Family Friendly Fall Programs & Activities at the National Aviary

The National Aviary is excited to share that one of the owlets who hatched and was raised in the public eye is staying in Pittsburgh; guests will be able to see this fully grown owl join our Animal Ambassador program just in time for the new seasonal theme, Forests Presented by Peoples.

This FEMALE Eurasian Eagle-Owl stole the hearts of every guest who met her this past spring. So much so that generous supporters of the Aviary, the Fonner family, named her in honor of their late grandmother: Vera!

Vera hatched in the Aviary’s breeding center on March 21, a few days after her older brother, who now resides in another Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoo. Over the summer, they resided in a behind-the-scenes habitat under the care of their expert team. Vera has quickly become an incredible Animal Ambassador with quite a clever personality!

Guests can visit Vera as she makes her ambassador debut during the Aviary’s fall seasonal theme Forests, Presented by Peoples!

Inspired by the natural habitat of Vera, other owl species, and the rest of the birds and mammals who inhabit these fantastical-like woodlands, Forests will transport guests throughout the dense greenery of North America and into lush rainforests in tropical climates. With TWO exciting, new daily activities included with admission, a plethora of play spaces, cozy décor, and enticing educational offerings for everyone, guests will have fun as they learn about the essential resources forests provide!

Guests can “fly” to the Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater and immerse themselves in the magical environment of one of the world’s most mysterious birds – the Owl. PLUS they’ll explore biofacts and hear all about Pennsylvania's "Nocturnal Neighbors” during this NEW expert talk. Then, "hang" with the best of winged mammals during a new Creature Feature: Bats Talk. Meet the Aviary’s colony of female Malayan Flying Foxes and watch them enjoy nutritious treats (fun fact: they are BIG fruit eaters!) as a National Aviary expert shares even MORE fun and interesting bat facts!

Visit the cozy and mesmerizing Tropical Rainforest habitat and try to spot Wookiee, the Linnaeus’s Two-toed Sloth, making his way sl-o-o-o-w-ly through the treetop canopy. Guests can get closer to birds by purchasing add-on experiences such as feeding a Rainbow Lorikeet (a lesser-known forest bird!); witnessing Vera demonstrate her incredible “superpowers” in the fan-favorite live immersive bird show, Habitat Heroes presented by AAA Travel, and getting EVEN closer during an Animal Encounter with a forest favorite such as an owl, sloth, or bird of prey!

Back this fall: After a pandemic-induced hiatus, the National Aviary is once again 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.
Swing by for a delightful pick-me-up, because you deserve it! THIS OCTOBER, all individuals who show a valid Firefighter, Police Officer, Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician, or other first responder badge to the friendly staff at Atria’s Kookaburra Café will receive a complimentary hot or iced 12 oz. drip coffee thanks to Atria’s Specialty Catering.

Discover Enchanted Forests and Ignite Your Imagination with New, Exciting Daily Activities, Interactive Play Spaces, and Special Events

Step into mythical-like woods and take a spellbinding trip through Forests, during the National Aviary fall seasonal theme Presented by Peoples. Immersive habitats and engaging programs offer unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. From dense North American forests to lush rainforests in tropical climates, these alluring habitats make up complex ecosystems home to a wide array of wildlife! Through exciting, new daily activities, a plethora of play spaces, cozy décor, and enticing educational offerings, guests will learn about the essential resources forests provide and how to help protect the birds who call these habitats home.

As the seasons change, so does the experience of visiting the National Aviary. Autumn at the Aviary brings brand-new programming included with admission. This fall, guests have not one but TWO opportunities to learn more about the fascinating creatures that inhabit these fantastical-like woodlands – first “fly” to Condor Court and become immersed into the magical world of one of the world’s most mysterious birds – the Barred Owl. Shortly after, meet an inquisitive Animal Ambassador Bird of Prey in an intimate setting as a National Aviary expert highlights their important role in our ecosystem! Visit the cozy, mesmerizing habitat of the Tropical Rainforest and try to spot Wookiee, the Linnaeus’s Two-toed Sloth, making his way sl-o-o-o-w-ly through the treetops.

Guests can get closer to colorful and forest-dwelling species by purchasing add-on experiences such as feeding a Rainbow Lorikeet; witnessing a Eurasian Eagle-Owl demonstrate its incredible “superpowers” in the fan-favorite, live immersive bird show, Habitat Heroes presented by AAA Travel; and getting EVEN closer to fabulous ‘creatures’ in an Animal Encounter with a forest-favorite such as an Eastern Screech Owl or sloth.

Free with general admission, parents can relax while little ones explore engaging play spaces: immersing themselves in a “Storybook Forest,” ‘building’ their very own log cabin, exploring a forest’s different colors and textures on a sensory table, and putting on a charming production at the puppet theater. Families can also look forward to morning programs with story times and sensory-friendly performances, plus exciting special events, including an end-of-summer birthday party fit for a sloth. Kick off fall with two ultimate bird-loving celebrations: African Penguin Awareness Day, which shines a light on the plight of this adorable, endangered tuxedoed species, and Owl-O-Ween, the National Aviary’s annual celebration of creatures that soar through the night.

