keep kids busy in Pittsburgh

6 ways to keep kids busy in Pittsburgh this weekend, from snow tubing and skating to sweet storytelling

Photo above by Rose Colored Creative.

On cold winter days, what’s the best way to keep kids busy in Pittsburgh? This weekend you have some help from an artistic abuela, enormous rabbits, Peter Pan and more. Check out these fun events:

Saturday, Jan. 22: Story Saturdays: ‘Abuela’s Weave’ at Carnegie Museum of Art
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Take a seat in CMOA’s galleries to enjoy a reading of Omar S. Castaneda’s book, “Abuela’s Weave.” Hear a story of family tradition and hope that follows Esperanza, a young girl who works at the loom with her grandmother, a skilled weaver of traditional Mayan tapestries. Afterward, children 12 and under will participate in a maker activity. Register for free.
 

keep kids busy in Pittsburgh
Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

Saturday, Jan. 22 and Sunday, Jan. 23: Intrude, Downtown
open 4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m., weather permitting
The enormous inflated Intrude bunnies are still delighting families Downtown for a few more days. Make a free visit to this remarkable art installation before it’s gone. Intrude can be found in the Trust Oasis at 133 7th Street and the 8th Street parking lot at 149 8th Street. (Please note: Intrude can’t be inflated when there is heavy rain or high winds.)

Sunday, Jan. 23: Sensory-Friendly Hour at Phipps Conservatory, Oakland
8:30 a.m. start time
(we’re told the 8:15 a.m. start time is already sold out)
Together with the Autism Connection of Pennsylvania and Let’s Move Pittsburgh, Phipps is hosting a special event walk through the Conservatory for those with sensory concerns and their families. Lights and sounds will be minimized. $2 per person, registration required (click here to register). 

keep kids busy in Pittsburgh
Enjoy a peaceful sensory-friendly hour at Phipps this weekend.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Snow Tubing at Boyce Park
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Inner tube season is here! The Boyce Park Snow Tubing Area is now open for the season, along with the lodge, concessions, restrooms and equipment rental. Buy tickets here.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Winter Ice Rink at SouthSide Works
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
It’s definitely cold enough for outdoor skating, and the city’s newest ice rink is now open. You’ll find skate rentals, special discounts and giveaways, community days and more at SouthSide Works. The rink is located at the North Lot on South Water Street, next to Hyatt House. Buy tickets here.

Sunday, Jan. 23: Botanical Ballet Virtual Dance Class: ‘Peter Pan’
12-1 p.m.
Children ages 3 to 7 and their favorite grownup dance partners are invited to get exercise and have fun during this virtual class inspired by the timeless story of “Peter Pan.” Join Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Phipps and Let’s Move Pittsburgh to dance your way to Neverland, learn ballet basics, see stunning orchids and learn dance steps inspired by Peter Pan’s adventures. Buy tickets.

Looking for more ways to keep kids busy in Pittsburgh? Check out our winter entertainment guide and our full guide to January happenings for kids (and moms)