16 Family Things to Do in Pittsburgh in Summer 2024 (For all Ages)

Local or tourist, there is fun for everyone in Pittsburgh’s summer

Pittsburgh's summer offers a variety of activities that cater to families, couples, and individuals of all ages, making it a vibrant destination whether you're a local or a tourist. 

Families with children and teenagers can find numerous fun options, from water parks like Idlewild & SoakZone to the educational experiences at the Carnegie Science Center. Couples might enjoy romantic night tours at Phipps Conservatory or exploring the city's rich culinary scene. With outdoor adventures, cultural festivals, and interactive indoor attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Pittsburgh when it's hot!

Best summer activities in Pittsburgh for adults and kids

Pittsburgh shines in the summer, offering an array of activities perfect for both adults and kids. Whether seeking adrenaline, learning, or relaxation, Pittsburgh delivers unforgettable experiences for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, proving it's a top destination for summer fun.

Summer things to do in Pittsburgh with kids and toddlers

Cool off with water rides at Idlewild & SoakZone

At Idlewild & SoakZone, families can escape the summer heat with an array of water rides and attractions. This park is a haven for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax. With a diverse selection of slides and pools, it caters to all ages, making it an ideal spot for families with kids and toddlers to cool off and have fun in Pittsburgh's summer warmth.

Idlewild & SoakZone's top attractions include the lazy river, perfect for gentle relaxation, and the exciting wave pool that simulates ocean waves. For thrill-seekers, the park offers various water slides ranging in intensity, ensuring fun for both the timid and the adventurous. The little ones can enjoy specially designed areas like the kiddie pool, making it a comprehensive family destination for summer enjoyment.

- Where: Idlewild & SoakZone, Rt. 30 East, Ligonier, PA 15658
- When: Open daily, mostly from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Target ages: Family-friendly with attractions suitable for toddlers to adults.

Visit the traditional Kennywood park

Kennywood Park, a traditional and beloved destination, offers a blend of classic charm and modern thrills, making it perfect for families. With roller coasters, family rides, and attractions suited for all ages, it provides a fun-filled day. The park is known for its historical wooden coasters and modern steel ones, ensuring that every visit is packed with excitement and nostalgia.

Expanding the experience, Kennywood not only thrills with its coasters but also enchants with Kiddieland, a dedicated area for young children featuring rides tailored to their size and thrill level. It’s a place where timeless memories are made, blending the thrill of amusement with the joy of shared family moments.

- Where: 4800 Kennywood Boulevard, West Mifflin, PA 15122
- When: Open daily, mostly from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Target ages: Young children to adults.

Pittsburgh summer festivals and events

Three Rivers Arts Festival

The Three Rivers Arts Festival is a cornerstone of Pittsburgh's cultural summer landscape, offering a vibrant showcase of visual and performing arts. This free, multi-day event spans several locations downtown, featuring a wide range of activities from live music performances to art exhibitions, artist market stalls, and interactive installations. It's a celebration that attracts both locals and visitors, highlighting the rich artistic diversity and creative spirit of the city.

- Where: Downtown Pittsburgh, PA
- When: Typically held in early to mid-June
- Target ages: All ages welcome

Picklesburgh Festival

Picklesburgh Festival celebrates Pittsburgh's love for all things pickled. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the city, this annual event transforms the Rachel Carson Bridge into a vibrant venue for pickle-themed foods, live music, and unique activities, including a pickle juice drinking contest. It's a festival that draws crowds from near and far, eager to explore the culinary creativity and community spirit that Picklesburgh is known for.

- Where: Boulevard of the Allies between Stanwix and Smithfield Streets
- When: Usually held in July; specific dates may vary each year
- Target Ages: All ages welcome

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix stands as a hallmark event, blending the thrill of vintage car racing with charity fundraising. Taking place in the scenic settings of Pittsburgh's parks, this event is celebrated for its road races and car shows, attracting automobile enthusiasts and families alike. 

It's a unique opportunity to witness vintage cars in action while enjoying a festive atmosphere that supports local charities, making it a highlight of Pittsburgh's summer events calendar.

- Where: Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA
- When: Typically held in July; specific dates may vary each year
- Target Ages: All ages welcome

Outdoor things to do in Pittsburgh in the summer

Go kayaking at the Three Rivers

Kayaking at the Three Rivers offers a unique perspective of Pittsburgh from the water. This popular summer activity allows individuals and families to paddle through the city's iconic waterways, exploring the scenic junction of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. 

It's an accessible outdoor adventure for all ages, providing both relaxation and a bit of exercise, with rental options available for those without their own equipment.

Visit the Mount Washington

Visiting Mount Washington is a must-do for panoramic views of Pittsburgh's skyline and rivers. This vantage point offers breathtaking vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists. The accessible overlooks along Grandview Avenue provide the perfect backdrop for memorable photos, while nearby trails offer a chance to explore the area's natural beauty. 

It's an ideal spot for a stroll or a romantic evening, capturing the essence of Pittsburgh from above.

