This week, my family and I visited the Kamin Science Center in Pittsburgh with our teenagers. We hadn’t been back since it changed its name from the Carnegie Science Center, so we assumed the experience would feel familiar. However, we quickly discovered that many exhibits and attractions had been updated since our last visit!
Visiting the Kamin Science Center with teenagers wasn’t exactly what we expected. While some visitors might enjoy the new updates, our family found that the changes didn’t fully engage our teens. If you’re looking for fun things to do with teenagers in Pittsburgh, it’s worth researching your options before planning a visit.
In this post, I’ll share our family experience at the Kamin Science Center, including the exhibits we explored, how our teenagers reacted, and tips for planning your visit.
Ever since I was a kid, I remember the Kamin Science Center as the Carnegie Science Center, and honestly, I still struggle with the new name. But, like PPG Paints Arena and Heinz Field, it takes time to adjust when a familiar Pittsburgh landmark gets a new name. This week, our visit with teenagers reminded me just how much the center has changed over the years—and how different the experience can be depending on the age of your visitors.
Visiting the Kamin Science Center on a Weekday: Parking, Entry, and First Impressions
Since our teenagers are homeschooled, we visited the Kamin Science Center in Pittsburgh on a Monday morning, when most school kids were in class. As a result, the lines inside the center were almost nonexistent, which made for a smooth start to our visit. Almost immediately upon pulling into the Kamin Science Center’s private parking lot, we noticed that parking now costs a flat $6. While this was a change I hadn’t expected, $6 for parking in Pittsburgh is actually quite reasonable, so it wasn’t a big deal.
Once inside, the first thing you notice is the gift shop, which is open to all visitors, followed by the ticket counter where guests can purchase tickets for their visit. While parking was reasonable, we were surprised by the high cost of the museum’s admission prices. Tickets cost more for adults and children over 12, even though much of the museum’s exhibits and activities seem clearly designed for younger children.
Honestly, it felt a bit like a rip-off to us as everything in the science center is geared towards younger children – but more on that later.
If you’re planning a visit, here’s the current ticket pricing: (be sure to check the website for up-to-date pricing)
- Adults (13–64): $25
- Seniors (65+): $20
- Children (3–12): $15
- Children 2 and under: Free
- Members: Free
Note: Special exhibits like the USS Requin submarine, Rangos Giant Cinema, and laser shows require separate tickets.
Exploring the Exhibits: What Caught Our Teenagers’ Attention
After checking in, we headed straight for the exhibits. At first glance, not much seemed to have changed since our last visit—many of the same displays were still there, just with a few updated signs and refreshed layouts. While it was nice to see some familiar exhibits, it quickly became clear that most of the Kamin Science Center exhibits are still geared toward younger children.
For families with little ones, this setup is perfect. The hands-on stations and interactive displays can easily keep younger kids entertained for hours. But for older children and teenagers, the experience felt a bit underwhelming. Our teens quickly lost interest, as most of the activities were either too simple or aimed at a much younger age group.
One highlight we all agreed on, though, was the Miniature Railroad & Village® exhibit. It’s massive and incredibly detailed, showcasing homes and landmarks from across Pennsylvania—including Fallingwater, which is near where we live! The craftsmanship and accuracy in this exhibit never fail to impress, and it’s one of the few displays that truly appeals to all ages.
After exploring the main exhibit floors, we made our way to one of the center’s most popular attractions—the Buhl Planetarium.
The Buhl Planetarium Experience at the Kamin Science Center
I hadn’t been to a planetarium since middle school, so seeing that Kamin Science Center admission includes the Buhl Planetarium was exciting. Unfortunately, when it came time for the show, some of the staff members advised us to skip the current presentation and wait for the 12 o’clock showing instead, explaining that the earlier one was their “kiddy” show. We didn’t mind waiting, but it was another reminder that much of the Kamin Science Center experience is still geared toward younger children.
