Shedd Aquarium
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Built in 1929 in Chicago, IL, the Shedd Aquarium was the brainchild of John G. Shedd, the then-president of Marshall Field & Company. The aquarium has become a premier destination for locals and tourists, attracting over two million visitors annually. As one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, the Shedd Aquarium boasts an impressive collection of over 32,000 animals, including sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and beluga whales. Among its many fascinating exhibits is the Oceanarium, which allows you to observe marine life up close in a naturalistic setting. You will love its Wild Reef exhibit, which features a replica of an Indo-Pacific coral reef and is a favorite among visitors.
How to Get There
You can find many transportation options to reach the aquarium, with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) being among the most popular choices. The Museum Campus/11th Street station serves the aquarium, and visitors can take the Green, Orange, or Red lines to get there. If arriving by air, O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport are two major airports in the city that provide easy access to the Shedd Aquarium. O'Hare is about 27 miles from the aquarium while Midway is about 12 miles away. Naperville and Aurora, IL, are close major cities to the aquarium.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Shedd Aquarium
Visit Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is one of the most visited cultural attractions in the city, drawing in millions of tourists and locals every year. The aquarium boasts over five million gallons of water and has various habitats, ranging from lakes and rivers to oceans and reefs. Visitors can see beluga whales, sea otters, dolphins, and sea lions up close. The Oceanarium also features a floor-to-ceiling aquarium with a million-gallon tank, home to several fish species, including sharks.
Explore the Wild Reef, which showcases a replica of a coral reef. The exhibit allows you to dive deeply into the ocean and view the vibrant world of reef marine life. You can interact with divers and learn about the coral reef ecosystem and its importance to the marine world.
Since the aquarium boasts indoor features, there is no real "best time" to visit the Shedd Aquarium. The exhibits are less crowded when children are in school in the spring and fall. You can avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the aquarium's exhibits during these times. The aquarium transforms seasonally into a winter wonderland with special exhibits or other holiday-themed activities.
Ticket Information
To get tickets for the Shedd Aquarium, you can either purchase them online or in person at the aquarium. General admission prices for adults are $39.95 while children and seniors (65+) can enjoy a discounted rate of $29.95. Children under the age of 3 receive free admission. Another option is purchasing a CityPASS, which includes access to multiple Chicago attractions, including the Shedd Aquarium. This can save you time and money if you plan on visiting other sites during your trip.
Family-Friendly Options
The Shedd Aquarium features several interactive exhibits to keep kids entertained, such as the Polar Play Zone and Amphibians exhibit or the Caribbean Reef and Amazon Rising. The aquarium also gives daily animal chats and presentations, allowing you to learn more about the inhabitants of the aquatic world. Explore the Aquatic Adventures program, which will enable families to participate in various hands-on activities related to marine life. There are camps and classes for children throughout the year. Group discounts and private tours are available for groups of 15 or more.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Start your day by visiting the Wild Reef exhibit, a replica of a Philippine coral reef with over 200 species of fish, sharks, and rays. Head over to the Caribbean Reef exhibit, home to more than 60 species of Caribbean Sea life, including sea turtles, eels, and barracudas. Visit the Abbott Oceanarium exhibit, home to otters, sea lions, penguins, and beluga whales. You will love the Amphibians exhibit, which showcases different species of frogs, snakes, lizards, and salamanders. Visitors can also see the extraordinary axolotl, a native Mexican amphibian that can regenerate its limbs. As the day winds down, ensure to catch the aquatic show held multiple times daily.
Shedd Aquarium Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
If you are looking for a campground near Aurora, Illinois, that offers year-round camping, this is the perfect option. Camp Bullfrog Lake is especially great if you enjoy water-based activities. In addition, there are daily activities that are run by the staff for campers to enjoy.
Nestled within the serene expanse of Lakeshore Camp Resort is a sprawling haven boasting 940 sites, including 115 full hookup campsites and 12 charming cabins available for rent. This family-friendly retreat promises an immersive camping experience, where nature meets entertainment. A plethora of amenities await, offering campers access to a 22-acre lake, four inviting pools, sandy beaches, fishing spots, boat rentals, a delightful mini-golf course, and a calendar brimming with daily recreational activities and weekend entertainment. Lakeshore Camp Resort transforms camping into an adventure, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for all who seek refuge in its spacious grounds.
Blackwell Family Campground is one of the Joliet campgrounds that are operated by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. This large preserve comprises 1,366 acres, and the terrain includes grasslands, wetlands, prairies, and hickory and oak forests. You can hike, jog, bike, cross-country ski, or even ride a horse on most of the trails.
Activities Near Shedd Aquarium
Things to Do
Boating
The aquarium's location on Lake Michigan makes it the perfect starting point for a leisurely boat ride. You can enjoy stunning views of the Chicago skyline and get a unique perspective of the aquarium from the water. Boat tours and rentals are available, making it easy for visitors to explore the lake at their own pace.
Nature watching
While the aquarium focuses on marine life, visitors can still experience the natural beauty of the area around the aquarium. The lakeshore provides a habitat for various plants and animals, including birds, wildflowers, and even beavers. You can stroll along the lakefront trails to observe the area's natural beauty.
Hiking
You can also hike along the nearby trails to enjoy the flora and fauna of the area. The aquarium is located within the larger Grant Park, which offers miles of trails for visitors to explore. The trails provide a chance to see a variety of trees, plants, and wildlife, including several species of birds, squirrels, and even deer.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Summer is the peak season for tourism at the Shedd Aquarium as temperatures are warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, increased visitors can make the aquarium crowded, and tickets may sell out quickly. Packing for summer in Chicago can be tricky as the city's weather can be unpredictable. The sun can be scorching, and the humidity can be overwhelming. It is advisable to bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Winter can affect your visit to the Shedd Aquarium due to low temperatures and heavy snowfall. Remember that certain outdoor activities, such as boat tours, may not be available during winter. You will require layers of warm clothing such as thermal base layers, fleece jackets, waterproof and windproof jackets, gloves, warm hats, and boots.
Safety & Accessibility
When visiting the Shedd Aquarium, you should pay attention to any signs or warnings and follow them accordingly. Never attempt to touch or feed any of the aquarium animals unless it is specifically allowed by the aquarium staff. An adult should supervise children at all times and should ensure that children stay behind any barriers. Visitors should dispose of all trash and litter in designated bins to ensure the aquarium stays clean and safe for humans and animals. There are wheelchair rentals, Braille and tactile exhibits, assistive listening devices, and sensory maps to help visitors with autism and other sensory processing disorders.
Conclusion
The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago holds tremendous significance as one of the top-rated aquariums in the world. Its unique and diverse collection of aquatic species and its educational and research initiatives make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life. The allure of the Shedd Aquarium comes from its immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning architecture that transports visitors to a magical underwater world.
FAQ
Within 15 miles of the Shedd Aquarium, campers can find several parks and campgrounds, such as McKinley Park and LaBagh Woods. These sites offer amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails.
The Chicago area offers ample RV parking spaces for those visiting the aquarium. Visitors can easily park their RVs near the location and use the public transport system to reach the aquarium easily. Visitors can park in the Soldier Field Parking Garage directly south of the aquarium.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid any unnecessary hassle. You should know the aquarium's opening and closing hours, which may vary according to the season. Keep an eye on the aquarium's website and social media handles as they often offer discounted tickets and special events.
The museum features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and immersive experiences that cater to visitors of all ages. Kids can enjoy the aquarium's animal encounters, touching a stingray, feeding a penguin, or meeting a beluga whale.
The Shedd Aquarium does not allow pets on the premises, except for trained service animals. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the aquarium's animals and visitors.