Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Pittsburgh, United States
1. Randyland
Vibrant mosaic art environment created by local artist Randy Gilson.
- Colorful Art: Over 80 colorful sculptures and mosaics to explore.
- DIY Approach: Most of the artworks are made from recycled materials.
- Community Project: Open to visitors for free, donations welcome.
2. Museumpitsburgh
A museum dedicated to art and pop culture in the Strip District.
- Pop Culture Focus: Features exhibitions on subjects like comic books, toys, and movies.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can participate in creating art installations.
- Rotating Exhibits: New exhibitions every few months keep the museum fresh.
3. The Mattress Factory
Contemporary art museum featuring site-specific installations.
- Site-Specific Art: Artists create works specifically for the spaces within the museum.
- Unique Experiences: Visitors can participate in guided tours or overnight experiences.
- Innovative Programs: Offers residencies for artists to create new works.
4. The National Aviary
A bird sanctuary and zoo located in the North Side of Pittsburgh.
- Free-Flight Avian Environment: Over 600 birds live in naturalistic habitats.
- Tropical Rainforest Habitat: The Tropical Rainforest Exhibit simulates the climate of a rainforest.
- Educational Programs: Offers programs for children and adults to learn about birds.
5. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
A glasshouse displaying rare plants and seasonal flowers.
- Tropical Forest and Desert Exhibits: Explore diverse ecosystems within the conservatory.
- Sustainable Practices: Phipps uses eco-friendly practices to preserve natural resources.
- Seasonal Exhibits: Special exhibitions showcasing plants and flowers from around the world.
6. The Andy Warhol Museum
Museum dedicated to the life and work of pop artist Andy Warhol.
- Extensive Collection: Largest collection of works by Warhol in the world.
- Interactive Exhibits: Visitors can create their own pop art using digital tools.
- Educational Programs: Offers programs for children and adults to learn about Warhol's art and life.
7. The Carnegie Science Center
A museum focusing on science, technology, and innovation.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Over 250 interactive exhibits for visitors to explore.
- Synthavegas Laser Show: A popular laser light show set to music.
- Omnimax Theater: Large-dome theater showing educational films and documentaries.
8. The Nationality Rooms in the Cathedral of Learning
A collection of classrooms representing different cultures and time periods.
- Cultural Education: Each room showcases a specific culture's history, artifacts, and traditions.
- Architectural Significance: The Cathedral of Learning is a National Historic Landmark.
- Tour Guides: Guided tours available for visitors to learn about each room's culture.
9. The Mattress Factory Outdoor Sculpture Garden
An outdoor sculpture garden featuring site-specific works.
- Site-Specific Art: Artists create works specifically for the spaces within the garden.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can walk through and interact with the sculptures.
- Seasonal Installations: New installations added every few months keep the garden fresh.
10. The Bicycle Heaven Museum
A museum dedicated to bicycles and cycling history.
- Vast Collection: Over 4,500 vintage and modern bicycles on display.
- Restoration Workshops: Visitors can observe bike restoration in progress.
- Cycling Memorabilia: Displays of cycling-related artifacts and memorabilia.
11. Kennywood Park
An amusement park with classic roller coasters and nostalgic attractions.
- Classic Roller Coasters: Includes the iconic Racer and Jack Rabbit.
- Nostalgic Attractions: Offers traditional amusement park rides and games.
- Seasonal Events: Special events like Phantom Fright Nights during Halloween season.
12. The Duquesne Incline
A historic cable car ride offering panoramic views of the city.
- Historic Transportation: Opened in 1877, it's one of the oldest inclines still operating.
- Panoramic Views: Visitors can enjoy views of Pittsburgh from the top station.
- Educational Experience: Interactive exhibits at the upper station teach about Pittsburgh's history.
13. The Fort Pitt Museum
A museum dedicated to the French and Indian War and early settlement of Pittsburgh.
- Historical Reenactments: Demonstrations of colonial life, military tactics, and weaponry.
- Artifact Collection: Over 15,000 artifacts from the French and Indian War era.
- Exhibition Galleries: Galleries showcasing the history of Pittsburgh and the region.
14. The Senator John Heinz History Center
A museum dedicated to the history of Western Pennsylvania.
- Rotating Exhibits: Exhibitions focused on various aspects of Pittsburgh's history.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can engage in interactive exhibits and activities.
- Historical Artifacts: Over 25 million artifacts, photographs, and documents in the collection.
15. The Nationality Rooms of Duquesne University
A collection of classrooms representing various ethnic groups and time periods.
- Cultural Education: Each room showcases a specific culture's history, artifacts, and traditions.
- Architectural Significance: Designed by renowned architect Paul Philippe Cret in the Gothic Revival style.
- Tour Guides: Guided tours available for visitors to learn about each room's culture.