African penguins are some of the most charming residents at Ripley’s Aquariums. Bringing big personalities, curious behaviors, and plenty of unforgettable moments to every visit, these tuxedoed birds are an absolute must-see.
Whether you're planning a family vacation or a day full of interactive animal encounters, Ripley’s African penguins are ready to make your aquarium adventure truly legendary. Experience these playful, endangered birds up close at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.
African penguins may look dressed for a fancy night out, but don't let their fancy attire deceive you! Learn why these amazing animals are a guest favorite.
Native Habitat: Coastlines of southern Africa
Skills: Incredible swimmers, highly social, and intelligent
Conservation Status: Endangered
Because they are endangered, every chance to learn about them is incredibly meaningful. At Ripley’s Aquariums, guests can watch these incredible birds in action while discovering more about their natural behaviors, habitats, and the vital conservation efforts helping to protect penguins in the wild.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is home to a world-famous colony of African penguins inside the Penguin Playhouse.
Waddle over and see these amazing birds swim and splash through their indoor/outdoor habitat! Crawl through tunnels to view our feathered friends from above and below the water, or pop up on the penguins' private beach to get nose-to-beak with these curious creatures.
Go Beyond the Glass: The Penguin Encounter
Guests looking for an even closer look can book an exclusive Penguin Encounter . During this expert-led experience, you will:
Get face-to-face with an African penguin.
Learn directly from Ripley’s world-class animal care team.
Pet a penguin and take home a keepsake photo.
For families visiting the Smoky Mountains, it is easily one of the most unforgettable things to do in Gatlinburg.
Ready to make a splash? Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies today!
At Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, the Penguin Playhouse invites guests to see our curious penguins up close and personal. This engaging habitat is a premier destination for animal lovers and curious minds searching for unique things to do in Myrtle Beach.
Watch the penguins waddle, dive, and show off their one-of-a-kind personalities.
Upgrade Your Visit
Want to take your beach trip to the next level? Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach also offers up-close Penguin Encounters . Add a Penguin Encounter to your aquarium adventure to meet these playful birds for yourself in this expert-led 30-minute animal encounter.
Don't miss out! Visit Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach today!
Ripley’s Aquariums partners with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to protect vulnerable marine wildlife. Together with other AZA institutions, we work to maintain genetically diverse and biologically sound populations of species ranging from sand tiger sharks and spotted eagle rays to seahorses.
Our efforts are especially critical for endangered animals like the sawfish. Only 38 sawfish across three species exist within all AZA institutions, and Ripley’s proudly houses a significant number of them. Our African penguin colony is a vital part of this broader conservation mission, where everyday care and research help safeguard their future.
Want a closer look at our colony? You can step behind the scenes virtually at any time. Tune into the Ripley’s Live Penguin Cam to watch our penguins swim, waddle, and play in real-time, and see our conservation dedication in action.
👉 Tune In On Ripley’s Live Penguin Cam Now!
So, what are you waiting for? Visit a US Ripley’s Aquarium and see African penguins up close, explore Penguin Playhouse, and book your Penguin Encounter today!
