as well. Download the Free Guide .

Pittsburgh Glass Center

Experience contemporary glass art as well as other extravagant and unique exhibitions at this center. Exhibitions change to include a number of different experiences. Open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Society for Contemporary Craft

Drop in for exhibitions and family friendly, hands-on art activities that are free to the public, and don't miss browsing in the tantalizing store. Located in the Strip District, the SCC offers cutting-edge exhibitions and has presented contemporary art in craft media by international, national and regional artists since 1971. Open Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Galleries

• Wood Street Galleries Take some time to muse about the new multi-disciplinary media artists from all around the globe. The Wood Street Galleries are located at 601 Wood Street, above the T station at Wood Street and Sixth Avenue.
• SPACE Wander into an integrated and open art ecosystem where you can explore the creation of both established and contemporary technologies, and the promotion of local artists outside of the region.
• 937 Liberty Gallery This newly renovated space hosts artists from local to international around timely issues and contemporary works .
• 707 Penn Gallery Expect an intimate viewing experience in this space highlighting solo and two-person contemporary art .
• 820 Liberty Gallery This gallery spotlights new artistic voices in collaboration with community leaders and neighborhood organizations in the city.

Free Things For Sports Fans

Sites of immaculate reception & forbes field.

You don't need to go to a museum for sports history. See the site of the most celebrated play in sports history, The Immaculate Reception, at the monument in the North Shore, then head to Oakland to see the historic plaque and flagpole that remains from Forbes Field, the site of four World Series wins for the Pirates .

Josh Gibson Heritage Park

Found in Station Square, Josh Gibson Heritage Park honors and tells the history of Pittsburgh's Negro league greats including Gibson, Satchel Paige and Cool Papa Bell and the teams they played on.

Free Things For Film Buffs

Find famous filming locations.

Referred to as Hollywood East, Pittsburgh has had 250+ movies and tv shows shot here since 1990. George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead showed Pittsburgh's potential as a filming location, including The Dark Knight Rises, Fences, Flashdance and the Silence of the Lambs. Follow our guide to where to find shoot locations for your favorite movie or tv show made right here:

Romero Library

Want to dive deeper into the horror legend's career? Schedule a visit to the George A. Romero Archival Collection , housed at the University of Pittsburgh, to continue your research.

More Free Things to Enjoy!

If you wonder what the New York Times meant by calling Pittsburgh the "only city with an entrance," simply drive from the Parkway West (I-376) into Downtown via the Fort Pitt Tunnel and Bridge (the main route from the airport). Watch for it: You won't want to miss a detail of the spectacular skyline and sparkling rivers as they appear suddenly before you.

Free Wireless Internet

You won't have to pay to stay connected in the 'Burgh. For two hours, connect to the Internet anywhere Downtown for free!

Free Transportation

Go underground in Pittsburgh's subway, called the "T," which you can ride for free within the Golden Triangle. Downtown stops include Wood Street Station, US Steel Tower, First Avenue and Gateway and also the two North Shore stops to explore our stadiums and businesses in that neighborhood by foot.

Park for Free on Sunday

Downtown street parking is free on Sundays and holidays!

Events that will pique your interests and inspire new adventures.

Authentic Experiences

More budget-friendly ideas.

12 Places to Grab Lunch for Under $10 in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s Must-See Murals

Monuments, Memorials & Sculptures | A North Shore Walking Tour

Historical Sites to Visit

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wearethehawleys

Family Travel + Lifestyle + Homeschool

HOMESCHOOL , TRAVEL · September 16, 2023

Exploring Pittsburgh’s Educational Gems: 10 Field Trip Locations for Homeschool Families

Welcome to the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where educational adventures await around every corner! If you’re a homeschooling family on the lookout for enriching field trip ideas, you’re in for a treat. From interactive science centers to immersive art museums and historical landmarks, Pittsburgh offers a diverse range of experiences that seamlessly blend learning with exploration . In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 top-notch field trip locations that are bound to captivate young minds and provide valuable educational insights.

If you’re new to homeschooling, START HERE . Or book a 1-on-1 call with me for personalized help!

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may make commission off of purchases made through the product links.

