Join the National Aviary and Rivers of Steel for a birding experience like no other!
Birdwatching Cruise with the National Aviary
As the Rivers of Steel’s Captain Ryan O’Rourke steers the Explorer riverboat along the banks of the rivers, the National Aviary’s ornithologist Robert Mulvihill will help spot river birds, such as cormorants, eagles, herons, mergansers, and songbirds during this three-hour birdwatching excursion.
Birders are encouraged to bring their preferred binoculars, birding books, and any other equipment they would typically use for birdwatching. Binoculars are also available for use while on the Explorer riverboat.
Hours & Admission*
This program is offered twice in 2023, on Saturday, June 24 and Saturday, September 16, 8:00 – 11:00 a.m., on the Explorer riverboat.
General Admission
$50
*Space is limited for this special program.
Location & Directions
The Explorer riverboat docks on Pittsburgh’s North Shore near the headwaters of the Ohio River and adjacent to the Carnegie Science Center.
What to Know Before You Go
Rivers of Steel maintains a family atmosphere on the Explorer. Please be advised of these tips and guidelines to ensure your best possible experience.
COVID-19 Policies: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies.
Social distancing: Social distancing is no longer mandatory, but we do ask that you be mindful of the people around you, allowing for a comfortable amount of space when possible.
What to wear: Many patrons enjoy experiencing the Explorer from its outside areas; please dress for the weather.
Food & Beverages: No concessions are sold onboard the Explorer, but there are two water coolers on the boat for passengers to enjoy. You are welcome to bring onboard a snack, lunch, or non-alcoholic beverage to enjoy during your excursion. Smoking / vaping is prohibited at all times.
Accessibility: The Explorer riverboat and its home dock are ADA accessible, which includes an ADA restroom onboard, as well an elevator to navigate between the boat’s decks. Handicapped parking is available nearby at the Carnegie Science Center.
Photography: Photography is encouraged! However, for safety reasons videography and drones are prohibited.
Admission: Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed. By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to be photographed.
Duration & Arrival: Guests may board Explorer one-half hour before their tour is scheduled to depart. Guests should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. Should we encounter river traffic, the tour could be extended by as much as 15 minutes on the back end.
Location & Address: The Explorer riverboat docks at the Rivers of Steel Dock on Pittsburgh’s North Shore near the headwaters of the Ohio River. The official address is 715 Casino Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. For practical purposes (since we are on the river, not the road), the location is along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, between the Carnegie Science Center and The Landing Hotel at the Rivers Casino. All public tours and programs originate from this location.
Directions & Parking: Parking is available at the Carnegie Science Center’s paid parking lots. Please review their parking information here. For more details, including maps and step-by-step directions, visit our Google Business page or download this pdf.
Weather Policy: Tours are rain or shine. Rivers of Steel will cancel a tour if inclement weather poses a threat to our guests or our vessel. In the event of unsafe river conditions, severe weather conditions, or mechanical failure or as required by U.S. Coast Guard, other regulatory or governmental agency, our captain reserves the right to stay at dock or if the vessel is underway, to return to dock. In such instances, refunds or exchanges can be issued for tickets purchased in advance.
For more information, contact tours@riversofsteel.com.
Learn more about the events
such as tours, workshops, and festivals happening at each unique attraction.
