Shedd Aquarium

Here, there and everywhere, Shedd Aquarium’s mission is to spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic animal world. From whales to snails, tarantulas to turtles, look nature in the eye as you meet 32,000 animals from aquatic habitats around the world.

Take a walk through a flooded forest in Amazon Rising and marvel at sharks swimming overhead in Wild Reef. Explore Shedd’s Abbott Oceanarium, where you can get face to face with beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea otters, sea lions and rockhopper and Magellanic penguins. Stop at Polar Play Zone where kids and their families can play, pretend and discover through hands-on activities.

Be amazed by the dolphins’ 20-foot jumps, the belugas’ incredible sounds and more at an animal spotlight. Dip your hand into the water to feel the armored lake sturgeon or the slippery back of a sea star. Meet a penguin or a sea otter during an unforgettable Extraordinary Experience or go behind the scenes during a Must See Tour or Shark Feeding Tour. Sit on our breezy terrace with the best view of the Chicago skyline as you enjoy delicious food and drinks from Bubble Net Food Court or Soundings Café.

Shedd Aquarium is more than just a destination for nearly 2 million annual visitors, but we’re protecting endangered species, conducting research, rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in need across the globe, educating youth, partnering with communities and restoring habitats in our own backyards to ensure our blue planet thrives. We can hardly wait for you to explore the world’s oceans, lakes, rivers and reefs — all in the heart of Chicago!