Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
A vibrant hub for hands-on learning, creativity, and play, inspiring joy and curiosity in children.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play space
Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for hands-on learning, creativity, and play, inspiring joy and curiosity in children.
"This museum is a total win for all ages, sparking imagination and creativity around every corner!"
Bring a Swimsuit! 🏊♀️
The water play area is a huge hit. Pack a swimsuit and towel for kids to fully enjoy it!
Explore Museum Lab Too 🔬
Don't miss the adjacent Museum Lab for more STEAM fun, especially for older kids.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterplay Zone
Third Floor
Splash, build, and race creations in this interactive water exhibit. Perfect for cooling off!
MAKESHOP
Second Floor
Unleash creativity by building and inventing with a variety of materials. Hands-on fun for all ages.
Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
First Floor
Step into the iconic neighborhood and connect with beloved characters. A nostalgic and engaging experience.
I AM WILD
First Floor
Explore nature and art inspired by Charlie Harper's vibrant wildlife artwork. A feast for the eyes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Water Play Fun
Consider Museum Lab Too
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring a Swimsuit! 🏊♀️
The water play area is a huge hit. Pack a swimsuit and towel for kids to fully enjoy it!
Explore Museum Lab Too 🔬
Don't miss the adjacent Museum Lab for more STEAM fun, especially for older kids.
Check for Free Days 🎉
They sometimes offer free admission for special occasions like Mr. Rogers' birthday.
Parking Options 🚗
Museum parking is available, or consider nearby garages and metered street parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring a Swimsuit! 🏊♀️
The water play area is a huge hit. Pack a swimsuit and towel for kids to fully enjoy it!
Explore Museum Lab Too 🔬
Don't miss the adjacent Museum Lab for more STEAM fun, especially for older kids.
Check for Free Days 🎉
They sometimes offer free admission for special occasions like Mr. Rogers' birthday.
Parking Options 🚗
Museum parking is available, or consider nearby garages and metered street parking.
Snack Smart 🍎
The cafe has good options, but packing snacks can save time and money for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that delight children of all ages. The Waterplay Zone and MAKESHOP are frequently cited as highlights, offering hours of interactive fun. While generally well-received, some visitors have noted recent price increases and the discontinuation of certain discounts, which can impact affordability for families.
"I saw that on March 20th they were doing a special to commemorate Mr Rogers birthday and admission was free that day. I think that's a really cool way to keep his legacy alive. I don't have kids, but I love art so and really enjoyed my time here. I only stayed about an hour and half mainly because I was tired. All the kids looked like they were having so much fun. There were so many activities for them. I personally enjoyed the Charlie Harper exhibit I am wild. I love his nature artwork.i also enjoyed seeing the Mr Rogers Memrobellia since i grew up with him.i think the giant catapillar hanging over one of the stairs was my favorite. The cafe area was nice and spacious I liked the decor with the large globe shaped white orbs. I had a really good chocolate muffin. The kids menu was really cute. I ended my trip getting some Mr. Rogers gifts from the gift shop. The Daniel tiger magnet is so cute. Honestly, I really wanted to make a scarf in the scarf workshop. Maybe another day."
Jessica
"Visited with friends while in town & walked out very pleased with our experience. This museum is filled with multiple floors of STEAM activities, water play & more. It kept the 2 young kiddos in our group fully engaged for hours & I found the price very reasonable for the quality + quantity of exhibits that are available. Overall, a great spot to spend time with kids & give them a bunch of fun, hands on learning opportunities ✌🏻"
Chris Vicari
"Our family and friends had a blast. Even on a busy day there is so much for the kids to play and do. We found it to be very clean and everything was well kept. The kids had a blast and that was all we could ask for."
Taylor Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is located at 10 Children's Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. It's accessible by car, with museum parking available for a fee. Public transportation options, including buses, also serve the area.
Yes, the museum offers its own parking lot for visitors. Additionally, metered street parking and nearby garages like Nova Place are available options.
Several bus routes stop near the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh. You can check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes from your starting point.
The museum is designed to be accessible for strollers and young children, with elevators and ramps available to navigate between floors.
