Declared a National Historic Landmark in 2006, Carrie, as it’s affectionately known, entices visitors to marvel at the scale and legacy of its industrial might. A remnant of the legendary U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces are a vestige of Pittsburgh’s 20th-century domination of the steel industry. During this two-hour guided tour, you’ll hear stories about the site’s technology (including why it is nationally significant) as well as get to know the culture of its workers. You’ll also learn a bit about the iron-making process, from the movement of the raw materials to the tapping of the furnaces that produced fiery molten iron.
A maximum of 20 participants will be permitted on each tour.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of each tour is outside; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Hard hats are required to be worn for the duration of your tour. If you have a hard hat, please feel free to bring it. For those who need one, a hard hat will be provided and collected after the tour. Hats are disinfected between uses.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms and wash stations are available. Food amenities are generally not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, but the grounds covered during tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow two hours for your tour.
- Children: While kids of all ages are welcome, the tour content is recommended for children ages 8+.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located at 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Join Rivers of Steel Arts at dusk for unique photo safaris that explore the Carrie Furnaces in twilight. Witness the beauty and subtlety of the site as only seen through half light and capture our own piece of the drama to take home. This safari is recommended for those with prior experience shooting low-light subject matter but open to both novice and experienced photographers alike. Attendees can expect an "open" shooting experience with very little interruption, guidance or interference.
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at Carrie Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver which can be found on our website.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
While production may have stopped on the Carrie Furnaces site in 1982, the era of Carrie as an artistic muse was just beginning. Discover how guerrilla artists, urban explorers, and later curators, installation artists, and even landscape designers have made creative use of a revered space.
A maximum of 20 participants will be permitted on each tour.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of each tour is outside; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Hard hats are required to be worn for the duration of your tour. If you have a hard hat, please feel free to bring it. For those who need one, a hard hat will be provided and collected after the tour. Hats are disinfected between uses.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms and wash stations are available. Food amenities are generally not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, but the grounds covered during tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- COVID-19: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow one and a half hours for your tour.
- Children: While kids of all ages are welcome, the tour content is recommended for children ages 8+.
- Location: The entrance to the Carrie Furnaces is located at 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Not your typical “sip and paint” party, this workshop has quickly become one of Rivers of Steel’s most in-demand programs. With guidance from Rivers of Steel’s metal arts team, you’ll design and carve a bowl that is cast in solid aluminum!
Take home your new, functional work of art at the end of the night! No experience is needed—just bring your creativity, a friend, and your own beverage!
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Clothing you can get dirty. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
One of Rivers of Steel’s most in-demand programs, the Photo Safari at the Carrie Blast Furnaces inspires novice and experienced photographers alike!
The interplay of light and seasonality at the Carrie Blast Furnaces offers endless perspectives of this industrial muse. These three-hour photo safaris are appropriate for both novice and experienced photographers who crave an “open” shooting experience with very little interruption, guidance, or interference. Take your time and line up the perfect image of the historic Carrie Furnaces!
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of the site is outdoors; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available. However, the grounds are uneven and may not be accessible for most wheelchairs. Contact us at info@riversofsteel.com for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
A visit to W.A. Young & Sons is a step back in time! Nestled in the historic district of Rices Landing, Greene County, the Machine Shop is an astonishing industrial treasure. Built in 1900, the shop produced parts for steamboats, coal mines, railroads, and supported local small businesses. When it closed in 1965, the building was locked and all of its tools and equipment were left in place—perfectly preserving its line shaft driven, 25-machine network for future generations.
Visitors tour the blacksmith shop, pattern shop, hardware store, and foundry—and marvel as the machines are switched on during a live demonstration of this turn-of-the-last century technology!
Tickets must be purchased in advance. You will be required to show your electronic or paper tickets for admission. No tickets will be sold at the door.
A maximum of 10 participants will be permitted on each tour.
Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Dress for the weather. The building is not temperature controlled. Additionally, the ground and flooring are uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The antiquity of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Restrooms are available at the park near the entrance to Water Street. Food amenities are generally not available.
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: This National Historic Landmark is generally not fully accessible, but can meet some patrons’ needs. Contact info@riversofsteel.com to inquire.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow one hour for your tour.
- Location & GPS: The Machine Shop is located at 114 Water Street, Rices Landing, PA 15357. The historic town of Rices Landing is located in a valley where cell service can be limited. You may not want to rely on your GPS.
