Public Tours

Docent guided tour of the observatory highlighting the history of science in Pittsburgh and including weather dependent observing. This is a docent guided tour of the Allegheny Observatory. It will celebrate the history of science and astronomy, people, architecture, and art in the building. If the weather is clear, you will use the historic Fitz-Clark telescope. It will last about 2 hours. The first floor is handicapped accessible, but the domes in this historic building are not. Please email with questions. Note that this building is not a museum or science center. It is a working laboratory. All participants are expected to stay with the group and not enter closed or darkend spaces. There are other events that are more appropriate for children. Parking is along the right hand side of the road that loops around the building and at the nearby dog park. If you care coming from Pittsburgh on 279 and take exit 2 for Hazlett street, turn left on East st, but do NOT turn left on Milroy. Continue on East st until you are rerouted. If your only goal is to look through telescopes, consider the star parties hosted by the AAAP. They feature dozens of telescopes.