Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Introduction to Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces

For those seeking an immersive journey into Pittsburgh’s industrial past, the Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark presents a compelling and unforgettable experience. Located at Address: 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15218, this landmark offers a powerful glimpse into the heart of America’s steel industry and the lives of the workers who fueled its growth. With a phone number of Phone: 24640838 and a comprehensive website at Website: riversofsteel.com, planning a visit is straightforward. The complex specializes as a Historical landmark, a renowned Sightseeing tour agency, a dependable Tour operator, and a captivating Tourist attraction. It truly embodies a significant piece of American heritage.

A Glimpse into Pittsburgh’s Steel Legacy

Carrie Furnace, once the largest blast furnace in the United States, stands as a monumental testament to the ingenuity and labor of generations. Constructed in 1884, it played a crucial role in producing the steel that shaped the nation’s infrastructure and industries. The site’s history extends far beyond the furnace itself, encompassing the surrounding coke ovens, railways, and worker housing – all integral components of a thriving industrial community. The National Historic Landmark designation recognizes the site’s exceptional historical and architectural significance, highlighting its importance in the evolution of American industry.

Tour Experiences and Accessibility

Visitors can explore the complex through a variety of guided tours, offering different perspectives on the site’s history. The tours are meticulously designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the steelmaking process, the challenges faced by the workers, and the social and economic impact of the industry. The tours are known for their engaging storytelling, with experienced guides bringing the past to life. Specifically, individuals often commend the quality of the tour guides, such as Bill, who are described as exceptional storytellers with fascinating personal narratives. It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, as the tours are popular and frequently sell out, particularly during peak seasons. Getting tickets in advance recommended.

Amenities and Practical Information

The facility is committed to providing an accessible experience for all visitors. A Wheelchair accessible parking lot is available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can easily access the site. The tour itself is designed to be manageable, with opportunities to sit during the two-hour duration. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in places. Bringing water is advisable, particularly during warmer months, as the outdoor environment can become quite hot. The complex is continuously upgrading its facilities to maintain a comfortable and informative experience.

Visitor Feedback and Reputation

The Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark enjoys a remarkably positive reputation amongst its visitors. On Google My Business, the site boasts an impressive average opinion of 4.8/5, reflecting the overwhelmingly favorable feedback received. With a substantial 714 reviews, visitors consistently praise the informative tours, the knowledgeable guides, and the overall immersive experience. The tour guides are frequently cited for their passion and ability to connect with visitors on a personal level, transforming the experience from a simple sightseeing trip into a genuinely engaging historical journey.

Points of Interest Within the Complex

• Carrie Furnace itself: The centerpiece of the landmark, offering a dramatic view into the heart of the steelmaking process.
• Coke Ovens: Exploring the network of coke ovens reveals the intricate logistics involved in producing coke, a crucial ingredient in steelmaking.
• Worker Housing Exhibits: Providing insights into the lives of the workers who operated the furnace, showcasing their living conditions and daily routines.
• Interpretive Center: Featuring exhibits, photographs, and artifacts that illuminate the history of the site and the broader steel industry.

The complex provides a unique opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the industrial heritage of America. It’s a destination that sparks curiosity, fosters appreciation for the past, and leaves a lasting impression. Good for kids due to the engaging exhibits and the dramatic scale of the site.

👍 Reviews of Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark

Ryan S.

5/5

This was an amazing two hour tour experience.. and to have someone like Bill doing the tour.. I am not sure how you convinced him but he is truly an exceptional story teller whose personal story is also fascinating..!

Wear comfy shoes for some uneven terrain.. use the bathroom before the two hour tour begins.. there are places to sit during the tour if needed.. you may want to bring water if it is hot outside.

HIGHLY recommended while in Pittsburgh..!

Catherine K.

5/5

Incredible piece of history, so glad I could show my kids the buildings up close. We participated in hands in activities. There were top notch vendors representing glass arts, metalsmithing, ceramics and even whiskey. There was a phenomenal polka band as well (Polkahokics)!

Jackie R.

5/5

The combustion festival is incredible! Can't wait to go again next year and bring all the kids. Super family-friendly, entertaining, and great food trucks. The fireworks were absolutely stunning!

Carl G.

5/5

A group of 7 (4 adults and 3 kids) attended a guided tour of Carrie Furnaces in 08/22/2024 and had a fantastic experience.

Our guide was Bill, he’s a natural story teller and made the tour really interesting throughout the 2 hour length. Could not have asked for a better tour guide.

Really a fantastic experience, must-do for anyone interest in history, industry, manufacturing, etc. Even my 8 year old said “wow that’s amazing” a number of times.

Thank you!

Kory G.

5/5

I had the privilege of talking my son to Carrie Blast Furnaces for their 2025 Intercollegiate Iron Pour. We were able to spend two days learning the ins and outs of forging our own knives, and then participate in the iron pour the next day.

All three days, the team was absolutely spectacular.

The instruction for the knife making was informative and up-beat. They would demo the skills, but then take the time to ensure that we all understood and could demonstrate our understanding. Additionally, creativity and exploration were encouraged at every step of the process.

On Saturday, during the iron pour, the entire team was so great to work with, and encouraged anyone who was interested in participating, to get hands on with helping out. They did an amazing job of ensuring people felt supported and included.

My son and I can't wait to go back! My daughter was bummed out that she wasn't old enough, but as soon as she saw the bottom drop at the end of the pour she made me promise to take her as soon as possible.

It doesn't matter if your a novice or a seasoned iron worker, if you are drawn to the glow of hot iron, or the smell of grinding steel, this is the place to be!

L. C.

5/5

A great tour experience for engineering and history lover. It's also a great spot for heritage photo shooting.

PWMT

5/5

A Must-Do Tour in Pittsburgh!

What a treat! My partner and I recently went on this incredible two-hour tour—be prepared because it’s long, but totally worth it.

My tips before you go on the tour:
Eat before
Use the restroom before
Wear comfortable shoes

We learned so much about the steel industry and America’s industrial growth in the early 1900s. Walking in the footsteps of America’s steel giants and seeing how the industry shaped not only Pittsburgh but the entire nation was a powerful experience.

Now, let me tell you about our tour guide, Keith. What a guy! Keith worked in the steel industry, so he’s knowledgeable about everything and anything related to it. Hearing his stories brought the history to life, and I realized how rare it is to meet someone with firsthand experience in this field, as many of those who worked in the industry are no longer with us. Having a tour guide like Keith was truly special. If you’re like us and into history, and you want to hear it from someone who actually lived it, ask for Keith. While on the tour, I also googled some old photos so I can see what it looked like back then.

It was the highlight of our weekend in Pittsburgh—and we even went to a Steelers game! But hands down, this tour was better.

Kelsey D.

4/5

Fantastic spot from some local history and photography. We went on the Arts & Grounds tour and while we learned a little the real value was being able to explore the site and take photos. If you're big into photography I would recommend the monthly photography tour instead. The team that works here is friendly, facilities are pretty bare bones but there are portable toilets. If you go in summer, definitely wear sunscreen, bring bug repellant, and wear long pants - the grounds are wild in parts, which adds to the charm but also the mosquito population.