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.
Home to Major League Baseball's Pittsburgh Pirates, this ballpark, with its seating capacity of more then 38,000, has been entertaining thousands upon thousands of fans since 2001. It is considered one of the best facilities in the country. Once you are here, take the time to check out the imposing arches and brick exterior. Parking is ample around the ballpark.
As you walk into the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, you feel like you've been transported to another world. The lush tree cover and plants create a pleasant and calm atmosphere. The park offers a wide variety of educational programs teaching various methods to preserve the environment. It also offers grants to students wanting to pursue their studies in botany and other related fields. Moreover, the Center for Sustainable Landscapes which is found within the conservatory is environmentally sustainable, earning four stars from the Sustainable SITES Initiative.
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.
Located in the historic side of Pittsburgh, this aviary has a treasury of beauty in store. Come by to enjoy wildlife in the lovely woods of North Pittsburgh. This place houses more than 600 rare and endangered species of birds. Witness various flight atriums, bird-related exhibits, and demonstrations. Take a break from your TV set and get your children along to do some real bird-watching and learn more about nature and these lovely creatures. Home to more than six hundred birds, the National Aviary is the only one of its kind being given the "national" status.
The Trinity Cathedral is immediately visible from anywhere on Sixth Avenue. Inspired by 14-century English style, Architect Gordon Lloyd of Detroit built this Gothic edifice in 1871. Although the church was partially destroyed by fire in 1969, the interior continues to reflect a Victorian style. In addition to a historic courtyard, the cemetery houses some of the oldest graves in Pittsburgh. Although it may seem slightly out of keeping with the cathedral's past, the building hosts concerts in the spring and fall.
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.