Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium Chicago Credit Danielle Bopp

Opened in 1930, the Shedd Aquarium pairs 20th-century architecture and a fascination with marine life with modern exhibit presentation, animal care, and knowledge of the deep blue sea. With 32,000 animals and a giant living reef, this indoor aquarium is one of the best in the country.

Located within a stately marble building in Grant Park, Shedd Aquarium is home to animals from every corner of the globe. See the belugas and Pacific white-side dolphins at the Abbott Oceanarium, visit the creatures of the Amazon, or take a 360-degree tour at the Caribbean Reef exhibit. Sea lions, sea otters, stingrays, jellyfish, octopuses, thousands of fish, and a variety of sharks are gathered in their beautifully designed habitats. Wild Reef is home to the largest living coral reef in the aquarium as well as creatures of crazy features and shapes. For the young ones, Polar Play Zone is an excellent stop where they can explore the area without reserve.

While you’re at Shedd, attend the aquatic show where you can watch as the trainers show off what the amazing animals can do under their direction. Belugas, dolphins, sea lions, and otters perform before your eyes with incredible feats of skill and strength. You can also pet stingrays, take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium, see and experience a 4-D movie, and even stay in the aquarium overnight.

Open daily at 9 am, the Shedd Aquarium is a wonderful opportunity to explore the wildlife of the mysterious oceans and waters of the world.