Best End Of Summer Family Activities In Pittsburgh
The hazy, lazy days of summer are a wonderful time to explore myriad of activities in the Pittsburgh region. The opportunities on land and water are abundant and families can enjoy the historical, educational, cultural and recreational activities in Pittsburgh and surrounding neighborhoods. Most of the activities are family-friendly and that makes it a great bonding and learning experience. No matter which way you turn, there are chances to find new activities or return visits to favorite locations for an exhilarating staycation to end the summer season before the school bell rings again.
PNC Park
115 Federal St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 321-BUCS
pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com
Date: Check here for the promotional schedule
The Pirates are making another run for their playoff chances for either a division title or wild card advancement. There is more than the baseball happening on the field and families can relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the beauty of the ballpark with a backdrop that has an inspiring skyline view of the city. There is action off the field with kid-friendly activities before the game begins near the Clemente Bridge. The events and promotions include a family-friendly activity for block parties, giveaways, specialty days, Pup Night, Kids Day, concerts and a fabulous Zambelli Fireworks display.
EQT Three Rivers Regatta
Point State Park
101 Commonwealth pl.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412( 471-0235
www.yougottaregatta.com
Date: Aug 5 to 7, 12:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
The Three Rivers Regatta is an annual event that has enough activity for all family members and if you like water, watercraft and entertainment, then you just got to experience the regatta. There are enough events at Point State Park, North Shore, Clemente Bridge and PNC Park to attract attention for musical selections, stunt shows, boat parade, powerboat racing, ferris wheel rides, sand sculptures, climbing wall and a Kids Zone. The regatta events continues with activities to pique the interest for all revelers, and don't forget to watch the stunt shows and Purple Rain Fireworks display by Pyrotecnico on August 7 at 9:30 p.m.
Just Ducky Tours
125 W.Station Square Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 402-3825
www.justduckytours.com
Date: Mon. - Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat & Sun, 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., July 30 to Nov 30, 2016
Land-lovers and water enthusiasts head on over to Station Square for an educational and historical adventure through the city and river destinations. There is a narrated tour in an amphibious form of transportation that will highlight a historical journey and the part Pittsburgh played throughout the years.The tour guide offers information about Pittsburgh as the vehicle passes the cultural and business districts and dazzling buildings in the city, and then enters into one of the three rivers that just may wet your entertainment experience. The views of the city and marine sojourn into the rivers make for a splish and a splash fun time for the entire family. It is suggested that you make reservations in advance to secure a spot for boarding.
Venture Outdoors
33 Terminal Way, Suite 537 A
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 255-0564
www.ventureoutdoors.org
Just as its name implies, there is an adventure throughout the Pittsburgh region waiting to be explored and experienced for the entire family. The schedule of activities have a varied interest level and families can find a destination and activity that suits their interests and needs for excitement and learning. Venture Outdoors has set up a list of activities for hiking and walking tours, kayaking, paddleboard, fishing, biking and Yoga. The activities are scheduled throughout the year and it doesn't matter what type of season, they have myriad of things to do that will complete an overall regimen of health and fitness. Even though there is a membership arrangement, families may join in on the fun on a non-member basis and after experiencing what Venture Outdoors offers, families can include that membership in the future.
Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival
112 Renaissance Lane
West Newton, PA 15089
(724) 872-1670
www.pittsburghrenfest.com
Date: Aug 20 - 21, 27 - 28; Sept 3 - 5, 10 - 11, 17 - 18, 24 - 25; 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Head on over to I-70 and Exit 51 A for the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival and end the summer with an exciting display of costumes, castles, artisans, crafts and food that will be appropriate for all family members. There are mesmerizing performances on seven stages and find a pathway to be entertained with music, frivolity and even take part in the performance. The atmosphere of the festival prepares you for learning about the crafts and getting in the mood of days gone by in Tudor England. Make sure to purchase tickets ahead of time either at the box office or online and that admission will be a magical journey that takes on an adventure into the past, and be alert of the jugglers, knights and acrobats, as their daredevil antics are a memory that just might make for a return visit.
Related: Best Summer Educational Programs For Kids In Pittsburgh
Gerry Cernicky is a retired health and physical education teacher with 36 years of experience. He is a former teacher of the year and a sports writer for the Vandergrift News. He delivers podcasts, and maintains a website and blog. He currently resides in Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.