What Shedd Aquarium is and where to find it

Shedd Aquarium is a public aquarium located in Chicago, Illinois, on the shore of Lake Michigan in Grant Park. It is one of the largest aquariums in the United States and holds thousands of animals including fish, marine mammals, birds, and reptiles. The building itself is a landmark — a Art Deco structure completed in 1930 that sits directly on the lakefront.

The aquarium's official address is 1200 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605. It is accessible by car, public transit (the Red Line stops nearby), and bus. Parking is available in nearby Grant Park lots, though fees explore and spaces fill quickly on weekends and during school breaks.

Key Takeaways

  • Shedd Aquarium charges separate admission fees for general access and for special experiences like the dolphin show or behind-the-scenes tours, so plan your budget accordingly.
  • Hours vary by season and day of the week, and the aquarium sometimes closes for special events, so check the official website before you visit.
  • Tickets purchased online in advance are usually cheaper than tickets bought at the door on the day of your visit.
  • The aquarium is busiest on weekends, school holidays, and summer months, so visiting on a weekday or in the off-season means shorter lines and less crowding.
  • Chicago residents and Illinois residents may be may have access to to discounted or free admission on certain days through reciprocal membership programs.

General admission prices and what is included

General admission to Shedd Aquarium covers access to the main galleries and exhibits. The price varies depending on whether you buy your ticket online or at the door, and whether you are an adult, child, senior, or member. As of 2024, general admission typically ranges from around $25 to $40 for adults when purchased online, with lower prices for children and seniors. Prices are higher if you buy at the gate rather than in advance.

General admission includes access to the main aquarium floors, where you can see exhibits of fish from around the world, jellyfish, sea turtles, and other marine life. It does not include special experiences like the dolphin show, the sea lion show, or behind-the-scenes tours — those require separate tickets or packages.

Prices change seasonally and occasionally without notice, so the most current rates are always on the Shedd Aquarium website. Many visitors find that buying tickets online a few days before your visit is both cheaper and faster than waiting in line at the ticket counter.

Special experiences and add-on tickets

Beyond general admission, Shedd Aquarium offers several paid experiences. The dolphin show and sea lion show are separate ticketed events that take place in dedicated theaters. These shows run multiple times per day and require their own admission fee on top of general admission. Prices for shows vary but typically run $15 to $25 per person depending on seating location and whether you buy in advance.

The aquarium also offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounter experiences where you can get closer to certain animals or learn from trainers and aquarists. These are premium experiences and cost significantly more than general admission — sometimes $50 to $100 or more per person. These tours often have limited availability and book up weeks in advance, especially during peak season.

Some visitors purchase combo packages that bundle general admission with one or more shows or experiences at a discounted rate compared to buying each ticket separately. Check the website to see what packages are currently offered.

Hours of operation and seasonal changes

Shedd Aquarium is open year-round, but hours change by season. During the summer months (roughly June through August), the aquarium typically opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. or later. During fall and winter, hours are usually shorter — often 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spring hours fall somewhere in between. Hours also vary by day of the week, with longer hours on weekends and school holidays.

The aquarium occasionally closes early or stays closed entirely for special events, staff training, or maintenance. Before you plan a visit, check the official Shedd Aquarium website or call their main number to confirm that the day and time you want to visit will be open. This is especially important if you are traveling from out of town or planning a trip during a holiday week.

Discounts and free admission programs

Chicago residents and some Illinois residents may be may have access to to discounted or free admission through reciprocal membership agreements. Many zoos and aquariums across the country participate in reciprocal programs where members of one institution receive discounts or free entry at others. Shedd Aquarium participates in some of these programs, but which ones and what the discount is depends on your home institution and your membership status there.

If you have a membership at another zoo, aquarium, or science museum, bring your membership card when you visit and ask at the ticket counter whether you may have access to for a reciprocal discount. Some programs offer free general admission; others offer a percentage discount on tickets.

Illinois residents should also ask whether any free or discounted admission days are currently running. Some public aquariums and museums in Illinois offer free or reduced-price entry on certain dates throughout the year, though these programs vary and are not may provide.

What to bring and what to expect during your visit

Shedd Aquarium is indoors and climate-controlled, so you do not need to dress for outdoor weather. However, the building can be crowded, especially on weekends and during summer, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to stand in lines and navigate through busy galleries. Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to use any reciprocal membership discounts, and bring your printed or digital ticket if you purchased in advance.

The aquarium allows personal cameras and phones for photography, though flash photography is not permitted in some exhibits. Food and beverages are not permitted in the galleries, but the aquarium has a café and snack bar where you can purchase meals and drinks. You are also allowed to bring your own food and eat in designated areas outside the galleries.

The building is fully accessible to people using wheelchairs or mobility devices, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking nearby. Service animals are permitted throughout the aquarium.

Planning your visit: timing and crowds

The busiest times at Shedd Aquarium are summer months (June through August), school holidays (spring break, winter break, Thanksgiving week), and weekends year-round. If you prefer a less crowded experience, visit on a weekday during the school year, in the fall or early spring, or during the first hour after opening.

Most visitors spend two to four hours at the aquarium, depending on how many exhibits they explore and whether they attend any shows. If you plan to see a show or take a behind-the-scenes tour, add extra time to your visit. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your show time to find your seat.

Parking in Grant Park fills up quickly on busy days, so consider using public transportation if you can. The Red Line train stops at the Roosevelt station, which is a short walk from the aquarium entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food into Shedd Aquarium?

You cannot bring food into the gallery areas, but you can eat in designated outdoor areas and in the aquarium's café. If you want to save money on meals, pack a lunch and eat it outside or in a picnic area before or after your visit to the galleries.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance or can I buy them at the door?

You can buy tickets at the door, but tickets purchased online in advance are usually cheaper and allow you to skip the ticket line. Online tickets are especially worth buying if you are visiting on a weekend or during a busy season, when the ticket line can be long.

Are there free days or discounted admission for residents?

Some Illinois residents may may have access to for discounts through reciprocal membership programs if they belong to another zoo or aquarium. Chicago residents should ask at the ticket counter about any current free or discounted admission days. These programs change, so check the Shedd Aquarium website or call ahead to see what is currently offered.

What is the difference between general admission and the shows?

General admission covers access to all the gallery exhibits where you can see fish, marine mammals, and other animals. The dolphin show and sea lion show are separate ticketed events that take place in theaters and require an additional fee beyond general admission.

Is Shedd Aquarium accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the building is fully accessible with elevators, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking nearby. Service animals are permitted. If you need specific accommodations, call ahead to speak with the aquarium about your needs.