KidsBURGH: Let’s play in Pittsburgh

Opening in Pittsburgh’s Northside this October, the fascinating Moonshot Museum by space robotics company, Astrobotic, will change the way space is experienced, forever.

Visitors will witness a real lunar spacecraft as it’s being built and embark on their own simulated lunar mission.

In preparation, this summer sees even more reasons for families to escape to play in Pittsburgh.

Nicknamed ‘KidsBURGH’ due to its diverse and growing selection of attractions and experiences for children, the city is now more accessible than ever with the relaunch of British Airways’ direct flight from London Heathrow and the removal of testing requirements for fully vaccinated travellers.

Attractions

Thrilling rides at Kennywood

Home to two of the fastest and tallest coasters in Pennsylvania, Kennywood is America’s traditional amusement park and a multi-faceted destination for families. Enjoy a mix of thrills and classic rides, including seven roller coasters. Kennywood will host numerous exciting events throughout the year. Family fun festivities include Summer’s On! (5-31 July) and Fall Fantasy Parade (6-12 August). The events calendar kicks off Kennywood’s two-year party ahead of its 125^th anniversary next year.

The largest indoor aviary in North America 

Located in Allegheny Commons Park, the National Aviary is the largest indoor bird zoo in North America. This popular attraction houses over 500 birds and more than 150 species, with large walk-through habitats that create an immersive experience – an intimate, up-close interaction between visitors and free-flying birds.

Three rivers on the Gateway Clipper Fleet 

Offering unmatched views and tours of the city, the riverboats of Gateway Clipper Fleet  cruise under a handful of the city’s 446 bridges, past the iconic sports stadiums and around the fountain at Point State Park. Throughout selected days in the year, the company hosts kids-themed cruises, allowing little ones to dress up and meet their favourite superhero or princess.

Wildlife at Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium 

The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium spans 77 acres to discover new wildlife, learn more about their favourite animals and play across wooden bridges, tree slides and playgrounds throughout the Zoo. During selected nights in August and October, the Asian Lantern Festival will light up the Zoo with more than 50 glowing sculptures plus themed food and entertainment.

Slip and slide at Sandcastle Waterpark 

Sandcastle Waterpark offers a summer of fun with 16 water slides, including the all-new Bombs Away free-falling drop slide. Riders experience 300 feet of twists and turns with spectacular views on the way down. Young ones can make a splash at any of the two kids’ areas, and the whole family can enjoy a peaceful float on the lazy river.

Museums

Moonshot Museum (October)

Space robotics company, Astrobotic, will open the Moonshot Museum in October. The city’s first museum dedicated exclusively to space, the featured attraction will be a large window through which visitors can watch real lunar landings and rovers being built and readied to fly to the Moon. Museum visitors will experience the thrill of spaceflight up close and learn about possible career paths in the thriving $425 billion space industry through interactive exhibits, and educational programs.

Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh 

Located in Pittsburgh’s Northside, get hands-on with creative art and science exhibits at Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Whether child or teen, there’s something educational and interactive for each age group. Children can expand their creative vision by learning new art forms through open ended art activities and artist-led workshops..

Carnegie Science Center

Fun for all the family, the Carnegie Science Center features four floors of interactive activities. Toddlers can enjoy the water play space and Littler Learner Clubhouse, whilst older children can experience life as a human yo-yo at SportsWorks before descending into the U.S.S. Requin (SS 481) submarine.

Heinz History Center 

Spanning 250 years of Pittsburgh history, the Senator John Heinz History Center is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum. An education institution with the aim to engage and inspire audiences, there’s so much to do and learn. Delve into the past of the most famed household name, Heinz, which was founded in Pittsburgh in 1869, through the innovative displays such as the towering Heinz Ketchup bottle – a perfect picture opportunity.

For more information on events in Pittsburgh, visit www.visitpittsburgh.com