Penguin Awareness Day is Jan 20! Where to See New Jersey Penguins

Did you know that January 20th is Penguin Awareness Day?  In the spirit of celebrating these adorable, waddling wonders, let’s talk about where you can spot penguins right here in the Garden State. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of these tuxedoed birds or just looking for a fun outing, New Jersey offers a few unique opportunities to get up close with penguins. From family-friendly exhibits to educational experiences, here’s your guide to discovering New Jersey penguins!

Adventure Aquarium – 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ
The Adventure Aquarium, located just across the river in Camden, NJ, is a must-visit destination for penguin lovers. This incredible facility is home to not just one but two fascinating species of penguins: the African Penguin and the Little Blue Penguin.

Little blue penguins are the smallest species of penguins in the world, growing an average of 13 inches in height and weighing in at just 3 pounds on average. They are originally from coastlines and inshore waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. At Adventure Aquarium you can find them at Little Blue Beach which has been created to replicate nest boxes used in Australia.

Both penguins have feeding times at the aquarium where you can find out more information about them. Like humans, little blue penguins only stay “married” 50 percent of the time, but will stay monogamous during the breeding season.

The African Penguin, an endangered species, can be found at their 17,000-gallon oasis known as Penguin Island where you can watch them swim, frolic, and dive by in their underwater viewing window.

Each year, the breeding season kicks off at Adventure Aquarium at the beginning of September and goes through mid-January. The aquarium decides the number of chicks to add based on their institutional needs and the needs of the AZA’s Species Survival Plan.

Jenkinson’s Aquarium – 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
African penguins also call Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, their home. For those who can’t make it to the aquarium in person, Jenkinson’s has made it easy to stay connected with these adorable creatures by setting up a live Penguin Cam! This virtual window into their daily lives allows you to watch them splash around, preen their feathers, and socialize—all from the comfort of your home. It’s a fun and engaging way to learn more about African penguins while supporting their conservation efforts.

Additionally, you can book a penguin encounter or adopt a penguin. These experiences are donated directly to the aquarium.

Turtle Back Zoo – 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ
Turtle Back Zoo, located in West Orange, New Jersey, is home to a charming colony of African penguins. These endangered birds reside in the “Shores of Africa” exhibit, a 4,300-square-foot indoor habitat that replicates the South African coastline. The exhibit features three distinct viewing areas, allowing visitors to observe the penguins’ behaviors both on land and underwater.

Dedicated to the conservation of African penguins, Turtle Back Zoo actively participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding program. The exhibit includes an incubation room where zookeepers assist in rearing penguin chicks, contributing to the preservation of this threatened species.

For an even more immersive experience, the zoo offers special programs such as “Breakfast with the Penguins,” where guests can enjoy a meal while learning about these social animals from knowledgeable keepers. Additionally, “Behind the Scenes” tours provide insights into the daily care and conservation efforts dedicated to the penguins.

For more New Jersey Events and Adventures, follow along on Instagram, @newjerseyisntboring, and Insta Stories! Don’t forget to tag your own NJ fun with #NJisntBoring. For more events throughout the year, check out our Event Guide.