RAD Summer Staycation returns, offering free admission to beloved Pittsburgh attractions

PITTSBURGH – Summer in Allegheny County is starting early this year.

The Allegheny Regional Asset District – RAD – is bringing back its popular RAD Summer Staycation free-admission program for a second year. Allegheny County residents will once again be able to use their library cards on RADPass.org to secure tickets to popular RAD-funded attractions and museums that typically charge daily admission.

“RAD is for everyone, and we want all of Allegheny County to know that their Regional Assets are opening their doors,” said Dusty Elias Kirk, RAD Board Chair. “We received such positive feedback about last year’s Staycation program that we couldn’t wait to bring it back for another year. Whether you return to an old favorite or explore a new destination, you’re invited to use your Allegheny County library card to enjoy the best of Pittsburgh.”

Last summer, RAD Summer Staycation provided more than 53,000 free-of-charge visits to beloved local institutions – including the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Science Center, National Aviary, Heinz History Center, Phipps Conservatory, and many more – all of which will be returning with offers in 2025.

“We’re fortunate to have some of the nation’s most impressive museums and living attractions right here in Allegheny County,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. “I send my thanks to all of these organizations for providing opportunities for County residents, regardless of the municipality in which they live, to enjoy a free day out at these local gems.”

Free-admission offers for library-card holders have begun appearing on RADPass.org, though some attractions will begin posting their offers beginning in May and June. RAD Pass users are encouraged to check back frequently for new opportunities, particularly on Mondays and Tuesdays.

RAD Summer Staycation reservation spots will be added regularly through August 2025. Users are asked to read offers carefully, as some attractions offer 2-packs or 4-packs for admission.

“I’m excited that the RAD Summer Staycation program is returning, offering residents the chance to explore family-friendly destinations across the city—from world-class museums to unforgettable experiences—all at no cost,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey. “It's the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories this summer, right here in our own backyard.”

The following institutions are currently making offers available on RADPass.org

• The Andy Warhol Museum
• Carnegie Museum of Art
• Carnegie Museum of Natural History
• Carnegie Science Center
• Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
• The Frick Pittsburgh
• Mattress Factory - Museum of Contemporary Art
• National Aviary
• Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

These institutions will begin to make offers available in the coming months:

• Heinz History Center
• Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
• Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
• Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum

“We want every resident of Allegheny County to know that they can use a library card to unlock amazing experiences,” said Rich Hudic, RAD Executive Director. “We can’t say enough about the library workers throughout Allegheny County for their hard work to make this possible – your local library is your guide to have a great RAD Summer Staycation!”

RAD Pass offers can be booked and redeemed by following a four-step process:

1. Log in to RADPass.org with your Allegheny County library card number and PIN.
2. Browse for passes by date or by venue.
3. Reserve your pass.
4. Print your RAD Pass or download it to your mobile device.

As always, guests are encouraged to be courteous to other RAD Pass users: only book a reservation that you plan to use on the selected date. If you find you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation to open up spots for others.

Answers to frequently asked questions about RAD Pass can be found at radpass.org/faq/