How many animals and species does the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium house?

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 8,000 animals, representing more than 600 different species from around the world and under the sea.

Is the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium offers several accessibility features, including welcoming personal wheelchairs, electric mobility scooters, and strollers (with elevator access for wheeled devices). They also provide rentals for these items, and service animals are permitted with some restrictions. The Zoo also works with KultureCity and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower project to support guests with sensory needs.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium?

Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. There are several picnic areas and tables throughout the park for guests to enjoy their meals.

AquariumPennsylvania, US

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium stands as a premier destination in Pennsylvania, offering an immersive journey into the wonders of wildlife from across the globe and beneath the waves.

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About

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium stands as a premier destination in Pennsylvania, offering an immersive journey into the wonders of wildlife from across the globe and beneath the waves. Spanning 77 acres within Pittsburgh's Highland Park, this unique institution is home to over 8,000 animals representing more than 600 species, making it one of only a handful of facilities in the United States that combines both a zoo and an aquarium. Visitors are invited to explore a diverse array of meticulously recreated habitats, from the sprawling African Savanna where majestic giraffes roam, to the lush and humid Tropical Forest teeming with primates and sloths. Each exhibit is designed to not only showcase the animals but also to educate guests on critical conservation efforts, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

The visitor experience at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is truly engaging and family-friendly, promising memorable encounters with some of the planet's most fascinating creatures. Wander through the Forest Passage to come face-to-face with powerful Amur tigers and adorable red pandas, or delve into the watery depths of the Aquarium to observe playful penguins and graceful sharks. The innovative Water's Edge exhibit allows for unique underwater views of polar bears and sea lions, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities. Beyond animal viewing, interactive elements and special programming ensure that there's always something new to discover, making each visit an adventure in learning and discovery.

Whether you're marveling at the agility of clouded leopards in The Islands or captivated by the curious meerkats in Kids Kingdom, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium offers an enriching outing for all ages. The venue is deeply committed to conservation, working to protect endangered and threatened species through various programs and research initiatives. It's a place where entertainment meets education, inspiring visitors to become stewards of wildlife and encouraging lifelong respect for biodiversity. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium first opened its gates to the public on June 14, 1898, as the Highland Park Zoo, following a generous donation from philanthropist Christopher Magee in 1895 for the construction of zoological buildings. Initially, like many zoos of its time, it functioned more as a menagerie, but it gradually evolved into a conservation-focused institution with more naturalistic exhibits. Significant expansions occurred over the decades, including the addition of outdoor bear exhibits and the main building in 1937 under the Works Progress Administration, and the opening of the first Children's Zoo in 1949. A major milestone was the 1967 debut of the AquaZoo, which, at the time, was the only public aquarium in Pennsylvania and the second-largest aquarium in the United States. The institution was known as the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium from 2002 to 2022 due to a naming rights agreement. In 2024, the zoo regained its accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and unveiled an ambitious 20-year master plan to further enhance habitats and visitor experiences, with initial changes including a new front entrance and an expanded giraffe barn.

What to do here

Explore the nine themed sections, attend daily animal feedings and educational shows (especially during summer), and consider a 'Wild Encounter' for a more personal animal experience. Interactive elements like the touch tank in the Aquarium and play areas in Kids Kingdom are popular. Seasonal events and optional rides like the One Wild Express Train and Carousel add to the fun.

Seasonal info

As a 'rain-or-shine' facility, visitors should always check the weather and dress accordingly. While rare, extreme weather can lead to closures, and certain animals may be off-exhibit due to health, safety, or operational concerns. Special events, such as the Asian Lantern Festival, may occur at different times of the year.

Accessibility

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is committed to accessibility. Guests are welcome to bring personal wheelchairs, electric mobility scooters, and strollers, though wheeled devices must use the elevator next to the escalator for entry. Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals are also available (advanced reservations are recommended). The Zoo welcomes service animals, though they have restricted access to certain exhibits like the Aviary, Goat Yard, and Kangaroo/Wallaby exhibits. The facility also partners with KultureCity and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower project to support guests with sensory processing needs. Hilly terrain suggests strollers with sturdy wheels are beneficial.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: To thoroughly enjoy all 77 acres and numerous exhibits, visitors should plan for a comprehensive visit lasting several hours, with many finding it takes a minimum of 3 hours to see the main attractions.
Best time to visit: The late spring or early fall are ideal to avoid the extremes of summer heat or winter cold, allowing for comfortable exploration of the primarily outdoor facility. Arriving right at opening time is recommended to beat the crowds and see more active animals. The Zoo is open year-round, so dressing appropriately for the weather is always key.
Location: Pennsylvania, US
Species in this guide: 17

Best for

Families With ChildrenWildlife Enthusiasts And Animal LoversIndividuals Interested In Conservation And EducationPhotographySeniors (due To Accessibility Features And Tram)

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Don't miss

African Savanna with its majestic elephants, giraffes, and lions

Tropical Forest where you can spot gorillas and two-toed sloths

Water's Edge exhibit for incredible underwater views of polar bears and sea lions

Aquarium with diverse aquatic life, including penguins and sharks

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

African Lion

Giraffes

Tiger

Turkey

Leopard

Sea Otter

Tiger Shark

Gentoo Penguin

White Tailed Deer

Brook Trout

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

Get to the Zoo right at opening to avoid the largest crowds and see the animals during their most active morning hours.

Consider the Tram

The Zoo offers a tram service with multiple stops, which can be a lifesaver for little ones (or tired adults) on the hilly terrain.

Pack a Sturdy Stroller

Given the hilly nature of the park, a stroller with robust wheels is highly recommended for families with young children.

Revisit Exhibits

If an animal isn't visible or is sleeping during your first pass, try revisiting the exhibit later in your trip, as animals' activity levels can change.

Buy Tickets Online

Purchasing your tickets in advance online can save you time at the admission gates and potentially money.

Check Daily Schedules

Consult the Zoo's daily activity schedule upon arrival to catch animal feedings, enrichment programs, or educational shows.

Frequently asked questions

: The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 8,000 animals, representing more than 600 different species from around the world and under the sea.
: Yes, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium offers several accessibility features, including welcoming personal wheelchairs, electric mobility scooters, and strollers (with elevator access for wheeled devices). They also provide rentals for these items, and service animals are permitted with some restrictions. The Zoo also works with KultureCity and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower project to support guests with sensory needs.
: Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. There are several picnic areas and tables throughout the park for guests to enjoy their meals.