The National Aviary is one of the most unusual things to do in Pittsburgh and one of the best for children and adults alike. It sits at 700 Arch Street on the North Side, close to the Warhol and the Mattress Factory, and it is devoted entirely to birds, from tiny songbirds to eagles and condors. What makes it special is how close you get. Instead of looking through glass, you walk through a Tropical Rainforest where birds fly and perch around you, step into Wetlands and Grasslands habitats, meet penguins at Penguin Point and visit Eagle Hall and Condor Court. Seasonal daily activities such as feedings, bird shows and animal encounters are included with admission, and you can hand-feed Rainbow Lorikeets or try Birdly, a flight simulator that lets you fly like a bird. The building is compact enough to enjoy in an easy morning or afternoon, and a Sensory Friendly Time and a Sensory Guide make it more welcoming for visitors who find busy places overwhelming. It is a lovely wet-weather choice, since almost everything is indoors, and a good reset after a day of museums.
Hours and tickets
The Aviary is open from 10am to 5pm and is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets are reserved online through the Aviary's website, and members are asked to reserve a visit too. Children under two are free, and there are lower prices for seniors and children aged two to twelve. Military guests receive a discount, and Pennsylvania Access cardholders can buy up to four low-price tickets. The on-site parking lot charges a flat fee, is first-come, first-served and closes at 5pm.
What to do inside
Allow about two hours. Check the day's schedule when you arrive so you can catch the feedings and shows that run in your season, because the activities change through the year. The lorikeet feeding and the walk through the rainforest are the highlights for most children, while keen birdwatchers will enjoy the range of species, from penguins to condors. Wear shoes that are comfortable for standing and walking, and expect the rainforest to be warm and humid, so you may want a layer you can remove.
Making it count
The Aviary is an easy walk or short ride from the other North Side sights, so a good plan is the Mattress Factory or the Warhol in the morning and the Aviary in the afternoon, or the other way around. Families with small children will find it one of the gentlest days in the city, while adults will be surprised by how much there is to see. If it is a rainy or very cold day, it is among the best indoor choices in Pittsburgh.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided indoor visit through bird habitats including a walk-through rainforest, with seasonal feedings, shows and encounters included in admission.
Best time
A morning or a wet afternoon, when you want an indoor plan. Remember it is closed on Tuesdays.
How long
About two hours, plus extra time if you join several of the daily activities.
Tips
Reserve tickets online, check the schedule for feedings and shows when you arrive, and expect the rainforest to be warm and humid.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families, bird lovers and anyone who wants an easy, unusual indoor stop on the North Side.
- Families
- Hand-feeding lorikeets and walking among free-flying birds are the sort of experiences children remember.
- Couples
- An unusual and relaxed afternoon, easy to pair with the Warhol or the Mattress Factory.
- Pair with
- The Andy Warhol Museum, the Mattress Factory or a walk to the riverfront on the North Shore.
- Time needed
- About two hours.
Good questions
What are the National Aviary hours?+
It is open from 10am to 5pm and closed on Tuesdays. Tickets are reserved online in advance.
How much does the National Aviary cost?+
Adult admission is around twenty dollars, with lower prices for seniors and children, and children under two are free. Check the Aviary's website for current rates.
Is there parking at the National Aviary?+
Yes, there is a first-come, first-served lot at the Aviary for a flat fee. It closes at 5pm.
Can you feed the birds at the National Aviary?+
Yes, visitors can hand-feed Rainbow Lorikeets, and seasonal feedings, shows and encounters are included with admission.
Is the National Aviary good in bad weather?+
Yes, almost everything is indoors, so it is one of the best rainy-day or cold-weather choices in Pittsburgh.