- Parking: Guests are welcome to park in the parking lot near the entrance of Water Street, on the left side before rounding the bend. From there the walk to the the Machine Shop is 400 feet and has a slight incline. Guest with limited mobility may be dropped off near the front of the building, but please be advised that turnaround space can be limited directly in front of the Shop.
- Children: While kids of all ages are welcome, the tour content is recommended for children ages 8+.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
Ever wonder what the process looks like to cast molten iron? Well, here is your chance! Bring some friends to the Carrie Blast Furnaces and watch our metal arts crew, along with a team of volunteers and workshop participants, fire up the cupola furnace and melt some iron. Witness a scaled down version of what took place on site during its peak industrial era! We suggest you bring a camping chair for this one and get comfortable; it's always a spectacle of flame and heat here at the Carrie Blast Furnaces.
Food and drinks are not available during the event but guests are encouraged to bring their own items to enjoy picnic style. Admission to the iron pour does not include a tour of the historic facility. Participants will remain in the central casting area with views of the site. Please dress for the weather as this event is rain or shine.
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at Carrie Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of the site is outdoors; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities will be available at this event..
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available. However, the grounds are uneven and may not be accessible for most wheelchairs. Contact us at info@riversofsteel.com for details and options,
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located at 801 Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
For more information, contact info@riversofsteel.com.
The Black Experience at the Carrie Furnaces
Join Rivers of Steel this June for a special tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces. This one-hour tour sifts through the history of the Carrie Furnaces through the lens of a pivotal resource—the Black migrants who traveled from the South and created a career path for themselves and future generations, amassing seniority and skills in some of the most difficult roles at the mill. Through the stories of changemakers like Cumberland "Cap" Posey and everyday workers like union officer John Hughey, this tour paints a picture of life inside—and outside—the mill in the 20th century.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of each tour is outside; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Hard hats are required to be worn for the duration of your tour. If you have a hard hat, please feel free to bring it. For those who need one, a hard hat will be provided and collected after the tour. Hats are disinfected between uses.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms and wash stations are available. Food amenities are generally not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, but the grounds covered during tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow one hour for your tour.
- Children: While kids of all ages are welcome, the tour content is recommended for children ages 8+.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address for the National Historic Landmark is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Hooks and Hairpins
This three-hour introductory workshop is a great way to explore the art of blacksmithing and create something unique. Participants will learn the basics of forging steel and use essential blacksmithing tools to create a steel hook or hairpin to take home. These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).
Special holiday workshops:
Halloween Date Night—October 24, 2024 from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Get spooky during this three-hour Halloween-themed couples’ workshop and learn the basics of blacksmithing to make your own steel skull! Bring a friend or significant other and work together to learn the basics of forging steel and using essential blacksmithing tools. Individuals may also attend, couples not mandatory.
Holiday Ornaments—November 10, and December 8, 2024 from 2:30-5:30 p.m.
Get in the holiday spirit by hammering hot metal! This three-hour introductory workshop is a great way to explore the art of blacksmithing and create a unique holiday ornament. Participants will learn the basics of forging steel and use essential blacksmithing tools to shape the metal into a tree or leaf design to take home.
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of this program is indoors. However, the Power House is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
This three-day workshop features extended shop time and instruction focusing on the forging techniques needed to produce sharp-edged tools of high-carbon steel. Participants will learn the fundamental skills required to forge a blacksmithing knife with scroll handle from a single piece of steel. These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of this program is indoors. However, the Power House is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
This three-day workshop will introduce the process used to create three-dimensional sculptural forms in cast aluminum—patternmaking, mold-making, and casting. (Note: Finishing techniques are not covered.)
The workshop includes instruction in the use of wax, plasticine (oil-based clay), and various other pattern materials. Most participants make their patterns from several pre-made forms we have in stock. These include vessels, utensils, door pulls, light switch covers, fabric, Styrofoam, etc. Workshop participants are able to customize their own design to these existing forms, making them unique, or build entirely from scratch using plasticine and wax-working techniques demonstrated during the workshop.
Cast-aluminum objects can be taken home at the end of the third day of the workshop. Participation during the entire eight-hour period each day is not mandatory. Participants can drop in as time allows, however a minimum of four hours each day is required in order to complete a successful casting.
Sculptural Aluminum Casting workshops include up to 10 lbs. of aluminum, 100 lbs. of sand and corresponding chemical, waste removal and related foundry consumables. Additional sand and chemical needs beyond this allotted amount are available for $.31 / lb. Additional metal stock is available at $3.00 / lb. All additional material fees are required upon pick up of the final castings at the end of the workshop period.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Clothing you can get dirty. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
Join Rivers of Steel for a Hot Metal Happy Hour at the Carrie Blast Furnaces! This hands-on event is an excellent introduction to blacksmithing. Work with hot steel to create your own custom bottle opener! In the process, you’ll learn basic blacksmithing techniques including slitting, drifting, punching, bending, and more. At the end of the session, put your handiwork to the test when you crack open an ice cold bottled beverage to toast your accomplishment! These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are not included with the registration—BYOB.
