Visit Planner

Directions and Maps

PLEASE NOTE: THE RACHEL CARSON HOMESTEAD WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2010 DUE TO PAINTING AND MINOR REPAIRS.

The Rachel Carson Homestead is located in the Allegheny River community of Springdale, near the intersection of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (PA 76) and Route 28, and about 1/2 hour from downtown Pittsburgh. Guided tours of the house and grounds last approximately one hour. Photography is permitted during the tour.

Remember to allow some time to browse in our on-site gift shop and bookstore, which offers children's and adult books by and about Rachel Carson, books and products related to environmental issues, education, and nature topics, and a variety of souvenirs and memoribilia.

Please dress appropriately for the weather, as you'll probably want to have a look around the grounds surrounding the house.

The self-guided Wild Creatures Nature Trail, which was opened in May 1999, is currently closed due to construction at the Allegheny Valley High School behind us.  We hope to reopen the 1/4 mile trail, which features interpretive signage and historical information about Rachel Carson's childhood rambles in the woods and fields surrounding the family house. There is also the nearby 34-mile Rachel Carson Trail, which offers a more strenuous jaunt and breathtaking views of the Allegheny River. Visit the Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy for more information.

Hours
The Rachel Carson Homestead grounds and gardens are open to the public year round.  Tours of the historic house are available year round by appointment.

Prices
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for senior adults and children over 5 years old, and free for children under 5. Free admission for Members.  For more information please call (724) 274-5459.   CLOSED IN SEPTEMBER 2010

Group Tours
We offer discounted rates for groups of 15 or more and can take large groups by reservation only. Please contact us at (724) 274-5459 or by e-mail (info@rachelcarsonhomestead.org) for more information.

School Field Trips


Accommodations and Restaurants


Other Local Attractions
Hartwood Acres in Hampton Township (412-767-9200), the Alle-Kiski Historical Society in Tarentum (724-224-7666), the Burtner House in Freeport (724-224-9662), and Tour-Ed Mine and Museum (724-224-4720) all offer public tours.

Gardeners
Friday's Perennials on Locust Hill Road in Cheswick (412) 828-8250 and Michael Bros.Nursery in Russellton (724) 265-1222 are local stops for green thumbs.
Contributions
Support Rachel Carson's legacy by making a contribution. Individual and Corporate giving programs are available.  Also donate on-line.
 
Make a Commitment
Learn more about Rachel Carson’s environmental ethic and environmental health. Take action now to reduce your exposure to chemical toxins and help heal the planet.


 
Photos of Rachel Carson courtesy of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services and the Lear/Carson Collection, Connecticut College