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5 of Our Favorite Things To Do on the Northside of Pittsburgh

Family Fun with Kids

By Lisa Williams - Publisher of Macaroni Kid Pittsburgh City April 28, 2024

When you think of the Northside do you think of going to a Steelers or Pirates game?  We LOVE cheering on our teams but did you know there is so much more to the Northside of Pittsburgh?! We cannot wait to share with you a few of our favorite places to visit from art to parks to snacks. Pick a favorite or two and spend a day exploring the beautiful Northside.  Don't forget to tag us in your pics! #pghmackid




1. RandyLand

    1501 Arch Street

     Pittsburgh, PA 15212

     Open daily from noon until dark

One of our favorite hidden gems on the Northside is RandyLand.  This beautifully colored space on a random corner in the middle of the Mexican War Streets is the home of Randy Gilson.  Randy has upcycled many things that other people have considered to be trash and turned them in an Instagram worthy space that has brought people from all over the country to see.  It can be little tricky at times to find parking, but parking and entrance is free (donations are gladly accepted). If you are lucky enough, you can even catch a selfie with Randy! facebook.com/randylandpgh





2. Allegheny Commons Park

    810 Arch Street

    Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Allegheny Commons Park is the perfect place to go for a shady picnic.  The park includes a small playground and a few swings.  If you enjoy tennis, there are several tennis courts available too.  We share all the fun events happening at Allegheny Commons Park on the MacKID Event Calendar, so check to see if your visit coincides with story time in the park or open mic night. Check out our next favorite thing to visit in Pittsburgh's Northside below, also located in Allegheny Commons Park! pittsburghparks.org





3. Gus and YiaYia's

     Allegheny Commons Park

     11:30 am - 6 pm

Gus and YiaYia's has been a Northside tradition since 1934.  Stop for a delicious ice ball to cool off or some peanuts or delicious popcorn.  Look for the orange cart near the Tennis courts! facebook.com/groups/2063929433859153




4. The Water Steps 

    North Shore Dr.

     Pittsburgh Pa 15212

The Water Steps are the perfect place for the family to cool off on a hot day.  The steps offer a picture-perfect view of the city while allowing the kids to play and splash down the "steps."  There is metered parking nearby and there are not any bathrooms close, but it is definitely worth planning at least one trip down to experience the view.

***Water status for 2024 is not yet updated***




5. The Andy Warhol Museum

     117 Sandusky St

     Pittsburgh, PA 15212

     10am - 5pm (Closed on Tuesday, and open until 10pm on Friday)

     412-237-8303

The Warhol Museum is 7 floors of art galleries and the largest museum dedicated to a single artist.  Each floor consisted of something interactive and fun.  In addition to the museum, make sure to check out what seasonal exhibition is happening out on the Warhol Green Space! warhol.org


What is your favorite thing to do with kids in Pittsburgh's Northside? We'd love to hear about it! Follow us on social media where we'll give you the inside scoop on all things family fun in the Northside!






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