Guest Policies & Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Policies
The National Aviary is dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our visitors. Please adhere to the following policies to help keep the Aviary safe and fun!
Ticketing Information:
Tickets are available for purchase onsite at the National Aviary, or you may purchase them online at shop.aviary.org. We recommend advanced tickets for special event days and weekends. Timed tickets enable us to ensure an excellent experience for our guests. Opportunities to get closer through add-ons, and get even closer via Animal Encounters may also be booked online or in person.
National Aviary members are able to visit for free during General Admission hours. Reservations can be made online and require a member account, which can be set up online using an active member ID.
Once purchased, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
General Visitor Policies
During your visit to the National Aviary, you may be filmed, videotaped or photographed by or on behalf of the National Aviary. Your admission to the National Aviary serves as permission for use of your image by the National Aviary.
Commercial photography or filming is prohibited without the prior consent of the National Aviary’s Marketing Department. Email [email protected].
The National Aviary is a smoke-free facility. This includes electronic cigarettes. Designated smoking and vaping areas are located just outside the facility. Please make sure you have your hand stamped for easy re-entry.
Please remain on designated guest pathways only, and respect all barriers separating yourself and our birds. Do not attempt to lean over or climb railings. Please allow personal distance between yourself and our animals to ensure their safety and yours.
Our animals are on special diets. Feeding them other foods can alter their behaviors or make them ill. Food is not permitted in habitats or show areas.
The National Aviary offers an interactive experience with birds where guests have opportunities to hand-feed. Any time you come into contact with an animal or their food items, we strongly recommend that you wash your hands afterward.
All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an individual who is at least 18 years of age.
Pets are not permitted on National Aviary grounds, in the parking lot, or in cars. Service Animals are welcome; learn more about how we welcome Service Animals onsite here.
Alcohol service/consumption is not permitted on National Aviary grounds. A special permit can be obtained for private and special events.
Shirts and footwear must be worn at all times. Clothing with profanity, obscenities, or any other offensive material deemed inappropriate for the National Aviary’s family setting is prohibited.
Please show courtesy to fellow guests and National Aviary staff and volunteers by not using profane language or engaging in unsafe, disruptive, or offensive behavior.
The National Aviary restrooms are for guests only.
The National Aviary is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Solicitation for any purpose is not permitted.
The National Aviary is NOT an allergen-free facility, as many of our birds’ diets include nuts, seeds, and other potential human allergens.
The National Aviary offers parking for $7 on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please note: the Aviary lot closes nightly at 5 pm. All vehicles should be removed from the lot in a timely manner.
Prohibited inside the National Aviary
- Smoking (includes cigarettes, any electronic cigarettes, cigars, and pipes)
- Pets
- Firearms
- Laser pointers
- Drinking straws
- Balloons
- Skateboards, bicycles, or recreational scooters
- Roller skates, rollerblades, or roller skate shoes
- Strollers with pedals or pull wagons
- Radios or CD players
- Open flame
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Hours & Admission
- Directions, Parking, & Accessibility
- Health & Safety
- Classes, Camps, Tours, Field Trips, & Educational Programs
- Media & Press Inquiries
- Interested in joining our flock?
- Question regarding birds at the National Aviary?
- Question regarding a pet bird or wild bird?
Hours & Admission
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How can I get a ticket before my visit?
Tickets are available here. When you arrive at the National Aviary, you can present your ticket on your phone for entry.
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What is timed ticketing? How does it work?
The National Aviary is using a timed ticketing system to enhance our guest experience. Each guest selects a time for their visit. You may arrive at any time during the times listed on your ticket.
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Do I need a timed ticket? Will tickets sell out?
We strongly encourage all of our visitors to use our timed ticketing system for special event days and weekends to ensure they have a great visit. You may also purchase tickets onsite.
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I’m a Member. Do I need to pay extra for timed tickets?
Members can reserve timed entry tickets free of charge using an online member account.
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How much is admission?
General admission to the National Aviary is $19.95 for adults, $16.95 for children ages 2 to 12, $17.95 for seniors, and free for children under the age of 2. Learn more on the Hours and Admissions page!
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Does my child under 2 need a ticket?
Children under 2 receive free admission, and don’t need a ticket to enter.
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Is the National Aviary open every day of the year?
The National Aviary is open every day and CLOSED on Tuesdays during the fall and winter. We’re also closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. To plan your visit and see additional changes to hours of operation, see our Calendar.
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Do you offer Pennsylvania Access Card discounts?
Back this fall after a pandemic-induced hiatus, we are now offering a discounted ticket price for Access card holders! Individuals and families who have Access cards may show them at the Aviary’s Visitor Services Desk and receive up to four General Admission tickets for just $5 each.
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Do you offer a military discount?
All active duty, reservists, and veterans of the United States military receive 10% off General Admission tickets with valid military identification. Please show your ID to the friendly faces at our Visitor Services Desk to redeem discount.
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How can I get close to animals?
The National Aviary’s large walk-through habitats where birds fly freely around you offer a chance to get close to birds, but Animal Encounters can bring you even closer! When you pre-book an Animal Encounter for yourself or a small group, you will meet and interact with a sloth, owl, penguin, or other fascinating species, while a National Aviary expert helps you learn more.
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How do I purchase a gift card for the National Aviary?
You can purchase a gift card here, or by calling 412-258-9445.
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Does the National Aviary have a Lost and Found?
If you believe you’ve lost or found an item, please notify the Visitor Services Desk during your visit or call us at 412-323-7235.
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Can I bring food into the National Aviary?
Yes, outside food can be brought into the National Aviary. Seating is available in the Atrium and outdoors in front of the entrance, weather permitting.
Directions, Parking, & Accessibility
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Where is the National Aviary? How do I get there?
The National Aviary is located at 700 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. This address, when entered into your GPS, will bring you directly to the National Aviary’s parking lot. The National Aviary is close to a number of public transportation options. Learn more at our Directions, Parking & Lodging page.
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How much is parking at the National Aviary?
Parking at the National Aviary is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking in our lot is $7, flat. To learn more about parking available near the National Aviary, see our Directions, Parking & Lodging page.
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What public transportation is close to the National Aviary?
The National Aviary is close to a number of Port Authority bus stops and just blocks away from the light rail train stop downtown. See our Directions, Parking & Lodging page for additional details.
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How much of the National Aviary is indoors? Outdoors?
The National Aviary is a primarily indoor facility. Penguin Point is a 360° habitat with an optional outdoor component. Condor Court, home to our impressive Andean Condors, is also outdoors.
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Does the National Aviary have access for guests with disabilities?
We strive to create a welcoming environment and ensure all of our guests have a great experience at the National Aviary. Our facility is fully ADA accessible and is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tools like assisted listening devices and large-print maps are available. Our staff are trained to support individuals with sensory needs; sensory bags are available at the Visitor Services desk. Learn more about accessibility at the National Aviary.
The National Aviary’s Accessibility Coordinator is Tracey Palmieri, Senior Director of Human Resources & Organizational Development. Tracey can be reached at 412-720-9437 or The National Aviary’s Accessibility Coordinator is Tracey Palmieri, Senior Director of Human Resources & Organizational Development. Tracey can be reached at 412-258-9437 or [email protected].
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Does the National Aviary have baby nursing stations?
If you need a private space for nursing, please let any of our staff know, and we will be happy to accommodate you.
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Is my service dog welcome at the National Aviary?
Trained service dogs are welcome in specific areas of the National Aviary. Learn more about accessibility for guests with service dogs.
Health & Safety
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What is your COVID Policy?
All guests should follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC).
For additional details, please click here.
Classes, Camps, Tours, Field Trips, & Educational Programs
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Is the National Aviary offering group tours?
The National Aviary offers a variety of on- and off-site programs for groups, schools, and scout groups. Learn more here.
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What is the cancellation policy for camps?
National Aviary Camps
Registration for any camp program is non-refundable.
The National Aviary reserves the right to cancel any program. In this event, we will reach out to contact program participants and refund program registration fees.
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What is the cancellation policy for Classes, Workshops, Programs, and Expeditions?
Registrations canceled at least 14 days in advance of the program are fully refundable. Registrations canceled less than 14 days in advance of the program will not receive a refund.
The National Aviary reserves the right to cancel any program. In this event, we will reach out to contact program participants and refund program registration fees.
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What is your inclement weather policy?
All Education programs are held rain or shine. If there is extreme weather, we may cancel the program and will reach out to contact program participants and refund program registration fees. This includes outdoor shows on SkyDeck (May – September).
Media & Press Inquiries
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Can I take photographs and video?
You are welcome to take photographs and video for your own personal, non-commercial use. If you wish to take photographs and video for commercial use, please contact our Marketing and Communications Department at [email protected].
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I’m a member of the press/media. Who can I contact?
For press and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Birthday Parties, Weddings, & Special Events
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Is the National Aviary offering birthday parties?
