Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Teen Night: JurassiCon
2025-07-24 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | At the Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-4007, United States

Family Nature Hike
2025-08-02 14:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

Hummingbird Day
2025-08-16 09:00 - 12:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Celebrate the world’s smallest birds! Spend the morning at Powdermill Nature Center learning about colorful, tiny, fast-flying hummingbirds and their important place as pollinators in their ecosystems. Go on a guided hike, learn how to take care of bird feeders, and find out which plants in our area are perfect for pollinators. If we’re lucky, we’ll get to see some hummingbirds up close. This is a family-friendly event open to all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis. This event starts at 9am and ends at 12pm–come anytime during this period.
Register Today!

Snake Hike
2025-08-30 16:30 - 19:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, August 30, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
They slither, they sunbathe, they smell – they’re snakes! Snakes are our cold-blooded friends, and they play an important role in our ecosystem. Join us on a hike as we seek out the snakes at Powdermill. Learn about their role in the environment and the methodology used by researchers to attract them. We will also teach you about safety measures and how to spot venomous species.
Preteens and older are welcome! Wear sturdy shoes and pants. We will go off trail during this event.
Register today!

Powdermill Avian Research Center Guided Tour
2025-09-05 08:00 - 09:30 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Friday, September 5, 2025, 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Enjoy a free guided tour of the bird banding lab and research facility including the flight tunnel. Visit the bird banding lab and see up-close how researchers safely capture and band birds, and learn about the data they gather. Learn about how we’re studying avian perception of glass to provide glass manufacturers and building designers with important information that will help reduce bird-window collisions.
This event takes place in an area typically closed to the public—don’t miss it! Guests must pre-register for the tour and arrive at Powdermill Avian Research Center by 8:00 a.m. The tour is 1.5 hours long.
Register Today!

Family Nature Hike
2025-09-06 02:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, September 6, 2025, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar: Restoring an Ancient Fishpond in Maui, Hawaiʻi
2025-09-08 12:00 - 13:00 | PA
Talk: Restoring an Ancient Fishpond in Maui, Hawaiʻi
Speaker: Kiaʻi Collier, Maui Steward and Educator
When: Monday, September 8, 2025, 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Where: Earth Theater and online via Zoom
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
Maui steward and educator Kiaʻi Collier is leading the restoration of an ancient fishpond in Maui, Hawaiʻi that is the piko (source) to restore social and ecological function in the community of Waiheʻe. Learn how Collier leads a hui (group) that is applying ancient techniques of Uhau Humu Pōhaku to heal land and Hawaiian communities.
Registration is required to attend R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars. Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Upcoming R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics through the 2025 – 2026 R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar season.

Powdermill Avian Research Center Open House
2025-09-20 08:00 - 10:30 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, September 20, 8:00–10:30 a.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Join us for an open house at the Powdermill Avian Research Center (PARC)! Although PARC is operational year-round, it is typically closed to the public. Stop by the open house to get a behind the scenes look at our scientists’ work. See the bird banding processes up close, learn about how we catch them, find out what data is recorded, and more. Advance registration is recommended for this free event.
Register Today!

Family Nature Walk
2025-10-04 14:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar: The Colors of Dinosaurs
2025-10-09 18:00 - 19:00 | PA
Talk: The Colors of Dinosaurs: Using the Fossil Record and Living Birds to Determine Extinct Animal Coloration
Speaker: Dr. Sarah Davis, Collection Manager of Paleobiology, Carnegie Museum of Natural History
When: Thursday, October 9, 2025, 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Where: Art Theater and online via Zoom; Reception to follow in Café Carnegie
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
Dr. Sarah Davis, Collection Manager of Paleobiology, will present her research on determining the colors of extinct dinosaurs using both fossil evidence and insights from living animals. While many fossils show that dinosaurs could have had black, brown, grey, and even shiny colors, not all pigments will fossilize. By looking at the evolution of pigments in living animals, along with evidence from the fossil record, it is possible to infer if dinosaurs may have also been able to express bright colors such as red, yellow, and pink. Dr. Davis will discuss which dinosaurs may have been most likely to express these vivid colors, and ongoing challenges in the field of paleo-coloration.
Please join us for a reception in Café Carnegie immediately following the seminar.
Registration is required to attend R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars. Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Upcoming R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics at the R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar series.

