Penguins, Penguins, Penguins

Meet Them. Feed Them. Cheer Them On.

They’re adorable! They put on a good show. And they check their foes into the boards on their way to score goals? There’s a reason we have a passion for penguins here in Pittsburgh, and we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to get in on the flocking fun.

Credit |
Lindsay Wright

The National Aviary

Right in the center of The National Aviary in Pittsburgh’s Northside is Penguin Point, a spectacular habitat featuring African penguins. Guests have a 360-degree view of Penguin Point as these birds dive and waddle inches away from you. Better yet, let your kids head through tubes further into the habitat that end in see-through domes putting children in the center of the fun.

Want to get even closer? Book a Penguin Encounter where you and a small group get a chance to touch a penguin's waterproof back feathers as you learn more about the colony and take unforgettable photos with your new feathered friends. From April-November you can even gear up and help hand-feed a colony of African penguins yourself! Both experiences can be bought online along with your ticket.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

While the Pittsburgh Zoo contains more than 8,000 amazing animals throughout its sprawling acreage, the biggest crowds will always be plopped right in front of the penguin habitat. Guests can get right up to the glass to see Macaroni (with their signature golden feathers on their heads) and Gentoo penguins play, swim and feed throughout the year.

Saturdays and Sundays during the winter months, the zoo takes advantage of the colder temps with Penguins on Parade as guests line the pathway for a picture-perfect procession of penguins around the aquarium. Be sure to get there early for the best spot; this event is extremely popular. And, if you’re not near the Burgh and missing these playful guys, you can even watch a live penguin cam daily to keep tabs on your favorites.

Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena

Ok, so these aren’t the same cute little animals as the rest, but a Pittsburgh Penguins National Hockey League game at PPG Paints Arena is still one of the most exciting nights out you can have in Pittsburgh. With a diehard fanbase cheering on the black and gold, electric energy from an unmatched stadium experience and a Stanley Cup champion-led team on the ice, there’s plenty to enjoy when it’s hockey night. Keep a lookout for Iceburgh, their penguin mascot, for antics as he slides down railings, poses for pics and tosses out prizes to fans.

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Jared B.

Author

Jared B.

Enthusiastic Pittsburgher

Always in search of the next great craft beer and arcade. Can be found in the Supporters Section of Pittsburgh Riverhounds games and at whatever festival is happening in the city.

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