Randyland: A Funky, Free Art Exhibit in Pittsburgh
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Pittsburgh is home to a vibrant arts community. Along with the renowned Carnegie Museum of Art and The Warhol (the only museum dedicated to pop art legend Andy Warhol), there are many galleries and art related events to explore. Mike and I love exploring quirky attractions all over the country. One hidden gem we found while living in this area is an eccentric outdoor exhibit known as Randyland.
This colorful display arises from the imagination of creative artist Randy Gilson. Anyone can view the display for free in the historic Mexican War Streets neighborhood. If you are seeking something fun, free, and eclectic to add to your to-do list, definitely add a quick stop here to your itinerary. The museum is conveniently located nearby a number of attractions, and thus, can easily be incorporated into your trip plans. We actually found out about it by accident one day, driving around after visiting one of our favorite coffeehouses in the area. Let’s just say, it was a nice colorful surprise worth visiting once.
The story behind it all
Randy Gilson moved into the formerly tough Mexican War Streets neighborhood over 30 years ago. At this time, there were many abandoned buildings as well as litter everywhere. Randy decided to clean up the neighborhood which included a massive litter cleanup, as well as planting many gardens.
He bought a dilapidated building in 1995 and transformed it into the colorful piece of artwork which stands today. Today Randy’s home includes many colorful murals. As he was on a tight budget, he decided to incorporate recycled materials into the design plans. The ending result is a bright and colorful space which should please art lovers and anyone who loves seeking out the eccentric.
Today, Randy’s work credits include more than 800 gardens, street murals, and 8 parks. Read more about Randy’s story before your visit.
Why it’s great
The display is very offbeat and oddball and also colorful and upbeat. It’s an off-the-wall attraction which really stands out amongst a sea of ordinary housing. As the world becomes more and more homogenous, it’s cool to know that places like Randyland still exist.
Mike and I love checking out weird attractions no matter where we live or travel, and we came across this hidden gem soon after moving to the ‘Burgh metro. While it was definitely “out there,” I do appreciate the dedication and great backstory about cleaning up the community. This is one of those places you have to see for yourself to explore the nuisances.
Nevertheless, here are a few pics from our tour around the property:
How to get here
Randyland is open 7 days a week from 10am-5:30pm. Visitors and locals are welcome to tour the display for free, although donations are welcomed and appreciated. You can further support the project by shopping on the Randyland store for unique gifts (see website). The address is: 1501 Arch St.
More quirky gems in the ‘Burgh
If you love oddball attractions like this, then I also recommend checking out:
Bicycle Heaven: It’s the world’s largest bicycle museum. It’s super funky and colorful and they have lots of rare models on display including several futuristic looking Bowden SpaceLanders. You’ll also see some famous movie rides including Pee Wee Herman’s famous red bike. Check out my guide for more pics.
I’ve been to quite a few of these pinball arcades around the US, but Pinball Perfection is pretty amazing. From Noon-5pm (Tuesday-Saturday), you can play to your heart’s content for just 15 bucks. I love this place although it’s absolutely freezing during the winter months (I’ve had to keep my hat and coat on at times). Inside the 2 level warehouse, you will find hundreds of pinball machines from the 1930’s through today.
While most locals are well aware of The Warhol Museum, my family members are always surprised and impressed when I tell them about this most unique museum. If you love pop art, you’ll want to stop by this colorful museum: the only one dedicated to a single artist. Check out my post for more pics.
I love visiting cat cafes ever since my first visit to Crumbs and Whiskers in D.C. many years ago. The ‘Burgh is hands down home to the best cat cafe I’ve ever been to. The staff is so friendly and passionate about cats – you can really tell that they care for all the cats. I even adopted a beautiful orange tabby here. Admission is only $5 and goes towards care for the cats.
What else to do in the Mexican War Streets neighborhood?
This city is comprised of many diverse neighborhoods. Since moving here, I have explored many of these unique sections of the city. This is what I like the most about the ‘Burgh. There are so many unique historic neighborhoods which all have their own attractions, dining options, events, and stories to explore.
Mexican War Streets is one of my favorites. I love the 19th century Victorian homes in this area. it is the perfect place to spend the weekend sipping a cup of coffee and strolling around a park.
A few of my top things to do in this part of town include:
- Coffee at Commonplace: Terrific coffee, great pastries, beautiful historic building, nice outdoor seating.
- Allegheny Commons: This pretty historic park was the first in the city. I love strolling here during the fall.
- Monterey Pub: The best local Irish pub. I love the old-school ambiance and cozy setting. Great food too!
- National Aviary: The country’s largest aviary. It’s a beautiful place showcasing birds from around the world.
- Great Mexican War Streets Yard Sale: Amazing annual sidewalk sale event. I’ve found lots of great books!
