Don’t forget to tag your social media photos with #heinzhistorycenter so that we can see what your favorite photo spots at the History Center are!
The History Center’s Heinz exhibit got a boost in popularity when world famous singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran stopped by for a visit before his concert at PPG Paints Arena in September. He shared a video of his trip to “the ketchup museum in Pittsburgh” with his 16 million Instagram followers. Needless to say, the post generated plenty of buzz among his ketchup-loving fans.
So that got us thinking… what parts of the museum are most Instagram-worthy?
For History Center visitors, it’s a mix of nostalgia, inspiration, and a little bit of quirkiness in our exhibits that creates the perfect photo opp. The Instagram opportunities are endless in the History Center’s six floors of awe-inspiring exhibitions detailing Western Pennsylvania’s rich history.
There’s #nofilter needed for our most popular – and Instagrammable – displays, as documented by visiting history buffs, yinzers, and out-of-towners alike.
Keep scrolling to discover the History Center’s top five most Instagram-worthy spots. (And make sure to have your smartphone ready during your next visit!)
5. Rosie the Riveter
Photo credit: @chrissie.oh on instagram
Location: Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation, second floor
Nothing says girl power like Rosie the Riveter. This iconic image was created by Westinghouse artist J. Howard Miller in 1942 as women joined the workforce in droves during World War II. In 1943, a popular song coined the term “Rosie the Riveter,” and a Norman Rockwell illustration by the same name appeared on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post, cementing Rosie’s name and image in popular culture. Share a photo of Rosie to honor this legendary symbol of female empowerment.
4. Kennywood Racer
Photo credit: @janetrcauley on instagram
Location: Great Hall, first floor
The Racer is a favorite of Kennywood newbies and veterans alike. This classic wooden roller coaster has been thrilling fans – and bringing out their competitive side – since 1927! Hop into a retired Racer train to recreate your favorite ride.
3. Heinz Ketchup Bottle
Photo credit: @teddysphotos on instagram
Location: Heinz exhibit, fourth floor
A larger-than-life ketchup bottle displayed in our Heinz exhibit is comprised of more than 400 individual bottles. As Ed Sheeran would attest to, this 11-foot, iconic ketchup bottle is a must-see for the ketchup enthusiasts among us. Snap a photo here to make all your ketchup-loving followers jealous.
2. Pittsburgh Trolley
Photo credit: SkySight Photography / @autumnstankay on instagram
Location: Great Hall, first floor
Walk inside the History Center, and one of the first things you’ll see is this vintage trolley. One of the last Pittsburgh trolleys, Streetcar #1724 was saved by the Historical Society from demolition in 1995. It went through a four-month restoration and now sits proudly in our Great Hall, ready to take visitors on an Instagram-worthy trip down memory lane.
1. “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” Television Set
Photo credit: @codyjohnsdrums on instagram
Location: Special Collections Gallery, fourth floor
It’s always a beautiful day in Mister Rogers’ neighborhood! Nostalgia is in the air in the Special Collections Gallery, which houses the original set from the beloved children’s television show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” Artifacts like King Friday XIII’s Castle, Mr. McFeely’s tricycle, and the Great Oak Tree win the title of “Most Insta-Worthy” in the History Center.
Photo credit: @stacylynnlondon on instagram
Our most Instagrammed exhibits showcase the History Center’s unique and diverse collection of historic artifacts. With every post and hashtag, new audiences discover the inspiring stories of Western Pennsylvania history.
Looking for even more Instagram opportunities? Check out some of our top picks for a well-documented visit to the Heinz History Center and Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum.
Stainless Steel Car
Location: Great Hall, first floor
Goalie Cutout
Location: Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, third floor
Mario Lemieux Life-like Figure
Location: 50 Years of Penguins Hockey, fourth floor
Honus Wagner Baseball Card Cutout
Location: Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, second floor
Nelson Mandela Quote
Location: From Slavery to Freedom, fourth floor
Kim Roberts is the communications coordinator at the Heinz History Center.