Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh, is known for a lot of things: the food, the rivers, the bridges, the views, the food and of course the Steelers! But, what about art and history? The Museums in Pittsburgh are unmatched among cities of the same size. Among them, notably are the Andy Warhol Museum, The Mattress Factory, and The Heinz History Museum. But their crowning jewel is the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History.

The Carnegie, sits gloriously, on Forbes Street, a stone’s throw from the equally as regal Cathedral of Learning on Pitt University’s campus. Its large pillars and gaping stairwell swallow you in, as you walk toward the main entrance of the Museum. Greeted by Dippy the Dinosaur who sits just outside the Museum, visitors are invited in to take part in the modern and eclectic museum of art, the traditional museum of history, or both.

The Art museum features some of the most famed artwork from prominent artists throughout history, from Homer to Warhol. But almost equally as impressive is the attention that the Carnegie gives to locals, with exhibits and installations by local Black artists such the infamous “Teenie” Harris, who was a photography documentarian, and more recently Dr. Sharif Bey, a ceramicist and educator, who grew up in a poor southside neighborhood, and now has his work displayed next to likes of Claude Monet’s Water Lilies.

Among the seemingly 100 feet ceilings and marble pillars of the “Forum” fashioned after the Parthenon, the Hall of Sculptures, and the Hall of Architecture, there is also also a room displaying works of young local artists, and classes held to expose youth from marginalized communities to experience art in a new way. To ensure equitable access, the Museum also provides free admission to families who receive government assistance. While some of the more prominent art is always displayed the local and more recent works are cycled, so there is always something new to see in the Carnegie Museum of Art.

Just down the hall is the Museum of Natural History. As you approach, children’s laughter echoes as you seem to walk through time, and come face to face with Dinosaurs. One of the most complete skeletons ever found is showcased here, and the display puts you right in the center of it all. Touch screens illuminate to give you an interactive lesson on each exhibit from prehistoric dinosaurs, to the age of man in modern times, with fun and adventure in every room, and on every floor. The contrast of the modern computer simulated interactive exhibits among the historical displays creates and exciting and almost surreal experience that is both fun and educational for the whole family.

Our personal favorite is the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems, which holds 1,300 rare and unique gems and stones from all over the world. Beautifully displayed, are also rare pieces of jewelry and oddities from throughout history. Quiet and serene, you can immerse yourself in the beauty and education found here, walking along the cool, dark, aisles of displays that seem to go on forever. We like to find the gemstones that are from places we have visited, or spending time choosing which gemstone most closely fits our personalities. No photography is allowed in the Hall of Minerals.

Anyone who finds themselves in Pittsburgh, should absolutely make the time to see The Carnegie Museum. It is definitely worth the visit; culture, history, education, art, and fun, all in one.