While penguins might not be spotted in the wild here in Michigan, that doesn’t mean Michiganders can’t experience these adorable creatures. After all, one unique destination in the Great Lakes State offers an unparalleled experience to those who admire penguins and want to learn more about their habitats, habits, and life cycles. When you’re looking for the ultimate family adventure, check out the world’s largest penguin facility – which just happens to be located right here in Metro Detroit.
The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is located within the Detroit Zoo, which can be accessed via West 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak. Admission to the center is included with the cost of each standard zoo ticket.
You don’t have to be enchanted by penguins to appreciate this unique and fascinating spot. But be forewarned: by the time you head home, you might just consider yourself a full-blown penguin fanatic.
This is no ordinary penguin exhibit. In fact, the Polk Penguin Conservation Center is the largest penguin facility in the entire world, featuring a whopping 33,000 square feet and 326,000 gallons of water.
Following a two-year renovation process, the center unveiled its most recent renovation in 2022. When you visit, you’ll have the opportunity to gaze at playful penguins from every angle via tunnels and windows.
Those who are amazed by exploration will fall in love with the center’s 360-degree 4-D experience, which allows visitors to virtually relive moments from Sir Ernest Shackleton’s famous Antarctic expedition.
Of course, the penguins themselves certainly steal the show here. You might just want to spend hours watching these seemingly carefree creatures swim, dive, splash, waddle, and go about their routines.
Kids and adults alike will feel as if they’ve stepped into an entirely new world while exploring the massive facility. Don’t forget to bring along your camera – this is one outing you’ll surely want to remember.
Whether you’re a lifelong admirer of penguins and other cold-weather wildlife or more of a casual explorer, one thing is for sure: a visit to the Polk Penguin Conservation Center will easily capture your heart.
If you’d like to learn more about the world’s largest penguin facility in Detroit, check out the conservation center’s official page. Have you and your family been lucky enough to visit this vibrant and educational destination during previous day trips? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another family-friendly adventure in Detroit by completing our nomination form.