While it's a bit of a walk, it is possible to reach the museum from downtown Pittsburgh, especially if you enjoy exploring the city on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are typically $21 for adults, $19 for children (ages 2 and up), and $19 for seniors (60+). Children under 2 are free. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Historically, discounts like those for ACCESS card holders were available, but some visitors have noted these may have ended, significantly increasing ticket prices. It's crucial to verify current discount policies directly with the museum.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak times or weekends, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
The museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. However, hours can vary, so checking their official website before your visit is essential.
Museum Lab is located in a separate building next door and may require a separate ticket or a combined ticket. It's best to inquire about combined admission options when purchasing your tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the interactive Waterplay Zone on the third floor, the creative MAKESHOP, the nostalgic Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and the art-filled I AM WILD exhibit.
Absolutely! The museum is perfect for toddlers, with many hands-on activities and exhibits designed for their age group. The water play area is a particular hit.
Yes, the MAKESHOP and Museum Lab offer engaging STEAM activities that appeal to older children, encouraging building, inventing, and problem-solving.
The museum features a spacious cafe with good food options, restrooms, and gift shops. They also provide aprons for the water play area.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe on the main floor that offers a variety of food options, including a cute kids' menu and good snacks like muffins.
The cafe offers a range of choices, from light snacks and pastries to more substantial meals. They have options suitable for both adults and children.
While the cafe is available, many families opt to bring their own snacks and drinks to save time and money, especially for younger children.
There are no specific picnic areas mentioned, but the cafe provides a comfortable space to eat. Some visitors might find a spot in the lobby or outdoor areas if weather permits.
The museum is located in a vibrant area of Pittsburgh with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a wide array of culinary choices if you prefer to dine out.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the giant caterpillar hanging over the stairs, the Mister Rogers' Neighborhood exhibit, and the colorful Charlie Harper artwork in the I AM WILD section.
Yes, personal phone cameras are great for capturing memories. The interactive exhibits provide many fun and colorful backdrops.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be considerate of other visitors and avoid flash photography, especially in areas with delicate exhibits.
Focus on capturing their engagement with the exhibits – building in MAKESHOP, splashing in Waterplay, or interacting with characters. Candid shots are often the best!
The museum itself is housed in historic buildings, and the interior design, like the cafe's globe-shaped orbs, offers unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Many reviewers highlight that the museum is perfect for this age group, keeping them engaged for hours. The cafe offers kid-friendly options, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming and designed for little ones to explore safely.
💡 Curious Kids & Future Innovators
+1 Kids can design, invent, and problem-solve in a stimulating environment that encourages critical thinking.These exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning. They provide a tangible way for children to understand complex concepts through play and experimentation, making education an adventure.
💖 Nostalgia Seekers & Art Lovers
The museum's architecture and interior design, such as the unique cafe decor, also provide aesthetic appeal. It’s a place where adults can reconnect with childhood wonder and appreciate the artistic and cultural contributions celebrated within its walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Mister Rogers
This exhibit is more than just a display; it's an invitation to engage with the principles of social-emotional learning. It’s a place where children can connect with a positive role model and understand the importance of being a good neighbor. The museum often commemorates Mr. Rogers' birthday with special events, sometimes offering free admission, which is a wonderful way to keep his spirit alive.
For many adults, this exhibit also evokes a sense of nostalgia, making it a meaningful experience for the entire family. It’s a reminder of the enduring impact of his work and a chance to share that with a new generation.
Hands-On Learning: MAKESHOP and Museum Lab
+1Adjacent to the main museum is Museum Lab, which offers a more in-depth STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) experience. This space is designed to challenge older children with interactive exhibits that explore scientific principles, engineering concepts, and artistic expression. It’s a fantastic extension for families looking to spend more time engaging in educational play.
+1These areas are crucial for fostering a love of learning through doing. They provide a safe and stimulating environment for children to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from them, developing critical skills in a fun and engaging way.
The Allure of Waterplay
Given the immersive nature of this exhibit, it's highly recommended that visitors bring a bathing suit and towel for children. While aprons are provided to help minimize wetness, many kids end up thoroughly soaked, making a change of clothes a practical necessity for a comfortable departure.
Even on cooler days, the water play can be a thrilling experience, though the room might feel a bit chilly. The ice table is another unique feature that adds to the sensory exploration, making this a memorable part of any visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit