It’s tough not to fall in love with a group of adorable, playful penguins. These fascinating creatures are an absolute blast to observe, whether they’re jetting through water or dining on a hearty serving of delicious fish. Seriously, sometimes it feels like you’re watching a Disney movie in real life. If you’ve always dreamt of getting up close and personal with a few adorable penguin pals, venture to this penguin encounter in Michigan for a one-of-a-kind experience.

John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 Fulton St West in Grand Rapids.
Google Maps
First opened in 1891, this delightful destination has served as a family favorite for generations of West Michiganders and tourists alike. There’s so much to enjoy here.
TripAdvisor/VacationerGuy
The destination is both educational and fun, making it harmonious for all family members. Everyone will come away feeling like they've learned something and they've had an amazing day.
While visitors can admire everything from monkey habitats to reptiles, the penguin exhibit remains a popular attraction at John Ball Zoo. It’s not hard to see why.
TripAdvisor/Tiffany H.
These penguins in Michigan are an absolute delight. They have big personalities for such tiny animals.
The zoo’s beloved aquarium section houses a large family of playful Magellanic penguins that can be closely observed through glass panels in their chilly habitat.
Facebook/John Ball Zoo
When you meet penguins in Michigan, you may be surprised by how much they remind you of people, except perhaps cuter.

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Can’t get enough of these penguins? You’re in luck: the zoo offers a Penguin Encounter program that offers guests the chance to get closer to the cute creatures.
Facebook/John Ball Zoo
This is a truly special opportunity that you and your loved ones will remember for years to come.
The experience begins with an "Under The Sea" tour that offers insight into daily care routines for sharks, fish, and other marine life that reside in the zoo’s aquarium.
Facebook/John Ball Zoo
This is some really interesting behind-the-scenes stuff. We're used to hearing about these animals' lives in the wild, but it's also interesting to know what their lives are like in the zoo.
After visiting with sea urchins and more, join a zookeeper for a penguin feeding on the deck. Due to space constraints, only one guest may participate in this part of the tour.
Facebook/John Ball Zoo
Let's hope you're the lucky chosen one because it is absolutely incredible to be in such close proximity to these quirky animals.
Participants for this unique adventure must be 13 or older. By the time you’re through with this outing, you’ll feel like a proper penguin expert.
Flickr/Duane Weller

Address: 1300 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

For additional information about the Under The Sea tour and its Penguin Encounter segment, visit the zoo’s website. Have you met the penguins at this beloved zoo, or better yet, had the rare opportunity to be able to feed them? Share your experiences with us in the comments! We love hearing your first-hand accounts of these unique experiences.

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More to Explore

Zoos In Michigan

CC | February 16, 2023

Where are there zoos in Michigan?

If this experience leaves you dying to meet more penguins, consider visiting these other zoos in Michigan.

  • Detroit Zoo
  • Binder Park Zoo
  • Potter Park Zoo
  • John Ball Zoo
  • Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park
  • Saginaw Children's Zoo
  • DeYoung Family Zoo
  • Roscommon Zoo
  • Washington Park Zoo

 

Where are there animal experiences in Michigan?

If zoos aren’t your thing, never fear, you can check out these other animal experiences in Michigan.

  • Blanford Nature Center
  • The DeGraff Nature Center
  • Outdoor Discovery Center
  • Hemlock Crossing Nature Center
  • K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary
  • Raven Hill Discovery Center
  • Oswald’s Bear Ranch
  • Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park
  • Hungry Ducks Farm
  • W. Overhiser Orchards
  • Double JJ Ranch
  • Amber Elk Ranch
  • Bumbleberry Acres in South Haven
  • MooseWood Nature Center at Presque Isle Park

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Featured Addresses
John Ball Zoo Station (EB), Grand Rapids, MI 49504, USA