PA Animal Attractions

Exploring the National Aviary in Pittsburgh

A photo collage featuring four different birds from the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. Top left: A Victoria crowned pigeon with elaborate feather crest. Top right: Two affectionate Hyacinth Macaws perched on a branch. Bottom left: A Toco Toucan with a large, colorful bill. Bottom right: A Steller's Sea Eagle with sharp yellow beak and intense gaze. The diverse avian life represents the variety of species housed at the aviary.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, you’re in the right place!

Three flamingos standing in water, with the reflections visible on the surface, at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. Two flamingos are resting with their heads tucked into their feathers, standing on one leg, while the third flamingo stands alert, its head raised. They are surrounded by a naturalistic habitat with rocks, logs, and lush green foliage. — Flamingos at the aviary.

Nestled in the historic North Side of Pittsburgh, the National Aviary is America’s largest independent, indoor zoo dedicated to birds.

A Boat-billed Heron perched on a horizontal branch at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The bird has a distinctive large bill, grey and tan plumage, and is set against a background of vibrant green leaves. The warm lighting suggests a tropical habitat setting within the aviary. — A Boat-billed Heron.

As you step inside, you’re transported into a world where birds fly freely in large, naturalistic habitats.

A pathway through a lush rainforest exhibit at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The walkway is surrounded by a variety of tropical plants, large leafy ferns, and trees with branches that stretch overhead. The exhibit simulates a dense jungle environment with rich greenery and a warm ambiance. — The Tropical Rainforest is an indoor, walk-through habitat at the aviary,

The aviary is home to over 500 birds representing more than 150 species, including many that are rare or endangered.

A close-up image of a large condor at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, showcasing its impressive grey and brown plumage and the distinctive skin texture on its head and neck. The condor is standing among rocks and wood chips, indicative of its enclosure designed to mimic a natural habitat. — A juvenile Andean Condor at the aviary.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The National Aviary is located at 700 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.

The aviary is open every day, except Tuesdays, from 10 am – 5 pm.

The exterior of the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, captured on a sunny day with clear skies. The modern facility features large windows, a glass-fronted entrance, and exterior walls adorned with decorative snowflake designs. "NATIONAL AVIARY" is prominently displayed on the side of the building. The surrounding area includes a well-maintained lawn with bicycle racks and bare trees, indicating a winter season. — View of the aviary from Arch Street.

Admission fees (as of 1/1/2024) are: Adults: $18.95, Visitors ages 60+: $17.95, Children (ages 2-12): $15.95, Children under 2: Free.

A close-up of a penguin standing on rocks at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The penguin has a black and white plumage with a distinctive greyish facial pattern. In the background, another penguin can be seen perched on a rocky ledge. The enclosure appears to mimic a natural habitat with ample sunlight. — Penguin at the aviary.

Parking is $5.00, there’s a café onsite, and naturally, there’s a well-stocked gift shop!

The gift shop at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, featuring shelves stocked with bird-themed books, colorful puzzles, and educational games. The top shelf displays a variety of plush birds, including a penguin, toucan, and flamingo. In the foreground, a table is piled high with more stuffed animals, including sloths and a penguin with a blue scarf. — Gift shop at the aviary.

What You’ll See at the National Aviary

The National Aviary offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with a vast array of bird species from around the world.

A close-up of a Victoria crowned pigeon at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The bird is perched on a log and features a striking combination of grey and maroon plumage, with a prominent crest of delicate, lace-like feathers on its head. Its red eye stands out against the soft blue feathers around the face, and it has a calm, dignified demeanor. The habitat includes gravel, rocks, and plants, suggesting a simulated natural environment. — A Victoria crowned pigeon at the aviary.

One of the highlights of visiting the Aviary is its walk-thru habitats.

A tranquil rainforest scene at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, featuring a small waterfall cascading into a pond. Two Hyacinth Macaws are perched on a branch above the water, while other birds relax on surrounding branches. The exhibit is lush with a variety of tropical plants and colorful foliage, creating a serene environment. — The Tropical Rainforest in the aviary’s oldest room.

The ‘Tropical Rainforest’ habitat, for instance, replicates a lush, tropical environment where colorful birds like macaws soar above your head.

Two Hyacinth Macaws perched on a branch at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The large parrots exhibit vibrant blue plumage with striking yellow rings around their eyes and at the base of their beaks. They appear to be interacting with each other against a backdrop of lush green foliage. — Two Hyacinth Macaws perched on a branch in the Tropical Rainforest habitat.

The ‘Wetlands’ exhibit offers a glimpse into the habitats of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds.

A vibrant and close-up image of a flamingo at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The flamingo's striking orange and pink plumage stands out against the rippling dark water in the background. Its curved black beak, orange eye, and elegantly arched neck are prominently displayed. — An American Flamingo in the Wetlands habitat.

