Shedd Aquarium

See 32,000 marine wildlife at Chicago's aquarium.

The Shedd Aquarium is one of the oldest and most respected aquariums in North America and has the most diverse aquatic collection in the world, with more than 1,500 species. Open since 1930, this aquarium has four levels and 452,600 square feet filled with amazing marine animals. Visitors will see beluga whales, bluegills, rockhopper penguins, alligators, snapping turtles, rockfish, and more. Some wildlife experiences include stingray touch, stingray feeding, sea star touch, and sturgeon touch.

Admission rates at the Shedd Aquarium are $40 for adults and $30 for children. There are several food options available if you get hungry. The Bubble Net Food court is open daily and offers pizza, the Chicago dog, grass-fed burgers, sustainably-sourced fish and chips, soups, and artisan grain bowls. Soundings Café is open daily and serves Starbucks drinks, coffee, freshly baked pastries, and sandwiches. You can also head to the Deep Ocean Café (open seasonally) for hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, popcorn, and Dippin Dots. You can also stop by the gift shop for plush toys, books, and apparel.