Pittsburgh is a city that loves the arts, and not just the classics. The city embraces wacky, eccentric, and innovating artists with gallery openings and performances throughout the year. Surprised? Well, if you remember that Andy Warhol, the world's most famous champion of Pop Art, is from the Steel City, you might understand why that legacy of boundary pushing art has lingered. To learn more about Warhol, visit his namesake museum on the North Shore; it is the largest museum in the country devoted to a single artist.
Best and worst time to go to the Andy Warhol Museum
The worst time to visit the museum is Sundays from September to December. These are Steeler days and traffic and commotion around the North Shore and Downtown can be unbearable if you are looking for a relaxing time at the museum. If want to avoid rowdy fans screaming and waving terrible towels, go on any other day of the week, except Mondays, when they are closed.
Must see at the Andy Warhol Museum
Since this museum is all Warhol, you have your pick of the litter of his work. You can focus on his early work, his most well-known pieces, or his very interesting self-portraits.
Admission to the Andy Warhol Museum
Adult admission cost $20-$25, while students with ID and children 18 years old and under are $10-$14. The Andy Warhol Museum is always closed on Mondays, as well as major holidays, such as Christmas, the Fourth of July, etc.
Parking and public transportation at the Andy Warhol Museum
You can park in the museum lot located one block north on Sandusky Street for $8-$10. The lots next to the stadiums just a couple a blocks away are generally cheaper, but only when the Pirates or Steelers aren't playing. If taking the T subway, exit North Side and head up General Robinson Street, pass PNC Park.
Food at the Andy Warhol Museum
The food is nothing to write home about. You might think that the wackiness of Warhol's art might translate to wacky and innovated food, but it is just the normal museum fare. Don't get confused with some other Andy Warhol Cafe's you have read about online. These are pop-up operations that appear in big cities like Tokyo and showcase the innovation and weirdness of Andy Warhol, through food.
Insider tip to visitors to the Andy Warhol Museum
If you live in the 'Burgh, or want to see all of the best Pittsburgh museums while in town, consider becoming a member. Memberships range from $75-$200, depending on whether you are buying for an individual, couple, or family. Memberships give you one year free access to the Warhol Museum, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Art, and the Carnegie Science Center. If you visit all of these on a dual or family membership just one team each, the membership pays for itself.
Author's bio: Ryan Deto, originally from California, has been exploring the streets of Pittsburgh for more than four years. He has been published in "LA Weekly" and has traveled to more than a dozen countries and more than 40 states throughout America.