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Unforgettable Penguin Encounters at Newport Aquarium

Newport Aquarium provides a unique experience for guests who want to get up close with African penguins.

Your visit is in a climate-controlled room which means you don’t need any additional layers of clothing because African penguins are used to warmer temperatures.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

We started our encounter by meeting in the lobby and then the group proceeded to the Penguin House.

On our way to the Penguin House, we got to see the aquarium tanks from above.  This perspective helps you appreciate the creative layout of the aquarium below.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

We were given safety instructions before entering the Penguin House. We also walked on a mat to help us avoid taking in or out any germs during our visit which helps protect the penguins.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

During the encounter, you sit on the benches and do not move around once seated to help keep everyone safe.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium
Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

While we were sitting, the penguins walked around wherever they wanted to go.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

Several of them would go under the benches from time to time and walk around close to our feet.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

One of the employees shared interesting facts about the penguins as we watched them.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

He gave a lot of great info but it was hard to focus on listening as we were observing all of the activity around us.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

The penguins were so much fun to watch. Each one demonstrated a unique personality.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

During the encounter, you get an opportunity to touch the penguins. An employee secured the penguin’s head so that we could pet its back. The aquarium uses a 2 finger pet policy for all of its animals.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

The aquarium has a photographer taking pictures during your encounter so that you don’t have to worry about trying to take pictures.

You are also allowed to bring your own camera with you. It was personally hard for me to try to take a lot of pictures while trying to appreciate the experience.

The staff came around during our 20-minute session to get a picture of each group and a penguin.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

Pictures can be purchased by the image or you can purchase a USB with all of your images from your experience, which is the greater value.

You can also bring back your Newport Aquarium USB each time that you visit and get your future pictures for a low fee as well.

I used my USB from a previous visit because I didn’t want to miss out on any pictures that the photographer took.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

You can see that their action shot was WAY better than mine!

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

After your penguin encounter, you get a sticker to wear that says that you got to touch a penguin.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

We were sad to see them go but it was a really cool experience.  

It’s also good to know that a portion of the sales for the penguin encounters is donated to the WAVE Foundation for penguin conservation programs.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

How much is the Penguin Encounter at Newport Aquarium?

Tickets are $59.99* and Newport Aquarium Annual Passholders receive an exclusive 15% discount.

*Price does NOT include sales tax or admission to Newport Aquarium.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

You can find out more about the Penguin Encounters at Newport Aquarium on their website.

Penguin Encounters at the Newport Aquarium

Disclosure: I was given complimentary encounters for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

6 thoughts on “Unforgettable Penguin Encounters at Newport Aquarium”

  1. This looks like so much fun! I had a friend who worked at the Zoo and she was able to take us back to meet a few penguins ourselves and it was definitely a memorable experience. I can’t wait to head to the Newport Aquarium and check them out there.

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