Sustainability Tour of the Carrie Furnaces with the Green Building Alliance

Join the Green Building Alliance and Rivers of Steel for a sustainability-focused tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces.

Buy ticketsBuy tickets

This National Historical Landmark is a vital part of our region’s history, and key to honoring its culture and legacy. Learn how wngoing historic preservation of the site—which is especially challenging given its scale—is continuing on the internationally recognized landmark, and how it is creating a foundation for future development on the landmark site. Additionally, you’ll get to learn about the recent developments, including two tech-flex structures, on the adjacent RIDC-managed property that historically was part of the Carrie Furnaces.

To learn more about the history of the site and the ongoing work, read these stories:

Learning Objectives:

  • Gain insight into how historic preservation takes place on industrial sites and National Heritage Areas.
  • Learn about how Rivers of Steel aligns its work and programming with sustainability across its attractions.
  • Discover future plans for the Carrie Blast Furnaces and how the planning process is guiding development and preservation.
  • Understand how the creative use of the Carrie Blast Furnaces can honor our region’s history and future at the same time.

For more information about the Green Building Alliance, visit gba.org.

Hours & Admission*

This program is special program offered once on May 25, 2023, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

General Admission 

$35

*Space is limited for this special program.

Buy ticketsBuy tickets

Location & Directions

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.

Get DirectionsGet Directions

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 one and half 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.

Learn more about the events

such as tours, workshops, and festivals happening at each unique attraction.