Bayernhof Museum

Each month CarSense highlights some of the best attractions in the region in a feature called "Sunday Drives".

Saturday, February 15

The Bayernhof Museum is sometimes referred to as Pittsburgh’s best-kept secret, a giant 19,000 square foot castle-like mansion that sits on top of a mountain that overlooks Sharpsburg, the Pittsburgh Zoo and the Allegheny River. But while it commands a great view (one entire side of the structure is glass), that’s not all that makes it breathtaking.

The residence is filled with more fascinating things than you can possibly see, collected by former owner Charles M. (Chuck) Brown, who was himself one-of-a-kind. His main passion was antique music boxes, and the bigger the better (he eventually assembled a world-class collection) but the home itself is priceless, too, with hidden doors, secret passageways, and even a secret cave. Tours start with a brief history of the man in the Family Room, then wend their way through the house, where you see (and hear from) a sampling of Chuck’s music machines. Expect a lot of unique “Chuck stories,” along with “I’ve never seen anything like this before” coming the mouths of fellow visitors.

The museum is open every day except major holidays, but there is a catch: tours are guided, and you have to schedule your appointment before arriving at the museum (call 412-782-4231 to arrange yours). Tours are limited to 12 people each, and children have to be over 12 (or over 16 if they’re unaccompanied by a parent or guardian.) Admission is $10 per person.

http://www.bayernhofmuseum.com/index.html

Bayernhof Museum

225 St. Charles Place

Pittsburgh, PA 15215

412-782-4231