The Andy Warhol Museum, which opened its doors in 1994, boasts the most extensive collection of work by Andy Warhol in the country, making it the premier single-artist museum in the United States.
Prepare to be amazed as you delve into the life and legacy of Andy Warhol, the city’s most famous artist, and an American pop-art pioneer.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to witness his artistic journey unfold, from his early years to his profound impact on modern art.
Through captivating exhibits, you’ll discover the personal aspects of his life, including his family, classmates, and the experiences that shaped his artistic vision.
It’s a truly extraordinary experience that will engage and inspire visitors of all ages. Let’s dive in and discover the captivating world of Andy Warhol!
What to expect
I can assure you that this museum is a must-visit destination for families seeking a fun and educational experience in Pittsburgh.
Housed in a beautifully restored warehouse, The Andy Warhol Museum showcases an extensive collection of Warhol’s art, including:
- Drawings
- Paintings
- Prints
- And multimedia installations
With four floors dedicated to his iconic works, you’ll be immersed in the artistic genius of this pop art pioneer.
But this museum isn’t just about admiring the artwork from a distance. It’s a place where you can actively engage and participate.
One of the highlights of our visit was a room filled with silver pillow-like balloons floating in the air.
To my surprise, we were invited to interact with the exhibit by gently slapping the clouds away. It felt like stepping into a playful wonderland for both kids and adults alike.
For Families
The museum offers an array of exciting projects and workshops that cater to all ages.
Kids will love exploring the activities on the bottom floor, specifically designed to capture their imagination and creativity.
From hands-on art projects to interactive displays, there’s never a dull moment at The Andy Warhol Museum.
One of the standout features of the basement floor is the opportunity for visitors to try their hand at screen printing and create their own Warhol-style works.
This is a chance to unleash your inner artist and leave with a personalized masterpiece inspired by Warhol’s iconic techniques.
This hands-on experience is both educational and entertaining, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the artistic process.
From interactive exhibits to workshops and the chance to create your own art, this museum offers something for everyone. Bring your family along, and get ready to be inspired by the vibrant world of Andy Warhol.
What’s to See and Do
One of the standout features of this museum is its chronological layout, allowing visitors to explore Warhol’s creations in the context of his life’s events.
From the seventh floor, where his journey begins, to the second floor, where contemporary artists influenced by his work are showcased, there’s an abundance of captivating exhibits and activities awaiting you.
Let’s dive in and discover the exciting highlights of this remarkable museum:
The Factory
This vibrant space offers an immersive experience where people of all ages can unleash their creativity and dive into the world of Warhol’s art.
Located in the museum’s basement, The Factory is a large art room that beckons visitors to explore and create.
It’s the perfect place for families to engage in hands-on activities inspired by Warhol’s techniques. Best of all, admission to The Factory is free!
Once you step into The Factory, you’ll find various stations that invite you to experiment with different art forms.
Let your imagination soar as you delve into the fascinating world of acetate collage, celebrity composites, and blotted line drawings. You can even try your hand at creating a silkscreen print, and the best part is, it won’t cost you a dime!
If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation, the basement also houses a kid’s lounge area equipped with children’s picture books.
This cozy spot provides a wonderful opportunity for one parent to keep an eye on the little ones while the other parent explores the galleries.
Silver Clouds
The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh has a delightful exhibit called Silver Clouds on the 5th floor that children will absolutely love!
Imagine walking into a room filled with silver balloon-like structures floating in the air, gracefully moving with the currents.
These whimsical creations were made by none other than Andy Warhol himself. These silver clouds are filled with helium and have a mesmerizing effect on anyone who encounters them.
What’s even more fascinating is the backstory behind these silver clouds. Not only were they a part of Warhol’s artistic vision, but they were also used as stage décor for a dance by the renowned choreographer Merce Cunningham.
When I visited the museum, I was utterly captivated by the Silver Clouds installation. It exceeded my expectations in every way.
As I entered the room, I was greeted by a sea of silver pillow-like balloons, seemingly suspended mid-air. But what surprised me the most was the invitation to interact with the exhibit.
Yes, you read that right! You can actually play with these silver clouds. You can gently slap them away, watch them dance, and even try to catch them.
It’s an interactive experience that sparks joy and wonder in both children and adults alike. I couldn’t help but release my inner child as I giggled and swatted at the floating clouds.
Second Floor
When we were there, the second floor appealed to film buffs with its film magazines, movie posters, memorabilia, and Warhol’s portraits of:
- Marilyn Monroe
- Judy Garland
- Liza Minnelli
- Elizabeth Taylor
- And others
Good to know before you go
- Visit the sixth floor cautiously as it is the most inappropriate floor for kids with a risque film.
- To make the most of your visit, arriving early is highly recommended.
Hours & When to go
The Andy Warhol Museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10am to 5pm.
It is closed on Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Easter Day, and New Year’s Day
Admission & Tickets
Admission to The Andy Warhol Museum is $25 for adults, $13 for children aged 3-18 and seniors, and free for children under 3.
You can buy the tickets online or over the counter.
Getting There & Parking
The Andy Warhol Museum is located at 117 Sandusky Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is on the North Shore of the city, near the Allegheny River.
You can park at the Warhol Museum Lot, located directly across the street from the museum.
Another parking option includes the East General Robinson Street Garage, located a few blocks from the museum.
