The National Aviary in Pittsburgh is a haven for bird lovers of all ages.
Situated in Pittsburgh, it proudly holds the title of the largest aviary in the country. Within its gates, you’ll discover a breathtaking collection of over 500 bird of different species from various corners of the world.
From the colorful parrots of the rainforests to the majestic raptors soaring through the skies, this aviary is a treasure trove of avian wonders.
Whether you’re a seasoned bird enthusiast or simply curious about our feathered friends, the National Aviary promises an interactive and fun-filled experience for the whole family.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of birds like never before!
What to Expect
The National Aviary in Pittsburgh is truly a remarkable place to visit. I can confidently say that this is an attraction that the whole family will enjoy.
One of the highlights of the National Aviary is the opportunity to see birds up close, sometimes even at arm’s length. As someone who used to be scared of birds, I found this experience to be truly eye-opening.
It helped me overcome my fear and appreciate the beauty and wonder of these winged creatures. From majestic sea eagles to impressive condors, the Aviary houses a wide variety of bird species that will leave you in awe.
But the National Aviary isn’t just about showcasing birds. It also plays a vital role in educating visitors about bird conservation and how we can contribute to preserving dwindling bird populations.
I was impressed by the efforts they make to raise awareness and inspire action.
The animal encounters offered at the Aviary are not only enjoyable but also provide valuable insights into the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.
One thing that stood out during our visit was the exceptional staff. The animal experts at the Aviary are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their work.
They were more than willing to answer any questions we had and share fascinating facts about the birds. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and it made the experience even more memorable.
What’s to See and Do
The National Aviary in Pittsburgh is home to over 500 birds from around the world. The aviary is divided into a number of different habitats, each of which is home to a variety of bird species.
Here are some of the breathtaking exhibits that you must see:
Tropical rainforest
Our kids were captivated by the close encounters with birds that walked right at their feet and soared just inches above their heads.
They were so excited to search for the hidden sloth, and when they found it, a friendly staff member even took the time to show them its secret spot.
As you explore the habitat, you’ll encounter a breathtaking 15-foot waterfall that cascades into tiered ponds, providing a refreshing playground for the birds.
Specially designed perching areas allow some of the avian residents, like the colorful Hyacinth Macaws, to perch near you as you make your way through.
Strolling along the boardwalk, you’ll witness Snowy Egrets elegantly wading in a pond while the once extinct-in-the-wild Guam Rails dart in and out of the foliage nearby. Keep an eye out for the majestic Victoria Crowned Pigeons, known for their impressive presence just a few feet away.
If you direct your gaze upwards, you might catch a glimpse of Wookiee, Linnaeus’s Two-toed Sloth, slowly navigating the treetops. These fascinating creatures epitomize the relaxed pace of life in the rainforest canopy.
While you and your kids embark on this captivating journey, take the opportunity to educate them about the vital importance of rainforest conservation.
The Tropical Rainforest at the National Aviary not only offers a delightful and interactive experience but also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the need to protect rainforests worldwide.
Condor Court
Condor Court at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh is an absolute treat for nature enthusiasts and families.
As we strolled into this section, we were immediately transported into what felt like a scene from Jurassic Park! The ambiance and setup were truly remarkable.
One of the highlights of Condor Court is encountering the majestic Andean Condors.
These magnificent birds boast an impressive wingspan of 10 feet, making them one of the largest raptors in the world. Witnessing these graceful creatures up close was an awe-inspiring experience for both kids and adults.
The court itself is designed to cater to the needs of these massive birds.
It offers ample space for them to stretch their wings, with rocky mountain ledges strategically placed almost 20 feet in the air.
These ledges serve as perfect perching spots, allowing the condors to observe their surroundings with a commanding view. Additionally, nesting cavities provide them with cozy and secure spaces to lay their eggs and raise their young.
The Charity Randall Foundation Eagle Hall
As you explore this great hall, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter one of the world’s largest eagle species, the magnificent Steller’s Sea Eagle.
These majestic creatures will leave you in awe with their impressive size and captivating presence.
But that’s not all! The National Aviary’s dedication to avian welfare extends beyond showcasing these incredible birds.
Within the Charity Randall Foundation Eagle Hall, you can also catch a glimpse into their state-of-the-art Avian Hospital.
Here, their expert veterinarians provide top-notch medical care for the resident and visiting birds. It’s truly fascinating to witness the dedication and expertise that goes into ensuring the well-being of these feathered patients.
A visit to the Charity Randall Foundation Eagle Hall at the National Aviary is an educational and inspiring experience for the whole family.
It’s a chance to learn about these magnificent eagles and the vital work being done to protect and care for birds of all kinds.
Canary’s Call
Canary’s Call is a must-visit for families seeking an educational and interactive experience. This indoor habitat offers a museum-style exhibit filled with interpretive displays that truly bring the stories of birds to life.
Through captivating words, stunning images, and engaging interactive elements, Canary’s Call showcases:
- The impacts of pollution
- Invasive species
- Overconsumption
- Habitat loss on ecosystems worldwide
It serves as a reminder that birds, as indicator species, play a crucial role in reflecting the health of our planet.
By immersing themselves in these stories, visitors, especially children, can better understand their responsibility as stewards of our environment. It’s an excellent opportunity for kids to learn while having fun.
One of the highlights of Canary’s Call is the chance to see fruit bats in a bright, inviting room.
This unique experience adds an extra touch of excitement to the visit, creating lasting memories for the whole family.
Penguin Point
Penguin Point at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh was a real treat for our family. The kids were amazed by the opportunity to get up close and personal with the African penguins.
They were just a few steps away from us, swimming gracefully and captivating our attention. It was truly a unique experience to see these fascinating creatures so close.
One of the highlights was the penguin feeding. We watched the penguins eagerly gather near the viewing glass, waiting for their meal. It was incredible to witness their feeding habits and observe their interactions with the keepers.
But the real standout of our visit was the penguin encounter with Slippy. This unique experience allowed us to spend quality time with one of the penguins and learn more about them.
We got to see Slippy’s special adaptations up close and hear about the challenges penguins face in the wild.
Although the penguin encounter came at an additional cost, it was well worth it. The opportunity to connect with such a fantastic creature and gain a deeper understanding of their species was priceless.
Good to know before you go
- Make sure to get a schedule of the daily feedings and special activities as soon as you arrive.
- Buy your tickets in advance. This will save you time and avoid the lines at the ticket booth.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you’re comfortable.
- Bring a camera. The aviary has some amazing birds, so you’ll want to capture your memories.
- Be prepared for the weather. The aviary is indoors, but the temperature can vary depending on the season.
Hours & When to go
The National Aviary in Pittsburgh is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm.
To have a more enjoyable experience, consider visiting during weekdays or in the morning to avoid crowds.
Admission & Pricing
Adults can enjoy the aviary for just $17.95, while children aged 2 to 12 have a discounted rate of $14.95.
For visitors aged 60 and above, the ticket price is $16.95. It’s important to note that children under 2 years old can enter for free.
Remember to reserve your tickets in advance to secure your spot, although limited tickets may be available at the door.
Getting there & Parking
The National Aviary is located at 700 Arch Street in Pittsburgh, PA. It is easily accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle.
There is a parking lot on-site that costs $5 per car. The lot closes nightly at 5pm.