Homeschool Field Trips in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

carnegie science center

Get ready to blast off into a world of scientific wonders! From interactive exhibits to an Omnimax theater and even a planetarium, the Carnegie Science Center has it all. Your kids can learn about physics, astronomy, and so much more while having a blast.

phipps conservatory & botanical gardens

Nature and learning come together beautifully at Phipps Conservatory . Explore themed gardens, tropical rainforests, and even a butterfly forest. It’s a fantastic place to teach kids about ecosystems, plant life cycles, and conservation.

andy warhol museum

Unleash your inner artist and introduce your kids to the iconic pop art of Andy Warhol. With a mix of workshops, exhibitions, and interactive installations, this museum is a creative powerhouse.

children’s museum of pittsburgh

Learning through play is the name of the game at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh . From building, designing, and experimenting in MAKESHOP to exploring hands-on exhibits, your little ones will be immersed in a world of discovery.

fort pitt museum

Step back in time and explore Pittsburgh’s role in American history at Fort Pitt Museum . This interactive museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past, teaching about the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

national aviary

Birds of a feather flock together, and so can your homeschool crew at the National Aviary . Explore habitats from around the world and learn about the diversity of bird species while enjoying interactive presentations.

pittsburgh zoo & Aquarium

A perfect combo of wildlife and marine exploration awaits you at the Pittsburgh Zoo . Learn about animals from different continents, marine life, and conservation efforts in a fun and engaging way.

heinz history center

Delve into the rich history of Pittsburgh and beyond at Heinz History Center . With interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences, this center is a treasure trove of information waiting to be explored.

mattress factory

No, it’s not about mattresses! This contemporary art museum offers a unique perspective on art and creativity. Kids can engage with immersive installations that challenge their perceptions.

duquesne incline

Time for a mini history and engineering lesson at Duquesne Incline ! Hop on this historic cable car to ascend Mount Washington and enjoy stunning views of the city. It’s a great opportunity to discuss transportation, geography, and city planning.

Pittsburgh is know as the ‘City of Bridges’. While exploring, dive into the fascinating history and engineering of bridges with THESE ideas and resources.

As you wrap up your journey through Pittsburgh’s educational landscape, remember that learning extends far beyond the traditional classroom setting. These 10 field trip locations offer a captivating blend of knowledge, exploration, and fun, making them perfect catalysts for your homeschooling adventures . Whether you’re standing beneath the stars at the planetarium, marveling at artistic masterpieces, or stepping back in time at historical museums, each location holds the potential to spark curiosity and inspire a love for learning . So, gear up for unforgettable field trips that will not only create lasting memories but also ignite the flames of lifelong learning in your homeschool journey.

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Top Homeschool Field Trip Locations in Columbus, Ohio

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Field Trips & Outreach Programs

Field trips.

In order to provide the best field trip experience, the Education team works with individual educators to align with current curricula and highlight areas of particular interest. Field trips are available Tuesdays – Fridays and take place entirely outdoors, providing students with many opportunities for hands-on learning!

Aquatic environments feature a unique variety of plant, animal and insect species and highlight their complex relationships. Groups will find lots of specimens to identify and may get a front row seat to many fascinating plant and animal interactions.

Garden of the Five Senses

This sensory-based garden invites guests to explore nature through the lens of each sense. Focus on the scents, sounds, sights and feelings of nature and find examples of both edible and ornamental plants.

The Woodlands

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden has roughly 53 acres of woodlands open to the public featuring many native woody and herbaceous plants. Learn about the trees of the Garden, as well as the plants and animals that live among them.

Margaret Lawrence Simon Dogwood Meadow

The meadow is a habitat for lots of insect and bird species, making this one of the most vibrant ecosystems at the Garden in terms of plant and animal inhabitants. This area also features an active apiary with several examples of honey-producing beehives.

Hillside Pollinator Garden

Take a closer look at native plants that provide food and shelter for the pollinators found in the Allegheny Plateau. Hillside Pollinator Garden has several excellent opportunities for up-close encounters with plants and pollinators.

Schedule a Field Trip

To begin the scheduling process, please fill out the contact form linked below. Once you have submitted this form, the Education team will review your request and reach out to you to arrange your trip to accommodate your students’ needs.

Field trips are available Tuesdays – Fridays and take place entirely outdoors.

Guided field trips are $13 per person, and self-guided field trips are $10 per person. Pricing includes all students, teachers and chaperones. Grants may be available for eligible schools. Please fill out a Field Trip Request Form to see if you qualify for the grant.

Contact the Garden

Please complete the form below to provide the Education team with details about your group and their needs.

