The main-stage of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Heinz Hall was built as an ornate movie theater in the late 1920s. It was only in 1971 that it was rechristened to its present name after a major renovation. Acoustically rich and adorned with elegant fittings, this grand venue also hosts comedy shows and other live performances. Besides the symphony orchestra's concerts, well-known artists such as Steely Dan, Amy Schumer and Jason Mraz have performed here in the past.
Located approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Pittsburgh, in O'Hara Township, the Bayernhof Music Museum features many popular as well as rare musical instruments from the 19th and 20th Centuries. Apart from this, it also displays various ephemera and artifacts related to music. The museum is housed within an old German mansion that overlooks the Allegheny River. Open all week, the Bayernhof Museum makes for an interesting visit.
Located just about 3 miles (4.9 kilometers) from Downtown Pittsburgh, Mount Washington is primarily an imposing hill overlooking the river valley. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its bridges. Home to many thriving businesses and popular restaurants, Mount Washington is often ranked amongst the most scenic places in the United States.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History rivals similar institutions in larger cities like New York and London. The museum makes for a great day out with the kids, and the surrounding area also offers many attractions. Exhibits have included displays on the Amazon rainforest, ancient Egypt, African and North American wildlife and the perennial favorite for kids as well as adults, dinosaurs.
Towering at the center of the University of Pittsburgh is the 42-story high Late Gothic Revival Cathedral known as the Cathedral of Learning. A modern-day Pittsburgh landmark, this architectural wonder was built in 1934 and is the second tallest university building in the world. One of the most photographed landmarks of the city, the tower is also renowned for housing the Nationality Rooms. The rooms portray various cultures from the world that have influenced the growth of the city.
Industrialist Andrew Carnegie left many gifts for the residents of Pittsburgh. One of those is the Carnegie Museum of Art. Built between 1891 and 1895, the Renaissance-style building houses the city's largest collection of art. Carnegie was determined to mix old masterpieces with contemporary work, or what he once deemed "the old masters of tomorrow". Classes and tours are available, as are special programs for children. Admission includes the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.
In 1882, industrialist Henry Clay Frick and his wife, Adelaide, moved into their new home in Point Breeze. Dubbed Clayton, the home was of the Italianate style that became popular following the Civil War. Following the death of Frick's daughter in 1984, the home became part of the family's foundation and was opened to the public. It is a wonderful example of life in the Victorian age. Reservations are required for tours. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $6 for students.
Calliope House is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1976 to promote folk music and folk art. The Folk Masters Concert Hall Series is held at Carnegie Lecture Hall and features some of the biggest names in folk music. Many classes are offered for guitar, banjo, harmonica, bagpipe and songwriting. In addition to music, Calliope House offers instruction on a variety of dance media, including country line dancing and belly dancing.
The Duquesne University Tamburitzans offer a look at Eastern European customs. The troupe, comprised of Duquesne University students, dresses in authentic folk costumes and plays traditional instruments during performances held throughout the area and the country. The music and dance performances are unique and a delight for audiences. The university also houses a library that offers folklore and artifacts from Eastern Europe.
One of the most recognizable sights in Pittsburgh's Downtown skyline is the Frick Building. Its construction set off a corporate building rush in the area, but the imposing structure has maintained its architectural dominance over time. Commissioned by Henry Frick, the coke-fuel and steel magnate, it remains to this day a cornerstone of Pittsburgh's bustling business sector. The impressive two story lobby is decorated in the Beaux Arts Classical style, filled with white marble, gold plating, and lofty stairways.
MCG Jazz is an organisation entirely dedicated to Jazz music and all its endeavors are directed towards preserving and promoting Jazz. MCG Jazz Hall built in 1987 is a part of this musical movement. Internationally acclaimed jazz artists like Joe Williams, Billy Taylor and Dizzy Gillespie have graced the stage of this hall. Each concert hosted here is an unique experience for the patrons. For further details and concert schedule, please check the website or call ahead.
A community hub for technology and arts, Assemble is aptly named. A platform for all those curious-minded, craftspeople, artists and technologists, its interactive programs are educative and fun for all ages. Workshops, art exhibitions and educational activities involving art, math, science, engineering and technology make it an interesting place to visit.