Weird & Unusual Attractions in Pittsburgh, United States

Pittsburgh, United States, Pittsburgh, Unique & Fun, Weird & Unusual Attractions

Weird & Unusual Attractions in Pittsburgh, United States

1. The Rube Goldberg Machine at the Children's Museum

Experience a complex contraption designed to perform simple tasks in an indirect and overly complicated way.
  • Indirect Complexity: The machine consists of hundreds of interactive parts, each performing a unique function.
  • Educational Fun: Visitors can learn about simple machines and the principles of physics while enjoying the spectacle.
  • Interactive Exhibit: Visitors can even set off reactions in the machine themselves.

2. The Duquesne Incline

Ride a funicular railway up the steep hillside for panoramic views of Pittsburgh.
  • Steep Hill Access: A unique mode of transportation that navigates steep inclines efficiently.
  • Historic Significance: The Incline has been operational since the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into Pittsburgh's industrial past.
  • Stunning Views: From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Pittsburgh and its surrounding neighborhoods.

3. The Andy Warhol Museum

Explore the life and works of one of America's most famous pop artists.
  • Pop Art Showcase: The museum houses the largest collection of Warhol's artworks under one roof.
  • Immersive Exhibits: Visitors can experience interactive installations and multimedia displays.
  • Cultural Education: The museum offers insight into the cultural and artistic movements of the mid-20th century.

4. The National Aviary

Visit a lush urban rainforest and meet over 600 birds from around the world.
  • Rainforest Experience: The National Aviary replicates various rainforest habitats for visitors to explore.
  • Free-Flying Birds: Many of the birds at the aviary can be observed in their natural flying behavior.
  • Conservation Efforts: The National Aviary is dedicated to conservation and research efforts for endangered species.

5. The Mattress Factory Art Museum

Discover contemporary art installations that blur the line between art and life.
  • Immersive Installations: Artworks fill entire rooms, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
  • Unique Spaces: The museum's historic Victorian houses provide interesting and intimate settings for the art.
  • Artist Commissions: The Mattress Factory regularly commissions new works from contemporary artists.

6. The Dinosaur Gallery at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Step back in time and walk among dinosaur fossils and replicas.
  • Authentic Fossils: The gallery houses authentic dinosaur bones, many of which are among the most complete specimens in the world.
  • Interactive Displays: Visitors can learn about paleontology through interactive exhibits and activities.
  • Dinosaur Casts: The gallery also features life-size casts of some of the largest dinosaurs that ever lived.

7. Kennywood Park's Noah's Ark

Ride one of the world's oldest and largest carousels, modeled after Noah's Ark.
  • Historic Carousel: The wooden structure and hand-carved animals date back to 1925.
  • Unique Design: Each animal on the carousel represents a creature from Noah's Ark.
  • Family-Friendly Attraction: A classic ride suitable for all ages at the popular Kennywood Park amusement park.

8. The Bubble Room at the Science Center

Walk through a room filled with floating bubbles, learning about surface tension and soap chemistry.
  • Bubbling Experience: Visitors can create their own bubbles and observe the properties of different soaps.
  • Educational Interactive: The Bubble Room offers insights into the science behind bubbles and surface tension.
  • Photographic Opportunities: The bubble room makes for a memorable and unique photo opportunity.

9. The Orr's Island Lighthouse Replica at Kennywood Park

Climb aboard a replica lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the amusement park.
  • Lighthouse Experience: The replica offers a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper.
  • Panoramic Views: Visitors can observe Kennywood Park from a unique perspective atop the lighthouse.
  • Historic Landmark Replica: The replica is modeled after Orr's Island Lighthouse in Maine.

10. The Robot Hall of Fame at Carnegie Science Center

Celebrate the history and cultural impact of robots in society.
  • Robot History Exhibit: The Hall of Fame showcases significant robots from movies, literature, and real-world applications.
  • Interactive Displays: Visitors can learn about the science behind robotics through interactive exhibits.
  • Cultural Impact Showcase: The Hall of Fame highlights the role robots have played in shaping society and culture.

11. The Randyland Art Environment

Wander through a whimsical outdoor art environment filled with colorful murals, sculptures, and found objects.
  • Community-Built Art: The art environment is created by local artist Randy Gilson and contributions from visitors.
  • Vibrant Colors: Bright and colorful artwork creates a lively atmosphere for visitors.
  • Unique Photographic Opportunities: Randyland provides a backdrop for unique and Instagram-worthy photos.

12. The Wigle Whiskey Distillery Tour

Learn about the craft of whiskey making at one of Pittsburgh's oldest distilleries.
  • Historic Craft Distillery: The distillery is located in a historic building that dates back to the 1800s.
  • Tasting Experience: Visitors can sample a variety of whiskey offerings from Wigle Whiskey.
  • Educational Tour: The tour offers insights into the history and craft of whiskey making.

13. The Bicycle Heaven Museum

Explore the world's largest bicycle museum, featuring over 6,000 vintage and antique bikes.
  • Vintage Bike Collection: The museum houses an extensive collection of rare and unique bicycles.
  • Educational Exhibits: Visitors can learn about the history, design, and evolution of bicycles.
  • Unique Photographic Opportunities: The museum offers a backdrop for unique and Instagram-worthy photos.

14. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium's Tiny Hippo Exhibit

Meet Ollie and Fiona, the world-famous miniature hippos.
  • Rare Species Experience: The exhibit showcases one of the rarest species of hippos, Pitt hippos.
  • Cute and Cuddly Creatures: Ollie and Fiona are known for their playful and endearing personalities.
  • Photographic Opportunities: Visitors can take photos with the adorable miniature hippos.

15. The Pittsburgh Glass Center

Watch glassblowers create stunning works of art and even try your hand at glassmaking.
  • Artistic Glassmaking: Visitors can observe skilled glass artists at work.
  • Interactive Workshops: Workshops allow visitors to learn and participate in the art of glassblowing.
  • Unique Gift Shop: The gift shop offers one-of-a-kind handcrafted glass items for purchase.