Shedd Aquarium - boy standing beside monitor
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Shedd Aquarium

4.5
·31k reviews·Chicago, United States

Explore diverse aquatic ecosystems, from the Amazon to the Great Lakes, at this world-class aquarium on Lake Michigan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.

CrowdLow
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Shedd Aquarium - boy standing beside monitor

Shedd Aquarium

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore diverse aquatic ecosystems, from the Amazon to the Great Lakes, at this world-class aquarium on Lake Michigan.

4.5
(31k reviews)

"The best aquarium in the world! My family had fun visiting it as part of our Chicago trip."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Shedd Aquarium tickets in advance online.

🚗 Parking Savings

Consider Adler Planetarium's early bird parking for a cheaper option than aquarium parking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Beluga Whales

Beluga Whales

Witness these magnificent marine mammals in their expansive habitat. A truly unforgettable sight!

Dolphin Show

Dolphin Show

Experience the intelligence and grace of dolphins in an engaging and educational performance.

Stingray Touch Experience

Stingray Touch Experience

Get up close and personal with smooth, gentle stingrays in this interactive and tactile exhibit.

Amazon Rising

Amazon Rising

Explore the vibrant biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, featuring a diverse collection of fascinating fish.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Consider visiting on a weekday, especially during 'free days' for Illinois residents, but be prepared for higher crowds. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially money. InstagramReddit

Parking & Getting Around

Parking at the aquarium can be costly. For potential savings, explore the Adler Planetarium's early bird parking offer or consider public transportation. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.
Crowd
Low
When
Illinois Resident Free Days
Why
Save money, but expect crowds.
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Tour groups often leave.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Aquarium day 💞💞😢
@wendolynortizz
898K likes • 6.3M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Shedd Aquarium tickets in advance online. InstagramReddit

🚗 Parking Savings

Consider Adler Planetarium's early bird parking for a cheaper option than aquarium parking. Reddit

Shedd Aquarium 🦈 📍1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605 Hours Monday 9am-5pm Tuesday 9am-9pm LATE Wednesday-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday/Sunday 9am-6pm PSA 📣 FREE days at the Shedd this week! February 25-27 2025 Free Nights 5p-9p March 4, 11, 18, 25 April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 May 6, 13, 20, 27 Tips for free days; •Go right when it opens or stay until it closes to get the most out of your experie...
littlefoodiechicago
667 likes • 37.7K views
🌊 Explore the wonders of the ocean at Shedd Aquarium—right in the heart of Chicago! 🐠✨ From playful penguins to mesmerizing jellyfish, there’s so much to see. Plus, Illinois residents can enjoy FREE admission on select days! Don’t miss out! 🦑🐬 @shedd_aquarium #SheddAquarium #ExploreChicago #FreeInChicago #chicago #windycity #fyp #chitown #aquariums #explorechicago
windy_citychicago
749 likes • 20.5K views

📱 Use the Shedd App

Navigate the aquarium and check showtimes easily with the official Shedd Aquarium app.

🤝 Ask Staff for Help

Staff are incredibly helpful, especially for accessibility needs like wheelchairs. TikTokReddit

Follow along my walking adventure: 1. Millennium park 2. Walk south to Buckingham Fountain 3. Even more south to the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium 4. Keep going along coast to Planetarium and 12th Street Beach You’ll see all these beautiful sights pictured and makes for a great day in Chicago! 🫶🏼🤩 #chicago #chicagogram #chicagothingstodo #chicagoskyline #chicagosights #chicagosightseeing ...
hannahmelton180
0 likes • 9.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Shedd Aquarium tickets in advance online. InstagramReddit

🚗 Parking Savings

Consider Adler Planetarium's early bird parking for a cheaper option than aquarium parking. Reddit

📱 Use the Shedd App

Navigate the aquarium and check showtimes easily with the official Shedd Aquarium app.

🤝 Ask Staff for Help

Staff are incredibly helpful, especially for accessibility needs like wheelchairs. TikTokReddit

🦈 Shark Size Expectations

While sharks are present, some visitors find them smaller than anticipated. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(31k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Shedd Aquarium for its diverse and fascinating marine life, with many highlighting the beluga whales and dolphin show as unforgettable experiences. The staff are frequently commended for their helpfulness and kindness. While the aquarium is generally well-loved, some guests express disappointment with the size of the sharks and the cost of parking.

"This place was super nice. They had a lot of interesting fish and aquatic life. All of the staff were so helpful and kind. The City pass was nice to have since it included a 4d theater. I've never seen beluga whales before so that was really exciting!! Their gift shop was really nice and had a lot of variety. My only complaint is I was hoping the sharks would be bigger. They had a great selection of sharks but I was hoping for some larger breeds like I've seen in smaller aquariums."

Tracy Weis

"We had a really nice time at the shed aquarium. We enjoyed the variety of fish from various ecosystems. Our favorite was being able to see the dolphin show which highlighted 4 dolphins. It wasn't too busy during the week, but we enjoyed having tickets in advance through citypass"

Lindsey Schreiner

"THE BEST AQUARIUM IN THE WORLD! My family had fun visiting it as part of our Chicago trip. There are a lot of interesting sea animals there including the beluga whale.

The favorite part of the aquarium was the stingray touch experience. The stingrays were so smooth!

The dolphin show was my favorite. Heard that they are banning it in other states so get a chance to see it before it disappears in Illinois too!"

Jaewon

What People Like

Diverse marine life
Beluga whales
Dolphin show

What People Dislike

Shark size
Parking cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shedd Aquarium is located at 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605. You can reach it by car, with parking available on-site (though it can be costly). Public transportation is also a great option, with several bus routes and the 'L' train lines serving the nearby Museum Campus. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at Shedd Aquarium, but it is often expensive. Many visitors recommend the Adler Planetarium's surface lot for a potentially cheaper 'early bird' rate if you arrive before 9:30 AM. Reddit

For families, consider the convenience of public transport or rideshares to avoid parking hassles. If driving, factor in parking costs and potential traffic, especially during peak times. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk south from Millennium Park along the lakefront. You'll pass Buckingham Fountain on your way to the museum campus, which includes Shedd Aquarium. Instagram

Some visitors suggest looking into the Adler Planetarium's parking lot for an 'early bird' offer, which can be more economical than parking directly at the Shedd. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but booking online in advance is recommended. Check the official Shedd Aquarium website for the most current pricing for general admission and any special exhibits. Instagram

Yes, Shedd Aquarium offers free admission days for Illinois residents on select dates throughout the year, often in the evenings. These days are popular, so expect larger crowds. Instagram+1

While you can often purchase tickets at the door, it's highly recommended to buy Shedd Aquarium tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure entry, especially on busy days. Reddit

The CityPASS Chicago often includes admission to Shedd Aquarium along with other major Chicago attractions, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple sites. Reddit

Shedd Aquarium typically opens around 9 AM and closes between 5 PM and 9 PM, depending on the day of the week and season. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the beluga whales, the dolphin show, the stingray touch experience, and the Amazon Rising exhibit. The variety of aquatic life from different ecosystems is a major draw. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Shedd Aquarium is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits like the stingray touch and engaging shows that children of all ages will enjoy. TikTok

Yes, Shedd Aquarium features popular shows, most notably the dolphin show, which is highly recommended for its educational and entertaining content. Reddit

The stingray touch experience allows visitors to gently interact with smooth stingrays in a shallow pool. It's a favorite for many, offering a unique tactile encounter. Reddit

Shedd Aquarium is generally accessible. Staff are known to be very helpful, and wheelchairs are available for visitors who need them, with staff assisting in getting them to and from the curb. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Shedd Aquarium has dining facilities where you can purchase food and beverages. Options typically include cafes and snack bars. Reddit

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy, but most visitors plan to eat at the onsite cafes or before/after their visit. Reddit

The Museum Campus area has several dining options, and you can also find numerous restaurants in the surrounding Chicago neighborhoods if you prefer to venture out for lunch. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Shedd Aquarium for personal use. However, flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals. TikTok

The large tanks with diverse marine life, the beluga whales, and the exterior views of the aquarium with Lake Michigan in the background offer great photo opportunities. TikTok

Avoid using flash photography, especially near exhibits with sensitive animals. Also, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways while taking pictures. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shedd Aquarium is a top-tier choice for families! The stingray touch pool is a guaranteed hit, offering a hands-on experience that kids love. Reddit Don't miss the dolphin show for an entertaining and educational spectacle. Reddit The variety of exhibits, from colorful fish to impressive marine mammals like beluga whales, will keep young minds engaged and curious. TikTok Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds, and remember to book your Shedd Aquarium tickets online in advance. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, look for Illinois Resident Free Days at Shedd Aquarium, though be prepared for larger crowds. Instagram+1 Parking can be a significant expense, so explore cheaper options like the Adler Planetarium's early bird parking or opt for public transportation to save money. Reddit Consider purchasing a CityPASS Chicago if you plan to visit multiple attractions, as it can offer a bundled discount. Reddit

♿ Visitors with Accessibility Needs

Shedd Aquarium is committed to accessibility. Wheelchairs are available for visitors who need them, and staff are exceptionally helpful in assisting with mobility needs, even helping with temporary parking arrangements. Reddit The exhibits are generally well-laid out for easy navigation. Don't hesitate to approach staff members for any assistance you may require during your visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Planning Your Visit: Timing is Everything

To make the most of your Shedd Aquarium experience, strategic timing is key. Weekdays generally offer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds compared to weekends. Reddit If you're an Illinois resident, take advantage of the 'free days' offered throughout the year, but be prepared for higher attendance on these popular dates. Instagram+1 Many visitors find that arriving right when the aquarium opens or staying later in the afternoon, after the main tour groups have departed, can lead to a more enjoyable and less crowded visit. Instagram

Consider the time of year as well. Summer months and school holidays will naturally see more visitors. If possible, aim for a visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for potentially fewer crowds. Checking the Shedd Aquarium's official website for any special events or exhibits can also help you plan your visit and potentially avoid peak times if you prefer a quieter experience. Reddit

Navigating Costs: Tickets & Parking

The cost of visiting Shedd Aquarium can add up, especially when factoring in admission and parking. Purchasing your Shedd Aquarium tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This not only saves you time waiting in line but can sometimes offer slight discounts compared to on-the-spot purchases. InstagramReddit Look into options like the CityPASS Chicago if you plan to visit multiple attractions, as it often includes Shedd Aquarium admission and can provide significant savings. Reddit

Parking at the aquarium itself can be quite expensive. A popular tip among visitors is to consider parking at the nearby Adler Planetarium's surface lot. If you can arrive early, before 9:30 AM, you might secure an 'early bird' rate that covers the whole day for a lower price than direct aquarium parking. Reddit Alternatively, exploring Chicago's public transportation system, including buses and the 'L' train, can be a more budget-friendly and convenient way to reach the Museum Campus, especially if you're staying in the city. Reddit

Family Fun at Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wealth of engaging experiences for children of all ages. The stingray touch experience is a perennial favorite, allowing kids to interact directly with these gentle creatures. Reddit The dolphin show is another highlight, captivating young audiences with impressive displays of intelligence and agility. Reddit The aquarium's diverse exhibits, from the vibrant Amazon Rising to the majestic beluga whales, provide endless opportunities for discovery and learning. TikTok

When planning a family visit, remember that the aquarium can get busy, especially on weekends and during free admission days. Instagram+1 Consider bringing snacks or planning for meals at the onsite cafes, though outside food is generally not permitted. Reddit The staff are known for their helpfulness, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance, particularly if you have strollers or need accessibility information. TikTokReddit The aquarium's layout is generally easy to navigate, making it a manageable and enjoyable outing for the whole family.

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