Shedd Aquarium

Discover the Wonders of Shedd Aquarium in Chicago

Located along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois, the Shedd Aquarium stands as one of the world's most renowned aquatic destinations. Since opening its doors in 1930, this architectural marvel has captivated millions of visitors with its incredible marine life exhibits and commitment to ocean conservation.

About Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is not just an aquarium – it's a world-class marine museum that houses over 32,000 animals representing 1,500 species from around the globe. As one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, it spans across 5 million gallons of water in habitats that recreate diverse ecosystems from oceans, rivers, and lakes.

The aquarium's iconic Art Deco building, designed by architect Edward Durell Stone, is a National Historic Landmark that beautifully combines historical elegance with modern interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore everything from the Caribbean Reef's vibrant coral gardens to the Amazon Rising's tropical rainforest environment.

Top Attractions and Exhibits

The crown jewel of Shedd Aquarium is its spectacular dolphin show at the Abbott Oceanarium, featuring bottlenose dolphins in a massive 400,000-gallon habitat. The underwater viewing tunnel offers an unforgettable experience swimming alongside these intelligent marine mammals.

Other must-see exhibits include the Wild Reef, home to over 1,500 animals including majestic sharks and rays, and the interactive Touch Tank where visitors can gently touch sea stars and horseshoe crabs. The Polar Play Zone engages younger visitors with penguin encounters and arctic-themed activities.

Tickets and Visitor Information

Shedd Aquarium offers various ticket options including general admission, which provides access to all permanent exhibits. Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters require advance booking. The aquarium is open year-round, with extended summer hours to accommodate visitors.

Located at 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, the aquarium is easily accessible via public transportation, with the Roosevelt Road Red Line station just steps away. Ample parking is available in nearby garages, though public transit is highly recommended due to Chicago's excellent connectivity.

Nearby Attractions

Shedd Aquarium is part of Chicago's Museum Campus, making it convenient to visit multiple world-class institutions in one trip. The Field Museum of Natural History and Adler Planetarium are just a short walk away, while Millennium Park and Navy Pier offer additional entertainment options within walking distance or a quick transit ride.

The surrounding Grant Park provides beautiful outdoor space for picnics and relaxation after exploring the aquarium's indoor wonders. Chicago's vibrant dining scene and lakefront trails offer perfect opportunities to extend your visit and experience the city's renowned hospitality.