The Frick: Pittsburgh’s Hidden Gem

Written by: Gloria Pytlak

Just a five-minute drive or a slightly longer leisurely walk from Franklin West apartments lies an extraordinary experience of art, history, nature, and delicious dining. Home to a cafe and several exhibits, The Frick Pittsburgh should certainly be on your must-do list as spring begins.

A unique, hidden gem of the Pittsburgh area, The Frick is actually multiple museums all rolled into one. Home to the Henry Clay Family, the Clayton Mansion features impressive fine art and gives tourists a better understanding of Pittsburgh during the Gilded Age. As it one of their most popular exhibits, reservations are strongly recommended. Admission to tour this one-of-a-kind home, as well as special exhibitions, is free for Frick members (non-member fees range from $8 – $15).  

As admission to the rest of the Frick’s abundant offerings — from the Frick art museum’s permanent collection to the Car and Carriage Museum is free, the Frick disrupts the norm. Every car lovers dream, the Car and Carriage Museum houses a collection of automobiles dated back to the turn of the 20th century. If cars aren’t your thing but have a calling for the outdoors, then explore the Greenhouse and Gardens. Its 5.5-acre site is lined with lush gardens and a plethora of diverse trees. Perfect for the sunny day in Pittsburgh.    

Don’t forget to complete — or maybe even start — your visit at The Cafe! Eat peacefully knowing this sublime dining experience prepares locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious contemporary American cuisine. Plus, enjoy traditional English-style afternoon tea for those moments when you’re feeling exceptionally royal.

Last but certainly not least, the Frick Art Exhibitions feature greats from the Renaissance to today. Frick even partnered with Google Cultural Institute to present virtual exhibits. Below you’ll find a list of The Frick’s current art exhibitions and upcoming events:

Exhibits Currently Available:

  • Van Gogh, Monet, Degas: The Mellon Collection of French Art from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
    • Due to the popularity of this exhibit, the museum will use timed ticketing. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.
  • Revive, Remix, Respond: Contemporary Ceramic Artists and The Frick Pittsburgh
    • Plus, admission to this exhibit is free!

Events to Note:

March 23, 2018 – Free with exhibit admission, Impressions Gallery Talks begins at 2:00 pm.

March 24, 2018 – Free with exhibit admission, The Frick Museum Docent Tours begin at 2:00 pm.

March 28, 2018 – Advanced registration and payment are required to join the Act 48 Teacher Workshop: Writing Through Impressionism, which begins at 10:00 am to 3:30 pm.

Many of these events have multiple dates, so click here to get further details about March events at The Frick. Considering how much The Frick can offer year-round, consider a membership!