ZooIllinois, US

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium offers an incredible journey into aquatic wonders.

About

The Shedd Aquarium offers an incredible journey into aquatic wonders.

Located on Chicago's Museum Campus, the Shedd Aquarium is a world-renowned institution that transports visitors into vibrant underwater ecosystems from across the globe. As one of the oldest continually operating non-governmental aquariums in the U.S., it houses an astonishing 32,000 animals representing 1,500 species within its 5 million gallons of water. Its magnificent Beaux-Arts architecture, a designated National Historic Landmark, provides a stunning backdrop to the diverse aquatic life found within its walls, ranging from microscopic plankton to massive beluga whales.

Key exhibits immerse guests in distinct aquatic environments. The Abbott Oceanarium captivates with playful beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and energetic sea otters, offering both above-water and underwater viewing experiences. Journey to the Wild Reef to come face-to-fin with an array of sharks, including blacktip reef and zebra sharks, amidst a breathtaking live coral exhibit that highlights the aquarium's conservation efforts. Explore the Amazon Rising exhibit, a meticulously recreated flooded forest, where piranhas, anaconda, and the unique alligator snapping turtle reside. Don't miss the Caribbean Reef, a towering circular tank where rescued green sea turtle "Nickel" glides alongside vibrant reef fish and cownose rays, often featuring divers interacting with the animals.

A visit to Shedd Aquarium is an inspiring and educational adventure, fostering a deep connection to the aquatic world and emphasizing the importance of conservation. From the interactive Polar Play Zone, where penguins dart and starfish can be gently touched, to the serene Waters of the World galleries showcasing diverse fish and a Giant Pacific Octopus, there's something to enchant every age. It's a place where curiosity is sparked, and memories are made, leaving guests with a renewed appreciation for the planet's precious water environments. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

The Shedd Aquarium was the ambitious vision and generous gift of retail magnate John G. Shedd, who donated $2 million (later increased to $3 million) in 1924 with the goal of creating a world-class institution showcasing the "greatest variety of sea life under one roof" for the city of Chicago. The Shedd Aquarium Society was founded on February 1, 1924, and groundbreaking for the neoclassical Beaux-Arts style building, designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, occurred in November 1927. The aquarium officially opened its doors on May 30, 1930, notable as the first inland aquarium to maintain a permanent saltwater fish collection. To achieve this feat, the aquarium famously transported over one million gallons of seawater from Key West, Florida, to Chicago via a custom-made railway car, the "Nautilus," in 1930. Over the decades, Shedd has expanded its offerings while respecting the original architecture, adding the modern Abbott Oceanarium in 1991 and the Wild Reef exhibit in 2003, further solidifying its role as a leader in marine education and conservation. The Shedd Aquarium was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987.

What to do here

Attend an Animal Spotlight in the Oceanarium amphitheater, watch a 4-D Experience film, participate in seasonal Stingray Touch, or check the daily schedule for Animal Chats to learn more about specific species.

Seasonal info

The Stingray Touch exhibit is typically open seasonally from May through September. Summer months might also feature special events like "Jazzin' at the Shedd," offering live music on the lakefront. For those seeking an indoor escape from cold weather, Shedd is an excellent option.

Accessibility

Shedd Aquarium is committed to accessibility. Wheelchairs and rollator walkers are available for loan free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis (photo ID required for wheelchairs). The facility provides assisted listening devices, sound-reducing headphones, and a Sensory Friendly App designed for guests with autism or sensory processing disorders. A "Quiet Room" is also available during peak hours on Thursdays through Sundays. Accessible parking is available at the Soldier Field North garage, and a bus turnaround near the aquarium serves as a convenient drop-off point.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Plan for a minimum of 3 to 4 hours to explore the main exhibits, though a full day can easily be spent enjoying all the aquarium has to offer, especially if attending shows or special experiences.
Best time to visit: The least crowded times to visit the Shedd Aquarium are early in the morning on weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, right when doors open at 9 AM. Crowds tend to ease again after 3:30 PM to 4 PM.
Location: Illinois, US
Species in this guide: 14

Best for

Families With Young Children (ages 3 12)Marine Biology EnthusiastsCouples And Date Nights (especially For Evening Events Like Jazzin' At The Shedd)Visitors Combining Multiple Museum Campus Attractions (field Museum, Adler Planetarium)Individuals Interested In Wildlife Conservation And Education

Official website Open in Maps

Don't miss

Abbott Oceanarium

Home to beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea otters, and California sea lions, featuring engaging Animal Spotlights.

Wild Reef

Get up close with diverse sharks and stunning live corals.

Amazon Rising

Experience a flooded Amazon forest with unique species like piranhas and alligator snapping turtles.

Caribbean Reef

Marvel at the 90,000-gallon circular tank, home to the rescued green sea turtle, Nickel, and often featuring diver presentations.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Beluga Whale

Sea Otter

Blacktip Reef Shark

Sea Turtle

Octopus

Alligator Snapping Turtle

Blue Spotted Stingray

Seahorse

Coral

Box Jellyfish

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Buy Tickets in Advance Online

This is highly recommended to secure your entry time, avoid long queues at the entrance, and potentially save money.

Arrive Early on Weekdays

To best avoid crowds, aim to arrive right when the aquarium opens at 9 AM, especially on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

Consider an All-Access Pass

For the most comprehensive experience, including all exhibits, the Aquatic Show, and the 4-D Experience, opt for an all-access pass.

Use Public Transportation

Parking can be expensive and limited around Museum Campus. Public transport (CTA buses #130 or #146) is a convenient alternative, or consider booking parking in advance via services like SpotHero if driving.

Pack Snacks or a Lunch

While food is available for purchase, bringing your own snacks or lunch can save money and time. Designated eating areas are provided.

Download the Shedd Go! App

This app provides a map of the aquarium and additional animal facts, helping you navigate and enhance your visit.

Frequently asked questions

: It is recommended to plan for at least 3 to 4 hours to comfortably experience the Shedd Aquarium's main exhibits and shows. Many visitors choose to spend a full day exploring everything, especially if they attend Animal Spotlights, touch experiences, or the 4-D Theater.
: Yes, the Shedd Aquarium is wheelchair accessible. It offers wheelchairs and rollator walkers for loan, features designated accessible seating for shows, and its Polar Play Zone incorporates universal design elements like ramps and low countertops. Additionally, accessible parking and drop-off points are available.
: Don't miss the playful beluga whales and Pacific white-sided dolphins in the Abbott Oceanarium, the awe-inspiring sharks in the Wild Reef, and the rescued green sea turtle "Nickel" in the Caribbean Reef. Other highlights include the rockhopper penguins, sea otters, and the unique alligator snapping turtle.