The PGH Momma

⚾️ TODDLER TESTED: Pittsburgh Pirates Edition ⚾️

I really wasn’t sure how long my 2-year-old would last at a baseball game, but the Pittsburgh Pirates have truly thought of everything for families.

Welcome to the first episode of Toddler Tested, my new summer series where I share the scoop on family-friendly spots around Pittsburgh and whether they’re actually worth the trip.

We headed to a 12:15 Pirates game on a day with PERFECT weather, and honestly, I was impressed. Between the Family Fun activities, kid-friendly food options, nursing moms room, playground, Riverwalk attractions, and the chance for kids to run the bases after the game, there was always something to keep him engaged.

He spent most of the game hanging out with my husband, clapping, dancing, singing along, and soaking up all the excitement between innings. We grabbed some ballpark favorites, explored the kid-friendly areas, and made memories we’ll definitely be repeating.

One of my favorite things about visiting PNC Park is how many family-focused experiences are available throughout the season. Be sure to check out the Pirates’ Family Fun Days and sign up as a Pirates Insider to stay up to date on upcoming promotions, giveaways, and family events.

If you’ve been wondering whether a Pirates game is worth it with little kids, this might be your sign to give it a try.

Toddler Tested Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Have you taken your little ones to a Pirates game yet? ⚾️👇

Frankie’s Splash Pad in Beaver County isn’t just a splash pad, it’s also a great picnic spot, has a fully shaded playground, all ages swing set & the perfect summer hangout spottt ! I’m a huge fan of the real bathrooms that have allll the hooks on the wall for changing convenience. We spent about an hour here today and it was perfect! The parking lot is fenced off but the field and woods on the side are open for kids to run off if you’re not paying attention. Having both a splash pad and playground seems like a good idea until the playset is soaked 🤣 Although it is fully shaded making for a nice break from the sun. I would come back if I was in the area , if you’re local check this out! If you live in moon/robinson, you’re only 25 minutes away!!

If you’re looking for an easy indoor activity, this is such a good one to have on your list! ⬇️

The Upper St. Clair Community & Recreation Center has an indoor pool that honestly feels like a mini water park with waterslides, a lazy river-style resistance channel, and a zero depth entry that’s perfect for little kids.💦☀️

You don’t need a membership either.

A limited number of daily passes are available for $15 (under 2 is free), which makes this one of the best budget-friendly options in the South Hills. You must book in advance online!

There’s also:

• a separate lap pool, a large hot tub, plenty of space for both kids + adults🛟

The entire facility is actually a huge rec center (about 90,000 sq ft) with fitness areas, walking track, and more — so it’s not just a pool if you plan to come back!

And in the summer, they open a massive outdoor pool with slides& splash features!

This is one of those spots that’s perfect for colder days, rainy days, or when you just need to get out of the house.

Save this for later and send it to another mom who needs an easy plan! 🌊🛝

POV: You just discovered Pittsburgh’s W***y Wonka factory… and it’s only 30 minutes away 🍫✨

I finally got a behind-the-scenes look at the brand so many of us grew up with! Watching thousands of pounds of chocolate 600k to be exact, move through the factory was just as cool as I imagined. if you book a tour beginning in July, you’ll get to do a 45 minute guided experience through the factory along with tastings and history all throughout the way. We got to witness the chocolate tears pouring fresh caramel out to dry and move onto its next adventure. My son had the best time and we got to do this experience with our other friend and contact creator and her son Jack!

From chocolate-covered pretzels to the candy-making process, this tour gives you the history & sweet treats along the way. The family-owned company has been making candy in Canonsburg since the 1960s and recently opened public factory tours for the first time! if you can’t get enough of this factory and your children want to spend more than just the 45 minute tour here book their next birthday party here with the full experience of making their own chocolate bar! this is a fun place that my son will grow up with as a core memory and staple just like I did! 🍫🤍✨🥳

don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself 😚

We Rock the Spectrum Butler County is one of the most intentionally designed indoor play spaces I’ve seen for families. This is by FAR Leo’s favorite place we’ve visited !!

What stood out most:
✨ Massive Play equipment
✨ Sensory experiences
✨ Swings and jungle gyms
✨ Rock climbing wall
✨ Full size trampoline
✨ Zipline and crash pad
✨ Calm room for sensory breaks
✨ Infant + toddler space
✨ Teen room (finally!)
✨ Reading corner
✨ Arts & crafts area
✨ Therapy room
✨ Party space for birthdays

Everything is under one roof and designed so kids of all ages and abilities can actually enjoy the same space in their own way. Annie, the owner, is the sweetest person and cares so deeply for this space. It truly shows in the quality of the space, the top notch cleanliness & her bright and genuine smile !!

This is the kind of place you don’t realize you needed until you walk in and experience it for yourself

📍 Cranberry Township

Save this for rainy days & post nap energy burns

Adding to summer bucket list 😍

Whitehall Public Library is one of those places that just gets it for kids. The children’s area alone could keep my toddler busy for hours! Residents, this one’s for you!

But what makes this a top 3 space for us is that the Whitehall pool is right next door to the Whitehall Pool! So you can start at the library (AC, calm, play, storytime)Then head straight to the pool! Full day activity ✅

The pool is a zero depth entry, 2 slides, Spray features, BYOChair , seperate shaded kids pool & FREE for kids under 3

I also talked to the director while we were there, and he said they really turn things up in the summer with more activities, events, and things for kids to do. So definitely check their monthly calendar before you go!

This is one of those underrated spots that makes pool days easier !

Save this for later

Just found a brand new toddler play place in Imperial and it’s really well done & you can go for just $10 admission.
📍Cosima’s Playhouse

This space is the perfect size, big enough to keep kids entertained, but small enough that you can actually relax and see them from anywhere (huge win if you have a toddler).

What stood out:

• Designated baby area (separate from the chaos)

• Main play space with bounce house, ball pit, climbing wall + ride-ons

• Pretend play area (kitchen, bakery, store setup)

• Little Tikes-style roller coasters + giant legos

• Section for older kids with games + Nintendo

And for parents:

• DIY coffee bar (hot or iced, actually good)

• Plenty of seating

• Snack area

• Book nook where you can read or buy books

They even have a stocked changing station, which you don’t see often
💰 $10 admission
Mondays = pay what you can

My 2-year-old had the best time and it felt like the right level of stimulation without being overwhelming.

Definitely one to keep in your rotation! Save this for your next rainy day 🤍

PGH nfl draft!