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Please Note:

Please Note: The National Aviary will be CLOSED Thursday, July 10 - Friday, July 11 for Night in the Tropics. We will reopen Saturday, July 12 at 12 pm. Our parking lot will also be closed on Wednesday, July 9 for event set up. Plan Your Next Visit

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Penguin Encounter

Penguin Encounter

Daily at 11:30 am and 2:30 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 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.

In The News

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Penguins hatched at National Aviary join colony with new names | KDKA News

The aviary revealed the penguins' names on Monday, sharing photos of the adorable siblings waddling around their new home.

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National Aviary reveals names for its youngest Penguins as they join the colony | WPXI

The National Aviary’s youngest African Penguins have officially joined the colony.

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Jungle Creatures and Fantastic Features: Flamingos | Phipps Conservatory

With help from the National Aviary, we’ll look at how Phipps flamingos compare to the real-life creatures they represent!

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Pitt falcon fledglings fly the Cathedral of Learning coop, but likely linger in Oakland | 90.5 WESA

Falcons born at the Cathedral of Learning have also been found nesting in Ohio, New York, and Ontario.

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