Sensory Guide
The National Aviary is committed to creating an experience that is inclusive of and accessible to all of our visitors. This sensory guide provides an overview of typical sights, smells, and sounds in each room of the National Aviary. Our staff are trained in assisting those with sensory needs, and sensory backpacks are available at our Visitor Services Desk.
Atrium
In the Atrium, you may experience bright light from the windowed dome.
Guest are welcome to bring in outside food but should be aware that there are no refrigerators or microwaves on the premises.
Canary’s Call
In Canary’s Call, you can expect loud noises from our flock of Rainbow Lorikeets which vocalize frequently. Canary’s Call is also home to a colony of fruit bats which can cause a strong smell. Canary’s Call is a low-light area with lighted photos and signage.
Condor Court
Condor Court is an outdoor habitat.
Grasslands
The Grasslands is an indoor habitat where you may experience an element of surprise as small birds fly close to visitors, or encounter smells from the birds.
Penguin Point
Penguin Point is a 360-degree habitat that can be experienced indoors and outdoors. Indoors, you may encounter low light conditions. You may encounter scents and smells from the colony of penguins and their food, especially in the outdoor areas.
Restrooms
Our restrooms are ADA accessible. They may be loud, with automatic flush toilets and an electric hand dryer.
Tropical Rainforest
The Tropical Rainforest is an indoor habitat. This room can be loud, and birds in this room are free-flying and may fly or walk close to you. You may encounter scents from the birds. This room can also be very bright because of the glass paneled ceiling.
The Wetlands
The Wetlands is an indoor habitat. This room can be very loud with birds singing and calling, and birds in this room are free-flying and may fly or walk close to you. You may encounter scents from the birds. This room can also be very bright because of the windowed ceiling.