Family-Friendly Adventures in , Pennsylvania!

Pittsburgh Station Square

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Pittsburgh Station Square

Morning: Exploring Station Square

Start your adventure in Pittsburgh with a morning stroll around Station Square, a bustling riverside complex full of shops, eateries, and attractions. Park at the Station Square parking lot and head to the Bessemer Court to watch the dancing fountain, especially delightful for kids.

Mid-Morning: Just Ducky Tours

Catch a unique Just Ducky tour departing from beside the Sheraton Hotel. These amphibious tours let you explore Pittsburgh from both land and water in a World War II vintage vehicle. It"s both educational and fun, giving kids and parents alike a quirky lesson in Pittsburgh’s history. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid waiting.

Lunch: Eateries in Station Square

Enjoy lunch at The Hard Rock Café, featuring a family-friendly menu and a collection of rock "n" roll memorabilia that will fascinate the kids. It’s located right in the heart of Station Square.

Afternoon: Monongahela Incline

Post lunch, walk to the nearby Monongahela Incline, one of the few remaining inclines in the country, which dates back to 1870. A fun, historical ride up the incline offers panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline from Mount Washington. Kids will enjoy the ride, and you’ll get spectacular photos!

Late Afternoon: Highmark SportsWorks

Conclude the day at the Carnegie Science Center’s Highmark SportsWorks, just a short drive across the river. It features nearly 30 interactive experiences in sports science that are both fun and educational. It’s best to drive there, or you can take a bus from Station Square.

Evening: Return to Station Square

Head back to Station Square for dinner. Consider dining at the Grand Concourse for a meal in a historic Pittsburgh landmark, the beautifully restored Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad Station. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere and seafood-focused menu as the perfect end to your day in Pittsburgh.

This itinerary promises a delightful mix of fun, education, and memorable experiences that are perfect for a family day out.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Cathedral of Learning

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to the Cathedral of Learning

Morning

Start your family adventure at the iconic Cathedral of Learning, located at 4200 Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh. Easily accessible by public transit (bus lines 71A and 71C), it stands majestically on the University of Pittsburgh’s campus.

10:00 AM: Begin with the self-guided tour of the Nationality Rooms, located on the first and third floors. These 31 rooms are designed to reflect different cultural heritages that shaped Pittsburgh. Each room is a masterpiece, such as the stunning Indian Room with its intricate wood carvings and the Egyptian Room representing ancient educational settings.

11:30 AM: After exploring the rooms, take the elevator to the 36th floor for an awe-inspiring view of Pittsburgh from the Cathedral’s observation deck. It"s a great spot for family photos!

Afternoon

12:30 PM: Enjoy a picnic at Schenley Plaza, just a short walk from the Cathedral. This vibrant area often hosts family-friendly events and has a charming carousel.

2:00 PM: Visit the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, just across the plaza. Engage with the Dinosaur Hall and hands-on Discovery Basecamp.

Evening

4:00 PM: Walk back towards the Cathedral and explore the grounds. The impressive Gothic architecture makes it look like a castle, which can spark the imaginations of young knights and princesses in the family.

5:00 PM: For dinner, dine at one of the family-friendly restaurants in Oakland, like Stack’d Burgers or The Porch, both offering hearty meals to conclude your day of exploration.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that the Cathedral of Learning is the second tallest university building in the world? Its construction started in 1926 and was an innovative idea by Chancellor Bowman, aimed at inspiring learning through its majestic ambiance.

Enjoy your day soaking up culture and history at one of Pittsburgh’s most fascinating landmarks!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Why Visit?

Family Day Out at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Morning Arrival

Start your day at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a thriving oasis with lush gardens and spectacular botanical displays, located at One Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA. Arrive early to enjoy the cooler morning weather. Parking is available on-site, and the nearby streets offer a few additional spots. Alternatively, public transit is convenient with several bus stops close to the main entrance.

Explore the Conservatory

Upon entering, grab a map and let the kids lead the way! Start at the Palm Court with its stunning glass-domed ceiling, which will surely amaze the youngsters. Don"t miss the interactive Discovery Garden where kids can learn about plants through hands-on activities.

Seasonal Shows and Exhibits

Check out the seasonal flower shows in the Sunken Garden, which transform dramatically throughout the year. During the winter, the Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show and Light Garden are not to be missed, featuring vibrant poinsettias and thousands of twinkling lights.

Butterfly Forest

Visit the Butterfly Forest to experience the enchanting sight of hundreds of butterflies fluttering around. It"s a magical and educational experience for children, teaching them about different species and their life cycles.

Lunch Break

Refuel at the Café Phipps, known for its fresh, locally-sourced dishes that cater to all ages. The kids" menu and healthy options are perfect for a family meal.

Afternoon Stroll

Post-lunch, take a stroll through the Japanese Courtyard Garden, designed with tranquil water features and perfect for some peaceful reflection.

Activity Time

Wrap up your visit with a family activity or workshop often held in the afternoon. These are great for kids to get hands-on experience with plant science, crafts, and more.

Departure

As your day ends, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for unique plant-themed souvenirs, a perfect end to a memorable day at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hard Rock Café Pittsburgh

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh

Morning: Arrival & Exploration

Start your family day out by heading to Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh located at 230 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. If you’re driving, there’s convenient parking at Station Square, or you can take the T (Pittsburgh’s light rail) to the Station Square stop, which is just a short walk away.

Upon arrival, soak in the vibrant atmosphere adorned with rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia. Kids will be fascinated by the guitars, outfits, and other artifacts from famous music legends. Don"t miss the iconic outfits from artists like Elvis Presley and Madonna!

Lunch: Flavor and Fun

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Cafe. The kid-friendly menu offers something for every little rocker with options like the Buddy Jr"s Bangin’ Burger or the Razzi’s Chicken Tenders. Parents can indulge in classic Hard Rock favorites like the Legendary Burger or a fresh salad.

Afternoon: Nearby Attractions

Post-lunch, take a short walk to the nearby Monongahela Incline, built in 1870, which takes you up Mount Washington for a stunning view of the Pittsburgh skyline - a perfect photo op! The ride itself is a fun and historical experience, giving a glimpse into the city"s rich industrial past.

Evening: Souvenir Shopping & Departure

Wrap up your visit by picking up some unique Hard Rock merchandise as a memento of your musical journey. From classic tees to collectible pins, there’s a treasure for every member of the family.

This engaging blend of music, history, and delicious food makes Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh a memorable stop on your family’s exploration of the city. Enjoy your trip down the rock and roll memory lane!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Duquesne Incline

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Visiting Duquesne Incline and Surrounding Attractions

Morning: Begin your day at Station Square, a lively area brimming with shops and eateries. It"s a fantastic spot to grab breakfast—try the pancakes at the Hard Rock Cafe. From there, walk to the lower station of the Duquesne Incline, located at 1197 West Carson Street. It’s easily accessible and offers parking. Before boarding, marvel at the century-old cable car system, operational since 1877.

Board the Incline: Purchase your tickets at the lower station ($5 for adults, $2.50 for children; round trip). The ride up offers a panoramic view of Pittsburgh’s skyline, providing a perfect family photo opportunity. It’s not just a ride but a step back into Pittsburgh"s rich industrial history.

At the Top: Once you reach the upper station, visit the small museum inside to learn about the incline’s history and mechanics. Step outside to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city. It"s educational and fun for kids to spot landmarks and understand the geography of Pittsburgh.

Lunch: Have lunch at one of the restaurants in Mt. Washington, just a short walk from the upper station. Shiloh Grill offers a cozy atmosphere with dishes that appeal to all ages.

Afternoon: After lunch, take a stroll along Grandview Avenue for more stunning views and photo ops. Follow the self-guided walking tours available or enjoy a leisurely exploration of the charming neighborhood.

Return Journey: Head back to the incline for your descent when ready. The return trip offers a different perspective of the city as you reflect on a day well spent.

Back at Station Square: End your day exploring the shops or relax by the fountain at Bessemer Court, a great spot for kids to play as you unwind.

Interesting Fact: The Duquesne Incline is one of the few remaining inclines in the country, originally used to carry cargo up and down the steep hills of Pittsburgh before becoming a beloved historic landmark.

This compact tour combines education, fun, and relaxation, perfect for a family outing!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.