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penguin swimming

Penguin Experience (Coming Soon)

🐧 Coming Soon! While we prep for this experience, you can still give the gift of penguins with a Penguin Experience gift certificate.

Waddle into your next adventure with the newest residents of Boston—African penguins! Known as “jackass penguins” for their donkey-like calls, these curious, social birds are full of personality. Join us inside the new Penguin Coast habitat to learn about these amazing animals and Zoo New England’s work to help protect penguins in the wild.

➤ Experience Details

When: Coming Soon!
Where: Franklin Park Zoo (meet at the Zebra Entrance)
Who: Ages 4 and up
Price: $125

Purchase a Gift Certificate

➤ Before You Buy

  • Tickets are per person, not per group.
  • Experiences often sell out—purchase online at least 24 hours in advance. If sold out online, tickets will not be available at the gate.
  • Penguin Experience tickets do not include zoo admission. General admission must be purchased separately.
  • Experiences accommodate up to six guests per group and are not private, so you may share the experience with other visitors.
  • All guests ages 4 and up must be included in the group size.

➤ Age, Accessibility & Safety

  • Children must be at least 4 years old to participate.
  • Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (ticket required).
  • Closed-toed shoes are required.
  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Touching or petting animals is not permitted.

➤ Day-of Arrival

  • Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
  • Join your group 5 minutes before the experience begins.
  • Late arrivals may not be accommodated due to animal care schedules.

➤ What to Expect

While we do our best to engage the penguins, participation is always up to the animals. You’ll still enjoy a memorable experience guided by our expert care team—bring your questions!

➤ Important Policies

  • A valid zoo admission ticket is required for each guest.
  • Tickets are one-time use, non-refundable, and valid only for the date and location purchased.
  • You may be photographed or recorded during your visit; admission grants permission for use by Zoo New England.

➤ Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy

  • Cancellations 7+ days in advance receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable.
  • Tours may be rescheduled for a $35 fee, subject to availability.
  • Arrivals more than 10 minutes late may require rescheduling.
  • No-shows will not receive a refund and are subject to the rescheduling fee.
  • Experiences may be cancelled due to weather or the animals' needs.

➤ Contact Us

Contact the Education Administrator at 617-989-3742 or email Education@zoonewengland.org with questions or to discuss rescheduling options.