Kids/Family trip to Pittsburgh around the Thanksgiving Holiday time period
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Kids/Family trip to Pittsburgh around the Thanksgiving Holiday time period
Hello experts!
We have some friends visiting from England for a couple weeks over the Thanksgiving Holiday and are looking at a possible 2-3 day trip to the Pittsburgh area. We'll be traveling with two young girls, ages 4 & 2, so they need to be child friendly & entertaining for the children.
I've heard positive things about the Zoo & Aquarium - but there's got to be more! I know there is a Children's Museum -- but is that interesting for children that age? Are there any riverboats that travel that time of year (or would that be simply too cold?) Any other ideas?
I'm sure there are many holiday light display/attractions and other holiday activities, but not being from the area I'm not sure what's a good choice!
Oh -- if you know of any good, children friendly restaurants as well, I'd love some input on that too.
Any advice and ideas will be GREATLY appreciated!
Thank you!
We have some friends visiting from England for a couple weeks over the Thanksgiving Holiday and are looking at a possible 2-3 day trip to the Pittsburgh area. We'll be traveling with two young girls, ages 4 & 2, so they need to be child friendly & entertaining for the children.
I've heard positive things about the Zoo & Aquarium - but there's got to be more! I know there is a Children's Museum -- but is that interesting for children that age? Are there any riverboats that travel that time of year (or would that be simply too cold?) Any other ideas?
I'm sure there are many holiday light display/attractions and other holiday activities, but not being from the area I'm not sure what's a good choice!
Oh -- if you know of any good, children friendly restaurants as well, I'd love some input on that too.
Any advice and ideas will be GREATLY appreciated!
Thank you!
#2
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,822
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I was in Pittsburgh a few years ago between Christmas and New Years--with a group that included a two year old and a four year old. They really loved the Duquesne Incline, the interactive areas of the Heinz History Museum, and, believe it or not, especially the Cathedral of Learning with its Christmas rooms. There's a trip report here: http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...sy-journey.cfm
#3
Join Date: Jan 2005
Posts: 335
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Light up night this year will be November 22. The friday before Thanksgiving. It is a very family friendly event with lots of live music, a parade, ice-skating, santa etc... The schedule has not been announced, but last years line up is here:
http://pittsburgh.about.com/cs/downt...t_up_night.htm
Keep an eye on this website, it will be updated as details are finalized:
http://www.downtownpittsburgh.com/events/2013/11
The Gateway Clipper Fleet runs year round. There is Thanksgiving dinner cruises and a Santa Cruise:
http://www.gatewayclipper.com/res/se...29&Submit.y=14
I love the zoo, and if it is a nice day November is a great time to go. If it is a rainy day, the National Aviary is a good way to spend a few hours. Little kids seem to love it.
The Carnegie Science center is also fun, and there are activities that are geared towards the kids.
Both the Aviary and the Science center are on the Northside, so not a good idea if there is a Steeler game. Even with their current record, it will still be crazy.
http://pittsburgh.about.com/cs/downt...t_up_night.htm
Keep an eye on this website, it will be updated as details are finalized:
http://www.downtownpittsburgh.com/events/2013/11
The Gateway Clipper Fleet runs year round. There is Thanksgiving dinner cruises and a Santa Cruise:
http://www.gatewayclipper.com/res/se...29&Submit.y=14
I love the zoo, and if it is a nice day November is a great time to go. If it is a rainy day, the National Aviary is a good way to spend a few hours. Little kids seem to love it.
The Carnegie Science center is also fun, and there are activities that are geared towards the kids.
Both the Aviary and the Science center are on the Northside, so not a good idea if there is a Steeler game. Even with their current record, it will still be crazy.
#4
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 4,039
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
We've been to Pittsburgh twice for Thanksgiving, visiting our student at Pitt. I agree that the Christmas-decorated rooms at the Cathedral of Learning are great to visit for both adults and children. (Be sure to show the kids the Grimm fairy tale stained glass windows in the Germany room.)
Another exhibit that both kids and adults would enjoy is the Gingerbread House Display at PPG Place.
http://www.ppgplace.com/events/ginge...y-competition/
Another exhibit that both kids and adults would enjoy is the Gingerbread House Display at PPG Place.
http://www.ppgplace.com/events/ginge...y-competition/
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2003
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Thank you all for your responses! They have been wonderfully helpful! We're nailing down the final details of the trip and have most certainly included your recommendations. I always go to my fellow travel experts like yourselves and I truly appreciate your comments, and the time you gave to note them!
Thank you again!
Thank you again!
#6
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 10,266
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Check this site for info on the Christmas Markets and more:
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/essen...vals/holidays/
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/essen...vals/holidays/
Thread
Original Poster
Forum
Replies
Last Post
JillDavis
United States
10
Dec 16th, 2016 08:26 AM
Michelle_Berglund
United States
29
Nov 20th, 2011 05:49 PM
milliebest
United States
11
Nov 5th, 2009 06:35 PM
kerikeri
United States
49
Nov 11th, 2004 11:28 AM