When we finally returned for the 12 o’clock “Stars Over Pittsburgh” show, it quickly became clear that even this presentation was designed with young kids in mind. While I appreciate that the center offers fun and educational options for families with little ones, it felt disappointing to realize there was very little for teenagers or adults to enjoy.
It’s worth noting that the Kamin Science Center also offers laser shows inside the Buhl Planetarium. These feature colorful light displays set to music and are popular with older kids and adults. However, these shows are not included with general admission—you’ll need to purchase an additional add-on ticket if you’d like to experience one.
Touring the USS Requin Submarine at the Kamin Science Center
After finishing up at the planetarium, we decided to check out one of the Kamin Science Center’s most memorable attractions, the USS Requin Submarine. Docked just outside along the Ohio River, the Requin gives visitors the chance to step inside a real World War II–era submarine and see what life was like for the crew who once served aboard.
After finishing up at the planetarium, we decided to check out one of the Kamin Science Center’s most memorable attractions, the USS Requin Submarine. Docked just outside along the Ohio River, the Requin gives visitors the chance to step inside a real World War II–era submarine and see what life was like for the crew who once served aboard.
During our last visit, guests could walk onto the submarine at any time, but that has since changed. While admission to the Requin is still included with your ticket, you now need a timed entry pass to go aboard, and you only have 20 minutes to explore.
Once it was finally our turn to enter, the experience felt much more geared toward young children. Although the tour is technically self-guided, the submarine’s narrow passageways and layout make it nearly impossible to stop or explore at your own pace—it’s set up more in a “follow-the-leader” style. Staff members frequently reminded everyone, in a sing-song tone geared toward little children, “no touching,” which can be especially annoying when visiting with older teens. While I understand the need to protect the submarine, it was disappointing to pay so much for an experience that no longer allows visitors to fully explore or interact with the space the way they once could. In the end, our visit to the Kamin Science Center lasted only about an hour.
In the end, our visit to the Kamin Science Center lasted only about an hour. While there are a few standout attractions, like the miniature railroad and the USS Requin submarine, it’s clear that most of the center is geared toward younger children. One of the main reasons we had planned the visit with our older kids—the Highmark SportsWorks area—was unfortunately no longer available, which was a big disappointment for our teens. Many of the hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and even the submarine experience are designed with little kids in mind, making it challenging to keep older teens engaged.
It’s also worth noting that some experiences, like the Rangos Giant Cinema or laser shows, require additional tickets, which can quickly add up. For families with teenagers, it may be worth considering whether the center’s offerings are age-appropriate before planning a visit.
Overall, while the Kamin Science Center still has charm for young children, our experience highlighted that it isn’t as appealing for older kids or teens, and it’s important to plan accordingly to make the most of your visit.
FAQ: Visiting the Kamin Science Center with Teenagers
Is the Kamin Science Center suitable for teenagers?
Most exhibits, planetarium shows, and hands-on activities are geared toward younger children. Teens may find fewer attractions engaging, though the USS Requin submarine and miniature railroad are highlights.
Are there extra costs for special experiences?
Yes. The Rangos Giant Cinema, laser shows, and some programs require additional tickets beyond general admission.
How long should we plan to stay?
For families with teenagers, a typical visit lasts about an hour. Younger children may take longer to explore everything.
Is parking included?
No. Parking is $6 in the Kamin Science Center lot.
Can we explore the USS Requin submarine at our own pace?
It’s technically self-guided, but the narrow passageways and timed entry make it more of a “follow-the-leader” experience.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekday mornings are ideal for shorter lines and fewer crowds.
Are sports-focused areas like Highmark SportsWorks still available?
No, Highmark SportsWorks is no longer at the center, which may limit options for older kids and teens.
Does the Kamin Science Center participate in Museums4All?
Yes. Families with EBT cards can receive up to 4 discounted tickets at the ticket counter.
Last Updated on 12 months ago by Crystal Carder