Carnegie Science Center

We, two adults, thought we'd visit the Carnegie Science Center for a fun activity to do during our annual 'Pittsburgh Fun Day'. We thought we were being smart by visiting on a weekday. We thought this would mean fewer crowds and a greater opportunity to see all of the exhibits up close. Unfortunately, we were wrong. The place was packed with kids on field trips, and we couldn't even see the shows in the planetarium because the groups would be using it all day. It looked like there were a lot of cool things to see, but I recommend going either later in the day when the field trips have cleared out for the day or waiting until the weekend. more

The Carnegie Science Center is one family destination well worth the price of admission. Ticket prices are separate for their exhibits, planetarium, IMAX theater, and submarine tour, so think in advance about how much time you have to devote to the CSC. Exhibits are top-notch, and the second floor is almost completely a traveling gallery that rotates about twice a year; the third floor is a children's hands-on laboratory, and the top floor has a really cool special-effects theater and food exhibit. If you go during the week, be prepared to see lots and lots of school children. Don't forget the gift shop; they've got a really interesting collection of toys, clothing, and book for scientists of all ages. more

You can spend the day, or just a few hours. Parking is affordable and right outside of the facility. Enjoyment for all ages include an IMAX Theater and extensive train layout and many hands-on projects. They have a small café for coffee and a croissant. Take snacks with you. Many schools use the facility for field trips. If your child is going, ask to be a Volunteer Aid. You will get to see everything your child does and you will have oodles to talk about together when you get home. more

There are other science related attractions in Pittsburgh, but the Carnegie Science Center is the biggest and best on in the city. There are 3 floors of exhibits (not counting the basement which houses a small cafeteria). The exhibits change throughout the year, so if you visited last year, there is sure to be something new now. Admission is a little expensive (in my opinion). However, it's worth going to at least once to check it out. There is also a planetarium and an omnimax theater, but I think that you have to pay extra for those (on top of general admission) if you want to use them. more

We are lucky to have such an awesome science center in Pittsburgh! The science center has 3 floors of exhibits, an omnimax, and a small cafeteria for snacks. Admission is reasonably priced and you can even get a membership if you visit frequently. They change the exhibits regularly, so you can visit several times a year and always learn something new. The planetarium is always fun for kids. The Omnimax can be a bit much though for younger kids sometimes since the screen is above and around you. Older kids usually love the Omnimax. Parking is limited, so we usually go on a week day instead of the weekend in order to try to avoid some of the crowd. The science center is great for people that live in Pittsburgh, or for those that are visiting! more

The Carnegie Science Center is a family experience which allows young minds to explore some of the flashier concepts in science. There are many hands on activities, from being in an earthquake to creating music. A feature made for all age groups is definitely the candy room! Make sure to stop by at least once! more

I love it here.. there is so much to see and do. I really can't explain what a great asset this is to our city. I love the way they display the exhibits. Of course you have to go to Ringo I-Max movie. It is wonderful and so capivating. I can't wait to go back with my niece and nephew. more

Although it caters to kids, the Carnegie Science Center is still fun for adults too. They have lots of neat exhibits including the miniature railroad and EcoStation (two of my favorites). If the exhibits aren't enough for you, check out the planetarium, laser shows, or omnimax theater. While this isn't the best science museum I've ever been to, it's fun and worth the admission cost. more

Fun place to take the kids on a rainy summer day! Carnegie Science Center has a display for a “sweet” exhibition that explores beyond the sugarcoating to discover the biology, chemistry, physiology and psychology of candy as you interact with exhibits on decadent delights. There are 17 interactive components that allow you to examine the science behind the delicious and engaging world of candy! Pedal a stationary bicycle in Energy Burn to experience how much energy it takes to burn off a single sugar cube. Investigate taste buds and the incredible sensory complexity of the human tongue in Taste Bud Tango. There is always something new and educational to do at the Science Center. more