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of this program is indoors. However, the Power House is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
Rebellious Spirits Day Trip–Whiskey with a Sip of History
Sunday, June 9, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Join Rivers of Steel for a daylong adventure that expertly blends the region’s whiskey and history, served up with an interactive cherry on top. Your journey begins at the Pump House, where you’ll leave your car and cares behind as you shuttle through time and space to become immersed in all things related to the Whiskey Rebellion.
This tours-and-tastings experience includes visits to the Whiskey Rebellion Visitors Center andto several Washington County distilleries, paired with lunch and outings to additional heritage sites related to our nation’s first test to its fledgling democracy.
Between stops, one of Rivers of Steel’s expert tour guides will contextualize the day’s narratives, introducing you to the rebellious spirits, dubbed the Friends of Liberty, who sought to defeat a tax on whiskey, along with their counterparts, the Friends of Order.
The excursion ends back at the Pump House for a guided mixology experience with a professional bartender. Create your own Monongahela Rye cocktail.
The itinerary includes visits to:
- The Oliver Miller Homestead
- Whiskey Rebellion Visitors Center
- David Bradford House Museum
- B&B Distillery—Lunch, Tour, & Tasting
- Liberty Pole Spirits—Tour & Tasting
- The Pump House for a mixology tutorial with Lisa Belczyk of the Fizzy Coupe, paired with spirits and educators from West Overton Village
This is exclusively a 21+ event. Tickets are $195.00 each, which includes tastings, admissions, lunch, an afternoon snack, the cocktail class, and transporation by coach. Participants will be contacted in advance of the event regarding lunch selections and other details.
This workshop at the W.A. Young & Sons Foundry and Machine Shop is a great way to explore the metal casting process and try something new! No prior experience or artistic background necessary—just bring your creativity and a friend or two! Sand mold and tools are provided. Rivers of Steel's experienced metal-casting team will help you create your own design, then step back and watch as the metal team pours molten aluminum into your mold. You'll be able to take your casting home at the end of the workshop.
Tickets must be purchased in advance. You will be required to show your electronic or paper tickets for admission. No tickets will be sold at the door.
A maximum of 10 participants will be permitted per session. Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Dress for the weather. The building is not temperature controlled. Additionally, the ground and flooring are uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The antiquity of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Restrooms are available at the park near the entrance to Water Street. Food amenities are generally not available.
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: This National Historic Landmark is generally not fully accessible, but can meet some patrons’ needs. Contact info@riversofsteel.com to inquire.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow two hours for the workshop.
- Location & GPS: The Machine Shop is located at 114 Water Street, Rices Landing, PA 15357. The historic town of Rices Landing is located in a valley where cell service can be limited. You may not want to rely on your GPS.
- Parking: Guests are welcome to park in the parking lot near the entrance of Water Street, on the left side before rounding the bend. From there the walk to the the Machine Shop is 400 feet and has a slight incline. Guests with limited mobility may be dropped off near the front of the building, but please be advised that turnaround space can be limited directly in front of the Shop.
- Children: All ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
Declared a National Historic Landmark in 2006, Carrie, as it’s affectionately known, entices visitors to marvel at the scale and legacy of its industrial might. A remnant of the legendary U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces are a vestige of Pittsburgh’s 20th-century domination of the steel industry. During this two-hour guided tour, you’ll hear stories about the site’s technology (including why it is nationally significant) as well as get to know the culture of its workers. You’ll also learn a bit about the iron-making process, from the movement of the raw materials to the tapping of the furnaces that produced fiery molten iron.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of each tour is outside; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Hard hats are required to be worn for the duration of your tour. If you have a hard hat, please feel free to bring it. For those who need one, a hard hat will be provided and collected after the tour. Hats are disinfected between uses.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms and wash stations are available. Food amenities are generally not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, but the grounds covered during tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow two hours for your tour.
- Children: While kids of all ages are welcome, the tour content is recommended for children ages 8+.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located at 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
This 3-hour introductory workshop is a great way to explore the art of blacksmithing and create something unique. Participants will learn the basics of forging steel and use essential blacksmithing tools to create a steel hook or hairpin to take home. These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
This workshop features extended shop time onsite at the Carrie Blast Furnaces and in-depth instruction / assistance catered to the needs of each individual. Participants will have the chance to learn and experiment with multiple pattern-making materials and create multiple large and complex multi-part sand molds.
