The Northside | North Shore Chamber of Commerce is turning local history into an interactive adventure with the launch of a new, family-friendly scavenger hunt designed to spotlight some of the most influential figures connected to Pittsburgh’s Northside and the region’s rich cultural legacy.
Slated to launch in mid-to-late January, the scavenger hunt will take place across the Northside and North Shore of Pittsburgh and is open to residents, visitors, families, students, and history lovers of all ages. Affordable and easy to participate in, the experience blends education, exploration, and fun while encouraging participants to engage with the neighborhood’s historic landmarks and public spaces.
Participants will receive a series of clues based on famous history makers connected to the Northside and greater Pittsburgh. Each clue leads to a specific location, where participants will find a statue, icon, replica, or building tied to the historical figure. To complete the challenge, teams or individuals take photos with the landmarks at the site that solves each clue, creating a shareable and memorable way to learn local history.
“The goal is to celebrate the people who helped shape Pittsburgh while inviting the community to explore the Northside and North Shore in a new and engaging way,” said the Northside | North Shore Chamber of Commerce staff. “This scavenger hunt is designed to be inclusive, educational, and fun — whether you’re a lifelong Pittsburgher or visiting for the first time.”
The scavenger hunt will feature clues and caricatures honoring these Northside history makers:
Martha Graham — One of the most influential modern dancers and choreographers of the 20th century, Graham was born in Pittsburgh. Her groundbreaking work transformed modern dance and established techniques still taught worldwide.
Art Rooney — Founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Rooney was a Northside native whose commitment to sportsmanship, community, and philanthropy helped define Pittsburgh’s identity as a football city.
John and Phoebe Brashear — John Brashear was a renowned astronomer and instrument maker whose work advanced science and education in Pittsburgh. Alongside his wife, Phoebe, he was deeply committed to public service and educational access. The couple’s legacy lives on through institutions like the Buhl Planetarium.
Jim Irwin — An astronaut and member of the Apollo 15 mission, Irwin played a key role in space exploration during NASA’s golden age, further cementing Pittsburgh’s contributions to science and innovation.
Roberto Clemente — A legendary Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder, Clemente was not only a Hall of Fame baseball player but also a humanitarian whose impact extended far beyond the field. He remains one of the most beloved figures in Pittsburgh history.
Andrew Carnegie — One of the most influential industrialists and philanthropists in American history, Carnegie’s steel empire helped build Pittsburgh, while his philanthropy supported libraries, education, and the arts.
H.J. Heinz — Founder of the H.J. Heinz Company, Heinz was a pioneer in food manufacturing and branding. His commitment to quality and worker welfare left a lasting mark on Pittsburgh’s industrial and cultural landscape.
Henry Buhl — A successful businessman and philanthropist, Buhl invested heavily in education, science, and public institutions in Pittsburgh. The Buhl Foundation and Buhl Planetarium reflect his enduring civic legacy.
Andy Warhol — Born and raised in Pittsburgh’s Northside, Warhol became one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. A leader of the pop art movement, his work continues to shape contemporary art and culture worldwide.
Mary Cassatt — A Pittsburgh-born painter associated with the French Impressionists, Cassatt was known for her intimate portrayals of women and children and for breaking barriers for women in the art world.
George Ferris — An engineer and inventor, Ferris is best known for creating the original Ferris Wheel for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, an innovation that became an enduring symbol of modern engineering and amusement design.
By combining storytelling, physical exploration, and social interaction, the scavenger hunt aims to draw attention to the Northside’s historic significance while supporting local businesses and increasing foot traffic throughout the area.
More details on how to participate will be announced closer to the January launch. For updates, residents are encouraged to follow the Northside | North Shore Chamber of Commerce on social media and visit its website, northsidechamberofcommerce.com.
The scavenger hunt promises to be a fresh, engaging way to connect past and present one clue, one photo, and one history maker at a time.
