Carnegie Museum of Natural History Tours

Carnegie Museum of Natural History which includes interior views and views
Carnegie Museum of Natural History featuring heritage elements and interior views
Carnegie Museum of Natural History featuring interior views
Carnegie Museum of Natural History showing interior views as well as an individual male
Carnegie Museum of Natural History which includes interior views as well as an individual child


From rare jaguars to geological marvels and ancient fossils, you’ll find it all at this Pittsburgh institution, one of the country’s largest natural history museums.

Examine the world’s most complete skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex, journey 16,000 feet (4.8 kilometers) below the Earth or wander among a hall of dazzling gems at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Founded in 1896, the museum houses over 22 million specimens, with around 10,000 of these on display at any one time. These are separated into 20 different galleries, which showcase everything from the wildlife of the African, American and Arctic continents, to the geological wonders of the Earth.A highlight for many is the Dinosaurs in Their Time exhibit. This is one of the most comprehensive collections of dinosaurs in the world, with fossils and a number of ancient skeletons on display. The bones of these skeletons are real, a fact which makes the near-complete skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus rex all the more impressive. Children will love the chance to join in a hands-on dig for dinosaur bones. Also unique is the Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians. The museum is the only one of its kind to focus on the indigenous American’s relationship with the natural world. Find a full-sized buffalo and a number of audio and visual programs among the highlights, as well as nearly a thousand tools and artifacts. Take a walk around the glistening stones on display in the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems. There are 1,300 precious stones from all over the world, with a special section dedicated to the use of minerals in art. Explore other wonders of the earth in the Benedum Hall of Geology, which closely examines the make-up of the earth around and below Pittsburgh. The Natural History Museum is part of the Carnegie Museum complex, which includes the Carnegie Museum of Art. The admission fee will gain you entry to both. The Natural History Museum is located in Oakland in the East End of Pittsburgh and opens daily, except for some national holidays. The museum complex has a large user-pay parking facility, located directly behind the museum on Forbes Avenue and South Craig Street. Bus services from downtown also stop nearby.

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Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown
Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty by IHG
Placemakr Downtown Pittsburgh at The Pennsylvanian

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Best Lodging Options Near Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center

Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center

3.5 out of 5
100 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh University Center
Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh University Place

Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh University Place

3 out of 5
3454 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh University Place
The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection

4.5 out of 5
5130 Bigelow Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA
The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection
Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown

Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown

3.5 out of 5
600 Commonwealth Pl, Pittsburgh, PA
Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown
Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place

Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place

3 out of 5
3341 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA
Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place
Mansions on Fifth Hotel

Mansions on Fifth Hotel

4 out of 5
5105 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA
Mansions on Fifth Hotel
Hyatt House Pittsburgh/Bloomfield/Shadyside

Hyatt House Pittsburgh/Bloomfield/Shadyside

3 out of 5
5335 Baum Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA
Hyatt House Pittsburgh/Bloomfield/Shadyside
Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh University-Oakland by IHG

Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh University-Oakland by IHG

3.5 out of 5
329 Technology Drive, Pittsburgh, PA
Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh University-Oakland by IHG
Hampton Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center

Hampton Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center

2.5 out of 5
3315 Hamlet Street, Pittsburgh, PA
Hampton Inn Pittsburgh University/Medical Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Carnegie Museum of Natural History

At the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, visitors can explore fascinating exhibits, particularly those featuring dinosaurs, making it one of the top natural history museums. Nearby attractions include the Pittsburgh Zoo and various history museums, providing a rich cultural experience. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy local sports events and theater performances, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the area.

Food and drinks

After exploring the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, indulge in local flavors at Stardust Cafe or Café Navarre. For a unique experience, visit Penn Brewery or Wigle Whiskey Distillery, both offering a taste of Pittsburgh's vibrant food and drink scene just a couple of miles away.

Shopping

For shopping near the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, visit Station Square, just 3 miles away, and The Waterfront, also 3 miles away, both offering family-friendly entertainment. Additionally, Bicycle Heaven, a unique store, is located 4 miles from the museum.

Recreation

Experience the thrill at Acrisure Stadium with its vibrant sports atmosphere, located 3 miles away. For a serene escape, visit Schenley Park, just 0.7 miles away, perfect for relaxation and mindfulness. If you're in the mood for outdoor fun, Topgolf, situated 11 miles away, offers a dynamic golfing experience.

Adventure

Explore the Three Rivers Heritage Trail for an invigorating hike surrounded by beautiful scenery, located 4 miles from the museum. For winter thrills, head to Boyce Park Ski Area, 11 miles away, for skiing excitement. Alternatively, enjoy water sports at SurfSUP Adventures, 16 miles from the museum.

Nightlife

In Pittsburgh, Rivers Casino offers a vibrant atmosphere with gaming and romance just 4 miles from the museum. The Byham Theater, located 3 miles away, showcases cultural performances perfect for families. For adventure seekers, The ScareHouse, also 4 miles away, promises thrilling experiences in an arcade setting.

Find the best attractions near Carnegie Museum of Natural History

When visiting the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, you can explore various points of interest such as local colleges, entertainment arenas, and urban parks, perfect for culture lovers and families. Don't miss nearby attractions like other Carnegie museums, Carnegie Hall, and the natural history hotels. With plenty of hotels near the museum, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable trip.

  • University of Pittsburgh: Located just 0.6 miles from the Carnegie Museum, this modern university boasts stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant city vibes. Explore its beautiful campus and immerse yourself in a lively academic atmosphere.
  • PPG Paints Arena: Situated 2 miles away, this entertainment hub hosts exciting sports events and concerts, perfect for family outings. Experience thrilling live performances in a dynamic environment that brings the community together.
  • PNC Park: A 3-mile stroll will take you to this scenic urban park, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Pittsburgh skyline. Enjoy outdoor activities with family or catch a Pirates game in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Best time to go to Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The best time to visit Carnegie Museum of Natural History can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Carnegie Museum of Natural History falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Carnegie Museum of Natural History falls in January, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January28.6°F (-1.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly Low
February31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
April51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
May61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High
June69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
November42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Carnegie Museum of Natural History

To save money during your visit to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, plan your trip between December and February, when hotel prices are lower. Take advantage of nearby free attractions like the University of Pittsburgh and PNC Park. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations, and consider combining your hotel with flights for better deals. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Don’t forget to explore local offers and reviews to find great rates on hotels in Pittsburgh.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Carnegie Museum of Natural History are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Carnegie Museum of Natural History with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.