Please note that we have updated our registration process and will require you to provide information on your project prior to registering for the workshop. If you anticipate needing in excess of 2000 lbs. of sand, additional details may be required.
Prior experience or Intro to Iron Casting is recommended. Registration includes access to the Carrie Blast Furnaces foundry daily between 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and the ultimate experience of participating in an iron pour from a coke-fired cupola—just like the historic furnaces onsite!
All items for the workshop will be cast on Saturday (June 29 & October 5, 2024), time of day may vary. Cooled castings can be picked up on the following Sunday.
Please note that the iron-casting operation is scheduled from 1:00 – 8:00 p.m., but it can often last eight or more hours. The actual start time for the casting period is determined the day of the event, based on mold count, outdoor temperature, and other factors. Additionally, the pick-up window is 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. However, it may be later than anticipated if the casting operation lasts long into the previous evening. Check with Rivers of Steel Metal Arts staff on the casting date for more specific information.
Weeklong Iron Intensive workshops include up to 400 lbs. of sand and corresponding chemical, waste removal and related foundry consumables. Sand and chemical needs beyond this allotted amount are available for $.31/lb. Any additional material fees must be paid upon pick up of the final castings at the end of the workshop period.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Clothing you can get dirty. If you would like to participate in the casting portion of the workshop then work boots are required footwear. We have all other necessary safety gear on site. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand-washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, and there is an ADA ramp into the Power House where workshops are held. The surrounding grounds are not wheelchair accessible, but some assistance is available. Inquire for details.
- COVID-19: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
Iron casting is a community workshop experience! Intro to Iron participants work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists to learn the basics of foundry work and an overview of the iron-casting process step by step. No prior experience necessary. This three-day workshop covers multi-part mold and pattern design, lost-wax casting, resin-bonded sand molds, and iron casting. It is recommended that participants come to the workshop with either an existing object / model they would like to mold and cast. Not sure what to make? No worries. Our team has a range of pre-made wax and rubber objects that can be customized. The course results in your own unique design cast in solid iron! Participants can anticipate creating one or two cast iron objects roughly the size of a loaf of bread
Please note that we have updated our registration process and will ask you to provide information on your project prior to registering for the workshop. Please answer to the best of your knowledge.
Registration includes access to the Carrie Blast Furnaces foundry daily between 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and the ultimate experience of participating in an iron pour from a coke-fired cupola—just like the historic furnaces onsite!
All items for the workshop will be cast on Saturday (June 29 & October 5, 2024), time of day may vary. Cooled castings can be picked up on the following Sunday.
Please note that the iron-casting operation is scheduled from 1:00 – 8:00 p.m., but it can often last eight or more hours. The actual start time for the casting period is determined the day of the event, based on mold count, outdoor temperature, and other factors. Additionally, the pick-up window is 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. However, it may be later than anticipated if the casting operation lasts long into the previous evening. Check with Rivers of Steel Metal Arts staff on the casting date for more specific information.
Intro to Iron Casting workshops include up to 250 lbs. of sand and corresponding chemical, waste removal and related foundry consumables. Sand and chemical needs beyond this allotted amount are available for $.31/lb. Any additional material fees must be paid upon pick up of the final castings at the end of the workshop period.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: Clothing you can get dirty. If you would like to participate in the casting portion of the workshop then work boots are required footwear. We have all other necessary safety gear on site. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven – sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, and there is an ADA ramp into the Power House where workshops are held. The surrounding grounds are not wheelchair accessible, but some assistance is available. Inquire for details.
- COVID-19: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
This unique tour and hands-on experience at the Carrie Furnaces focuses on Rivers of Steel's collection of graffiti murals created by artists from around the world. Participants will get hands-on experience with style-writing, and painting techniques while learning about the underground culture of graffiti, its local history, and how it continues to evolve as an art form. Workshops are led by experienced artist and muralist Scott Brozovich.
A maximum of 15 participants will be permitted on each tour.
By purchasing tickets for a tour or event at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed which can be found on our website.
The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.
- What to wear: The majority of each tour is outside; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
- Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms and wash stations are available. Food amenities are generally not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
- Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
- Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available, but the grounds covered during tours are not wheelchair accessible. Contact info@riversofsteel.com to discuss alternative options.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors are required to sign a liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
- Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
- Duration: Allow two and a half hours for your tour.
- Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.