Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Discover diverse wildlife at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, featuring an African Savanna, Asian Forest, and captivating underwater worlds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, featuring an African Savanna, Asian Forest, and captivating underwater worlds.
"A perfect family day with incredible animals and a stress-free experience, including free parking!"
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your Pittsburgh Zoo tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Be prepared for lots of walking with good footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Penguin Exhibit
Aquarium
Marvel at the energetic macaroni penguins, including the beloved Mickey, celebrating his 39th hatchday!
African Savanna
Witness majestic elephants and other iconic African wildlife in a beautifully designed naturalistic habitat.
PPG Aquarium
Dive into an underwater world with vibrant marine life, including sharks in a stunning two-story tank.
Kid's Kingdom
A safe and engaging space for little ones to explore, climb, and interact with animals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for Pittsburgh Hills
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your Pittsburgh Zoo tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Be prepared for lots of walking with good footwear.
🗺️ Grab a Zoo Map
Navigate the park easily with a map to find all the amazing animals and exhibits.
🐧 Don't Miss the Penguins!
The penguin exhibit is a must-see, especially for Mickey's birthday celebrations!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Skip the lines by purchasing your Pittsburgh Zoo tickets in advance online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The zoo is hilly! Be prepared for lots of walking with good footwear.
🗺️ Grab a Zoo Map
Navigate the park easily with a map to find all the amazing animals and exhibits.
🐧 Don't Miss the Penguins!
The penguin exhibit is a must-see, especially for Mickey's birthday celebrations!
🦈 Explore the Aquarium
The PPG Aquarium offers a fantastic underwater experience with sharks and more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium for its clean, well-laid-out exhibits and the engaging experience it offers families. The free parking and the dual attraction of the zoo and aquarium are major highlights. Some minor drawbacks include occasional congestion in popular areas and the temporary closure of certain facilities.
"I thought the zoo was laid out and flowed nicely. It was clean throughout. Some parts were closed so had to go backwards through the part we just went through. There were some staff around certain exhibits to talk about them and answer any questions, i thought that was very informative. I can definitely appreciate the free parking and i would definitely recommend purchasing your tickets in advance."
Jen Abulencia
"A Perfect Family Day at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium
The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is a wonderful destination for a full day of family fun. From the moment you arrive, the experience is stress-free—especially with ample free parking right near the entrance.
The zoo is beautifully laid out, making it easy to explore with kids. There’s an incredible variety of animals to see—from majestic elephants and playful sea otters to exotic tigers and colorful tropical fish in the aquarium. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed, giving you an up-close view while also teaching about conservation and wildlife care.
Families will especially love Kid’s Kingdom, where little ones can climb, explore, and interact with animals in a safe, engaging environment. The paths are stroller-friendly, and there are plenty of shaded spots and seating areas for breaks.
The aquarium is a highlight on its own, with fascinating underwater tunnels and vibrant marine life, making it feel like two attractions in one. Throughout the day, you’ll find snack stands, picnic areas, and even places to grab a meal while still enjoying animal views.
Overall, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium offers a perfect mix of adventure, learning, and relaxation. With free parking, friendly staff, and activities for all ages, it’s an easy choice for a memorable family outing."
Deepnath Das
"If you end up spending over 5 hours on your first visit here, you know it was a good time. What i loved most was how well the enclosures were made in natural environments. It was like walking through nature while stopping to view a variety of animals. Kyle really enjoyed everything as well. The layout is really well thought out. A couple minor drawbacks were highly congested areas that just didn't have much viewing area for the crowd mass. It was busy and very congested in a few areas. We also waited 30 minutes for a pizza order. Otherwise overall great visit, well worth the price of admission."
Matthew Truett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is located at 7370 Baker Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
Yes, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium offers ample free parking, making arrival stress-free.
You can drive directly to the zoo, as it has plenty of parking. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, several hotels are located near the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, offering convenient accommodation for visitors.
While driving is common due to ample free parking, it's advisable to check local Pittsburgh transit authority schedules for any bus routes that may service the zoo's vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pittsburgh Zoo hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Ticket prices for the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium can vary. Purchasing tickets in advance online is recommended, and checking the official website will provide the most accurate pricing information.
While tickets are often available at the gate, purchasing your Pittsburgh Zoo tickets in advance online is highly recommended to save time and potentially avoid disappointment.
Yes, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium hosts various special events throughout the year, such as the Jack O'Lantern Extravaganza. Keep an eye on their schedule for unique seasonal experiences.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during special promotions. Checking the official Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium website or inquiring at the ticket counter is the best way to find out about current offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the popular penguin exhibit, the majestic African Savanna, the vibrant PPG Aquarium with its shark tank, and the engaging Kid's Kingdom for younger visitors.
Yes, the paths at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium are generally stroller-friendly, making it easier for families to explore.
The zoo offers various snack stands and dining options. However, some facilities like restaurants may occasionally be closed, so it's good to check availability.
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium features a well-thought-out layout, often described as a large loop, making it easy to navigate and see all the exhibits.
While direct interaction is limited for safety, Kid's Kingdom offers opportunities for younger children to engage with animals in a controlled environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The penguin exhibit, the large shark tank in the aquarium, and the naturalistic enclosures of the African Savanna offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. However, always be mindful of any posted restrictions, especially regarding flash photography near sensitive exhibits.
A versatile camera with good zoom capabilities is ideal for capturing animals at various distances. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography in the PPG Aquarium to protect the marine life and ensure the best viewing experience for everyone.
Look for unique moments like penguins diving, tigers in their habitat, or the colorful array of fish in the aquarium for memorable shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, though food options are available. Be aware that some facilities, like restaurants, might occasionally be closed, so checking ahead or bringing your own provisions is a good idea.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and prices. The zoo offers a lot to see and do, making it a good value for a full day of entertainment.
couples
Enjoy a leisurely pace, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a shared snack. The zoo's naturalistic design and well-maintained paths create a pleasant atmosphere for a date. Consider visiting during a special event for a more festive outing, or opt for a weekday visit for a more intimate experience away from larger crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the PPG Aquarium
The exhibits are designed to be educational, highlighting the importance of marine conservation and the delicate balance of underwater environments. Many visitors find the aquarium to be a refreshing contrast to the outdoor zoo exhibits, offering a cool and captivating escape. The layout is intuitive, allowing for easy movement between different aquatic zones. Whether you're fascinated by the graceful movement of jellyfish or the intricate patterns on tropical fish, the PPG Aquarium provides a visually stunning and informative experience for all ages.
Family Fun at Kid's Kingdom
Parents appreciate that Kid's Kingdom provides a dedicated space for children to enjoy themselves, often with shaded areas and seating for breaks. While some facilities within Kid's Kingdom, like restaurants, may occasionally be closed, the playground and animal encounters remain a highlight for families.
Navigating the Pittsburgh Zoo Terrain
While the hills can be a workout, they also contribute to the zoo's naturalistic design, with enclosures often integrated into the landscape. This creates a more immersive experience, making it feel like you're walking through different natural habitats.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit