PITTSBURGH — The Smithsonian-affiliated Senator John Heinz History Center has been voted as the No. 1 History Museum in America by USA Today as part of its annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

Nominated by USA Today’s panel of industry experts and editors, the Heinz History Center finished at the top of a “Best History Museum” list that included 20 of the most prestigious cultural organizations in the nation, including three Smithsonian museums (National Air and Space Museum; National Museum of African American History and National Museum of the American Indian) along with National Historic Landmarks like Ellis Island, the National Civil Rights Museum and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

“We are honored to be selected as America’s best history museum by USA Today readers and voters across the nation,” said Andy Masich, president and CEO of the history center. “As the Smithsonian’s flagship affiliate, we take pride in providing our visitors with memorable and inspiring experiences every time they enter our doors.

“This national recognition reflects the dedication of our staff and the appreciation of the communities we serve throughout the country,” Masich added. “Pittsburgh is the City of Champions, and we’re thrilled to be able to add another number one to the list. We want to extend our sincere thanks to our visitors, members and community partners in Western Pennsylvania and beyond who voted.”

The recognition is the latest achievement for the history center, which has been named “Best Museum in Pittsburgh” by readers of Pittsburgh Magazine for the past two years and ranked second overall in the 2023 USA Today Readers’ Choice poll for Best History Museum. That honor led to the “3 for Free” initiative supported by Allegheny Regional Asset District, which allowed the center to offer free admission for the month of August last year and resulted in a monthly museum record 65,000 visitors.

One of Pittsburgh’s premier cultural attractions, the center features six floors of engaging exhibitions and iconic artifacts, from the world’s oldest jeep to the original television set from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The two-floor Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, located within the center, highlights the region’s unforgettable sports moments.