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Shedd Aquarium

Write a Review Chicago, Illinois All ages, with some experiences having age restrictions (e.g., Penguin Encounter for ages 6+). Verified•Aquarium

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Shedd Aquarium

A Chicago landmark on the lakefront where penguins, stingrays, and freshwater wonders come within arm's reach.

Sitting on DuSable Lake Shore Drive, this aquarium is devoted to what it calls the love of waterkind, drawing visitors below the surface into marine and freshwater worlds. The focus is equal parts wonder and conservation.

What you'll see and do Daily animal chats and demonstrations cover feedings and adaptations, while seasonal attractions like Stingray Touch add hands-on moments. Paid extraordinary experiences go further: the Penguin Encounter (ages 6 and up) and the Must See Tour take you behind the scenes for a closer, more personal look at the animals and how the aquarium runs.

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Parking
  • Wheelchair access

Events at Shedd Aquarium

  • Sea Otter Encounter

    May 26, 2026

    A special encounter event with sea otters.

  • Stingray Touch

    Summer Season

    Dip your hand into tropical water and be greeted by cownose stingrays, feeling their soft bodies.

  • Penguin Encounter

    Select dates through August 2026

    Meet one of Shedd’s penguins in a 45-minute experience, with a chance to touch the bird's dense feathers.

  • Must See Tour

    Ongoing

    A 75-minute guided tour experiencing the best of Shedd, including behind-the-scenes access and animal expert chats.

  • Sea Star Touch

    All day

    An interactive experience allowing visitors to touch sea stars.

  • Sturgeon Touch

    All day

    An interactive experience allowing visitors to touch sturgeon.

  • Night Dives: Illinois Resident Free Evening

    May 25, 2026

    Free evening tickets for Illinois residents.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Shedd Aquarium.

Who it's for

All ages, with some experiences having age restrictions (e.g., Penguin Encounter for ages 6+).

Getting there

Shedd Aquarium is at 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Shedd Aquarium

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Get DirectionsVisit Website

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026

Shedd Aquarium Reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • Is Shedd Aquarium worth visiting?

    Shedd Aquarium offers an immersive dive into aquatic life, featuring diverse exhibits, animal encounters, and educational programs. Visitors can explore various ecosystems and participate in unique paid experiences like penguin encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, making it a place to learn about and connect with marine and freshwater animals.

  • What are the best things to see and do at Shedd Aquarium?

    Visitors can explore various ecosystems through engaging exhibits, attend daily animal chats, and experience seasonal attractions like Stingray Touch. Unique paid experiences such as the Penguin Encounter and the Must See Tour offer interactive opportunities and behind-the-scenes access.

  • What are the opening hours at Shedd Aquarium?

    Shedd Aquarium is open from 9 am to 6 pm during Winter/Spring 2026. Please check their official site for date-specific hours.

  • How do you get to Shedd Aquarium, and is there parking?

    Shedd Aquarium is located at 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605. Detailed directions and parking information are available on their official website.

  • Is Shedd Aquarium suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

    Shedd Aquarium is suitable for all ages, though some experiences have age restrictions, such as the Penguin Encounter which is for ages 6 and up.

  • Is Shedd Aquarium accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?

    Yes, Shedd Aquarium is committed to accessibility, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors.

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