Each exhibit is designed to provide an immersive experience that not only entertains but also educates visitors about the importance of these ecosystems.

A Toco Toucan perched on a branch at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, showcasing its striking large orange and yellow beak with a black tip. The bird has black plumage with a white throat and a red undertail, contrasted against a backdrop of green foliage and a blue sky. — A Toco Toucan in the Tree Tops habitat.

Kodiak, a Stellar’s Sea Eagle, is one of the facility’s most-famous residents, having escaped for more than a week back in 2021 before being recaptured and returned to his habit at the aviary.

A Steller's Sea Eagle at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, perched on a branch with a keen gaze. The eagle's striking features include bold black and white plumage, a powerful yellow beak, and an intense expression. Bare winter branches and a mesh barrier can be seen in the background. — Kodiak, the Stellar’s Sea Eagle.

There are numerous opportunities throughout the day for “Avian Encounters”, guided by the knowledgeable staff at the aviary, where you can gain insights into the natural behaviors and abilities of different bird species.

An aviary staff member giving a presentation at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. She is wearing a uniform with a name tag, holding a bowl and gesturing with her hand, possibly explaining feeding habits or behavior. A white bird, likely a heron, stands attentively on the railing of the enclosure against a backdrop of dense, green tropical foliage. — Staff member feeding birds during a presentation for visitors.

Conservation Efforts

The National Aviary is not just a place for observation but also plays a vital role in bird conservation.

Two African Penguins at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, engaging near a nesting area with artificial shelters. The penguins have distinctive black and white markings with a band of black across their chests. They are in a rocky enclosure that simulates their natural environment, complete with a concrete nesting structure. — The African penguins are a popular attraction at the aviary.

The aviary participates in breeding programs for endangered species and works on various conservation projects worldwide.

Two condors with grey and brown feathers at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. They are standing in their habitat with rocky structures and a wire mesh enclosure visible in the background. Sunlight casts a warm glow on the scene, highlighting the texture of their plumage. — The aviary is part of a breeding program to help the condor species’ population grow.

Visitors can learn about these efforts and how they can contribute to the conservation of bird species.

A burrowing owl standing on one leg on a log inside an enclosure at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The owl has brown and white mottled plumage, with intense yellow eyes looking directly at the viewer. Behind the owl is a green cactus, and the backdrop includes a window with a grid, allowing natural light into the exhibit. — A burrowing owl.

All birds at the aviary receive the best care possible in the facility’s onsite “bird hospital”, staffed by experts in avian veterinary medicine.

The Avian Care Centre at the National Aviary.

Final Thoughts

A visit to the National Aviary in Pittsburgh is an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the fascinating world of birds, and understand the importance of conservation.

Two herons perched on rocky ground amidst green foliage at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The birds are characterized by their large, broad bills and are standing against a backdrop of bamboo and other tropical plants, suggesting a rainforest environment. — The aviary is open year-round.

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just looking for a unique daytrip idea in Pittsburgh, the National Aviary promises a memorable and enlightening visit for everyone.

A vibrant photo of a large bird perched on a railing at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. The bird has striking plumage with a glossy black head adorned with curly feathers, a black and white patterned body, and rich chestnut brown wings. It stands against a backdrop of lush green foliage. — The National Aviary makes for a great daytrip destination in Pittsburgh.

Nearby Attractions

The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is both the largest zoo and the largest aquarium in Pennsylvania.

Exploring the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. — Scenes from the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

Randyland, located just a few blocks from the National Aviary, is an eclectic roadside attraction and mixed-media art installation that explodes with color and creativity.

Collage of four images showcasing the eclectic and vibrant atmosphere of Randyland in Pittsburgh, featuring the artist Randy, colorful murals, whimsical art installations, and a multitude of playful objects. — Scenes from Randyland.

The Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh is the largest history museum in Pennsylvania!

Exploring the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — Scenes from the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh.

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History in Pittsburgh exhibit everything from ancient relics to timeless art, all under one roof.

A collage of four diverse exhibits at the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, Pittsburgh, PA. Top left: Visitors admire a vibrant, intricate wall mural. Top right: A display of dinosaur skeletons in a lifelike habitat. Bottom left: A dark room filled with illuminated cases of minerals and gems. Bottom right: A large, detailed religious painting set against a bold red wall. — Scenes from the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

The Fort Pitt Museum is renowned for its in-depth portrayal of pivotal moments in Pittsburgh’s history, including a significant focus on the French and Indian War.

A photo collage from the Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, featuring (from top left to bottom right): the museum entrance with an American flag and cannon, the interior with exhibits and a cannon on display, an informational panel about the significance of the land, and a sculpture of two historical figures in discussion. — Scenes from the Fort Pitt Museum.

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