Powdermill Avian Research Center Guided Tour
2025-10-10 08:00 - 09:30 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Friday, October 10, 2025, 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Enjoy a free guided tour of the bird banding lab and research facility including the flight tunnel. Visit the bird banding lab and see up-close how researchers safely capture and band birds, and learn about the data they gather. Learn about how we’re studying avian perception of glass to provide glass manufacturers and building designers with important information that will help reduce bird-window collisions.
This event takes place in an area typically closed to the public—don’t miss it! Guests must pre-register for the tour and arrive at Powdermill Avian Research Center by 8:00 a.m. The tour is 1.5 hours long.
Register Today!

Haunted Museum (21+)
2025-10-17 18:00 - 22:00 | At the Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-4007, United States
When: Friday, October 17, 6:00–10:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: $30 ($25 for Carnegie Museums Members)
What lurks in Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s haunted halls? Monsters, mayhem, and Halloween surprises will greet those brave enough to explore the museum after hours. Guests ages 21 and over are invited to make their way through the galleries, meet eccentric spirits, and have a screaming good time!
Haunted Museum (21+) tickets include admission to select Carnegie Museum of Natural History galleries for the evening. Beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase. Costumes are encouraged, but must follow the guidelines outlined below.
Haunted Museum activities include:
– Mix-your-own potions to drink (if you dare) with Songbird Artistry.
– Delve into scientific mysteries with Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology Dr. Matt Lamanna, Associate Curator of Amphibians and Reptiles Dr. Jennifer Sheridan, Associate Curator of Anthropocene Studies Dr. Nicole Heller, and more museum experts.
– Compete in Monster Movie Trivia to test your knowledge of all things supernatural, mysterious, and frightening.
– Hold a gooey brain and observe an animal brain dissection.
– Watch The Pittsburgh Pumpkin Guy carve a pumpkin into a work of art.

– Make your own vampire protection kit and see specimens of real blood-eating creatures.
– Encounter monstrous mollusks like the vampire squid.

Purchase tickets today!
Tickets are selling fast! Get yours now!

Costume Guidelines
Costumes are welcomed at After Dark: Haunted Museum! However, for the safety of our guests and collections we require that you follow the guidelines outlined below. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry or asked to leave, unless the costume can be modified to meet them. We appreciate your adherence to these rules.
– Costumes may not contain any props or accessories that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon. Costumes may not contain any prop or accessory that resembles a gun.
– Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike or impede another guest.
– Costumes may not drag on the ground (dress trains, robe trains, etc).
– Costume masks of any kind may not be worn.
– Costume headwear may be worn if it does not cover the face.
– Anything worn on the back may not be any wider than your elbows can extend to the side.
– Large costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged. Props and/or costume elements should not be any wider than your elbows can extend to the side.

Powdermill Avian Research Center Open House
2025-10-18 08:00 - 10:30 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, October 18, 8:00–10:30 a.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Join us for an open house at the Powdermill Avian Research Center (PARC)! Although PARC is operational year-round, it is typically closed to the public. Stop by the open house to get a behind the scenes look at our scientists’ work. See the bird banding processes up close, learn about how we catch them, find out what data is recorded, and more. Advance registration is recommended for this free event.
Register Today!

Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat
2025-10-24 18:00 - 21:00 | At the Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-4007, United States
When: Friday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: $16 ($12 for Carnegie Museums Members)
Trick–or–treat your way through the museum at this all ages and all abilities event! Wear your favorite costume to listen to Halloween stories around our faux campfire, enjoy apple cider and other tasty treats, get a closer look at dioramas, fossils, minerals and more in a relaxed setting. Select galleries in the Natural History museum will reopen for this event after Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History close to the general public. Exhibits will have reduced audio/visual elements plus calming spaces with support materials.
Register today!

