Explore St. Louis

March to the St. Louis Zoo to see the Gateway City version of summer blockbuster movie birds at the very cool Penguin & Puffin Coast exhibit.

The star quality shines through as about 100 penguins of five different species streak through the frigid waters of the glass encased-exhibit, gaze at you from the icy cliffs and look cuter than any child star that ever graced the silver screen.

You’ll see Humboldt penguins happily cavorting in their outdoor haven at the entry to the habitat. Inside, you’ll be transported to the sub-Antarctic where gentoos, rockhoppers and king penguins reside amidst recreated coastal cliffs and icy waters. You’ll be close enough to get splashed by the playful birds as they dive into the cool depths and zoom through underground tunnels to pop up on the other side of their habitat home. There’s even a baby on board. A mom and pop king penguin pair hatched a chick this April. You can watch as the happy parents care for their fluffy baby.

Meander into the next cave-like dwelling to discover Puffin Bay where horned and tufted puffins entertain with their shrill cries, antic swimming and comical charm.

Penguin and Puffin Coast is a free exhibit within the always-free St. Louis Zoo.