Meet the Education Team

Gina Walter

Education Manager

Sarah Levinthal

Youth Educator

Colleen Mutschler

Heather Forsythe

Seasonal Educator

Outreach Programs

Bring the Garden to you! Pittsburgh Botanic Garden educators will bring the outdoors inside to teach some of nature’s most valuable lessons. To request an outreach program, please submit an Outreach Program Form below. The Garden’s Education team will review your request and reach out to arrange the program.

Request an Outreach Program

Please complete the form below to provide the Education team with details about your school or class. Someone from the Garden will reach out shortly to arrange the Outreach Program.

Scout Programs

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden offers several programs for Scout groups that may be tailored to your particular group’s interests and needs. Please fill out the Scout Program Information Request below.

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799 Pinkerton Run Road Pittsburgh, PA 15071 412-444-4464

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Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is now booking field trips, outreach programs and after school series for the 2024-25 school year. Read more and begin planning with the Education team below!

• schools & educators
• field trips & groups

field trips & groups

Learn more about registering your field trip or group. We’re looking forward to your visit!

Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh offers several options for your visit. Groups can pick from a guided, educator-led field trip or self-guided free play.

PRICE:  $12 per person for guided or unguided field trips

CHAPERONES: All field trips require 1 adult chaperone (age 18+) per every 5 students. Chaperones up to the required amount receive complimentary admission.

RESERVATIONS:   All field trips and group visits require a reservation to be made at least two weeks (14 days) prior to your group’s visit.

for groups of 15 - 30

Unguided Visit Available M – F, all day Flexible Free Play

Check field trip availability for Unguided Field Trips using the form below.

You may also email [email protected] to make a request. Additional field trip details will be provided after your request is processed.

for groups of 30 - 200

Guided Visit Educator-led Available M – F, 10 am – 1 pm (3 hours) Free Play

Check field trip availability for Guided Field Trips using the form below.

Check out our Field Trip and Group FAQs

School Field Trips At Tour-Ed

Tour-ed mine is one of the best school field trips in pittsburgh.

Our field trips are really coal! We provide one of the most unique educational field trips for schools in Pittsburgh. We combine mining history and earth science with an incredible hands-on experience 1/2 mile beneath the earth's surface. The Tour-Ed Mine is a perfect fit for elementary schools and middle schools looking for an educational and exciting field trip for their students. We also cater to other organizations in Western Pennsylvania like Scouts and groups of 25 or more.

Our tour guides are experienced coal miners who begin your unique field trip in the entrance of the mine. He will take you back through time in a history-filled adventure showcasing past mining equipment and explaining how coal mining was performed in the 1850s through the present time.

Student miners will put on miners caps and get into our new man-trip coal car that will safely take everyone 1/2 mile below the earth's surface. Here you will experience first-hand what it's like to be in a coal mine. Your experienced guide will provide an exciting earth science education while operating various mining equipment while telling some really "coal" stories!

We cater to large groups of 25 or more and smaller groups such as birthday parties. The Tour-Ed Mine & Museum is a perfect educational fieldtrip for children and adults. A unique mix of hands-on education and good old-fashioned fun makes this Pittsburgh field trip one to remember. Group Tours are given by appointment, May through October.

Located in Tarentum, PA, we provide the geographical convenience needed for school field trips in and around the Pittsburgh area and throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Contact us about scheduling field trips in Pittsburgh, our group rates or a free brochure .

Tour-Ed Mine is one of the Best Attractions in Pittsburgh .

Canary in a Coal Mine?

Miners would take canaries into a coal mine to detect the presence of dangerous methane gas or carbon monoxide. Today, coal miners have sophisticated equipment to detect and remove these dangerous gases.

Pittsburgh History Field Trips

History field trips.

Tour-Ed Mine and Museum provides one of the most unique and educational field trips for schools in Pittsburgh. Your students will learn how coal was mined to meet the steel making furnaces in Pittsburgh during the American Industrial Revolution and how immigrants from all over the world were recruited to mine coal. Learn More

Pittsburgh Science Field Trips

Tour-Ed Mine and Museum has created one of the most unique and educational field trips for elementary schools and grade schools in Pittsburgh. Your students will learn the science behind mining. Learn More

Field Trips

School visits take place in the galleries where students engage with relevant content and build observation, interpretation, and inference-making skills.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

There’s nowhere else in western Pennsylvania where your students can learn about science, nature, and world cultures all in one place!

