There are only six zoo and aquarium combinations in the United States and the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is one of them. On display are fauna from several different habitats, including an African Savannah, an Asian Forest and a Tropical Forest. Water's Edge, which is among the most innovative exhibits at the 77-acre facility, consists of an interactive replica of a coastal fishing village and boasts two underwater tunnels that allow visitors to view polar bears and sand tiger sharks up close. Admission is free for children age two and under. Contact the aquarium for hours and other admission rates.
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
One Wild Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
412-665-3640
pittsburghzoo.com
The National Aviary is located in Pittsburgh's West Park on the North side of the city and is home to more than 600 birds from all over the world, including owls, penguins, pelicans, flamingos and parrots. Walk-through exhibits allow visitors to feed and interact with the birds. The institution also offers several different programs titled "Interactive Encounters" that, for a fee, allow guests to become better acquainted with a specific type of bird. The aviary is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
National Aviary
Allegheny Commons West
700 Arch St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
412-323-7235
aviary.org
The Duquesne Incline, an 19th century inclined plane left over from Pittsburgh's heyday as a center of industry, is still in use and is known as a vantage point for one of the best views of Pittsburgh's skyline. The Duquesne and the city's other surviving inclined plane, the MonongahelaI Incline, are among the oldest in the world. Visitors can ride the 100-year-old cable car to the top of Mount Washington. The incline operates Monday through Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. and from 7 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. on Sundays and holidays.
Duquesne Incline
1197 West Carson St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
412-381-1665
duquesneincline.org
