Greetings, fellow history buffs! Are you looking to delve into the rich and fascinating history of Pittsburgh? Then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best historical sites and museums that this great city has to offer.
Pittsburgh has a reputation for being a “steel city” and for its devoted football fans. But there’s much more to this Pennsylvania stronghold than just steelworkers and the Super Bowl! Check out these great historical sites and fascinating museums for you to visit while in Pittsburgh!
Heinz History Center
Let’s start with one of the city’s most famous families. The Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center, located downtown, opened in 2000 in association with the Smithsonian Institution. Inside, you can find out about the Underground Railroad, the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, and various traveling exhibits that keep this a popular destination for travelers. And yes, there is a special area dedicated to Heinz Ketchup, possibly one of Pittsburgh’s most famous creations.
From the prehistoric era to the present day, the center’s exhibits showcase the diverse cultures and industries that have shaped the region. With interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and immersive displays, the Heinz History Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Pittsburgh.
The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall
The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall is a military museum dedicated to American veterans. Originally built in the late 1800s to honor Civil War Veterans, this Museum has survived and thrived over time to present a living memorial to those who have served the United States proudly over time. Various exhibits display the accomplishments of these men and women through the years while delivering a tribute to these brave soldiers and sailors. Tours can be booked for larger groups with a variety of options available, from the Civil War to the African-American Experience. Facilities are also available for those wishing to hold a wedding or a reception.
The Carnegie Museum of Art
The Carnegie Museum of Art is another popular tourist attraction. With a wide collection of art that ranges from French Impressionist paintings to American art from the past century to film and video works, this Museum is easily one of the largest in the world. The Heinz Architectural Center attached to the Museum is devoted to collecting and displaying architectural models and drawings, while the Hall of Architecture can lay claim to the largest collection of plaster castings of architectural creations in the United States and one of the top three in the entire world. And for you classic art buffs, the Hall of Sculpture has a perfect copy of the interior of the Parthenon waiting for you to visit!
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Carnegie Museum of Natural History
But why stop there? Head on over to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History for a wild time with the children as you investigate the mysterious disappearance of dinosaurs and other amazing creatures! A plethora of programs aimed specifically at children guarantees a great time for you and your family. Plenty of interactive displays guarantee your children a fascinating time while they learn something about the natural world and their place in it.
Carnegie Science Center
The third in the series of Carnegie Museums is the Carnegie Science Center, an interactive wonder for children and adults alike. Filled with hands-on displays and activities, this Museum also includes a planetarium, an Omnimax Theater, and a constantly changing laser show. With special exhibits rotating in and out of the Center every few months, it’s guaranteed to be a different experience every time you visit.
The Andy Warhol Museum
The Andy Warhol Museum may appeal more to adults who remember the mesmerizing artwork of the late Andy Warhol, but this art gallery will certainly invoke a lot of discussion among the younger set! With various exhibits of local and international art cycling throughout the year, this Museum is a must for art fans and historians alike.
Frick Pittsburgh
Frick Pittsburgh is a museum and historic site that celebrates the life and legacy of industrialist Henry Clay Frick. The Museum’s exhibits feature fine and decorative arts, historical artifacts, and personal items from the Frick family’s collection. The site also includes Clayton, the Frick family’s restored Gilded Age mansion, and the picturesque Frick Park, a 600-acre urban oasis.
Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild
Looking for something a bit more down-to-earth? Why not visit Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild! Started by Bill Strickland and Frank Ross in 1968, this urban group was created to help fight the economic and social problems that Strickland saw destroying the African-American neighborhood he lived in. Starting off with just a casual art program for inner-city children, it soon began to grow by leaps and bounds, garnering praise from the public and funding from the government. With a variety of programs from jazz to painting to sculpture, the Guild has become a formidable force in helping encourage appreciation of the arts in Pittsburgh.
Visiting Pittsburgh doesn’t have to be all about football and steel production, although these are major parts of the city’s history. With a little research and a bit of time to spend, you can study famous paintings, be dazzled by a laser show or planetarium display, or just enjoy seeing the dinosaurs. Pittsburgh – a city filled with historical sites and museums to take your breath away!
If you’re looking to learn more about the fascinating history of Pittsburgh, these museums and historic sites are the perfect place to start. And if you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all things Pittsburgh history, our website has got you covered. With detailed information on these sites and many more, as well as resources for planning your visit, we’re your ultimate guide to the past and present of this great city. So come on in and discover the wonders of Pittsburgh’s rich and diverse history!
