“Travelers” are invited to embark on a Global Odyssey: Avian Adventure
During the National Aviary’s newest themed summer season
New Daily Activities included with admission allow “tourists” to jet-set on an International journey exploring the wonderful world of birds
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Starting May 24th, Pittsburghers will become world travelers without leaving the historic Northside during the National Aviary's NEW summer season, Global Odyssey: Avian Adventure, offering them up-close access to birds and other animals found all across the globe.
From majestic Andean Condors gliding through the Andes Mountains to dazzling Scarlet Macaws foraging throughout the Amazon Rainforest, this season's exciting new "In-Flight Entertainment" (Daily Activities), and Flight Upgrades (Add on Opportunities) are bound to unleash everyone’s inner nomad, highlighting exotic environments and the unique species that inhabit them.
“In-Flight Entertainment” - Daily Talks and Experiences:
Global Odyssey: Avian Adventure includes new and returning daily activities, including the Where in the Wetlands? Expert Feeding: a travel twist on the guest-favorite programming held at 11 am and 2:30 pm. Watch as mischievous South American Inca Terns swoop down from their nests and vibrant American Flamingoes flock over from their sandy beach for a meal. Then check out a family of Spotted Whistling Ducks waddle past, as sunny Floridian Snowy Egrets flutter overhead during the Tropical Trek: Expert Feeding at 11:30 am and 3 pm. Head “Down Under” at 1:30 pm for a Destination Australia: Expert Talk, where guests will get up close to one of the Aviary’s scaliest new Animal Ambassadors: a Blue-tongued Skink.
“Flight Upgrades” - Extraordinary Add on Opportunities: National Aviary passengers can go the “extra mile” on an international trek through national parks during the Aviary’s BRAND NEW and most immersive show to date: Passport to Parks, presented by AAA Travel. Alongside two National Aviary expert guides, “tourists” will visit world wonders and meet the bird and mammal species who call them home! Plus, have the chance to see a stunning Gray Crowned-Crane as she flies closer than ever to audience members, or “passport holders,” a few of whom will also get the chance to have a Curl-crested Aracari fly onto their hands for a piece of fruit!
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This Summer Only! Visitors can keep their traveling adventure going with tickets for SkyDeck, the National Aviary’s exclusive summer-only live rooftop bird show. Bring sunglasses and watch as Hooded Vultures, a Critically Endangered species found in Africa, take flight from the rooftop, gliding on air currents as they circle over Allegheny Commons Park. Plus, meet the newest Aviary Animal Ambassador: American Kestrel She-Ra.
Enhance the trip itinerary with even more exhilarating experiences: make way to Canary’s Call Presented by Dollar Bank to hand-feed a cup of nectar to another Aussie favorite, the Rainbow Lorikeet, or take a virtual flight with Birdly. Get even closer to an owl, sloth, falcon, or penguin with exclusive Animal Encounters. PLUS, this summer season will feature a fun bonus, rotating Pop-Up Encounter every month: from a Skunk Painting Encounter in June, to a Penguin Painting Encounter in July, and even an adorable Armadillo and Friend Encounter, ONLY offered in August. But the encounters don’t stop there: returning for July only after a lengthy hiatus is the National Aviary’s Flamingo Feeding Encounter, the only one of its kind at AZA-accredited institutions across Pittsburgh!
Guests of all ages can also get an actual Global Odyssey: Avian Adventure passport stamped, as they turn daily activities into a scavenger hunt experience and take their passport with them as a trip souvenir. After such an eventful excursion, peckish wanderers can add on a stop for In-Flight Snacks at Atria’s KookaburraCafé!
All Animal Encounters include the cost of admission and can be booked in advance at aviary.org.
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Interactive Play Spaces for Kids:
Global Odyssey: Avian Adventure includes new and engaging play spaces for kids such as: an even bigger Draw Alive station, with ample space to create a masterpiece live on screen before displaying it on an Art Wall; “taking flight” at the Aviation Station where they’ll get the chance to pilot from the cockpit or pretend to be a passenger soaring through the skies; help our bird friends pack their suitcase with essentials to travel to an icy tundra, sun-drenched desert, or a dense rainforest; feel and find their way around sensory obstacles using toy planes, trains, and automobiles on a travel-themed sensory table; relax and enjoy books about globetrotting and birds all over the world at the Global Odyssey Book Nook!
Guests should also mark their calendars for upcoming adventurous programming and special events, including one-of-a-kind Classes and Experiences and Birdwatching Outings and Trips alongside National Aviary experts and friends, as well as the summer’s hottest 21+ party of the year, Night in the Tropics: Evening in Paradise Presented by UPMC Health Plan!
“Global Odyssey (Avian Adventure) is sure to be one of our most exciting seasons to date!” says Cathy Schlott, director of animal programs and experiences. “In addition to the debut of the BRAND NEW live immersive bird show, Passport to Parks, captivating décor, and an optional choose-your-own-adventure style Ultimate Aviary Pass make us the perfect summer destination for hesitant travelers.”
For a full line-up of daily activities and to stay up to date on upcoming events and the National Aviary’s ongoing conservation efforts, visit aviary.org.
