McNeil Avian Center
Rating
Family of 4
Included in Philadelphia Zoo admission (~$90-120 for family of 4)
Duration
30-60 min as a standalone exhibit; part of full zoo day
Best Ages
All ages, especially ages 2-10
About
The McNeil Avian Center is one of the Philadelphia Zoo's most impressive but often underrated exhibits. With over 100 bird species including large colorful macaws, toucans, flamingos, pelicans, and various birds of prey, it represents one of the finest bird collections in the mid-Atlantic region.
The highlight for families is the indoor walk-through aviary, where birds fly freely in a tropical environment and occasionally land near (or on) visitors. This is the kind of experience that produces genuine delight in young children. Outdoor sections display flamingos, large wading birds, and waterfowl in open-air habitats.
The McNeil Avian Center is included with Philadelphia Zoo general admission — there's no additional charge. The zoo is open 9:30AM-5PM, closed on Tuesdays. As part of a full zoo day, the avian center provides a quieter respite from the busier mammal exhibits, making it particularly valuable for families with young children who need a lower-stimulation break.
For a full zoo day at Philadelphia Zoo, budget approximately $90-120 for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children) including admission, parking, and food. Zoo membership pays off after 2-3 visits.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Available
Setting
Indoor & Outdoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning when birds are most active; part of Philadelphia Zoo full day
Wait Times
No wait typically
Nearby Food
Philadelphia Zoo has food stands and a cafe. Fairmount neighborhood has restaurants a short drive away.
Why Kids Love It
The McNeil Avian Center at the Philadelphia Zoo houses over 100 bird species in indoor aviaries and outdoor habitats — including large macaws, toucans, flamingos, and birds of prey. The indoor walk-through aviary section lets birds fly freely overhead, which young children find magical. It's one of the most impressive bird collections in the mid-Atlantic region.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Part of the Philadelphia Zoo — plan a full zoo day, not just this exhibit.
- The walk-through indoor aviary has free-flying birds — watch for birds landing near you.
- A quieter section of the zoo — good for a break from crowds near the big cat and primate areas.
- Philadelphia Zoo is closed Tuesdays.
- Flamingo exhibit is outside — flamingo color tends to be brightest in early spring.
What to Bring
- Zoo admission
- Camera with good zoom for bird photography
- Comfortable walking shoes
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Included in Philadelphia Zoo admission (~$90-120 for family of 4)
Tips to Save
- Included with Philadelphia Zoo admission.
- Zoo members visit free all year.
- The avian center is a quieter part of the zoo — great respite from crowded areas.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Monday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Sunday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Thursday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Wednesday
- 9:30AM-5PM
