It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood along the Fred Rogers Trail! Spend the day taking a walk in the PA legends shoes as we explore various locations in Latrobe — Rogers’ hometown — and the city of Pittsburgh, where his beloved show Mister Rogers' Neighborhood was produced.
LATROBE
1. Idlewild & Soak Zone
Spend an adventurous day at Idlewild & Soak Zone, recognized as the “Best Children's Park in the World” by Amusement Today. While there, take a trolley ride through Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood. “Daniel Tiger” was the first television series inspired by the original “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood”.
2. Fred Rogers Center
At the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent's College, you will find an interactive exhibit that features recorded interviews with Fred, a look at his life “before the sweater”, and other memorabilia.
3. Latrobe High School
In Rogers' birthplace, Latrobe, you'll want to stop by Latrobe High School, which houses a large display of items from Rogers' school years and “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood” production memorabilia. The display is open to the public during school activities.
4. Latrobe Presbyterian
As Fred Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian minister, you'll want to see where he attended church as a child: Latrobe Presbyterian. Located right in the heart of town, the church is a quick walk from other stops in the area.
5. Latrobe Area Historical Society
At the Latrobe Area Historical Society, delve into the history of the town, its heritage firsts, and famous citizens, including Fred and golf legend Arnold Palmer who attended high school together.
6. James H. Park
At James H. Rogers Park, named in memory of Fred's father, take a selfie with the statue of Fred sitting on a bench. In front of the park is the Rogers Building, which today houses the Latrobe Art Center and Ricolita's Café. Grab a snack and snag some Rogers merchandise while perusing local art.
7. Unity Cemetery
Before you leave Latrobe, take a moment to visit Fred Rogers' final resting place and reflect on his legacy at Unity Cemetery which offers panoramic views of the Chestnut Ridge of the Laurel Highlands.
PITTSBURGH
8. Senator John Heinz History Center
Following Fred-filled time in Latrobe, make the hourlong drive to the Senator John Heinz History Center to view the world's largest collection of original items from the “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood” television set, including King Friday XIII's Castle and Mr. McFeely's “Speedy Delivery” tricycle.
9. Tribute To Children
Enjoy the views of downtown Pittsburgh from the Tribute to Children, a 10-foot bronze statue of Rogers sitting and tying his sneakers — just as he did at the beginning of each episode.
10. Children’s Museum Of Pittsburgh
At the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, explore the “Fred Rogers & Us” exhibit that features original puppets, including King Friday XIII, Queen Sarah Saturday, and Henrietta Pussycat in the Nursery. Or, enjoy the kid-friendly fun online virtual “Museum At Home” activities.
11. WQED Station
Before you leave town, take a selfie in front of the place where “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood” was filmed: WQED Studios, the nation's first community-supported television station. The show was produced by Family Communications, Inc.
12. Pennsylvania Trolly Museum
You can't truly complete the Fred Rogers Trail without taking a trolley ride. Just 40 minutes away in Washington, PA, is the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Here, you'll also discover where Mister Rogers filmed the iconic “Grandparents” episode.
To learn more about the Fred Rogers Trail, check out the VISIT PA website. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state. Don't forget to sign up for our monthly PA travel e-newsletter so you never miss an update.