Types of Pavilions Available
Bear Playgrounds carries a hand-selected lineup of Amish-built pavilions spanning traditional, rustic, and estate styles. Each one is crafted from premium materials before it ever reaches your backyard.
Traditional Pavilions
A traditional pavilion fits most backyards and works for everything from weekend cookouts to permanent outdoor living setups. These are the most popular entry point for homeowners who want a real structure without doing too much damage to their wallet.
Timber Frame & Rustic Styles
If you want something with more character, our rustic timber frame pavilions deliver. Heavy posts, open-beam construction, and bold proportions. These hold their own on larger properties and pair well with natural landscaping.
Estate & Grand Pavilions
Built for the long haul. Estate pavilions are a permanent investment in your property. Larger footprints, heavier construction, and a presence that anchors an outdoor space completely. Starting at $36,000, these are designed for buyers who are done compromising on an outdoor space.
Commercial Pavilions
For parks, events, and commercial properties. Bear's commercial pavilion line handles high traffic and Pennsylvania weather. Contact us directly for commercial pricing and project scoping.
Vinyl vs Wooden-Framed Pavilions: What's the Difference?
Wood pavilions offer a natural look and traditional feel. However, they require periodic sealing or staining to stay in top shape. Vinyl pavilions are low-maintenance by design, as you won’t need to paint or stain the material. Both options are Amish-built and available with professional installation, and both materials make for a great outdoor living pavilion.
Which Size Pavilion Is Right for You?
Pavilions aren't one-size-fits-all. The right size depends on how you plan to use the space, what fits your yard, and how much you want to invest. Here's a practical breakdown.
Small Pavilions (Up to 12x12)
A small pavilion is the right call for tighter yards or focused use. Think seating for four to six, a dedicated grilling spot, or a covered play area. These fit comfortably in most suburban backyards without dominating the space.
Mid-Size Pavilions (12x16 to 14x20)
The sweet spot for most homeowners. A mid-size pavilion handles outdoor dining, entertaining, and everyday backyard use without requiring a large lot. Enough room for a full table and chairs with space left over.
Large Pavilions (16x20 and Up)
Built for serious outdoor living. Large pavilions work for homeowners who entertain regularly, want a permanent outdoor kitchen setup, or have the property to support a statement structure. These are also the right starting point for event venues and commercial applications.
A Few Questions to Guide Your Decision
- How many people do you typically entertain?
- Do you want room for outdoor furniture, a grill, or both?
- Is the pavilion replacing indoor entertaining space or supplementing it?
- Do local zoning rules in your municipality limit structure size?
Not sure what fits your property? Visit Bear's showroom in Mars, PA to see models in person before you commit.
Professional Pavilion Installation by Bear Playgrounds
Bear Playgrounds handles the entire installation process so you don't have to coordinate crews, chase subcontractors, or figure out what "some assembly required" actually means on a structure of this size.
Every pavilion we sell is installed by our own experienced team.
What to Expect
- Site assessment: We evaluate your yard before anything ships. Grade, access, and placement all get confirmed upfront.
- Delivery: Your pavilion arrives ready for installation. We coordinate the delivery window with you directly.
- Professional build: Our crew handles the full assembly on-site. Most installations are completed in a single day.
- Final walkthrough: Before we leave, we walk the finished structure with you and answer any questions.
Built to Last Pennsylvania Winters
Our pavilions are engineered to handle four-season Pennsylvania weather. Snow load, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles are part of the equation when we talk about construction quality with every buyer.
Interested in adding a concrete pad, lighting, or electrical? We can discuss additional site prep options when you contact us.
Why Bear is Trusted for Pavilions near Pittsburgh
Bear Playgrounds is the Pittsburgh area's go-to source for Amish-built pavilions with professional installation. We're not a big-box retailer shipping you a flatpack. We're a local team that sells, delivers, and installs every pavilion we carry. We’ve personally assembled every type of pavilion or pergola we carry.
Our showroom is located at 186 Brickyard Road in Mars, PA. Come see the models in person before you buy. On a high-ticket purchase like this, more information makes for a better decision, so feel free to stop by and ask any questions you might have.
We serve homeowners and commercial buyers across the greater Pittsburgh region. Whether you're adding a backyard pavilion in the North Hills or building out a commercial property in Butler County, Bear handles the full project from initial sale to final installation.
Ready to get started? Call us at 724.443.4441 or stop by the showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are your pavilions Amish-built?
Yes. Every pavilion Bear Playgrounds carries is Amish-built using traditional craftsmanship and premium materials. Installation is handled by factory installers trained on these specific structures.
Do your pavilions come with installation?
Yes. Bear sells and installs every pavilion we carry. We don't drop a kit in your driveway and leave. Our team handles the full build on-site.
How long does pavilion installation take?
Most pavilion installations are completed in a single day. Larger estate or commercial pavilions may require additional time. We confirm the timeline with you before the project starts.
What sizes are available?
Bear carries pavilions ranging from small backyard structures up to large estate and commercial pavilions. Visit our showroom in Mars, PA to see current models and discuss sizing for your specific property.
What's the difference between a pergola and a pavilion?
A pergola is an open-air structure with a lattice or slatted roof. It adds definition to an outdoor space and looks great draped with climbing plants or string lights. A pavilion takes those qualities further. Solid roof, full coverage, real protection from sun and rain. Both provide some outdoor shelter, but the pavilion goes further by fully covering the roof by default.
Do I need a permit to install a pavilion in Pennsylvania?
Permit requirements vary by municipality. Most townships require a permit for permanent structures. We recommend checking with your local zoning office before your project starts. Bear can provide spec sheets and documentation to support your permit application.
How long do your pavilions last?
With proper care, a quality wood pavilion lasts 20 to 30 years. Vinyl pavilions require less maintenance and hold up well over the long term. Amish construction quality means these are built to outlast cheaper alternatives significantly.
Can I see pavilions in person before I buy?
Yes. Bear's showroom is located at 186 Brickyard Road in Mars, PA. We strongly recommend visiting before committing to a structure at this price point.
Do you install commercial pavilions?
Yes. Bear carries a dedicated commercial pavilion line for parks, event venues, and commercial properties. Contact us directly at 724.443.4441 for commercial project scoping and pricing.
