Penguin Encounter

Penguin Encounter

Daily, except Tuesdays at 11:30 am and 2:15 pm
Members: $48.60 per person
Non-Members: $54 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 6+

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 into 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!

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 412-258-9445.

Additional Information

  • This unique experience is designed for those 6 years and older.
    • All children 17 and under must have their release forms signed by a parent or legal guardian.
    • Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by another encounter participant over the age of 18.
  • Animal Encounters are non-refundable. Requests to reschedule must be made a minimum of 7 days in advance, based upon availability.
  • 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.

In The News

See All News

National Aviary’s ‘Jingle Bell Flock’ show brings high-flying holiday cheer | TribLive

The National Aviary on the North Side is getting into the festive spirit, starting the day after Thanksgiving with its new “Jingle Bell Flock” immersive show.

Read More »

55-plus holiday season events for kids in the Pittsburgh area | Kidsburgh

Glowing light shows, magical theatrical productions and the best music of the season are just a small part of the lineup.

Read More »

A penguin waddles into the PTL studio! | Pittsburgh Today Live

The National Aviary paid a visit to the PTL studios, and they brought Ella the African Penguin with them to tell Mikey and David about the work they're doing to protect the flightless birds.

Read More »

Best of the World 2026 | National Geographic

Steel mills once shaped outsiders’ whole impressions of Pittsburgh, but today the city increasingly defines itself by embracing the venerable cultural institutions that industrial prosperity helped build.

Read More »

Fun fall events at the National Aviary | Pittsburgh Today Live

Hear about all of the National Aviary fun happening this fall!

Read More »