The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is the city's big family day out, set on a hillside in Highland Park at 7370 Baker Street. It combines a full zoo with an aquarium in a single ticket, so you can see elephants and giraffes in the morning and warm up among the fish in the afternoon if the weather turns. Most animals are outdoors in the spring, summer and fall, weather and health permitting. In the off-season some warm-weather animals move indoors or behind the scenes and outdoor reptiles are not on view, while the aquarium makes a warm refuge. Seasonal rides and attractions run on weekends in spring and fall and daily in summer, and most close in the off-season, while events such as Penguins on Parade in winter and ZooBoo in fall are included with admission. A new front gate opened in spring 2026. The zoo is hilly, so wear sturdy shoes, and give yourself time to take it slowly. It suits families with young children best, though adults who love animals will enjoy it too.
Hours and seasons
From 1 November to 31 March the zoo opens from 9:30am to 4pm, with last admission earlier in the afternoon. In spring and fall it opens 9:30am to 5:30pm, with early member entry at 9am, and in the peak season from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day the hours are the same, with the highest admission rates of the year.
The zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day, and in recent years it has closed on some weekdays in January and February for construction, so check the calendar. Admission prices vary by season, being lowest in the off-season, and the zoo's website lists current rates.
Current works
Some paths and exhibits are closed for construction, including the ZooFit path and the upper part of Kids Kingdom, and a new giraffe care center is expected to open in spring 2027. Individual animals may not be on view on every day, so keep your expectations flexible. In winter most outdoor rides and some food and shops are closed, but the main restaurant and some gift shops stay open.
Making it count
The best months are late spring and early fall, when animals are active and rides are open at weekends without peak-season crowds. Go early in summer to beat the heat, and in winter plan for the aquarium and indoor houses. It is easy to combine with a walk in Highland Park or a visit to Phipps Conservatory, and it is a rewarding alternative to the museums for families who want to be outdoors.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided zoo and aquarium on a hillside, with seasonal rides, shows and events included with admission in some seasons.
Best time
Late spring or early fall, when animals are out and rides run on weekends. In winter, plan around the aquarium and indoor houses.
How long
Three to four hours, or a full day in summer.
Tips
Check seasonal hours, expect hills, wear sturdy shoes and check which paths are closed for construction before you go.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young children and animal lovers.
- Families
- One of the easiest big family days in Pittsburgh, with an aquarium to fall back on in bad weather.
- Couples
- A fun, relaxed day out for animal lovers, best in fall.
- Pair with
- A walk in Highland Park or a visit to Phipps Conservatory.
- Time needed
- Three to four hours.
Good questions
What are the Pittsburgh Zoo hours?+
From November to March it opens 9:30am to 4pm. In spring, summer and fall it opens 9:30am to 5:30pm. It closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Is the aquarium included with zoo admission?+
Yes, the PPG Aquarium is part of the zoo experience and a good place to warm up in winter.
Is the Pittsburgh Zoo open in winter?+
Yes, but with shorter hours, fewer animals outdoors and most rides closed. Penguins on Parade is included with admission in the off-season.
Where is the Pittsburgh Zoo?+
It is at 7370 Baker Street in Highland Park, east of downtown.
Are any parts of the zoo closed for construction?+
Some paths and the upper part of Kids Kingdom are closed for works, and a giraffe care center is expected to open in spring 2027. Check the zoo's site before you visit.
