Pints and Penguins at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Event Dates:
Saturday, August 15–Sunday, August 16, 2026
Saturday, October 17–Sunday, October 18, 2026

Time: 7:30 p.m.–8:45 a.m. the following morning

Location: Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Admission: $165 per adult

Age Requirement: Adults 21 and older

Spend the Night with Penguins in Gatlinburg

Trade an ordinary night out for an unforgettable adults-only sleepover at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Pints and Penguins invites guests ages 21 and older to enjoy drinks, appetizers, exclusive aquarium experiences and an overnight stay beside the aquarium’s African penguin colony.

The evening begins with appetizers and drinks before guests embark on a special behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium. After exploring areas that visitors do not normally get to see, participants will settle in for the night inside Penguin Playhouse, surrounded by some of the aquarium’s most curious residents.

In the morning, guests will wake up to a hot breakfast and finish their adventure with a memorable penguin encounter. It is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience Ripley’s Aquarium after hours while learning more about its playful African penguins.

What Is Included

Pints and Penguins admission includes:

• Appetizers
• Two complimentary drink tickets
• Access to a cash bar
• A behind-the-scenes aquarium tour
• An overnight stay in Penguin Playhouse
• A hot breakfast
• A penguin encounter

Plan a Gatlinburg Getaway

Turn your overnight aquarium adventure into a complete Smoky Mountain escape with Bear Tracts Vacation Cabins. Our Gatlinburg-area cabins provide a comfortable place to relax before and after the event, with options ranging from cozy retreats to spacious cabins for groups.

Qualifying Bear Tracts reservations also include complimentary attraction tickets through our free attraction program. The longer you stay, the more free tickets you receive!