Discover how nature has reclaimed a post-industrial landscape on this botany-focused tour of the wild gardens and grounds on the Carrie Blast Furnaces site.
September 18, 2022
Iron Garden Walk
Sunday, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Event Navigation
On the eastern edge of Carrie Furnaces site, there exists a wild garden where nature has reclaimed space scarred by industry. The Iron Garden Walk is more than a path through the lush greenspace; it is a botany-focused tour that shares the story of this unique and resilient landscape.
A series of iron-casted plaques, which include botanical illustrations of the local plant community, supplement the tour. Experience the beauty of the Iron Garden.
For folks looking to learn about the site’s iron-making technology, its workers, and their culture, please select tickets for the Industrial Tour, as that content is not covered during the Iron Garden Walk.
Hours & Admission*
The Iron Garden Walk is offered once a month on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. from May through September.
General Admission
$15
Students (18+ with college ID)
$12
Seniors (62 and above)
$12
Kids (ages 4 – 17)
$10
*Tours are limited to 20 participants. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance as we cannot guarantee tickets will be available for walk-ups.
"Carrie Blast Furnace is a behemoth of metal that pays homage to everything Pittsburgh is built on. It's a trip into history and culture that every Yinzer should visit."—Jen Duceour, Google Review, October 2021
Location & Directions
The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in Swissvale and Rankin, PA in the Monongahela River Valley. The entrance to the Carrie Furnaces is located at Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin, PA 15104. 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.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- Social distancing: Social distancing is no longer mandatory, but we do ask that you be mindful of the people around you, allowing for a comfortable amount of space when possible.
- 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.
- 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+.
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.
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