We had the pleasure of checking out Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, when we were visiting for our daughter’s Navy boot camp graduation. I’ve put together this post for all of those that may be Visiting Chicago for PIR Weekend – Shedd Aquarium is a Must See and Do!
We received complimentary tickets to visit Shedd Aquarium, however all opinions are our own.
We recently visited Chicago for several days for our oldest daughter, Kayla’s, Navy boot camp graduation, situated on the Great Lakes, in the city of Waukegan. To say we had a fantastic time would be an understatement. While we were there, we did a little site seeing, and checked out a couple of very cool places in the Chicago area; one being Shedd Aquarium.
When I ask Kelsie, our almost 13 year old, to go through a list of places in Chicago to visit while we were there, Shedd Aquarium was at the top of the list. This probably has a lot to do with the fact that she loves animals, and hopes to major in Zoology one day with a minor in Marine Biology. She has a deep love for science, and an even deeper love for animals, and their welfare.
When you first arrive at Shedd Aquarium, you will notice the most unique marine life sculptures that had Kelsie gushing with happiness, once she read what the plaques say. (these sculptures are a part of the Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea exhibit which will be on display until September 2018) In these exhibits you will notice plastic water bottles, rope, swimming fins, flip flops etc., all of which was once trash, collected from over 300 miles of beaches. Living along the gulf coast of Florida, I can attest to the trash that is found on our beaches daily. Can you imagine across all of the beaches, the amount of trash that is found daily? It’s one of those things that make you think twice about buying plastic water bottles or simply leaving that broken sand toy in the sand at the beach. These exhibits are also located throughout the building inside as well.
This aquarium is HUGE! You will need to plan out several hours to view everything available, and if you happen to visit on a holiday weekend, plan an even longer time. It would be best to buy your tickets ahead of time online, if possible. The line to get in to purchase tickets was very long. If you have your tickets already purchased you will be able to head to the side of the building, and get in a much shorter line to get in. Grab a map once inside, because it will come in handy.
I have two favorite marine animals, my first is the manatee, and my second are the beluga whales. So I fell in love with the Oceanarium. I loved the fact that you get a below and above the water viewing on these guys! They even gave us a wonderful concert with their squeaks, clicks, and whistles. I think we stood and watched them for nearly 30 minutes. They are fascinating creatures.
Being from Florida, we are used to only seeing bottlenose dolphins, so the Pacific white-sided dolphins was a very unique experience. Kelsie came home and started doing some research on them. (we homeschool, and look at every opportunity as an educational one)
Make sure that when you arrive to reserve your free tickets to the aquatic presentations, at one of the ticket kiosks in the lobby.
Every where you look, you will be greeted with marine life. Kelsie found a spot, pulled out her phone, and started taking pictures of many of the fish. She loved that she could immediately look nearby at the plaques to discover what fish, or critter she was viewing. In some locations there were even tablet devices to scroll through what was swimming in the tanks you were viewing. Keep in mind, while snapping all those great photos to keep your flash off!
From the Amazon and Caribbean to the Wild Reef and the Great Lakes, Shedd Aquarium has something that will strike everyone’s interest. Living in the south we don’t get to see much marine life outside of what is along the gulf coast. I think we really enjoyed the Great Lakes exhibit the most. Not to mention that you get to touch a sturgeon! We have plenty of touch tanks around here for star fish, sea urchins, and sting rays, so this was a super cool factor for us! I totally missed out on grabbing a photograph of Zack and Kelsie doing this, because we happened to visit on Memorial Day weekend, and it was very crowded. Keep that in mind for photo opps. There are so many places around the aquarium to get some really great shots; you just may have to be patient and wait for an open moment.
On a personal note, with the crowds, I only had my 50mm lens with me, but it came in handy because I was able to get a lot of shots by holding my camera above people. I was glad that I made that choice to grab that particular lens!
If you are visiting the Chicago area for PIR weekend, Shedd Aquarium should be on the top of your list to check out. Kayla flew out on Saturday morning, so she was unable to attend with us. However, if your SR is staying at the Great Lakes for A school, you will be able to take them with you at some point over the weekend, during their Liberty. As an active duty member they will receive free admission, using their CAT card. If you visit them during A school during Memorial Day and Labor Day 2018, using the Blue Stars Museum Program, not only will your SR get in free, but they can admit up to 5 family members as well. This is a great program, and you can read more about that here.
Ticket prices are totally reasonable, if you aren’t with your SR during the above mentioned time. You have several options, from general admission prices: Adult $39.95, child (3-11) $29.95, to purchasing a Chicago CityPass Adult $106, child (3-11) $89. The CityPass includes admission to Shedd Aquarium, along with admission to 4 other top attractions. It’s really the best option, if you plan on visiting more than one place. For all ticket options check out their website.
