Insider's Guide: National Aviary

The National Aviary’s enhanced safety protocols follow best practices and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Allegheny County Health Department. The health and safety of the staff, guests, volunteers and animals is top priority to the National Aviary.

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Get to know the more than 500 birds that call the National Aviary home this summer! Experience immersive, natural habitats like the Tropical Rainforest, where a young family of Victoria Crowned Pigeons strut right past your feet and Snowy Egrets fly by your head. Visit a colony of African Penguins at Penguin Point, “flamingle” with American Flamingos in the Wetlands or enjoy serenity in the newly renovated Grasslands.

Get Your Tickets in Advance

The National Aviary is open every day except for Tuesdays. Enjoy a visit to Pittsburgh's iconic bird zoo for immersive experiences with enhanced safety protocols. It is recommended for guests to pre-purchase tickets online.

National Aviary Members have access to a flock of great benefits including free general admission! Learn more about the perks of being a member. 

Immersive Experiences

Experience the birds and more with a variety of immersive experiences available exclusively at the National Aviary. Freely explore the beautiful habitats, including the newly renovated Grasslands, or meet signature species during engaging experiences and flight demonstrations. You also can watch the National Aviary’s dedicated team feed the birds, maintain habitats and provide veterinary care. For an experience of a lifetime, you can book an animal encounter with falcons, owls, sloths and more. 

Enhanced Safety Protocols

The health and safety of the staff, guests, volunteers and animals is top priority to the National Aviary. In accordance with the guidance and best practices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities, the National Aviary has implemented the following safety protocols: 

• Guests are encouraged to pre-purchase timed tickets to regulate the number of people while practicing social distancing. 
• Staff and guests are required to wear a mask that covers their nose and mouth when visiting.
• Masks will be available for purchase in the National Aviary’s gift shop.
• Hand washing is encouraged, and hand sanitization stations are available upon entry and throughout the facility.
• The National Aviary is performing frequent cleaning and disinfection of surfaces throughout the day. 
• Employees and volunteers undergo a health screening process, including a temperature check, before entering the building every day. 
• Cashless transactions are encouraged. 

Vital Care Efforts 

The National Aviary is thrilled to welcome home African Penguins - Dottie and her mate, Stanley - after months of living in the Aviary’s ICU.

Your support for the National Aviary through donations or an annual membership helps to provide high quality care for Dottie and all the more than 500 birds and mammals at the Aviary.  

As America’s premier bird zoo, the National Aviary is a must-stop for every family this summer! Check out the National Aviary’s website for more information and to secure your visit today. 

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Pittsburgh is the perfect destination for unforgettable family fun! Featuring many fantastic attractions, Pittsburgh has plenty of entertainment options for kids of all ages. Plan your KidsBURGH® trip today!