Ages: 2+

Available: March - October

Experience Helzberg Penguin Plaza Exhibit behind the scenes with penguins waddling all around.  During this experience, you will learn about our cold weather penguins and have an “up close and personal” encounter with some of these magnificent birds.  For your safety, touching of the penguins is not permitted.

Zoo Admission is included.  Please print or bring your confirmation email receipt for zoo entry.

 

Available: Select Days, March – October

Times: 11:30am

Ages: 2+; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult who has purchased a Penguin Encounter ticket

Duration: 30 minutes

Cost: $40 per person  (FOTZ members receive a 10% discount)

Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants

 

What to Expect

During your encounter you will be visited by some of the zoo’s cold weather penguins.  The penguins that you will encounter will be King penguins. You will not be allowed to touch or feed the penguins, but the penguins may choose to approach you.

 

Age Specifications:

We ask that guests adhere to the following for your safety and the safety of the zoo’s animals:

• Children 2 to 5 years old must be carried or held by the hand of an adult in their group.
• Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult who has purchased a Penguin Encounter ticket.

 

Where should I meet for the encounter?

Please meet at the Education Offices located inside the Zoo Learning Center building which is the building to the right of the main parking lot.  Please make sure to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your encounter.  Late arrivals will not be accommodated.

 

Pictures

Please feel free to take pictures.  You must remain standing straight up at all times.  No bending or stooping to take selfies.

 

General Information

• Tours are not guaranteed to be private, unless your group fills the maximum capacity.
• Kansas City Zoo reserves the right to cancel any tour due to unforeseen circumstances.  The zoo will contact you to reschedule your tour.
• Tours and encounters are non-refundable.  Tours cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice will have 30 days to reschedule and may incur a $25 rescheduling fee.  No refunds or rescheduling opportunities will be given for no call/no shows.
• No accommodations will be made for late arrivals.  Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your encounter.

 
Book Your Encounter!