5 Best Kids Birthday Party Places in Pittsburgh (+ Tips for Success)

Stressed about how to celebrate your kids' birthday in Pittsburgh?

Planning a kids' birthday party can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to! Pittsburgh offers a variety of fantastic venues and activities that cater to children of all ages. From interactive museums to thrilling amusement parks, there's something for every kid. In this guide, we'll explore the best birthday party places in Pittsburgh and share tips to help you organize a successful and stress-free event that your child will love.

Kids and toddlers birthday party ideas in Pittsburgh

For toddlers under 6

Throwing a birthday party at the park can be great for toddlers and little children. Organize games and activities that they can play outdoors and a picnic lunch they can eat between games. 

For kids between 6 and 10

For kids in elementary school age, museums and didactic activities can be a great option! In the years when kids get obsessed with dinosaurs and outer space, a tour around the Natural History Museum or a hands-on physics experience can reinforce their interest in the sciences.

For bigger kids +10

Are your kids getting taller than 42’’? Then an amusement and waterpark is the best option. At this age, they can already enjoy all the attractions, from thrilling rides to steep slides. And what could be better than visiting over their birthday? Bringing friends with them!

The top kids' birthday venues in Pittsburgh

Outdoor locations for a kid’s birthday

Idlewild & SoakZone

Idlewild & SoakZone is a beloved amusement park that offers a delightful mix of rides, attractions and shows, making it an ideal venue for kids' birthday parties. The park features classic amusement rides, a charming Story Book Forest, and vibrant live entertainment that captivates children of all ages. 

With its nostalgic charm and a wide variety of activities, Idlewild & SoakZone provides a magical backdrop for birthday celebrations. The park’s dedicated party packages include admission, food, and reserved seating, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for both kids and parents. Celebrate your child’s special day with fun-filled adventures at Idlewild & SoakZone!

SoakZone is an exciting water area perfect for summer birthdays. With thrilling slides, a lazy river, and splash areas, it caters to kids of all ages. Ideal for children aged 6 and up, SoakZone provides a refreshing and fun-filled environment that guarantees a memorable birthday experience.

• Ideal ages: All ages! Especially over 6, for kids to enjoy most attractions

• Where: 2580 U.S. 30, Ligonier, PA 15658

• Hours: Often open from midday to late afternoon

• Number of guests: Between 10 and 25

• Eating options: All-You-Can-Eat Buffet of Chicken Tenders, Macaroni & Cheese, Assorted Cookies, and Potato Chips for One Hour. Bottomless Pepsi Fountain Beverages for Two Hours

Schenley Plaza 

Centered in a lively area perfect for family outings and cultural exploration, Schenley Plaza serves as the gateway to the park’s extensive greenery. Here, you can enjoy seasonal events, grab a bite from local vendors, or simply soak in the sunshine on a pleasant day, And can be a great spot for a birthday celebration outdoors.

• Ideal ages: Special for younger kids

• Where: Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• Hours: Any time!

• Number of guests: All you can invite!

• Eating options: Ideal for a picnic and a potluck-style buffet

North Park

North Park features diverse recreational options including a large lake for paddle boating and fishing, numerous hiking trails, and spacious pavilions ideal for gatherings. With its vast open spaces and playgrounds, it's an excellent choice for hosting memorable outdoor birthday celebrations for children of all ages.

• Ideal ages: Special for younger kids

• Where: Allegheny County, PA 15213

• Hours: Any time!

• Number of guests: All you can invite!

• Eating options: Ideal for a picnic and a potluck-style buffet

Indoor locations for a kid’s birthday

Children's Museum of Pittsburgh

The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is an excellent choice for children's birthday parties, offering colorful, engaging spaces filled with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity. Party guests can enjoy a variety of themed activities that are both fun and educational, from exploring physics through play to engaging in creative art-making sessions.

• Ideal ages: Ideal for younger kids

• Where: 10 Children's Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

• Hours: Monday to Friday, all-day

• Number of guests: 15-30 kids

• Eating options: You can throw a picnic party in Allegheny Park

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is an exceptional venue for hosting children's birthday parties, offering fascinating exhibits from the world-renowned dinosaur hall to displays of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Party packages often include guided tours and hands-on activities that make the past come alive, ensuring a celebration that's as informative as it is enjoyable.

• Ideal ages: Ideally 8 and above

• Where: 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• Hours: 10 a.m. -5 p.m.

• Number of guests: Up to 35

• Eating options: Whole Pizzas, salads, chicken tenders, mac n’ cheese, fresh fruit, vegetable crudité, drinks, desserts & cake

Bonus track: How to organize a successful party your children will never forget

How can I make my kids' birthday party special?

To make your child's birthday party special, focus on their interests and hobbies. Choose a theme they love, plan fun activities, and personalize the event with decorations, games, and features that reflect their personality. This also applies to location, which will make up for a big part of your party’s success.

How to make a low-budget birthday party?

You don't have to necessarily celebrate at home to save money. If you want a unique event for your child, make sure to find a place that offers discounts or benefits. For example, at Idlewild & SoakZone:

• There’s free admission for the birthday child

• Children up to 2 years old get in for free

• You can bring food into the park if you want to bake your own cake and also bring your own decorations

• An all-you-can-eat buffet is included for an hour for all the guests

How many kids invite to the party?

The number of kids to invite depends on your child's friends and the venue's capacity. Ensure you can comfortably accommodate and supervise all attendees and that your budget matches the number of guests. We recommend having members of your family, like uncles and aunts, come over to help supervise the kids while enjoying the celebration themselves.

How long to stay at the party? 

For young children, 1.5 to 2 hours is usually enough for a birthday party. Older children may enjoy a longer celebration, up to 3 hours, especially if there are multiple activities planned.

Remember the safety measures

Safety is paramount at any birthday party. Ensure there is adequate adult supervision, especially during activities. Have a first aid kit on hand, and make sure all children are aware of safety rules, particularly in outdoor or water-based settings. If you are organizing the party at a special venue, make sure that it can ensure safety for all attendees.

Give your children the best birthday party in Pittsburgh!

Pittsburgh offers an array of fantastic venues, but Idlewild & SoakZone stands out as a top choice for an unforgettable birthday party. With its diverse attractions, including the thrilling SoakZone, the park provides endless fun for kids of all ages. 

The park’s combination of rides, games, and water features ensures that every child will find something they love. Hosting your child’s birthday at Idlewild & SoakZone not only guarantees a memorable day filled with excitement but also offers a stress-free experience with their party packages and amenities. 

Celebrate your child’s special day at Idlewild & SoakZone and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Book a birthday party at Idlewild & SoakZone now!