A Peckish Opportunity With Pancakes and Penguins in Gatlinburg
The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg is known for its aquatic animals, mermaids, and kid-friendly activities, but what you may not know about is their exclusive opportunity to eat pancakes and get up close with the flightless, beloved birds called penguins. It’s not a new thing; in fact, they have many of these events every year, and it’s the aptly-named Pancakes and Penguins.
The next chance to be a part of this not-so-sea-cret event will be the day after Christmas—December 26. I’m not sure if during previous years they’ve spread out the event like 2024, but they already have dates available for booking in 2025—January 2, March 20, and April 3, May 29, June 5, July 17, July 31, October 9 (our anniversary), November 20, December 23, and December 30. You might want to check the dates of your own vacation, because there’s a high probability you’ll be able to take advantage of this exclusive encounter.
This is one of those can’t-miss breakfasts in Gatlinburg, which is saying a lot considering how popular the flapjack is here. Yep, pancakes will be served along with eggs, bacon, and beverages in front of Ripley’s Penguin Playhouse exhibit. You will also be provided a Q&A with an expert, a photo with your favorite feathered friend, a penguin painting, and admission to the full Ripley’s Aquarium after breakfast. Pancakes and Penguins is scheduled to last approximately one hour, but access to the aquarium is for all day.
A few more awesome aspects in addition to a face-to-beak interaction include admission to the aquarium before it even opens to the public. P&P will begin at 8 and end around 9—a full hour before the doors are unlocked. And also, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds.
If you cannot make your scheduled time and need to cancel, you are advised to do so, 3 full days (72 hours) before the event. If you have any questions, please click on the website link below, and once there, click on Contact near the bottom for their phone number and email address.
Are you excited enough to do a penguin dance at the thought of attending this one-of-a-kind experience? If yes, you’ll definitely not be icy at nabbing some tickets. Have fun, everyone!
Thank you for reading and subscribing to my publication. I hope you’ll continue to follow all the latest news, events, as well as my story and favorite things about this tourist town that I love so much. I appreciate you, and stay tuned!