The new Penguin Playhouse exhibit at Ripleys Aquarium is now officially open. The exhibit has 30,000 gallons of saltwater for the penguins to explore as well as tunnels and an outdoor area.

The highlight of the new Penguin Playhouse exhibit is the clear, acrylic bubble/tube that allows patrons to get virtually nose-to-nose with the penguins. It sits in the middle of the African blackfooted penguins’’ indoor habitat. This is a unique feature that is not featured at any other penguin exhibit. Acrylic portions of the floor also provide unique photo opportunities.

There are currently 18 penguins at the Gatlinburg Ripley’s Aquarium with 12 more expected at some point. The new Penguin Playhouse is located at site of the former Veranda Restaurant.

Ripleys Aquarium Gatlinburg tickets are on sale now.