Ketch-ing Up on History

Two back-to-back gorgeous days beckoned me to take long walks to check out some history – and to get those steps in!

My first stop was the Heinz History Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museums. Unlike the Smithsonian Museums in D.C., there is an entrance fee to the Heinz.

It’s well worth it, as within its building is the Western PA Sports Museum, which celebrates many sports and athletes, both professional and amateur. Of course, a Western PA sports museum wouldn’t be complete without an immortalized figure of Franco Harris’ “Immaculate Reception.”

There’s no way a museum named “Heinz” wouldn’t have a good part of a floor devoted to the history of its brand…and it sure didn’t disappoint! From the Heinz ketchup tower to its collab with Ed Sheeran (I had no idea), there’s something that will catch your eye – with a chuckle.

I completed the “Smart Steps” challenge, walking up all six levels of the museum (to be clear, not all at once) and earning my prize: a pickle pin with – what else? – but “Heinz” written on it. For those who are able, it’s an easy walk with additional historical facts and visuals to make the experience interesting and informative.

The next day found me at the Fort Pitt Museum, a part of the Heinz History Center, for my second stop.

With a saved receipt, one can either return to the history center the next day or visit Fort Pitt or Meadowcroft Rockshelter for free. For me, it was much closer to visit Fort Pitt, located in Point State Park. (Unfortunately, the iconic fountain won’t be flowing high in its usual majestic fashion this year as it undergoes revitalization for the 2026 NFL Draft, which will be held here in Pittsburgh.) The significance of western Pennsylvania and the fort itself to American and Native American histories is presented in detail, with a focus on significant events and wars before 1776.

Point State Park Fountain will look like this until the NFL Draft next year. Booo. Fabulous view of Heinz Field (oooops - Acrisure Stadium).

I love museums because they enrich my mind and body. If it were a paid profession, I would be a professional museum go-er.

How do you expand your mind while getting your steps in for the day? Where are those go-to places?