Nature Craft
2025-10-29 17:00 - 18:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Calling all artists, hobbyists, and nature enthusiasts! Powdermill Nature Reserve is hosting a new monthly community craft night. Join us as we seek out inspiration and materials from the natural world to incorporate into our art. Every month will be different, so be sure to join us for them all. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Expect an email near the event date for more information about what we will be working on that month.
Register Today!

Family Nature Walk
2025-11-01 14:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

Owling at the Moon
2025-11-01 18:00 - 21:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: $10 for adults ($8 for Carnegie Museums Members); $5 for children ($3 for Carnegie Museums Members)
Celebrate owls with crafts, activities, and live owls! Enjoy popcorn and fresh apple cider made onsite, listen to a story by the campfire, and make a lantern. Learn about native owls along the Owl Trail and complete challenges to win prizes. Participate in owl pellet dissection and discover amazing facts from our Powdermill Avian Research Center experts. This is a family-friendly event open to all ages.
Register Today!

R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar: Leading Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve into the Future
2025-11-10 12:00 - 13:00 | PA
Talk: Science, Conservation, and Community: Leading Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve into the Future
Speaker: Dr. Mary Janecka, Director of Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve
When: Monday, November 10, 2025, 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Library Lecture Hall and online via Zoom
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
Dr. Mary Janecka, the new Director of Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve, will present past research and plans for leading the team to advance the station’s scientific research, applied conservation efforts, and public outreach initiatives. Fieldwork has long been at the heart of Mary’s own scientific journey, and she has contributed to making field experiences more accessible and welcoming to all. Janecka’s own research on host-parasite interactions (primarily in riverine ecosystems) and how these are affected by anthropogenic change has immediate relevance to the Western Pennsylvania region. Her research combines behavioral ecology, genetics, and conservation; it spans both aquatic and terrestrial systems, and across organism groups—from snakes to migratory birds to ticks. With this multidisciplinary expertise, Janecka is uniquely positioned to further elevate Powdermill’s scientific profile and impact.
Registration is required to attend R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars. Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Upcoming R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics at the R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar series.

Friends and Family Photo Studio
2025-11-15 | PA

Nature Craft
2025-11-26 17:00 - 18:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve
Tickets: Free
Calling all artists, hobbyists, and nature enthusiasts! Powdermill Nature Reserve is hosting a new monthly community craft night. Join us as we seek out inspiration and materials from the natural world to incorporate into our art. Every month will be different, so be sure to join us for them all. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Expect an email near the event date for more information about what we will be working on.
Register Today!

R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar: Insect Double Feature
2025-12-01 12:00 - 13:00 | PA
Dr. David Wagner, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of Connecticut, is a world authority on insect biodiversity, insect conservation, and matters of global change. On December 1, he will give two separate talks at Carnegie Museum of Natural History: one discussing the global decline of insect populations, and a second talk focusing on caterpillars and their role in ecology and evolutionary biology. Registration is required to attend R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars, read on for full details and registration options for both talks.
Talk: Insect Declines in the Anthropocene
When: Monday, December 1, 2025, 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Where: Art Theater and online via Zoom
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
As the human population has expanded in the last century, global insect populations are declining at a concerningly rapid rate. Significant decreases in both species and populations of insects have been reported, thought to result from “a thousand cuts” including pesticide use, agricultural intensification, shifts in climate and human-induced changes to their native environments. Dr. David Wagner, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of Connecticut, is a world authority on insect biodiversity, insect conservation, and matters of global change. In recent years, he has become an expert on insect decline, publishing both academic and general public articles on the subject.
Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Talk: Caterpillars: Their Use in Biosystematics, Diversity, and Ecology Studies
When: Monday, December 1, 2025, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Where: Art Theater and online via Zoom
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
Dr. Wagner will highlight discoveries from five decades of biosystematic studies on Lepidoptera. This informal presentation will feature stunning images of caterpillars, their natural history, and how larval life history data has been used to answer big questions in ecology and evolutionary biology. Time allowing, he will provide a status update of a multi-volumed guide to the Caterpillars of Western North America (Princeton University Press).
Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Upcoming R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics at the R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar series.