Book your child’s birthday party at the National Aviary! Learn more here.
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Can I have my wedding or special event at the National Aviary?
We are accepting bookings for wedding and special events. Please contact [email protected] for details and availability.
Interested in joining our flock?
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I want to work at the National Aviary! Where do I find job listings?
To view our current openings, visit our Join Our Team page.
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I want to volunteer! How do I sign up?
Volunteer opportunities will be posted as they become available.
Question regarding birds at the National Aviary?
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I have a specific question about a bird at the National Aviary. Who should I contact?
National Aviary experts are happy to answer questions about members of our flock! Contact us online or call 412-323-7235.
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My child needs to talk to an expert for a school project. Can the National Aviary help?
National Aviary experts can provide support for school projects on a case-by-case basis as time and schedules allow. Contact us online or call 412-323-7235.
Question regarding a pet bird or wild bird?
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Can I donate a pet bird to the National Aviary?
The National Aviary cannot take donations of pet birds, but a number of reputable organizations exist around the country that can help you find a home for your bird.
In the Pittsburgh area, the Parrot Education Adoption Rehoming League (PEARL) provides adoption and education.
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I have a question about wild birds in my backyard, in the park, or elsewhere. Who can help?
National Aviary experts are happy to answer questions about wild birds! Contact us online or call 412-323-7235.
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What should I do if I find a lost or injured bird?
Thank you for caring about the birds in your neighborhood. The National Aviary is not a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center, and cannot take in wild birds. Instead, please contact one of these local licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities as soon as possible. Do not feed or give water to a lost or injured bird.
Humane Animal Rescue Wildlife Center
6000 Verona Road, Verona, PA 15147
Phone: 412-345-7300Wildlife Works, Inc.
P.O Box 113, Youngwood, PA 15697
Phone: 724-925-6862Moon Veterinary Hospital
991 Brodhead Rd, Coraopolis, PA 15108
Phone: 412-262-2100Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia
286 Fairchance Road, Morgantown, WV 26508.
Phone: 304-906-5438 -
How can I attract birds to my backyard?
Birds and people have the same basic needs: food, water, and shelter. Supplying all three can help attract a diversity of birds to your yard. Plant trees, shrubs and flowers that are of nutritional value, such as crabapple, grape, elderberry, dogwood, vibernum, persimmon, and serviceberry. In addition to providing food, these plants will be important in offering shelter and creating a sense of security from predators. Water is another vital, and often overlooked, aspect of backyard bird appeal. Clean water can be supplied from a sprinkler, shallow birdbath, or a small pond. Avoiding pesticides will keep insect populations—an essential part of avian diets—sufficient to feed birds, and avoid accidental poisoning of birds and other wildlife.
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How do I set up a bird bath in my yard?
Placing a bird bath in your yard can attract a variety of birds and provide them with a source of water for drinking and bathing. When choosing a location for your bird bath, it’s important to consider a few factors. Firstly, the water in the bird bath should be changed daily to prevent the growth of algae, especially in warmer weather. Secondly, it’s a good idea to place the bird bath in a shady area to keep the water cooler and reduce evaporation.
When choosing a spot for the bird bath, it’s best to place it in the shade, near a tree or taller shrub that birds can use to approach and quickly fly into after drinking or bathing. Avoid placing the bird bath in the middle of a wide open lawn.
If possible, position the bird bath near a window can allow for better observation of the birds who visit, as well as easy servicing!
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If you find a bird that appears injured or sick, contact one of these local licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities as soon as possible:
Humane Animal Rescue Wildlife Center
6000 Verona Road, Verona, PA 15147
Phone: 412-345-7300Wildlife Works, Inc.
P.O Box 113, Youngwood, PA 15697
Phone: 724-925-6862Dr. Dustin Betlem, Betlem Veterinary Services, at 1111 Oakdale Rd., Suite #4, Oakdale, PA 15071.
Phone: 412-249-8634Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia
286 Fairchance Road, Morgantown, WV 26508.
Phone: 304-906-5438 -
If you are not local to the Pittsburgh area, you can locate a wildlife rehabilitator near you using this website:
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If you find a bird that you believe may be a lost pet, contact:
Humane Animal Rescue
6926 Hamilton Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15208
Phone: 412-345-73001101 Western Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15233
Phone: 412-345-7300Animal Friends
562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Phone: 412.847.7000Parrot Education, Adoption, and Rehoming League (PEARL)
Phone: 412-444-5819
[email protected] -
If you have other concerns or questions related to a wild bird anywhere in Pennsylvania, contact: