One of Pittsburgh’s best hidden gems, isn’t an expensive restaurant, thrilling sports team, or even a classical museum but instead the creativity and beauty of one man’s mind that showed an entire city that art is something that can’t be stopped, imagination is limitless, and  that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Tucked away on the North Shore in Pittsburgh, only a few blocks from some of the city’s biggest attractions is home to Randyland. For those who are not from the area or into upcycled and mural art, one may drive past this beautifully eccentric building with a bit of curiosity or for some maybe even a bit of confusion. But for those who have walked through this man made haven understand the true one of a kind treasure that this artistic masterpiece this location is.

It is hard to put into words the complexity, artistic vision, and pure joy and imagination that is Randyland. Those who come by this location are welcomed with bright colors, hopeful messages, and a sense of unity that was created by a one of a kind soul . Randyland is an outdoor art museum and landmark building that is home to a variety of one of a kind vibrant, authentic, and soulful pieces that inspire and open the mind to the creative world of artist Randy Gilson. These public art displays are mainly made of upcycled items and have been repurposed to upbeat and brightly colored pieces of art that are meant to inspire all of those who walk the sidewalks of this artist’s home. The artist himself is a Pittsburgh native, and is just as lively and inspiring as his art. Gilson, like many artists throughout history, has taken his personal struggles and tragedies and transformed them into beauty, acceptance, and love for themselves and others.  Walking through Randy’s imagination is like being transported to another world, a place of peace, hope, and dreams where even the most mundane things can take on their own lives and become things that you could never imagine.

Like most other great things in life, admission is free, there is a donation box if you wish to contribute to Randy’s future artistic ventures. He also has a small collection of crafted items for sale which help keep his artistic pieces growing and evolving like himself. The artist himself can often be found at Randyland or other local establishments and is always more than happy to talk with locals and visitors alike. Located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh this one of a kind art museum is open the majority of the year from dawn to dusk. should be an essential stop for anyone visiting the area.