Best Cheap Activities To Do With Kids In Pittsburgh

Summer certainly gets expensive when the kids are out of school with birthday parties, summer camps, weekend outings and vacations. It's no wonder you're looking for entertainment on the cheap. Fortunately, Pittsburgh is rife with great, inexpensive places and things to see, hear and do with your family all summer long.

Nearly 500 blocks of sandstone cut from a local quarry offers 40 feet of splashy, cool summer fun on Pittsburgh's North Shore. Whether you're taking a special trip just to the water steps or making a day of it by heading to PNC Park or the Science Center afterward, be sure to make a point to spend a lengthy amount of time relaxing and enjoying the exquisite view of the city. If you're staying late, be sure to pack an extra change of clothes - the river's breeze gets a bit chilly.

Date: June 7, 2014 at 10 a.m.

Join Construction Junction on June 7th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., to kayak around Sycamore Island and learn how to spot and identify native trees and shrubs. A fun event for the whole family, be sure to preregister here ASAP. While you're at it, make a fun recycling event for the whole family and gather your unwanted home goods and fixtures to donate to Construction Junction.

Located next to the Black & Gold playground, this game preserve is tucked in South Park's hillside and is home to the revered wild buffalo, free-roaming peacocks, fish, turtles and geese, plus tons of varied wildlife. The best part of the game preserve is a sweet little girl's wish to keep it operational. She routinely hosts charity events, fundraisers and awareness days to bring the community together in supporting the restructure and rehabilitation of this wonderful park. You can visit Pressley's page here.

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From Sunday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning the first Saturday in June, take your little ones to the free splash park at Round Hill. Pack a lunch while your kiddos frolic in the water, then air dry on one of Round Hill's two great playgrounds. Another great place to take a (short) trek to is the park's animal preserve where your kids can get up close and personal with dozens of farm animals. Pavilions are also available for rent; call for more information.

A great way to introduce children to live theater, South Park Children's Theatre is $3 for ages three and older and free for children two years and under. Operating on an outside stage with ground seating (be sure to pack your blanket), the shows are put on by children, for children. Snacks are available for a modest price, or you are welcome to bring your own. Auditions are also held seasonally. If you have an aspiring thespian in the family, this might be the perfect first stage for him/her.

Related: Indoor Activities For Kids And Family Near Pittsburgh