The Best Free Things to Do with Kids in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has a well-earned reputation as one of the most family-friendly cities in America, and a big part of that reputation comes down to just how many free things there are to do with kids. Whether you're new to the city or a lifelong resident, it's easy to underestimate the sheer volume of no-cost activities available across the Pittsburgh area.

We've been tracking family events in Pittsburgh for years, and the free tier is genuinely impressive. Here are our favorites.

1. Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh — Story Times & Programs

The Carnegie Library system has 19 branches across Pittsburgh, and nearly every one offers regular free programming for kids. Story times for toddlers, STEM clubs for middle schoolers, summer reading challenges — the library is one of Pittsburgh's best-kept family secrets. The main Oakland branch is particularly impressive, with a dedicated children's floor and regular events. No library card required for most drop-in programs.

2. Schenley Park

Schenley Park is 456 acres of urban green space in the heart of Pittsburgh, minutes from Oakland and Squirrel Hill. In summer, the outdoor pool offers free splash pad access for young children. Year-round, families enjoy the hiking trails, the ice skating rink (fee for skating, free to watch), and the Schenley Park Café. The park connects directly to Phipps Conservatory — worth a visit on free community days.

3. Children's Museum of Pittsburgh — Free Community Days

The Children's Museum on the North Side offers periodic free community admission days. Check their schedule in advance — spots fill up. The museum features hands-on exhibits including a maker space, water play, and rotating art installations. Even on paid days, it's one of the best values in the city for young children.

4. The Waterfront at Point State Park

Point State Park at the tip of the Golden Triangle is a Pittsburgh landmark, and it's completely free. Kids love the famous fountain at the confluence of the rivers, the open lawn for running around, and the occasional free concerts and events the city hosts there. In warmer months, the fountain's spray is a cooling bonus for little ones.

5. Neighborhood Playgrounds & Spray Parks

Pittsburgh's parks department operates spray parks in several neighborhoods that are free and open in summer — Ormsby Park on the South Side, Arsenal Park in Lawrenceville, and Riverview Park on the North Side are favorites. These are low-key, genuinely fun alternatives to paid water parks, especially for kids under 8.

Tips for Finding Free Events

We update our free events listing daily with no-cost programs pulled from venues across the Pittsburgh area. Bookmark it and check back each week — you'll consistently find story times, outdoor programs, museum free days, and community festivals that don't cost anything to attend.

Pittsburgh rewards the families who look for free fun. There's more of it here than almost anywhere else.