WinterTide
2025-12-06 10:00 - 17:00 | PA
When: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: Free with purchase of museum admission. Advance registration strongly recommended.
You’re invited to WinterTide, a one-day festival celebrating resilience, adaptation, and joy during the chilly winter months. Explore stories of survival and togetherness across nature and culture through hands-on activities, chats with natural history experts, and more. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and baked goods available for purchase in the heart of the event. We invite you to gather your favorite people to share joyful tidings and good cheer with the museum community.
WinterTide activities include:
– Learn how cold-blooded wood frogs survive sub-zero temperatures in Alaskan winters.
– Create traditional Northern European straw stars and snowflakes with Collection Manager of Anthropology, Kristina Gaugler.
– Learn to identify plant species from twigs with Curator of Botany, Mason Heberling.
– Learn about wintering birds and the Christmas Bird Count with educators from Powdermill Nature Reserve

– Take an up-close look at snowflakes and learn about their crystal structures.

– Explore how fur, fat, and feathers keep animals warm in the Hall of North American Wildlife.
– Test your hibernation knowledge by exploring the facts and myths about how animals survive the winter season.
– Create wintertime art in our galleries.

Carnegie Museums Members may enjoy winter activities and light refreshments in the Members Lounge from 12:00–2:00 p.m.

Register for WinterTide below and purchase admission for December 6 on our ticketing page!

Please note that all WinterTide attendees must purchase museum admission for Saturday, December 6.

Winter Stories
Read articles by museum experts to get ready for WinterTide!
Winter Wanderers On a Water TowerCollected on this Day in 2012: WintercreeperWhat Do Bugs Do During the Winter?Fruit and Nut Trees Need Chill Time in the Winter

WinterTide is sponsored by:

Family Nature Walk
2025-12-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

Jolly Opossum (Cancelled)
2025-12-13 16:00 - 17:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, Rector, PA
Tickets: Free
Join us for a warm drink and to hear the tale of the Jolly Opossum! This story will delve into what the creatures of the forest are up to during the holidays. Meet Dr. Skunk, Mx. Chickadee, Mr. Bear, and, of course, the Jolly Opossum. We will also make holiday ornaments/decorations as well. Children of all ages are welcome.
Due to winter weather conditions, we have decided to cancel Jolly Opossum. Stay safe and we hope to see you at another event soon!

Trio Tour
2025-12-21 14:30 - 15:00 | PA
When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 2:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: Free with museum admission. Get Tickets →
Join knowledgeable Natural History Interpreters to explore three connected specimens, objects, or dioramas on 30-minute tours. Sometimes the connections will be straightforward, but sometimes you’ll need the expertise of a Natural History Interpreter to connect the dots. Registration not required.
Current Tour Theme (March 1–May 31): Nests, Eggs, and Chicks
Upcoming Themes
June 5–August 30: Pennsylvania Geology
September 4–November 29: Botany Biomes
December 4–February 28, 2027: Hibernation Preparation
Tours take place Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only.

Day Off at the Museums: Teen Takeover
2025-12-29 12:00 - 15:00 | PA
STEAM into the New Year
Monday, December 29, 2025
Noon–3 p.m.
Spend your day off in a world of creativity and discovery! Teens ages 13 to 18 are invited to Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History as they join forces for a full day of STEAM-powered fun alongside Museum Educators and experts.
Start the day in the Hall of Sculpture, where you’ll enjoy food, music, and STEAM-based drop-in activities designed to spark imagination. Then, journey through the museum for interactive gallery engagements and deeper dives into science and art.

