The National Aviary is an indoor bird zoo at 700 Arch St on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Its walk-through habitats bring you close to birds from around the world, including penguins, flamingos, parrots and the Northern bald ibis. In some areas, birds move freely around visitors, and shows let you watch them fly through the space. You can also see a sloth, join a feeding or book an animal encounter. Plan time for the exhibits, then stop at the café or gift shop.
Walk through the habitats
The National Aviary is an indoor, nonprofit zoo focused on birds, on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Its exhibits are arranged as distinct habitats, so the visit moves from one environment to another. Some birds live in enclosed spaces, while others can move through walk-in areas alongside visitors.
Wetlands and the Tropical Rainforest are among the places where you can get especially close to birds. The aviary also has Eagle Hall, Condor Court, Grasslands and Canary’s Call. Take your time as you move between rooms: a bird may be perched nearby or pass overhead, and each area has different species to spot.
The collection includes more than 500 birds representing over 150 species, among them penguins, flamingos, owls, parrots, eagles and the Northern bald ibis. The aviary also has a sloth. The mix of birds and habitats makes this a focused alternative to a general zoo visit, particularly if you want to spend time watching birds at close range.
Shows, feedings and animal encounters
A show is a useful way to see birds in flight, including as they pass through and around the audience. Feeding activities give you another way to watch the animals at close range. The Wetlands is one area associated with bird feeding, and lorikeet feeding is among the experiences visitors describe.
Animal encounters can bring you closer to particular species, including penguins. These activities are separate from simply walking through the exhibits, so check what is available and reserve ahead if there is a specific experience you want. Places can fill quickly. The aviary also runs events and educational activities, with staff and volunteers available to share information about the birds and their habitats.
Families can look for interactive activities such as coloring and crafts in the café area. The indoor setting also makes the aviary an option when you want an animal-focused outing without spending the day walking around a larger zoo.
A bird-focused institution in Pittsburgh
The aviary was built by the City of Pittsburgh in 1952 as the Pittsburgh Aviary. The United States Congress later granted it honorary national status. It is an independent indoor nonprofit zoo dedicated to birds, with conservation, education and research among its stated aims.
Its role is reflected in the collection and programming: visitors can encounter species that are rarely kept in other zoos, learn about birds and their habitats, and take part in feedings or other activities. Some species in the collection are threatened or endangered in the wild.
The address is 700 Arch St, in Pittsburgh’s North Side. The aviary has a café and gift shop, and Allegheny Commons Park is next door. If you are arriving by car, allow time to find parking; spaces can be limited. Public transit is another option, with bus stops within walking distance.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at the National Aviary?
Plan about 2 to 3 hours for a leisurely visit through the habitats and time for a show or feeding.
Can you see birds flying freely at the National Aviary?
Yes. Some walk-through habitats allow birds to move around visitors, and shows include birds flying through the space.
Can you book animal encounters?
Yes. Feedings and animal encounters are available. Reserve ahead if you have a particular activity in mind, as places can sell out.
Is there parking at the National Aviary?
Paid parking is available, but spaces are limited. Arriving early can help you avoid a crowd at the parking pay station.
