The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is one of the best museums of its kind in the country, and for families with young children it is a better rainy-day plan than anything in the downtown core. It sits in Allegheny Square on the North Side, near the Mattress Factory and the National Aviary, and it is built around the idea that children learn by doing. The museum's current exhibits include Waterplay, where children can splash and experiment, the Garage, the Makeshop, where real tools and materials invite building, the Studio for art projects, the Kindness Gallery and Emotions at Play with Pixar's Inside Out, a playful way for children to name and talk about their feelings. For older children there is MuseumLab, a creative space for young people in the neighboring former Carnegie Library, which has its own opening schedule. Parts of the museum have been closed or rotated in recent seasons, so look at the exhibits page before you visit. It is aimed at young children, and parents are expected to join in. It rewards unhurried play, and there is no time limit on your visit once you arrive. A visit pairs well with the National Aviary and the Mattress Factory, but on a busy day you will not need anything else.
Tickets and timing
Entry is by timed ticket, with a day and time reserved in advance online or by phone. Members are asked to reserve as well, and capacity is limited, so walk-up tickets may not be available. Arrive within 30 minutes of your entry time, because early arrivals may be asked to wait outside. Opening days have been limited in recent seasons, with the visit page showing Thursday to Sunday, so confirm the days before you plan your trip.
Making the most of it
Bring a change of clothes for younger children, since Waterplay is the highlight and few visitors leave dry, and wear shoes that are easy to remove. Visit early in the day when children have the most energy, and keep to one or two exhibit areas rather than rushing through everything. Older children can enjoy the Makeshop and Garage, while toddlers prefer water and soft play spaces. Check what the museum asks about food and drink before you go.
Pairing it
The North Side is rich in family attractions, and a day here can combine the museum, a stroll to the National Aviary and lunch nearby. If you have only one day for children, compare it with the Carnegie Science Center, which suits slightly older children and is bigger, and with the Zoo. For children under about eight, however, this museum is the better fit, and for toddlers it is the clear choice. The museum is also a good example of Pittsburgh's civic character.
It occupies a renovated former post office and a neighboring building on the North Side, close to other attractions, and it cooperates with Mister Rogers-inspired values of kindness and curiosity that the city is proud of, which is reflected in galleries like the Kindness Gallery. Parents often say the most valuable part of the visit is the way the exhibits invite adults to play too, so expect to get involved. If your children are over about ten, consider the MuseumLab on its weekend schedule or combine the museum with the Science Center instead.
What to expect
The experience
A hands-on museum for young children with timed tickets, water play, a makers workshop, art studio and play galleries.
Best time
Early in the day on an open day, with a timed ticket reserved in advance.
How long
Two to three hours, with no time limit once you are in.
Tips
Reserve a timed ticket, arrive within 30 minutes of your entry time, bring a change of clothes for Waterplay and confirm opening days first.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children under about eight.
- Families
- The main audience; toddlers and young children are the best fit.
- Couples
- Not an obvious choice for a couple, but a great stop if you are visiting with children.
- Pair with
- The National Aviary or the Mattress Factory, both close by on the North Side.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours, with lunch nearby on the North Side.
Good questions
Do I need to reserve tickets for the Children's Museum?+
Yes. Entry is by timed ticket for a specific day and time, and walk-up tickets may not be available.
What are the opening days?+
The visit page lists the museum open Thursday to Sunday and MuseumLab on Saturday and Sunday, but check the current schedule before you go.
What is there to do?+
Exhibits include Waterplay, the Garage, the Makeshop, the Studio, the Kindness Gallery and Emotions at Play with Pixar's Inside Out.
Is it suitable for older children?+
The museum is aimed at younger children, and MuseumLab offers creative activities for older children and teenagers on its own schedule.
How long can we stay?+
There is no time limit on your visit once you arrive within your entry window, so most families stay two to three hours.
