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If your kids love penguins, the Milwaukee County Zoo is one of the best places in Wisconsin to see them up close. The Zoo cares for several penguin species, including a full colony of Humboldt penguins in the Penguins of the Pacific habitat — one of the first exhibits you’ll see when you walk in the main entrance.
Whether your little ones like watching penguins dive underwater, waddle along the rocks, or interact with their colony, here’s everything families should know before visiting.
If your kids love penguins as much as we do, they’ll also love our 50 Fun Facts About Emperor Penguins for Kids — a fun, easy-to-read list perfect for young animal lovers.
Quick Answers Parents Are Searching For
Where are the penguins located at the Milwaukee County Zoo?
Right inside the main entrance (U.S. Bank Gathering Place), at the Penguins of the Pacific habitat.
What species of penguins live at the zoo?
- Humboldt penguins (main entrance exhibit)
- Rockhopper penguins (inside the Herb & Nada Mahler Family Aviary)
- Gentoo penguins (inside the Herb & Nada Mahler Family Aviary)
How many Humboldt penguins does the Zoo have?
A breeding colony of 15.
Is the exhibit indoors or outdoors?
Humboldt penguins are in an outdoor habitat with underwater viewing. Rockhopper and Gentoo penguins are indoors in the Aviary.
Are penguins easy for young kids to see?
Yes — the main exhibit is stroller-friendly and very close to eye level for little ones.
Penguins of the Pacific: Meet the Humboldt Penguins
The Zoo’s colony of Humboldt penguins lives in the Penguins of the Pacific habitat, a highly visible exhibit designed to give families an up-close look at these warm-weather birds.
You’ll see penguins:
- Diving and swimming right along the glass
- Resting or preening on rocky ledges
- Socializing in their breeding colony
- Lounging near the viewing windows
Humboldt penguins are native to Peru and Chile and are classified as Vulnerable, making this breeding colony especially meaningful for conservation.
The Zoo is one of only 22 accredited facilities in the U.S. and Canada caring for this species.
Renovations and Improvements
Originally built in the 1980s, the Penguins of the Pacific habitat recently underwent a major renovation to modernize the space and enhance care for the Zoo’s breeding colony of Humboldt penguins.
The upgraded habitat reopened in December 2024, featuring improved rockwork, expanded viewing areas, and updates behind the scenes that support the health and well-being of the birds. Families can once again see the penguins right inside the main entrance in their refreshed, more engaging home.
Where to Find the Penguins
There are two penguin viewing areas at the Zoo:
1. Penguins of the Pacific (Main Entrance — Outdoor)
- Species: Humboldt penguins
- Location: Directly inside the Zoo entrance
- Features: Rocky ledges, shallow pool, underwater glass viewing, stroller-friendly walkways
2. Herb & Nada Mahler Family Aviary (Indoor)
You’ll also find two additional species inside the Aviary:
- Rockhopper penguins
- Gentoo penguins
This indoor space is great on hot days, cold days, or when you want a quieter break from the crowds.
Best Time to See Penguin Activity
Penguins tend to be most active:
- In the morning
- On cooler days
- When the Zoo is quiet (weekdays, early hours)
Indoor species in the Aviary remain active year-round.
Tips for Visiting With Kids
- Stop here first — you’ll pass the penguins as soon as you walk in. Perfect for easing kids into the day.
- Use the underwater window for great photos.
- Visit both habitats if you want the full penguin experience.
- Check the Zoo’s schedule for daily happenings, as demonstrations change seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — three species (Humboldt, Gentoo, and Rockhopper).
Humboldts are outside; Gentoos and Rockhoppers are inside the Aviary.
Yes, weather permitting for the outdoor exhibit. Indoor penguins are viewable year-round.
Yes — especially the outdoor Penguins of the Pacific area.
Related Posts for Families
- Your Complete 2025 Guide to the Milwaukee County Zoo
- Discounted & Free Days at Milwaukee Museums & Attractions
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
