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!
In accordance with CDC guidelines, masks are optional for guests to the National Aviary, effective Thursday, March 3.
Ticketing Information:
All guests in a visiting party, including children under age two, must have individual timed entry tickets for admission to the National Aviary. Tickets need to be purchased in advance at shop.aviary.org. Timed tickets enable us to ensure an excellent experience for our guests while providing enough space for proper social distancing.
National Aviary members are able to visit for free during general admission hours as capacity allows. Reservations can be made online and require a member account, which can be set up online using an active member ID.
Once purchased, timed entry tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Throughout your visit, you will notice that various habitats and spaces have capacity limitations for your safety. Online timed tickets sales are not currently able to accept group discounts, coupons, gift cards, previously held free passes or vouchers, complementary admissions for Carnegie Mellon University students or partner organizations, or reciprocal admission for members of other zoos, aquariums, and gardens. Instead, please contact info@aviary.org to redeem active offers or passes and to schedule your visit.
The National Aviary strongly encourages cashless transactions at this time. Please consider using a payment card for all purchases, including admissions, encounters, gift shop, parking, and food.
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 marketing@aviary.org.
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 after.
All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an individual who is at least 16 years of age.
Pets are not permitted on National Aviary grounds, in the parking lot, or in cars.
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.
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:
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What is your COVID Policy?
All guests should follow guidelines from the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC) that encourage keeping a safe distance from others, frequent hand sanitizing and washing, and covering coughs and sneezes. If you are feeling unwell or were exposed to someone with COVID-19 within the past 14 days, please stay home.
In accordance with CDC guidelines, masks are optional for guests to the National Aviary, effective Thursday, March 3.
For additional details, please click here.
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How can I get a timed ticket?
Timed 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 limit capacity in the building and allow plenty of space for physical distancing. Each guest must select 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 to ensure they have a great visit. Due to capacity limitations, if tickets sell out you will be unable to enter the National Aviary if you arrive without a timed ticket.
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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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Does my child under 2 need a timed ticket?
Children under 2 receive free admission, and don’t need a timed ticket to enter.
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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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Is the National Aviary offering birthday parties?
Book your child’s birthday party at the National Aviary! Learn more here.
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Is the National Aviary offering weddings and special events?
We are accepting bookings for weddings and special events. Please contact myevent@aviary.org for details and availability.
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Is dining from Atria’s still available at the National Aviary?
Atria’s is serving grab-and-go and prepared food and drinks daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Warm up with a cup of coffee and enjoy a quick light bite in the Atrium.
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Is the gift shop still open?
The National Aviary’s gift shop is open. It is located at the entrance to the Aviary. You do not have to purchase tickets to the National Aviary to shop in the gift shop.
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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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Is the National Aviary open every day of the year?
The National Aviary is open every day of the year except for 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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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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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 admission?
General admission to the National Aviary is $17.95 for adults, $14.95 for children ages 2 to 12, $16.95 for seniors, and free for children under the age of 2. Learn more on the Hours and Admissions page!
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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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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 $5, flat. To learn more about parking available near the National Aviary, see our Directions, Parking & Lodging page.
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Do you offer any discounts?
At this time we are unable to accept discounts on admission through our online timed ticketing system. If you have questions about admissions or a previously issued coupon or offer, please contact us at info@aviary.org.
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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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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.
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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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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.
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Can I bring food into the National Aviary?
Yes, outside food can brought into the National Aviary. Seating is available in the Atrium and outdoors in front of the entrance, weather permitting.
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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 marketing@aviary.org.
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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.
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I’m a member of the press/media. Who can I contact?
For press and media inquiries, please contact marketing@aviary.org.
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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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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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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.
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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 parrot.
In the Pittsburgh area, the Parrot Education Adoption Rehoming League (PEARL) provides adoption and education.
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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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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: 724-925-6862Moon 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 -
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
info@pearlparrots.com -
If you have other concerns or questions related to a wild bird anywhere in Pennsylvania, contact: