Carnegie Science Center
A dynamic science museum with hands-on exhibits, a submarine, a planetarium, and a charming miniature village.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Carnegie Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic science museum with hands-on exhibits, a submarine, a planetarium, and a charming miniature village.
"Fantastic experience for kids of all ages (and adults too!) - incredibly engaging and hands-on."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Carnegie Science Center tickets in advance online.
🚂 Don't Miss the Trains!
The Miniature Railroad & Village is a highlight for many, even adults!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miniature Railroad & Village
Main floor
An incredibly detailed and constantly running model train display that captivates all ages.
USS Requin Submarine
Outdoor exhibit
Explore a real decommissioned submarine and learn about naval history and life aboard.
Roboworld
Second floor
Interact with and control a variety of robots in this cutting-edge exhibit.
Planetarium Shows
Buhl Planetarium
Immersive and educational shows about space, stars, and scientific phenomena.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Membership Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Carnegie Science Center tickets in advance online.
🚂 Don't Miss the Trains!
The Miniature Railroad & Village is a highlight for many, even adults!
🚀 Catch a Planetarium Show
The planetarium shows are highly recommended for an engaging and educational experience.
🚢 Explore the Submarine
Touring the USS Requin submarine is a unique and informative part of the visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time and potentially money by purchasing your Carnegie Science Center tickets in advance online.
🚂 Don't Miss the Trains!
The Miniature Railroad & Village is a highlight for many, even adults!
🚀 Catch a Planetarium Show
The planetarium shows are highly recommended for an engaging and educational experience.
🚢 Explore the Submarine
Touring the USS Requin submarine is a unique and informative part of the visit.
🤖 Control a Robot
Roboworld offers a chance to interact with and control actual robots.
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Be aware that parking is available but comes with a fee.
👨🏫 Teachers Get In Free
Educators can enjoy free admission, making it a great resource for teachers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Carnegie Science Center for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that appeal to all ages. Highlights include the detailed Miniature Railroad & Village, the USS Requin submarine, and the interactive Roboworld. While some exhibits might feel a bit dated, ongoing updates and the captivating planetarium shows ensure a fun and educational experience for families and adults alike.
"The Science Center is geared toward younger kids. My almost 9 year old enjoyed the SportsWorks section, but was no longer interested in the rest of it. We weren’t able to see a planetarium show this time, but I recall that being pretty cool for kids and adults. Paid parking in front. You can pre-purchase your tickets online and they have a cafe and gift shop."
Shannon Buha
"Fun but outdated. They have some new things that are cool and you can tell that they are trying to update things which is good. Fun for kids. The submarine is super cool and informational. They have paid parking which is nice. Teachers get in free!"
Kate Ceraso
"We visited on a Tuesday and had a lot of fun! The museum's exhibits are aimed at a younger audience than the Natural History Museum but are still enjoyable by adults. The Mars exhibit was absolutely fascinating - it's great that the mock society takes visitor opinions into account as it continues to be built.
The high point of our visit was the planetarium! The narrator for Space Volcanoes was top notch and deserves a raise - he really put a lot of effort into making it fun and high energy. In retrospect, we wish we would've watched more shows at the planetarium and will likely come back later this year to check them out!"
Meagan Struman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Carnegie Science Center is located at 1 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. It's accessible by car, with paid parking available on-site. Public transportation options, including buses, also serve the area. 
Yes, there is paid parking available directly at the Carnegie Science Center. The cost is typically around $9.
Yes, Pittsburgh's public transit system serves the area around the Carnegie Science Center. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes.
The Carnegie Science Center is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with ramps and elevators available. It's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific accessibility needs.
Depending on your starting point, driving with paid parking, or using public buses are common ways to reach the center. Ride-sharing services are also an option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. Children aged 3-12 typically pay around $15, adults $25, and seniors $20. Children under 2 are free. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, look for potential discounts like teacher free admission days, EBT discounts, or reciprocal membership benefits from other science centers. Checking for promo codes or coupons online might also yield savings.
The center is typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but hours can vary, and they are closed on Tuesdays until Memorial Day. Always check their official calendar for the most up-to-date hours and any special closures.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door, but buying them online in advance is recommended to save time, especially during peak hours or weekends.
The Carnegie Science Center offers programs and rates for school field trips and group visits. Contact their education department for details.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Miniature Railroad & Village, the USS Requin submarine, Roboworld, and the Highmark SportsWorks. The planetarium shows are also a major draw. +1
Absolutely! While geared towards families, adults can thoroughly enjoy exhibits like the Miniature Railroad, the submarine, and the planetarium shows.
The Buhl Planetarium offers immersive shows about space, stars, and scientific concepts. The narrators are often praised for their engaging presentations.
Yes, the center is known for its hands-on and interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to control robots, experiment with science principles, and engage with displays.
Most visitors spend around 3-4 hours to explore the exhibits, but you could easily spend longer if you plan to see multiple planetarium shows or delve deeply into each section.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Carnegie Science Center has a cafe where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibit areas. It's best to check their specific policy or plan to dine at the on-site cafe.
The cafe typically offers a selection of kid-friendly options, sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Yes, the area around the Carnegie Science Center has various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, if you prefer to eat off-site.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can find science-themed toys, books, and souvenirs.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed for non-commercial use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
Definitely! The Miniature Railroad & Village, the USS Requin, and the interactive exhibits offer many unique and engaging photo opportunities.
The detailed model trains, the submarine's interior, and the colorful, interactive displays in Roboworld and SportsWorks are great for photos.
Yes, your smartphone camera is perfect for capturing the moments and exhibits at the Carnegie Science Center.
While personal photos are usually fine, avoid using flash in sensitive exhibit areas and refrain from professional or commercial photography without prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Don't forget the Buhl Planetarium for captivating shows about space, which are often a hit with kids. Exploring the USS Requin submarine provides a unique historical adventure. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to streamline your entry and make the most of your family's visit.
🧑🎓 Adults & Couples
For a unique evening out, look for 21+ Night events, which transform the center into an adult-only venue with drinks and entertainment. The planetarium shows are also sophisticated enough to be appreciated by adults seeking a deeper understanding of astronomy and science.
📚 Educators & Students
+1Students can explore the science behind everyday phenomena, delve into space with the planetarium, and learn about history through the USS Requin. Booking field trips in advance is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and educational visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the USS Requin
Exploring the submarine is a highlight for many, providing a tangible connection to a significant part of maritime history. It's an educational experience that complements the science-focused exhibits, offering a different kind of exploration and discovery. The sheer ingenuity required to operate such a vessel in confined spaces is truly remarkable.
The Magic of the Miniature Railroad & Village
Many visitors, including adults, find this exhibit captivating. The constant movement of the trains, the tiny details in the villages, and the overall craftsmanship make it a standout attraction. It’s a testament to dedication and artistry, providing a nostalgic and engaging experience that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
Roboworld: The Future of Robotics
This interactive space is a major draw for those interested in technology and innovation. It’s designed to be both educational and fun, sparking curiosity about STEM fields. The ability to directly interact with and command robots makes the learning process engaging and memorable for all ages.
+1
Social
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