SeaWorld Orlando is welcoming royalty this summer—feathered royalty, that is. For the first time in the park’s history, Emperor Penguins, the largest and most majestic of all penguin species, are arriving at the Antarctica Realm beginning June 14, making SeaWorld Orlando the only place in the Western Hemisphere where guests can see these incredible birds in person.

Known for their impressive size, elegant black-and-white plumage, and remarkable adaptations to life in Antarctica, emperor penguins are true icons of the icy wilderness. These birds can dive deeper than any other bird species, with some plunges reaching more than 1,800 feet. Their courtship, nesting, and chick-rearing behavior has fascinated scientists and animal lovers alike for decades.

SeaWorld Annual Pass Members will receive exclusive early access to the new habitat on June 12 and 13, giving them a first glimpse of the emperors’ commanding presence and unique behaviors before the exhibit opens to the general public.

To celebrate the emperor penguins’ grand arrival, SeaWorld has partnered with the Creative City Project to launch “Big City Penguins,” an imaginative art installation featuring three towering penguin sculptures placed on rooftops across Downtown Orlando. The playful display includes two 14-foot-tall adult penguins and a 10-foot baby penguin, giving locals and visitors alike a whimsical preview of what’s to come. The exhibit runs through June 19, offering the perfect opportunity to snap selfies and share sightings using #seaworldorlando on social media.

Emperor Penguins Fast Facts:

  • Size: Up to 44 inches tall

  • Weight: Between 60–90 lbs

  • Diet: Fish and squid

  • Lifespan: 20–25 years in the wild; up to 50 in zoological care

  • Fun Fact: Instead of building nests, male emperors incubate a single egg on their feet under a skin flap called a brood patch, surviving for weeks without food while protecting the egg.

SeaWorld has played a vital role in emperor penguin conservation, successfully hatching and raising over 20 chicks at its San Diego park since 1980. The Orlando expansion marks a significant step forward in education and awareness surrounding polar wildlife and conservation.

Want to be among the first to meet the new emperors?

Annual Pass Members enjoy year-round access, free parking, guest tickets, and early invites to new attractions like this one. Passes are currently on sale.

For more information on SeaWorld Orlando’s newest residents or to become a Pass Member, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Positively Osceola encourages the community to experience this one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with the wonders of Antarctica—without leaving Central Florida!