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Accessibility

Everyone is Welcome

Pittsburgh Glass Center is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.

To request accommodations, please contact us or call 412-365-2145 x 214.

Take this opportunity to virtually explore our space before you arrive.

Free Virtual Guide

Visitors with sensory needs are encouraged to use our self-guided tour to explore our building and facilities in their own time, without interruption from staff.

 

Our free virtual guide is available on Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app. Download the free app from Google Play or the App Store and explore Pittsburgh Glass Center from home or scan the QR Code upon arrival at Pittsburgh Glass Center to follow along as you tour our studios and gallery.

 

The app is designed with core accessibility features and is able to work with most built-in assistive technology on both Android and iOS phones. It is screen reader compatible, works with built-in device features such as zoom and increased contrast, and offers larger accessibility text sizes. It is also compatible with keyboard and switch control navigation.

 

Visitors are encouraged to bring noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, or any other item that could make their visit more accessible for them. Please note, Pittsburgh Glass Center has loud areas, hot areas, and bright areas due to the nature of glassmaking.

 

Braille versions of our self-guided tour are also available.

 

Download the guide today and start exploring!

Sensory Kits

Sensory kits are available for visitors to use while they are in the space. These kits include several items to help those with sensory sensitivities navigate our studios including (but not limited to) paper fans, shaded safety glasses, and noise-canceling headphones. We have both adult and adolescent sizes available.

 

To acquire a kit, simply request one at the front desk and be sure to return your kit at the end of your visit.

Sign Language Interpretation

Sign Language Interpretation will be provided at all public events hosted by the Pittsburgh Glass Center. ASL Interpretation is also available for all students participating in classes or workshops. Requests must be made at least 2 weeks in advance.

Accessible Parking

An accessible parking space is available directly in front of our facility on Penn Avenue.

 

Please note, beginning in March 2023, Pittsburgh Glass Center will begin construction on the expansion of our facility which will allow us to more than double the number of people that visit each year! During construction, all activities will proceed as normal, but our parking lot will be unavailable. We encourage you to allow extra travel time to find parking in the surrounding areas before your activity. Parking on Penn Avenue in front of and near our building is free.

Wheelchairs

Pittsburgh Glass Center is accessible to wheelchair users and other visitors who need to avoid stairs. The entrance is accessible by wheelchair and every public space in Pittsburgh Glass Center can be reached by elevator or ramp. Pittsburgh Glass Center welcomes walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, and every other mobility aid. For students, each of our studios is accessible via wheelchair.

Strollers

Pittsburgh Glass Center is accessible to strollers and other visitors who need to avoid stairs. The entrance is accessible by wheelchair and every public space in Pittsburgh Glass Center can be reached by elevator or ramp. Pittsburgh Glass Center welcomes children of all ages to come and see the magic of glass art.

Closed Captioning

Many of Pittsburgh Glass Center’s videos are available with closed captions, including videos in the gallery and videos available online on our YouTube Channel.

Service Animals

Service Animals are welcome in Pittsburgh Glass Center. Unfortunately, due to the nature of glass and the dangers involved, we are unable to accommodate pets or emotional support animals in the building. Service animals are welcome in all classes and workshops.

Accessible Restrooms

Both restrooms on the lower floor of Pittsburgh Glass Center are accessible. Gender-neutral single-occupancy restrooms are located on the second floor.

 

There is a diaper-changing station located in one of our gender-neutral single-occupancy restrooms located on the second floor. This restroom is marked with a Koala Kare sign on the door.

Available Seating

Bench seating is available in both our lobby and our gallery for visitors to take a break as they explore our building and studios. Bleacher-style seating is available for glassblowing demonstrations during our public events and Hot Jams.