This summer, SeaWorld Orlando will become the sole location in the Western Hemisphere where visitors can observe Emperor penguins—the most sizable and recognizable penguin species on the planet—up close. Starting June 14, guests will have the rare opportunity to see these majestic flightless birds in the park’s upgraded Antarctica Realm.
SeaWorld Annual Pass Members are getting a special treat with exclusive early access to the Emperor penguin habitat on June 12 and 13, allowing them a sneak peek at these incredible, iconic animals before the exhibit opens to the general public.
An Antarctic Habitat in Florida
Native to the extreme, icy environment of the Earth’s southernmost continent, Emperor penguins are perfectly adapted to their harsh surroundings. Their dense feathers provide insulation against the cold, while their exceptional swimming skills enable them to dive deeper than any other bird species.
To ensure the penguins’ health and comfort, SeaWorld Orlando enhanced its Antarctica Realm by lowering temperatures to approximately 28°F and replicating Antarctic light cycles to support the penguins’ natural behaviors. The new residents were carefully relocated from SeaWorld San Diego, a pioneer in Emperor penguin care and breeding since the early 1980s.
"This is an incredibly rare and exciting opportunity for guests to encounter one of nature's most extraordinary species," said Jon Peterson, Park President of SeaWorld Orlando. "We're proud to continue SeaWorld's legacy of penguin care and conservation, while giving our guests a rare chance to connect with these animals in remarkable ways."
Artwork Celebrates the Emperors’ Arrival
To mark the arrival of these Antarctic ambassadors, SeaWorld Orlando collaborated with Creative City Project to launch “Big City Penguins”, an eye-catching public art display featuring three enormous Emperor penguin sculptures scattered across Downtown Orlando. The installation, available through June 19, invites locals and tourists alike to capture photos, share on social media and get excited for the penguins’ highly anticipated debut at the park.
A Commitment To Conservation
SeaWorld San Diego is the first zoological facility globally to successfully breed Emperor penguins outside Antarctica. It has hatched and brought up more than 20 individuals since 1980, including a chick born as recently as 2023.
SeaWorld remains devoted to the protection and care of penguins, holding accreditations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, and recognition as Humane Certified by American Humane. Its ongoing conservation efforts aim to safeguard these remarkable birds and their natural environments.
Early Access and Exclusive Perks
Visitors eager to meet the Emperor penguins are encouraged to become SeaWorld Annual Pass Members. Early access to the Emperor penguin habitat on June 12 and 13 is included, giving members a head start to explore this unique exhibit. With options starting at just $14 per month, passholders enjoy such special perks as unlimited admission, free parking, guest tickets, exclusive event invitations, and discounts on food and merchandise.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
