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Location
Accessibility
Animals may not be visible at all times as they have choice to spend time in areas out of public view
Visitor tip
Attend keeper demonstrations and talks when available - they explain how penguins are kept mentally engaged and provide context for penguin behavior, significantly enhancing understanding of the exhibit
Best time
Visit during cooler weather (morning hours or fall/winter) when penguins are more likely to be visible and active in the water, as heat causes them to stay in indoor areas out of public view
Quick Facts
- Type
- Zoo
- Highlights
- African Penguin Cove with pool and rocky habitat
- Inspiration
- Designed after Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa
What visitors say
We purchased the Malott Family Penguin Encounter at Lincoln Park Zoo. It was an hour adventure with the African Penguins, see the kitchen, meet the keepers and then hang out with the Penguins. It was so cool! Great way to see the…
Unfortunately, I did not see any penguins here. The glass on the enclosure was quite dirty as well. The temperature when I was there was around 80 °F. Maybe this was too hot for the penguins and they stayed inside. The pavilion looks…
Small but intimate penguin exhibit with a shaded viewing area that straddles the ground and water parts of the habitat. However, because of the level of the ground, it is very hard for kids to see the penguins when they are not in the…
From 25 Google reviews
Did You Know?
- The penguin habitat is inspired by Boulders Beach near Cape Town, South Africa, featuring authentic design elements including a pool, burrow-like nest boxes, and rocky outcrops that replicate the African Penguin's natural environment
- The zoo offers a Malott Family Penguin Encounter program that provides an hour-long interactive experience including behind-the-scenes kitchen access, keeper meetings, and direct interaction with African Penguins
- The facility implements a progressive animal welfare approach by providing penguins with choice to spend time in areas out of public view, allowing animals to control their exposure and reduce stress
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