Parking heads up….We don’t have any experience, but it is limited, and it’s $2 to park. We actually took the bus and they literally dropped us off almost directly in front. If you plan on visiting Shedd Aquarium, it is next door to The Field Museum, and a very short walk to Adler Planetarium. You could potentially visit all three, if you arrived early enough. The Navy Pier is across the lake, and they offer ferry rides over, in case that was something you wanted to do. So your one bus ride, Uber, or taxi ride would really benefit you, if you were planning on visiting a couple of these places in one day.
robin rue
I would LOVE to visit Chicago someday and of course, this would be a definite stop if I get there. It sounds like an amazing aquarium!
Joanna
I think Chicago should be on everyone’s bucket list of places to visit! And Shedd Aquarium is a must see while in Chicago! 🙂
Alli Smith
I always enjoy taking the family to aquariums. I’ve never been to the one in Chicago but I’d love to visit soon. The fact that it has several touch tanks makes me happy. I like to get up close and personal when it’s allowed.
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Joanna
The next time you’re in Chicago, you have got to visit! The touch tanks are an added plus. Everyone loves to touch marine life, when given the opportunity.
candy
The Shedd Aquarium is a great place to visit. Perfect for the entire family, young and old alike. So much fun to see all the different kinds of fishes and other things going on at the aquarium.
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Joanna
I love that it’s perfect for all ages, and strikes just about everyone’s interest.
Terri Steffes
Shedd was the first stop on our family’s first vacation, in 1989. My daughter was 4 and wanted to go back every day! It is a fabulous place to go!
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Joanna
It’s a place that, if you can visit more than once, I highly recommend it! If we ever go back to Chicago, we will make a stop here again, for sure.
Jeanette
I have only been to the shed aquarium once but it left an impact on me. That place is absolutely gorgeous and they have so many different animals that they do not have anywhere else. I would love to bring my son to it.
Joanna
Isn’t it gorgeous!? Your son would love it there!
Glenda Cates
Congrats on your daughter’s graduation. I loved getting to know your youngest daughter and what she would like to be. As for the City, I haven’t visited it although if we do I will make sure and take the time to visit this attraction and purchase tickets early.
Joanna
Thank you! Oh, Chicago is a beautiful city, one that I had wanted to see for a very long time. Although we didn’t get to do nearly as much as I’d like to have, Shedd Aquarium was wonderful!
Ashley
We love visiting aquariums, My son would flip that they have a Beluga Whale, he’s loved them since seeing Finding Dory.
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Joanna
The begula was definitely one of my favorites! I loved the unique above water view that I’ve never seen elsewhere.
Janet
Aquariums are one of our favorite activities to do when traveling in the summer. In the afternoons when it’s hot and rainy is often when we make plans to visit them and cool off.
Joanna
This place is perfect for that! Just make sure if you visit on rainy days to keep in mind ticket lines, and purchase in advance online, but still get there early!
Melissa Chapman
We love all zoos, acquariums and especially sanctuaries where the animals are treated in a humane way.This building looks special and if i visit Chicago will not miss it.
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Joanna
It really is special, and I love all that they do and represent. 🙂
valmg @ Mom Knows It All
I’ve never visited Chicago, I’ve heard it’s an interesting city and have always wanted to. I love aquariums and this sounds like one I’d enjoy visiting.
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Joanna
It’s totally a great place to visit, and you should if ever given the chance!
Lisa
I love Chicago so much. It is such a fun city and the aquarium is alwasy a great stopree it is a must see.
Joanna
I agree! 😉
Karen Morse
It’s a fun place to visit for families especially this summer! I love that there’s plenty of things for the guests to explore. And it’s going to be a fun learning experience for the kids as well.
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Joanna
Yes, everything you said! 😀
Tasheena @ SimplyTasheena.com
I visited Chicago last year and would love to visit again with the family. This aquarium would be wonderful for us to check out.
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Joanna
We had a blast, as I’m sure your family will too!
Tomi C
Chicago is one of my favorite cities and has been since I was a kid. There is always something to see and do. Looks like you had a great visit.
Joanna
It was such a wonderful visit!
Chubskulit Rose
Aquariums are always fun to visit especially with children. You get to see aquamarine creatures that you seldom get to see.
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Joanna
This place really strikes the interest of young and old alike. We really enjoyed it.
Farrah Less
So ashamed I have never been to this part of US. I always wanted to go to Chicago when we were still in Buffalo its just that we have no luck,. Definitely will add this to my bucket list to visit while in Chicago.
Joanna
Chicago is a must see city at least once, and the Shedd Aquarium is the added bonus! I hope you make it one day!
Mellissa
Oh wow! What an incredible aquarium. I haven’t been to Chicago in years. I definitely need to take my kiddo there to enjoy all of the sites and attractions. He would love it! Thanks for giving me an idea for a trip.
Laura
Ah that aquarium looks like so much fun! Even the structure of the building is cool.