10 Free & Family-Friendly Things to Do in Pittsburgh
Having the opportunity to see the most beautiful things in life does not always mean you have to spend a fortune to do so. In fact, Pittsburgh has an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you feeling culturally rich without spending a dime. We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favorite family-friendly places in Pittsburgh that you can visit without breaking the bank. View from Mt. Washington Accessed by foot, car or a short ride on one of the two historic inclines, you can reach the top of this 400 foot steep hill to see the iconic overview of the city. Looking across the city you can find yourself in awe while admiring Pittsburgh’s incredible skyline, magnificent bridges, amazing architecture and the three rivers that graciously flow beneath you. Point State Park Locally referred to as “The Point,” Point State Park is beautifully situated at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers where the Ohio River forms. Best known for its quintessential fountain that sprays water up to 150 feet in the air, the park provides a prime spot for picnics, games of Frisbee and walks with your pups. Its connection to the Riverwalk also allows for scenic strolls or bike rides along the banks of the Monongahela. The Strip District From the ethnic grocers, small shops, live music and unique street grills, this distinctive 56-block strip market radiates nothing but good vibes to both locals and visitors alike. Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park Picture yourself laying in the grass under the evening stars with good company and a great movie playing up ahead. This vision could become a reality once you visit one of the seven Pittsburgh locations of Cinemas in the Park. Pack up your lawn chairs or a blanket and head out to a free cinema under the stars on weather permitting Saturdays through the months of June to August. Click here for a complete list of dates and locations. Fish for Free Days Only two days out of the year, typically Memorial Day and Independence Day, all Pennsylvania waterways can legally be fished by those who don’t possess a fishing license. By going down to one of Pittsburgh’s waterways on one of these days, you can avoid the costs you’d normally incur during a usual fishing experience. Jam on Walnut Three Saturdays each summer, Walnut Street in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Shadyside, is blocked off for a free outdoor concert, Jam On Walnut. If you make your way to the Jam, you’re guaranteed to be surrounded by a great line-up of music, a string of unique shops, delicious eateries and endless fun. The 2014 Jam on Walnut will take place on June 28, July 26 and August 16. Three Rivers Arts Festival Downtown Pittsburgh’s greatest celebration and showcase of performing and visual arts, Three Rivers Arts Festival, will be held on June 6 -15, 2014. This display of local artistry, live music and tasty refreshments is held for ten days in the heart of Point State Park, Gateway Center and the world-renowned Cultural District. Tour of Downtown Discover downtown Pittsburgh like you have never done before! The Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation provides several free self-guided tours, including the Market Square area Tour, Grant Street Tour, and the Pittsburgh Bridges and River Shores tours. Schenley Park Located between the neighborhoods of Oakland, Squirrel Hill and Greenfield, this gorgeous park spreads across 456 acres, making it Pittsburgh’s second largest municipal park. Some of its greatest attributes include its scenic hiking trails, sports amenities and breathtaking view of one of Pittsburgh’s most well-known buildings, The Cathedral of Learning. Frick Park Pittsburgh’s largest historic municipal park, Frick Park, is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In the midst of its 644 acres, you can find a vast of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, tennis courts, baseball fields and the only public lawn bowling green in Pennsylvania. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and get the family out and about this summer!