Carnegie Science Center

Loads of opportunities for STEM learning that will stick with your students for a life.

Our education programs are hands-on, collaborative, and impactful, taking inspiration from Andy Warhol’s life and approach to making art.

NOTE: Reserving your tickets in advance enhances your guest experience by saving time on arrival. Get your tickets today.

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Field Trips to Phipps

Phipps offers an exciting lineup of  field trips  for school, homeschool and other youth education groups! While meeting Pennsylvania standards, these trips use botany and ecology to inspire learning.

Field trips are available in three styles for you to choose from:

Option 1 | Group Visit Only

With this option, an educator can plan their own engagement and move at their own pace, including all open exhibits on the day of the visit. This option does not feature a docent or staff presence.

Cost: $7 per student, one adult chaperone admitted free for every ten students

Lunch: If bringing a brown-bag lunch, an eating space must be reserved for a fee of $30 for every 30 students. Food and drink are not provided.

Average visit length: Flexible, 90 minutes estimated

Group size: 15 – 150 people

Option 2 | Docent-Led Tour

With this option, an expert volunteer docent will guide you through the Conservatory, touching on the Conservatory’s history, plant collections, art and more.

Cost: $8 per student, one adult chaperone admitted free for every ten students

Average visit length: 60 minutes docent-led; group can visit longer if desired

Group size: 10 – 40 people

NOTE: Option 2 must be booked with a final group count at least one month before tour date.

Option 3 | Group Visit with Learning Session

With this option, our science education staff will meet your group for a special learning session before you take a self-guided visit through our Conservatory.  Click here to peruse the available learning session options for this season.

Cost: $8.50 per student, one adult chaperone admitted free for every ten students.

Average visit length: Learning session 30 minutes, self-guided portion flexible, 90 minutes estimated total

NOTE: Option 3 is available Tuesdays through Fridays only and must be booked with a final group count at least one month before tour date.

Field Trip Inquiry Form

To book your field trip, begin by completing our Field Trip Inquiry Form . Your completion of this form will trigger a follow-up call from staff to finalize details, typically within a week of receipt.

Complete Form

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JUST THE TOUR MONDAY 8-19-24 ONLY- JOIN AT 9:00, 11:30AM, 2:00 OR 4:30PM

Field trips, the pittsburgh tour company provides some of the best school field trips around.  take our history rich, educational and fun tour of our fabulous city, pittsburgh we provide you with our fully narrated tour of all the best areas of the "burgh", offering history, architecture and sights, fun facts and current events.  we have a custom quiz you can hand out to your students for fun or make it a contest.   ​ the pittsburgh tour company offers a discounted student (k-12) rate of $14.00 per child and chaperones and 1 teacher for free per class. ​ call us today to schedule your field trip, scouts or other class trip, 412-381-8687.  ​ make learning about our great city fun. we can accommodate your group of up to 64 passengers in one vehicle or more with multiple buses..

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SERVING SCHOOL, SCOUT, CAMP, AND HOMESCHOOL GROUPS FROM EARLY CHILDHOOD THROUGH COLLEGE

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Each month, we raffle a prize to show appreciation for your hard work with students, scouts, and campers. It’s Easy & Just A Click Away

This Month’s Prize is a $50 Amazon Card

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ORBIT EARTH EXPO

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Charleston Wrap

FieldTripDirectory.com (formerly ClassTrips.com and CampDirectorsResources.com) offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips—early childhood through college. Search for class trips by geographic area, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find class trips to children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips include trips to NYC, trips to Boston, trips to Philadelphia, trips to Washington, DC, trips to Chicago, trips to Atlanta, trips to Austin, and other historic cities throughout the US. Retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

Connecting people to wildlife.

Learn with Us

Our world is full of wonderful animals! The Zoo’s Conservation Education department offers wild programs that will help you get to know them. Learning opportunities are available for all ages – at the Zoo, in the classroom, or at home.

Zoomobile Outreach

Field Trips

Virtual Experiences

Resources For Teachers

Our animals.

Want to know more about the animals who live at the Pittsburgh Zoo? Let us introduce you to them!

Get Involved

 We cannot do it without your help! There are many ways to support the Pittsburgh Zoo and its mission to connect people to wildlife and inspire our communities to conserve nature for future generations!