Dive into Adventure at Shedd Aquarium
Explore the wonders of marine life at Shedd Aquarium, Chicago's premier destination for aquatic adventure and education.
Shedd Aquarium, located on the edge of Lake Michigan in Chicago, is one of the largest and most prestigious aquariums in the world. Home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, this remarkable facility invites visitors to embark on an underwater adventure that spans the globe. As you wander through the various exhibits, you’ll encounter everything from playful sea otters to majestic sharks, showcasing the incredible diversity of marine life. The aquarium is not only a visual feast but also serves as a vital educational resource, offering interactive learning opportunities for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights of the Shedd Aquarium is the Caribbean Reef exhibit, where you can marvel at colorful coral and an array of tropical fish swimming freely around you. The Amazon Rising exhibit immerses you in the lush rainforest, featuring fascinating creatures such as piranhas and anacondas. Additionally, the Shedd offers captivating live shows and animal encounters, allowing guests to learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans. Beyond its impressive exhibits, the Shedd Aquarium is situated within Museum Campus, providing stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Whether you're a family looking for a fun day out, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or a marine life enthusiast, Shedd Aquarium promises an enriching experience filled with wonder and learning. Plan your visit today to discover the treasures of the deep sea in an unforgettable setting.
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the schedule for live shows and animal encounters to enhance your visit.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance online to save time and avoid long lines.
- Explore the outdoor terrace for stunning views of the city and the lake.
- Bring a refillable water bottle; there are water stations throughout the aquarium.
A brief summary to Shedd Aquarium
- 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, Museum Campus, Illinois, 60605, US
- +1312-939-2438
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transit - Bus
If you're starting from downtown Chicago, find a bus stop along State Street. Take the #146 bus towards Museum Campus. The bus will take you directly to the Shedd Aquarium stop. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. After getting off the bus, walk a short distance southeast on S DuSable Lake Shore Drive, and you'll see the Shedd Aquarium entrance on your left.
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Public Transit - Train
Begin your journey at any 'L' station in downtown Chicago. Take the Red Line towards 95th/Dan Ryan and transfer at the Harold Washington Library station to the Green Line. Ride the Green Line to the 'King Drive' station. From there, you can catch the #3 or #4 bus heading south to the Shedd Aquarium stop. After disembarking, walk a few minutes east on S DuSable Lake Shore Drive to reach the entrance.
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Walking
If you're staying in the nearby area, you can walk to Shedd Aquarium. From Grant Park, head south on S Michigan Avenue until you reach E 8th Street. Turn left and continue east to reach S DuSable Lake Shore Drive. From there, walk south along the lakeshore path for about 15-20 minutes until you arrive at Shedd Aquarium.
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Bike Share
Use a Divvy bike for a convenient ride to Shedd Aquarium. Find a Divvy station near you, rent a bike, and head towards the lakefront. Follow the bike path along the lake, which will take you directly to the aquarium. The ride from downtown should take around 10-15 minutes, and you'll find a bike rack available at the aquarium entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Shedd Aquarium
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Museum Campus
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Field Museum
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Adler Planetarium Skyline Walk
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Adler Planetarium
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Grant Park
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Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain
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Northerly Island Park
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Glessner House
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Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago
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The Art Institute of Chicago
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Loop Mural
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Nichols Bridgeway
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Lurie Garden
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Maggie Daley Park
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Crown Fountain
Landmarks nearby to Shedd Aquarium
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Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway
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Americas' Courtyard
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The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago
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Queen's Landing
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Ludington Building
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Historic End of Route 66 Sign
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Morton Building
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Old Colony Building
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North Lion
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Chapin and Gore Building
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Monadnock Building
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The Horse
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Jay Pritzker Pavilion
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Marquette Building
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Landmarks Illinois