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!
While African penguins are the stars of our US aquarium locations, the world-class marine adventure continues across the border!
If you find yourself in Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada (located right next to the CN Tower) brings guests face-to-face with thousands of fascinating aquatic animals. While you won't find our African penguin colony here, you will discover:
Dangerous Lagoon: A moving sidewalk through a massive underwater shark tunnel.
Ray Bay: Where dozens of majestic stingrays glide right past you.
Planet Jellies: A mesmerizing, backlit gallery of glowing jellyfish.
And so much more!
For guests exploring Toronto, it offers a full day of underwater wonder and family-friendly fun.
Ripley’s Aquariums are more than just places to see marine life. They are immersive spaces designed to connect you with the natural world and spark curiosity!
From the playful energy of the African penguins in Myrtle Beach and the Smokies to the jaw-dropping scale of the exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Ripley’s makes the ocean feel closer, stranger, and more exciting than ever.
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!
Then, keep the journey going at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, where you won't find penguins but are sure to discover even more underwater wonders!
