RAD Staycation program returning this year

It offers free and discounted tickets to various popular attractions for Allegheny County residents with library cards.

The Allegheny Regional Asset District announced the RAD Summer Staycation program will allow Allegheny County residents with library cards to obtain free and discounted tickets to various museums and attractions for the second consecutive year.

In a press release, RAD said many of the free and discounted tickets are already available for library card-holders, but some organizations will reveal their discounts in May and June, encouraging county residents to check for new opportunities on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the summer.

“RAD is for everyone, and we want all of Allegheny County to know that their Regional Assets are opening their doors,” stated Dusty Elias Kirk, RAD board chair. “We received such positive feedback about last year’s Staycation program that we couldn’t wait to bring it back for another year. Whether you return to an old favorite or explore a new destination, you’re invited to use your Allegheny County library card to enjoy the best of Pittsburgh.”

According to RAD, last year’s Summer Staycation resulted in 53,000 admission-free visits to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Science Center, National Aviary, Heinz History Center, Phipps Conservatory and more. All of the aforementioned attractions and museums will offer discounted tickets through the program.

RAD listed these organizations as ones that will post discounted ticketing offers in the coming months:

• Heinz History Center.

• Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.

• Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum.

• Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

“We’re fortunate to have some of the nation’s most impressive museums and living attractions right here in Allegheny County,” Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato said. “I send my thanks to all of these organizations for providing opportunities for county residents, regardless of the municipality in which they live, to enjoy a free day out at these local gems.”

Some of the organizations offer up to four discounted tickets at a time.

“We want every resident of Allegheny County to know that they can use a library card to unlock amazing experiences,” RAD Executive Director Rich Hudic said. “We can’t say enough about the library workers throughout Allegheny County for their hard work to make this possible — your local library is your guide to have a great RAD Summer Staycation.”

To book tickets to the various attractions, go to RADPass. org and log in with an Allegheny County library card number and PIN.

For more information, go to radpass.org/faq.