Science Lessons in Pittsburgh, PA

In this program, scientists will learn how to explore microbial fuel cells—living batteries powered by bacteria. Participants will develop skills in technical design, electrical measurement, soldering, and more. After mastering the basics, they'll build their own devices using these innovative living batteries Participants will receive a stipend at the conclusion of the program!

Explore vacant land as both a scientist and designer. This after-school program dives into why places like the Hill District have so many empty lots, connecting the dots between history, redlining, and environmental justice. You’ll walk the vacant lots near the new Citizen Science Lab, assessing them hands-on and collecting soil samples. Through microbial DNA sequencing , you’ll uncover what a lot has been through, what used to grow there, how healthy it is now, even signs of past pollution. Think of it as being a soil detective, using real science to guide what a space could become next. From there, you’ll team up to imagine the future, whether that’s a garden, trails, an outdoor classroom, a solar-powered art park, or something entirely new. Working alongside local designers, community members, and green professionals, you’ll brainstorm, plan, and help install an actual public green space. This is your chance to reclaim space, shape your neighborhood, and explore your future. Scientists will receive a stipend for their participation!

Designed for curious young minds, this program offers exciting, hands-on science activities that encourage exploration and discovery. With experiments and challenges made just for kids aged 7–12, our Weekend Workshops will dive deep into the world of science in a fun, interactive way - building confidence, creativity, and a love for learning.

Come out for a day of hands-on science, music, food, and family fun at the DreamFest Block Party on Saturday, September 12 in the heart of the Hill District. This free outdoor celebration brings the entire community together to explore, learn, and have fun. Whether you're a science lover, music fan, foodie, or just looking for a good time, there’s something for everyone. From youth STEM activities to live DJs and local vendors, the block party is where innovation meets joy. Admission is free and open to all. Event runs from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Bring your friends, bring your family, and come ready to dream big!🚀✨

Perfect for your young scientist, this program introduces fun, hands-on activities that make science easy and exciting to understand. Tailored just for kids, Mini Lab sparks curiosity while helping them discover the wonders of science in an engaging, playful environment.

Step into the captivating realm of illusions, where reality is never exactly as it appears. Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions. We offer over 50 immersive, hands-on exhibits to explore. Our illusion rooms, installations and holograms let you defy gravity, grow and shrink your body, walk into a life-size kaleidoscope, and play tricks on your senses at every turn. It’s a mind-bending journey that deceives the senses and reveals how the brain interprets reality.