Family Nature Walk
2026-01-03 14:00 - 15:00 | Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA, 15677, United States
When: Saturday, January 3, 2026, 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Powdermill Nature Reserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector, PA 15677
Tickets: Free
Join us as we hit the trails for a guided nature walk! We’ll meet in the atrium of the Powdermill Nature Center before heading outside to explore. This family-friendly experience is open to participants of all ages.
Events fill up fast! Registration is recommended to guarantee your spot and help us plan timing, seating, and/or trail routes. If there are spots available at the time of the program, non-registered individuals can join on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Today!

R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar: Chinese Oracle Bones, 3D Digitization, and Game Design
2026-01-12 12:00 - 13:00 | PA
Talk: The Story of the Bones: Chinese Oracle Bones, 3D Digitization, and Game Design
Speakers: Jonathan Walton, Assistant Teaching Professor, Carnegie Mellon University; Dr. Gang Liu, Teaching Professor of Chinese Studies, Director of Undergraduate Studies, Carnegie Mellon University
When: Monday, January 12, 2026, 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Where: Art Theater and online via Zoom
Tickets: Free. Museum admission not required.
Dr. Jonathan Walton and Dr. Gang Liu of Carnegie Mellon University will discuss their project performing 3D scanning of ancient Chinese oracle bones to make virtual models for use by researchers, students, and game users. Integrating game design elements, the project aims to create a unified digital platform that makes these ancient artifacts and related collections from around the world accessible and engaging for modern users.
Registration is required to attend R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars. Sign-up below to attend in person or click here to join us via Zoom.

Upcoming R.W. Moriarty Science Seminars
Learn about scientific discoveries directly from the experts in the field. Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s scientific research staff and invited speakers discuss their latest findings on numerous scientific topics at the R.W. Moriarty Science Seminar series.

Sensory Friendly Weekend
2026-01-31 10:00 - 17:00 | At the Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-4007, United States
When: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: Free with Purchase of Museum Admission
Families with members who have sensory processing needs are invited to explore the museum galleries with reduced audio and visual elements. Calming spaces with support materials, including single-use ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys, etc., will be available. Museum experts will be on-hand to talk for as little or as long as you want about favorite topics like dinosaurs, rocks, gems, animals, bugs, and much more. Every program is designed to welcome all ages and abilities.
Standard sensory friendly supports are in place during regular hours for all Carnegie Museum of Natural History visitors:
• Lower lighting in select galleries
• Video sounds and exhibit background audio turned off in select galleries
• Calming spaces
• Takeaway support materials (single-use ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys, etc.)
To provide the most sensory friendly environment possible, advance registration is recommended. Pre-registration is available online until 3:00 p.m. on the day prior to the program. All customers who pre-register will receive a welcome packet via e-mail with detailed information about the event.
Register today!

Sensory Friendly Weekend
2026-02-01 10:00 - 17:00 | At the Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213-4007, United States
When: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Tickets: Free with Purchase of Museum Admission
Families with members who have sensory processing needs are invited to explore the museum galleries with reduced audio and visual elements. Calming spaces with support materials, including single-use ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys, etc., will be available. Museum experts will be on-hand to talk for as little or as long as you want about favorite topics like dinosaurs, rocks, gems, animals, bugs, and much more. Every program is designed to welcome all ages and abilities.
Standard sensory friendly supports are in place during regular hours for all Carnegie Museum of Natural History visitors:
• Lower lighting in select galleries
• Video sounds and exhibit background audio turned off in select galleries
• Calming spaces
• Takeaway support materials (single-use ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys, etc.)
To provide the most sensory friendly environment possible, advance registration is recommended. Pre-registration is available online until 3:00 p.m. on the day prior to the program. All customers who pre-register will receive a welcome packet via e-mail with detailed information about the event.
Register today!
