Extreme heat may impact your visit. Certain habitats and attractions may be temporarily closed to help protect the health and safety of our guests, staff and the animals in our care.
Sold Out for 2026 | Booking for 2027 Begins November 2nd at 9:00 AM
Want to know how penguins stay warm, eat and play while living in their icy-cold habitat? Get up close and personal with them at the Detroit Zoo! Under the guidance and supervision of a zookeeper, you will interact with these charming birds. This experience includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Polk Penguin Conservation Center with many photo opportunities as you meet and hand-feed some of the gentoo, rockhopper and macaroni penguins who call the Zoo home. View frequently asked questions here.
- Mingles cannot be scheduled during breeding season (March to June) or Molting Season (August to September).
- Groups are limited to six participants.
- Children must be 7 or older and accompanied by an adult.
- Please dress accordingly; the penguin habitat is kept at 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Please wear socks and closed-toed shoes. We will provide boots and protective gear.
- Reservations must be made three weeks in advance.
- Dates subject to availability.
For more information, please email us here.