National Aviary "Log Cabin" Play Space

Special programs for outdoor aficionados include local trips to spot an array of bird species in their natural habitat on birding expeditions, bus and kayak tours, not to mention up to four different types of owls during an Owl Prowl or a special Owl Prowl and Birdwatching Kayak Tour!

Creative animal enthusiasts can unleash their inner artist at not one but two Brushes and Birds events with Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas. Before the temperatures cool, paint a sloth masterpiece in honor of the Aviary’s sloth residents Vivien and Wookiee! During a crisp October evening, artists ages 21 and up can add on a cold beer or glass of wine while creating a Boo-tiful portrait of a Eurasian Eagle-Owl. Keep the creative juices flowing and learn the art of nature photography from National Aviary Educator and Photographer Mike Faix in a comprehensive two-part workshop! Teens can get in on the fall fun during a Teen Job Shadow series, where they will learn first-hand what it takes to care for the more than 500 birds and mammals that call the Aviary home. And last, but certainly not least, welcome the season with your chosen family at a satisfying Friendsgiving Brunch in The Garden Room. Don’t forget: save the date for some exciting Holiday Happenings!

Make the next Aviary visit even more special by becoming a member! Members get exclusive perks including free general admission for an entire year, discounts on Animal Encounters and tickets to Habitat Heroespresented by AAA Travel, and a 10% discount on National Aviary Gift Shop purchases! PLUS enjoy access to members-only events, including Member Mornings and special talks with National Aviary experts. View the complete list of 2024 members-only events, here.

Current & Upcoming Events/Programs

Sensory Friendly Time | Wednesdays, October 9, November 13, & December 11

Explore the National Aviary during a sensory-inclusive experience designed for those with sensory processing needs. Sensory Bags from KultureCity, each equipped with headphones, fidget toys, and other items, are available to borrow during any National Aviary visit, and a helpful sensory guide to the sights, sounds, and climate of the National Aviary’s habitats can be viewed in advance at aviary.org. During the visit, see and touch biofacts, make use of a designated quiet space, and enjoy a sensory-friendly version of Habitat Heroes, presented by AAA Travel at 11 am. During this immersive bird show, lighting is consistent, and volume is low, setting the stage for an engaging experience.

10 a.m. – Noon
Pre-registration is required. Call the National Aviary at 412-323-7235 for more information.

Owl Prowl | October 4 & 11

Who-o-o will you hear calling from the trees at night? Take a twilight trek through Pittsburgh’s parks with a National Aviary expert to search for spooky owls. Learn about the various owl species found in and around Pittsburgh (including the Screech Owl, Barred Owl, and Great Horned Owl) get to know their adaptations and behaviors, and with any luck, hear one calling from up in the trees! Participants should wear appropriate footwear for walking on unpaved paths and have a flashlight handy.

Friday, October 4: Wingfield Pines Conservation Area
Friday, October 11: Frick Park
7 – 9 p.m.
$20 per person
6 years and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Register at aviary.org

Apollo, a Northern White-faced Owl

African Penguin Awareness Day | Saturday, October 12

African Penguin Awareness Day is a celebration of all things Penguin! Bring out that snappy black and white ensemble to join the Aviary as they raise awareness about this Endangered African Penguin species. Join the tuxedoed colony for fun activities: making a craft to show off while practicing the silliest penguin shuffle, watching penguin feedings and engaging talks, and snapping pictures along a penguin species wall with 18 different penguin species! Find out more about how every individual’s choice can affect African Penguins and ways that the National Aviary works to protect them in the wild.

10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Included with National Aviary admission
Purchase tickets in advance at aviary.org; sellouts are likely!

Owl Prowl + Birding Kayak Tour with L.L.Bean | October 13

Two of the Aviary’s most popular programs combine this fall for one night only! This October, join National Aviary Ornithology and Education experts and L.L.Bean’s experienced and professional guides for an Owl Prowl Birdwatching Kayak Tour! This by water AND land program promises to be an exhilarating evening activity. First, observe birds by kayak during a twilight tour. Watch as species settle in for the night, then move to nearby trails for a star-filled trek to search and listen for native owls, like the Screech Owl, Barred Owl, and Great Horned Owl. L.L.Bean’s experienced and professional guides will provide on-land instruction on kayak equipment, basic strokes, and safety guidelines. Then a National Aviary expert leads kayakers out on the water to scan the shoreline and surrounding forest for birds. All equipment, including kayaks, paddles, safety floatation devices, and L.L.Bean Discovery Binoculars are provided. No prior experience is necessary.

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
$75 per person
North Park Lake
8 years and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Register at aviary.org

Brushes and Birds Evening Edition: Eurasian Eagle-Owl | Thursday, October 17

Kick off the National Aviary's Owl-O-Ween festivities a few days early by joining Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas (mariasideas.com) for a special 21+ evening edition of Brushes and Birds: Eurasian Eagle-Owl! During this cheerful and Boo-tiful portrait class, painters of all abilities will follow Maria’s step-by-step instructions to paint their very own Eurasian Eagle-Owl portrait. Materials are included.

Before class, relax with friends and meet a National Aviary Animal Ambassador while enjoying a glass of wine, beer, or delicious non-alcoholic beverage and scrumptious bites available for purchase from Atria's.

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
$40 with National Aviary Membership; $45 for non-members
Ages 21+
Register at aviary.org
Access to National Aviary habitats will be closed during the event

Owl-O-Ween | October 19 – 20; 26 – 27

Prepare to meet some of the most mysterious members of the bird world as Owl-O-Ween, the National Aviary’s annual celebration of creatures that soar through the night, returns! Kids will be able to spend their visit entranced by Halloween treats (no tricks!), delighting in the making of a fun owl-themed craft, and engrossing themselves in other engaging activities. PLUS, anyone can wear their most charming or spellbinding costume and join the Halloween festivities: getting the chance to meet an Animal Ambassador Owl while learning about what makes them unique from a National Aviary Expert in a Sp-OO-ky Meet and Greet!

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Included with National Aviary admission
Purchase tickets in advance at aviary.org; sellouts are likely!

Family with the Screech Owl at Owl O Ween Costume Parade at National Aviary

Teen Job Shadow Series | Saturdays, November 2, 9, 16, & 23

Teens ages 14 – 18 with a passion for working with animals can spend four Saturdays with National Aviary experts learning about the dynamic world of animal care and conservation. This program offers a unique opportunity to experience what it takes to care for more than 500 animals who call the National Aviary home.

1 – 3 p.m.
$299 for the full series of sessions
Open to ages 14 – 18
Register at aviary.org

Birding Expedition Bus Tour: Waterfowl | Sunday, November 3

Meet up with National Aviary Ornithologist Bob Mulvihill for a morning of birdwatching. Gather at the National Aviary and hop on a bus to birding! During the ride, Bob will share his knowledge and stories from decades of birding! During the outing, tour-goers will stop at several accessible lakes and marshes between Pittsburgh and Pymatuning. This date is near the height of the waterfowl migration season at places including Lake Arthur, Lake Wilhelm, Conneaut Marsh, and Pymatuning Reservoir. Bob will share his tools and tips on how to identify different waterfowl species such as ducks, grebes, loons, geese, and swans.

7 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
$134 with a National Aviary Membership; $149 for non-Members
6 years and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Register at aviary.org

Friendsgiving Brunch | Sunday, November 17

Kick off the season of giving with your closest friends during a brand-new Friendsgiving Brunch at the National Aviary! Gather cozily in The Garden Room, celebrating over a specially prepared feast with loved ones. Warm up with coffee and tea beside one of two large stone fireplaces as you enjoy fresh-cut fruits and pastries. Then savor a hearty meal made from scratch of the finest foods the fall harvest has to offer. After dining, spend a leisurely afternoon enjoying the National Aviary’s warm, mystical habitats: Brunch includes Admission.

Seatings at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Brunch includes National Aviary admission. Adults $55; Children 12 and under $35
Registration to come

Save the Date for Holiday Happenings at the National Aviary

Winter Camp | December 27, 28, or 30

Beat the holiday break boredom by attending a session of Winter Camp at the National Aviary. With one-day sessions designed for campers ages 6-8 and 9-12, participants will learn how birds make it through a bone-chilling winter while discovering what makes them so extraordinary, through guided learning sessions, interactive activities, and up-close encounters! Register at aviary.org.

Season’s Greetings Saturdays featuring Photos with Santa and a Penguin!

Saturdays, November 30 – December 21 | Included with General Admission
Snap that perfect holiday card picture! Find glad tidings and festive fun at the National Aviary during Season’s Greetings Saturdays! Meet beautiful birds while enjoying decorative, evergreen surroundings and engaging activities for enthusiastic children. Best of all: strike a pose with your family/friends...Santa...AND a penguin! Purchase tickets at aviary.org.

Holiday Late Nights | December 26 – 30 | Included with General Admission

Keep the seasonal joy going! Between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, spend family-friendly evenings at the National Aviary. Come in from the cold and warm up in tropical habitats. Festive music and décor, meet and greets with fantastical birds, live entertainment from local performers, and seasonal treats available for purchase from Atria’s Specialty Catering will keep you in the holly jolly spirit. The National Aviary will be open late for these popular seasonal evenings! Purchase tickets at aviary.org.

Looking for a sample itinerary for the Aviary or things to know before you go? Check out these articles written by local parents: