While iron production may have stopped at the Carrie Blast Furnaces in 1982, the era of Carrie as an artistic muse was just beginning.
Arts & Grounds Tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces
Discover how creatives, from guerrilla artists and graffiti writers to curators and designers, have been inspired by—and left their mark on—this revered landscape. Highlighting contemporary art installations, graffiti murals, the Iron Garden, and the famous Carrie Deer, the Arts & Grounds Tour invites you to experience this historic landmark from a post-industrial perspective.
This tour is a great primary experience for those looking to learn more about Rivers of Steel’s arts programs, creative placemaking, adaptive use of natural landscapes, and the post-industrial history of this site. It’s also an excellent companion tour for those who have already experienced the Industrial Tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces.
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 Arts & Grounds Tour.
Hours & Admission*
The Arts & Grounds Tour is offered on select Sundays at 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. from May through early November.
General Admission
$22
Students (18+ with college ID)
$18
Seniors (62 and above)
$18
Kids (ages 4 – 17)
$14
*Tours are limited to 20 participants. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
"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 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.
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.
- COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
- 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 a 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.
