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Please Note:

Holiday Hours Notice! The National Aviary will be OPEN on Tues., November 26 and CLOSED on Thurs. November 28 to staff, volunteers, and guests may enjoy Thanksgiving. Plan Your Visit

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Penguin Encounter

Penguin Encounter

Member Savings Price: $48.60 per person
Non-Member Price: $54 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 6+
Daily at 11:30 am and 3 pm

Spend quality time with a member of our African Penguin colony during a Penguin Encounter! Gently touch their waterproof feathers as an Aviary expert offers insights in this fascinating species – including their favorite food.

  • Sit in a semi-circle and watch as an African Penguin waddles up to you! Get a chance to touch the penguin’s waterproof back feathers.
  • Hear cool stories about the Aviary’s colony and learn amazing facts about this tuxedoed species, like where their iconic waddle comes from! 
  • Guests are encouraged to take photos or videos and to ask questions.

Book A Penguin Encounter!

Email [email protected] or call 412-258-9445 for more information or with questions.

Additional Information

  • This one-of-a-kind experience is designed for those 6 years and older. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult over 18 years of age. For younger kids, try our Jr. Penguin Encounter.
  • Book before you visit to guarantee your experience. Same-day registration is based on limited program availability and cannot be guaranteed.  
  • At the National Aviary, we give our animals the choice to participate in interactive experiences with caring guests, like you! If our Animal Ambassador needs a day of rest, we will contact you to reschedule your Encounter, as the comfort and safety of our animals and our guests is always our top priority. Thank you for understanding.

Proceeds from Animal Encounters support the National Aviary’s work to
save birds and protect their habitats.

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