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| - Rivers of Steel just added a new heritage tour - via boat! - and I was lucky enough today to be a part of the launch.
During the new *90* minute tour, "you'll discover how Pittsburgh's challenging landscape, its wealth of natural resources, and the character of its residents and workers have shaped neighborhoods and industries - creating the dynamic city it is today!"
I can't tell you that some of what you'll hear you won't hear anywhere else (because you will) but I can tell you if you like history and information, this tour had MORE of it and it was a beautiful boat. The 90 minutes was just enough that you will feel you get your money's worth (The Clipper tours are only 1 hour) but not so long you will wonder, "How much more?"
I gave a 5 specifically for the Rivers of Steel staff. I took the tour with my 6 year old son and his questions never ended (yes - for all of the 90 minutes) and yet the staff was patient, kind, informative, and endured. With a commitment to education, not only did they answer questions - they whipped out specimens that would interest him from some other programming (thanks Susie!). As soon as we exited the boat at the end he asked, "When are we coming back?"
What I love most about The Explorer is that proceeds from the PGH 101 tour underwrite student STEM education programs. Rivers of Steel is committed not just in protecting our past, but investing in the future and connecting the two. As such, when reviewing all your Pittsburgh boat tour options, I'd keep that in mind. I've only been in Pittsburgh for 6 years now, but I do consider myself a Yinzer. The boat is also available for private functions which had me wondering, "I think I need to have a 10 year wedding anniversary boat party." In such a beautiful space, with such an awesome crew, and all for a good cause - how can I not?
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