Petersen Events Center

The Petersen Events Center is the place to watch college basketball — the Pitt Panthers rock! — and there’s also a tour of the facility that’s remarkably impressive. If you have older children who may be looking at college, consider a trip to the University of Pittsburgh campus and include a tour of the Petersen and the Baierl Basketball Complex. It will certainly entertain them — and might change their lives.

Contact number: (412) 648-3054

Location: 3719 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261

Learn more here.

Gymkhana Gymnastics

Gymnastics, tumbling, and cheerleading appeal to your children, so get them started right at Gymkhana Gymnastics. There are group classes, free practices, and private instruction for every age and skill level, from toddler to teen. And you can get involved in “Adult Play” hours in the evening. With three different locations — at The Factory, in Monroeville, and in Bethel Park — there’s a Gymkhana close enough to you to make a difference to the tumblers in the family.

Contact number: (412) 247-4800

Location: 7501 Penn Avenue, Point Breeze, Pittsburgh, PA 15208

Learn more here.

Blade Runners Ice Complex

Get out on the ice in one of three separate locations, all of which feature facilities that are perfect for figure skating or ice hockey. The locations in Harmarville, Bethel Park, and Warrendale all have pro shops; Bethel Park and Harmarville offer skating lessons for less coordinated parents. And Warrendale may have the best attraction of all: Bumper Cars on Ice.

Contact number: (412) 833-8500

Location: 305 Church Road, Bethel Park, PA 15102

Learn more here.

 

Boyce Park Ski Area

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Boyce Park is a wonderful place to visit, but the ski area deserves special attention. It offers a fun and surprisingly inexpensive way to spend an afternoon schussing on the mogols. With nine runs, mostly for beginners, it’s a perfect option when you or your children are just getting started as skiers or when you don’t have much time.

Contact number: (724) 733-4656

Location: 675 Old Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15239

Learn more here.

Riverview Park

Riverview Park, an urban public park nestled between several neighborhoods just north of downtown Pittsburgh, offers an equestrian trail, an extensive network of muli-purpose trails, a swimming pool, ball fields, and picnic shelters.

Contact number: (412) 255-2370

Location: 159 Riverview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15214

Learn more here.

Roberto Clemente Memorial Park

Named after a rather famous and much-loved local baseball player, the Roberto Clemente Memorial Park lies near to the Pittsburgh ballpark and on the northern bank of the Allegheny River. Due to its riverfront setting, many people come here to boat and fish, while the various trails lend themselves to both walking and cycling.

Location: North Shore Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Learn more here.

Hartwood Mansion and Park

How elegant it must have to been to live at the Hartwood Mansion 100 years ago — and today, you and your family members can still get a feel for the old days through its tours, high teas, and a hayride.There’s hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing available. (Be sure to take a look at the quilt in Mr. Lauren’s bedroom.)

Contact number: (412) 767-9200

Location: 200 Hartwood Acres, Pittsburgh, PA 15238

Learn more here.