- Where: Mount Washington, Pittsburgh, PA
- When: Accessible year-round; popular for outdoor activities in the summer months
- Target Ages: All ages welcome

Bike the Great Allegheny Passage

Biking the Great Allegheny Passage offers an immersive way to explore the natural and historical landscapes surrounding Pittsburgh. This trail stretches for miles, providing a scenic route for cyclists of all levels. 

It's an opportunity to experience the beauty of the region's rivers, bridges, and wooded paths, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure or a leisurely ride through nature.

- Where: Great Allegheny Passage trail, spanning from Pittsburgh, PA to Cumberland, MD
- When: Trail accessible year-round
- Target ages: Trail sections suitable for adults and children

Indoor things to do in Pittsburgh in the summer

Explore the exhibits at Carnegie Science Center

Exploring the exhibits at the Carnegie Science Center is an engaging way to spend a summer day indoors. With interactive displays spanning various fields of science and technology, it's a destination that sparks curiosity in visitors of all ages. From space exploration to robotics, the center offers hands-on experiences that educate and entertain, making it a must-visit for families and science enthusiasts alike.

- Where: 1 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
- When: Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Target ages: interactive displays suitable for children, families, and adults

The Andy Warhol Museum

The Andy Warhol Museum offers an immersive look into the life and work of the Pittsburgh-born pop art icon, Andy Warhol. As the largest museum dedicated to a single artist in North America, it houses extensive collections of his art and archives. 

Visitors can explore Warhol's vast contributions to visual art, including his paintings, prints, and films, providing a deep dive into the pop culture movements of the 20th century.

- Where: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
- When: Open most days from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Target ages: All ages welcome

Things to do in Pittsburgh in the summer at night

Enjoy a movie at Cinema in the Park

Enjoying a movie at Cinema in the Park is a quintessential summer night activity in Pittsburgh, offering families and friends the chance to unwind under the stars. This popular event brings free screenings of movies to various parks around the city, providing a unique outdoor cinematic experience that combines the joy of film with the beauty of Pittsburgh's green spaces. 

It's an ideal way to enjoy warm summer evenings, surrounded by the night's ambiance and community spirit.

Join Night Tours at Phipps Conservatory

Joining Night Tours at Phipps Conservatory offers a magical experience, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the gardens illuminated under the night sky. These tours provide a unique perspective on the Conservatory's stunning plant collections and glasshouse displays, enhanced by the tranquil atmosphere of the evening. 

It's an enchanting way to experience one of Pittsburgh's most beloved landmarks, offering a serene and beautiful setting that contrasts with the vibrancy of the day.

- Where:1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
- When: Open most days from 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Target ages: Adults and older children

Attend a Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Game

Attending a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game is a thrilling summer night activity, offering the chance to join in the city's sports culture at the iconic PNC Park. Fans of all ages can enjoy the excitement of a live game, cheering on the Pirates against the backdrop of the beautiful Pittsburgh skyline. It's a perfect blend of sports, family fun, and city pride, making for an unforgettable summer evening.

- Where: PNC Park, 115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
- When: typically runs from April to September
- Target ages: All ages welcome

Free things to do in Pittsburgh in the summer

Explore Point State Park or Frick Park

Exploring Point State Park offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance right at the confluence of Pittsburgh's three rivers. It's a prime spot for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking, with the iconic fountain providing a picturesque backdrop. This park is a peaceful retreat in the city, ideal for picnics, leisurely walks and enjoying panoramic views of Pittsburgh.

Visit Randyland

Randyland is one of Pittsburgh's most colorful and eclectic art spaces, created by artist Randy Gilson. Visiting Randyland offers a unique experience, with vibrant murals and whimsical installations that transform a Northside neighborhood into an open-air gallery. It's a testament to creativity and community spirit, free and open to the public, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and curious visitors alike.

Ready to enjoy Pittsburgh’s best summer things to do?

Ready to make the most of Pittsburgh's summer? From serene evenings at Cinema in the Park to the thrill of Idlewild & SoakZone, there's something for everyone. Start your Pittsburgh summer journey at Idlewild for:

- A variety of water rides suitable for all ages.

- Family-friendly atmosphere with events and activities.

- The perfect escape to cool off and have fun.

Explore Pittsburgh's vibrant culture, outdoor adventures, and unique events this summer, making memories that will last a lifetime. Get your tickets to Idlewild now!

FAQs
What is the hottest month in Pittsburgh?

The hottest month in Pittsburgh is typically July, with average high temperatures reaching into the mid-80s (°F). This peak summer month brings warm weather that's ideal for enjoying the city's numerous outdoor activities and events, from water parks to festivals.

How many days do you need in Pittsburgh?

To fully experience Pittsburgh's mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions, a stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended. This allows time to explore major sites like the Carnegie Museums, enjoy the food scene, and take in the natural beauty of the city's parks and rivers.

How is the weather in summer in Pittsburgh?

Summer in Pittsburgh offers warm and sometimes humid weather, with temperatures averaging from the high 60s to mid-80s (°F). This season is marked by longer days, making it perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions, and festivals, and enjoying its vibrant nightlife.