Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago and was the first inland aquarium to include permanent saltwater and freshwater exhibits. Permanent exhibits include the multilevel Abbott Oceanarium, which mimics ocean conditions off the northwest coast of North America, and the Wild Reef exhibit, which simulates a Philippine reef ecosystem. There’s also the Amazon Rising exhibit, which introduces visitors to the Amazon River and rainforest.

Make the aquarium a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour or visit after taking a Segway tour of the Museum Campus.

• Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long entry lines, which can sometimes take up to two hours.

• Please note that entry lines can sometimes stretch outside, so dress appropriately in case of inclement weather.

• Allow two to three hours for your visit.

• The Shedd Aquarium is wheelchair– and stroller–accessible.

The Shedd Aquarium is on the Museum Campus in the South Loop, just off Lakeshore Drive and a short walk from downtown. It is accessible by several bus lines, and the nearest El stop is Roosevelt.

The Shedd Aquarium is open year-round. It can be particularly busy on the weekends and school holidays. Arrive early to beat the crowds, or look for special evening events when you can experience the aquarium after dark.

Make your visit to the Shedd Aquarium truly unique by participating in one of the many special experiences available. Some Shedd Aquarium tours take you behind the scenes of the Wild Reef and experience a shark feeding or let you get face to face with penguins or beluga whales. You can also visit the animal healthcare center and watch team members prepare meals for the aquatic animals. For an even more in-depth experience, spend four hours learning what it’s like to be a marine mammal trainer at the aquarium.

As with most family-friendly attractions, visiting the Shedd Aquarium gets long lines. This is particularly the case on weekends and public holidays, during school vacations, and on days when the aquarium is free for Illinois residents. Visit as soon as it opens at 9am for the best chance of beating the crowds.

The Shedd Aquarium houses over 32,000 animals across more than 450,000 square feet (42,000 square meters) on four different levels. It can at least half a day to see it all—longer if you watch shows and films or join experiences—but some travelers get through in just a couple of hours.

No. There is no free parking at the Shedd Aquarium, and the aquarium recommends visitors arrive by public transit. Garage and lot parking on Museum Campus is expensive, but it’s not always available during special events. If you want to use the garage, it’s worth reserving a space ahead of time.

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, but you must consume them in the designated areas (the Marine Munchroom on the main level and the Deep Ocean Café in the Polar Play Zone on lower level 2). The aquarium also has its own dining outlets.

No, the Shedd Aquarium does not allow re-entry for any reason. Once you leave the building, your visit is over. However, the aquarium has all the facilities most travelers need for the day, including bathrooms, a gift shop, and a range of food and drink options.

Yes. Shedd Aquarium tickets can sell out, so it’s well worth booking in advance. Tickets to shows, encounters, and events often sell out fast. General admission tickets are by timed entry (even members have to book a time), and popular times and days can sell out during busy periods.