Free admissions into Senator John Heinz History Center and Fort Pitt Museum

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

February 28, 2025

A view of the History Center from the Strip Strict. The History Center, along with the Fort Pitt Museum is offering free admission to children 17 and under through March 31. Nakrakosky at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

For families looking to engage their children in the fascinating stories of history and culture, the Senator John Heinz History Center and the Fort Pitt Museum have exciting news!

Through March 31, children ages 17 and under can enjoy free admission, providing a rich opportunity for exploration and learning without the worry of entry fees.

Both venues are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it easy for families to plan a visit that fits within their schedules.

With plenty of hours to explore, visitors can take their time navigating through the engaging exhibits and interactive educational experiences that these locations offer.

The Senator John Heinz History Center is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum, boasting six floors filled with award-winning exhibitions that tell the story of the region’s past.

Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive learning spaces that encourage curiosity and understanding of history.

From the Industrial Revolution to contemporary culture, the center showcases a diverse range of exhibits that cater to all ages.

Families can engage with hands-on activities, enjoy educational programs, and discover the rich heritage of Western Pennsylvania.

A short distance away, the Fort Pitt Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of American Indian tribes who once called Western Pennsylvania home, alongside the colonial and military history that formed the region.

The museum offers insightful displays and programs that bring to life the significant historical narratives of the area.

Families can explore artifacts, learn about the indigenous cultures, and delve into the pivotal events that shaped the region’s history, all while enriching their understanding of American heritage.

This free admission initiative is an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together, sparking discussions about history and culture while accessing resources that may not be readily available elsewhere.

Parents can take advantage of this chance to inspire their children’s love for learning and cultivate an appreciation for the historical significance of their surroundings.

Whether it’s someone’s first visit or a return trip, the Senator John Heinz History Center and Fort Pitt Museum offer enriching experiences that are both educational and enjoyable.

Don’t miss this opportunity, admission is free for those 17 and under until March 31. Make plans today to ensure a memorable day that celebrates history in an engaging and accessible way.

About the Contributor

Patrick Romito, Staff Writer

And that’s another Bethel Park Black Hawks win for the boys soccer team. Whether Patrick is on the soccer field or behind the keyboard, he’s always aiming to make an impact—one play and one story at a time. This year, Patrick Romito, an 11th grader, joins Scholastic Publications for the first time. When asked why he decided to sign up, Patrick said, “I took the class to get more involved in school activities.” With a clear passion for making the most of his high school experience, Patrick is eager to contribute to the class by writing articles for the Hawk Eye newspaper. He’s ready to take on whatever stories come his way, whether spotlight features, sports, or school news. Patrick is not just a writer; he’s also an accomplished athlete. With 12 years of soccer experience under his belt and as a three-year DECA member, he balances both extracurriculars and academics with ease. As someone who enjoys variety, he’s equally open to different kinds of stories, saying, “I enjoy writing in general, so whether it’s spotlights, sports, or school news-related content, it doesn’t matter to me.” Looking ahead, Patrick’s plans after high school include studying marketing and advertising, although he’s still deciding on a specific college. In the meantime, his favorite class is Law & You with Mr. Vic. He appreciates how the course prepares him for life after high school, and he enjoys Mr. Vic’s real-life stories that make each lesson engaging. Reflecting on his time in high school, Patrick recalls the excitement of attending football games as a freshman, where he formed friendships that have lasted throughout his high school years. “I really enjoyed going to the football games freshman year because I ended up making a lot of friends there, a lot of which I’m still friends with today,” he said. Outside of school, Patrick has worked as a lifeguard at Highpoint Fitness for almost two years, a job that highlights his dedication and work ethic. When he’s not working or playing soccer, he enjoys comedy movies, with Step Brothers being his top pick. And what’s his dream vacation? Patrick hopes to one day visit Italy. “My dream vacation is Italy because first, it is very beautiful there, as well as my family roots going back to there,” he shared. In just three words, Patrick describes himself as calm, caring, and hardworking — qualities that are sure to serve him well both in and out of the classroom. Keep an eye out for Patrick’s contributions to Hawk Eye this year as he dives into the world of scholastic publications! Written by: Grace Ferency, Staff Writer