Highland Park is a neighborhood where families can easily fill their days with discovery, learning, and outdoor fun. Moreover, the family activities and attractions in Highland Park offer engaging experiences for all ages, from wildlife encounters and creative programs to playgrounds, educational spaces, and community-focused destinations. Additionally, these opportunities create memorable moments where families can explore, learn, and enjoy quality time together.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities in Highland Park
Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium
One Wild Place (7370 Baker St.) | 412.665.3640
Located on 77 acres, this facility offers educational fun with close views of 600 animal species. Visitors can see cheetahs, hippos and Visayan warty pigs in exhibits that recreate their natural habitats. The zoo’s conservation program highlights 30 species of concern, including western lowland gorillas and Bornean orangutans. It also protects Amur leopards, Amur tigers, African elephants, red pandas and Humboldt penguins. Kids Kingdom features a petting zoo, while the aquarium displays jellyfish, eels and sea stars. The aquarium also includes a coral reef with blacktip reef sharks for visitors to explore.
Camp Bow Wow
1325 Washington Blvd. | 412.866.1879
For the furry kids in the family, here you’ll find doggie daycare, overnight boarding, grooming and training, with climate-controlled play yards.
Faith Forming Families (F3 Network)
616 N. Highland Ave. | 412.362.5610
Inspired by the legacy of cherished alum Fred “Mister” Rogers, this organization supports churches and families in nurturing children’s spiritual development.
Highland Park Super Playground
Reservoir Drive
Renovated in 2022, this destination features a huge multi-level wooden play fort and much more — including a zone just for toddlers and younger kids.
The Neighborhood Academy
709 N. Aiken Ave. | 412.362.2001
This private, tuition-free college-prep school for grades 6–12 serves primarily first-generation, low-income students from across Pittsburgh.
Simply Kidz Zone Early Learning Childcare
5813 Bryant St. | 412.441.1706
Simply Kidz offers comprehensive services for infants through age 12, including before and after-school care, field trips throughout the year and summer camp.
Union Project
801 N. Negley Ave. | 412.363.4550
This nonprofit community arts center offers classes, camps and workshops for kids, teens and adults.
Story by Deborah Weisberg
Polaroid by Evan Okun