Travel Guide: Best Free Things to Do in Pittsburgh, PA
On the hunt for the best free things to do in Pittsburgh, PA? You won’t be disappointed. True, local activities such as cheering on the Steelers at Heinz Field or taking an adventure to Kennywood Park come highly recommend. But even if they’re not in your budget, you and your family will still find plenty of top-notch things to do in the city that won’t require you to drop a single penny. So, from romantic nights on the town to escapades through local art landmarks, check out several of the best free things to do in Pittsburgh, PA, including some of the city’s top attractions and activities.
1704 Harpster St. Pittsburgh, PA
Underneath gorgeous stained-glass windows and sparkling chandeliers, St. Anthony’s Chapel is home to the largest collection of Catholic relics outside of the Vatican. You can either take a free guided tour through the beautiful landmark or pick up a headset for your own self-guided tour.
499 Bailey Ave. Pittsburgh, PA
At night, the Pittsburgh landscape transforms into magical scene of wonder. Take a trip to Grandview Park to catch some of the best views of the city and get that Instagram-worthy shot you’ve been waiting for. During the summer, the park also hosts movies and music festivals to showcase local talents and bring the community even closer together.
1501 Arch St. Pittsburgh, PA
Randy Gilson had a dream filled with color and personality – now you can experience it to. People travel far and wide to dive straight into Randy’s dream and experience the marvelous murals, paintings, and art found outside of his home. Everything at his house is made from garbage that he has repurposed into art and it’s just waiting for you to explore. His home is open seven days a week from 10AM to 7PM so be sure to stop by and discover these marvelous creations – don’t forget to take photos.
1800 Preble & Columbus Ave. Pittsburgh, PA
As soon as you walk into Bicycle Heaven, you’ll find that it’s more than just a bike shop. Claiming to be the world’s largest store and museum of its kind, Bicycle Heaven features some of the coolest bikes you’ll ever see. The venue also houses some of the most memorable bikes throughout movie history such as a scooter from The Three Stooges and one of the bikes used in Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure.
Schenley Park Pittsburgh, PA
Schenley Park should be your first stop if you’re looking to explore the great outdoors. From biking and hiking to golfing and swimming, you’ll find just about any fitness event on the grounds. The destination features 456 acres of trails and is also home to the Sportsplex and Skate Rink, which provide a fun escape from the city. Throughout the year, the park also hosts annual events such as the Vintage Grand Prix and the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure.
1047 Shady Ave. Pittsburgh, PA
Gifted artist and dancer Ann Katherine Seamans used to visit the Mellon Park Walled Garden for inspiration throughout her life. Although she died at the age of 19, artist Janet Zweig paid tribute to Seamans with a special art installation that cast the pattern of the night sky visible on the day of her birth into the lawn using fiber-optic stars. Become starry-eyed as you check out the wonderous sparkling lights.
North Shore Drive
Officially known as “Tribute to Children”, the friendliest neighbor is immortalized along the North Shore. His bronze statue sits on a pier abandoned after the demolition of the Manchester Bridger and serves to honor Rogers’ love of swimming. You can come take a picture with the iconic television personality and take a stroll by the water.
McDonald’s Big Mac Museum Restaurant
9061Route 30 North Huntingdon, PA
Right outside of Pittsburgh lies the biggest homage to the tasty Big Mac. Inside, you’ll find a unique look at the history of the iconic burger and learn more about the visionaries behind the golden arches. Highlights of the museum include the world’s tallest Big Mac statue, fascinating historic memorabilia, and tabletops lined with trivia about everyone’s favorite triple-decker sandwich.
Old Allegheny County Jail Museum
440 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA
As seen in the movie, Mrs. Soffel, the Old Allegheny County Jail was used as a prison from 1886 to 1995. Visit one portion of the cell blocks that has been preserved as the “Old Allegheny County Jail Museum” and learn more about the people that passed through the halls. Free tours are held every Monday from 11:30 am to 1 pm.
The Frick Art & Historical Center
7227 Reynolds St. Pittsburgh, PA
Travel back in time with free admission at the Frick Art Museum, Car and Carriage Museum, and Greenhouse. See some of the world’s first horseless carriages and learn about Pittsburgh’s automotive industry. Then, check out the colors and thought behind some of the amazing exhibits in the art museum. The Frick Art & Historical Center combines art, history, and nature all in one place. For a small fee, you can also tour the restored home of Henry Clayton Frick.
159 Riverview Ave. Pittsburgh, PA
Gaze at the stars and beyond at Allegheny Observatory. You’ll enjoy a short presentation of the night sky followed by a walking tour of the building. On clear nights, you can also view celestial bodies within the telescope’s range. Tours of the observatory are free but do require a reservation.
CHEAT SHEET
To find more on the best free activities in Pittsburgh, check out the following sites:
· Vacation Idea – 22 Best Free and Affordable Attractions in Pittsburgh
· Visit Pittsburgh – 28 Free Things to Do in Pittsburgh
· Trip Advisor - Best Free Things to Do While in Pittsburgh