Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for families and penguin enthusiasts alike. The aquarium is home to a variety of species, but its African penguin exhibit, known as the Penguin Playhouse, is a standout feature. This exhibit is the largest expansion in the aquarium’s history, spanning 5,500 square feet and featuring eight new tanks showcasing fish from around the world.
The Penguin Playhouse at Ripley’s Aquarium
The Penguin Playhouse is part of Ripley’s conservation efforts for the African penguin, one of the world’s most endangered species. Visitors can view these birds in their full glory through 50 feet of floor-to-ceiling viewing glass and even waddle through a 360-degree tunnel to be engulfed in the penguins’ setting. For a more intimate experience, guests can participate in a penguin encounter, allowing them to pet a penguin and learn about these regal birds from an aquarium staff expert.
Interactive Experiences at Ripley’s Aquarium
In addition to the Penguin Playhouse, Ripley’s Aquarium offers a range of interactive experiences, including encounters with stingrays and sleeping with the sharks. The aquarium also hosts exhibits featuring species from various continents, such as Africa, Australia, North and South America, showcasing life in the reef, fish of the Amazon, jellyfish, seahorses, pufferfish, and more.
Educational Opportunities at Ripley’s Aquarium
For those interested in educational opportunities, Ripley’s Aquarium offers two state-of-the-art classrooms for school groups to get a rare glimpse at penguin life. The aquarium also participates in conservation efforts, such as rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles back into the ocean.
Visitor Information
Visitors can purchase tickets in advance, buy annual passes for unlimited visits, and even take a virtual tour with videos from inside the aquarium. Ripley’s Aquarium is located at Broadway at the Beach, a destination featuring unique shops, restaurants, rides, and more.
Cost and Timings
- Adult tickets: $29.99
- Child tickets (ages 6-11): $19.99
- Children under 5: Free
- Annual passes: $69.99 for adults, $49.99 for children
- Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Location and Directions
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is located at 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
Penguin Encounter Rates
Penguin encounters are an additional $50 per person.
The African Penguin: A Unique Perspective
The African penguin, also known as the Cape penguin, is the only penguin species found on the African continent. These penguins prefer warmer water temperatures, unlike their friends in Antarctica who thrive in icy cold climates. Unfortunately, the African penguin population has declined by 60% in the last 28 years, making it one of the most endangered penguin species in the world. Ripley’s Aquarium’s Penguin Playhouse is a significant contribution to the conservation efforts for this species, providing a world-class habitat and educational opportunities for visitors.
Real-life Incidents and Statistics
- In 2018, a penguin named Bubba escaped from Ripley’s Aquarium and was found waddling through a nearby parking garage.
- African penguins are known for their distinctive black and white plumage, which serves as camouflage in the water.
- The African penguin population has been declining due to factors such as overfishing, habitat loss, and climate change.
References:
– Tripadvisor Review of Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
– Penguin Playhouse at Ripley’s Aquarium
– Penguin Exhibit Opens at Ripley’s Aquarium
– Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
– Penguin Encounter at Ripley’s Aquarium
– Penguin Escapes Myrtle Beach Aquarium