In recent years, we’ve almost all seen the cinematic favorites filled with the pitter patter of dancing webbed feet and ice sliding bellies. The exuberant little creatures filled with so much character have waddled their way into our lives via Hollywood. My oldest daughter has at least 5 plush penguins on her bed (and I’m guessing another handful that I don’t know about). My youngest daughter’s favorite book in the world to read before is about Pip the Penguin.
It’s no surprise then that the Penguin and Puffin Coast exhibit at the St. Louis Zoo is among the most popular. Since 2003, the barely drenched black & white birds squawk and honk at visitors 7 days a week. The environment is so real and life like that you’ll actually believe you’re on an Antarctic ice reef. Their flightless wings whisk themselves through the water only inches from your nose and you’ll likely get a splash as they frolic around.
When I heard there would be a “Penguin March” over the Mardi Gras weekend, I was elated at the thought of taking my girls. I reserved extreme enthusiasm however. How much more up close and personal could we really get with these penguins? I couldn’t have been more wrong.
I would like to personally thank the City of St. Louis and all the investors that make the St. Louis Zoo one of the best in the country. The experiences are top notch for being in my backyard. The next time you want to complain about the upcoming price change to $15 for parking, please remember that it is a very small price to pay for one of the most up close and personal experiences you’ll get with the animal kingdom.
If you’d like to support the St. Louis Zoo, you can become a member by signing up online. There are many different levels with varying costs but the benefits are incredible.
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