October in Pittsburgh means leafy walks, long nights and crisp temperatures. If you’re looking to get out and enjoy every minute of Fall, check out my recommendations for the best things to do in Pittsburgh in October. Need to find a pumpkin patch or Fall festival? Visit Play Pittsburgh’s Halloween Hub!
1. FREE Admission at the National Aviary
Discover more than 150 amazing bird species from around the world under one roof on Pittsburgh’s Northside. Free admission courtesy of Pittsburgh’s RADical Days. See more pictures from our trip to the National Aviary or read more about RADical Days. (October 4th, more info)
Two Touch-A-Truck events in October! Visit the Pine Community Center beginning at 1:00 p.m. See, touch, interact, and learn about a variety of vehicles including: a fire truck, police car, tractor, dump truck, ambulance and more! (October 4th, more info) AND don’t miss the annual Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Department Touch-A-Truck with over 30 vehicles! There will also be face painting, bouncy houses, crafts, games and more! (October 4th, more info)
3. FREE Admission at the Science Center
Enjoy FREE Admission to Carnegie Science Center! Visit the Carnegie Science Center’s newest exhibit, BLUE! and build with enormous blocks. Free admission to all exhibits, planetarium, and live shows on RAD Day! Please note, Omnimax films not included. (October 5th, more info)
4. FREE Admission at the Carnegie Museum of Art & Natural History
Enjoy hands-on activities for kids and grown-ups, and see some of the most exciting collections of art and science anywhere on Earth… FREE! (October 11th, more info)
5. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh NEW Exhibit: Bounce!
The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh opens a new exhibit inspired by the high-flying children’s toy… the bouncy ball! Multiple interactive exhibits that kids will love! Also, be sure to check out the new “Tough Art” exhibit. (October 11th, more info)
6. Bloomfield Columbus Day Parade
Celebrate Columbus Day weekend with Bloomfield’s annual Columbus Day parade on Liberty Avenue. The parade begins at 11 am. Great FREE family activity. (October 11th, more info)
Kids of all ages can enjoy their day at Hay Day! Activities include hay rides, pumpkin painting, petting zoos, crafts, special performances and more! Tons of FREE activities! (October 18th, more info)
Bring the children to see a family friendly presentation by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Come early and enjoy crafts, sing-a-longs and meet-and-greets with members of the orchestra. We had such an amazing time during our last visit! (October 18th, more info)
9. Trunk-or-Treat at Mt. Nebo Pointe
Bring your kids, park your car at Mt. Nebo Pointe, decorate your trunk Halloween-style, and stroll from trunk to trunk collecting candy and prizes– it’s Trunk or Treat! Cotton candy, video games, live DJ, craft tent, petting zoo, food, cider, coffee and more! (October 25th, more info)
10. Happy Halloween!
Wether you’re trick-or-treating around your neighborhood on October 31st, or living it up at a costume party in the city, there are tons of family friendly events happening throughout Pittsburgh in the month of October. I couldn’t pick just one so you’ll have to check out the entire list here!
Play Pittsburgh’s Calendar
There’s so much going on in October! Find events easier by using Play Pittsburgh’s “search” on the event calendar.
- Location: Type in any zip code or city name to find events happening near you. If you view as “map,” a convenient map will not only display interactive pins, but also list only the events you’re searching for.
- Date: Looking for something fill time on a particular day? No problem! You can search and view events by each week or even daily.
- Keyword Search: Search terms such as “Free” / “Outside” / “Festivals” / “Museums” / etc.
>>> View the entire October event calendar HERE <<<
…and don’t forget to check back regularly as new events are added frequently! Have fun and safe travels.