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Shedd Aquarium Illinois Resident Free Days in September 2022

On Select Dates, Access Expanded for State Residents to Look Nature in the Eye

August 25, 2022

Kathy, a volunteer at Shedd, points out animals in the Amazon Rising exhibit to a group of kids.

WHAT: After Labor Day, Shedd Aquarium will offer September Illinois Resident Free Days on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the month. On select free days, the aquarium will extend its hours to expand access for those at work or in school during typical hours to take advantage of unforgettable experiences with animals from sea lions to stingrays, while still enjoying free admission.

With valid ID or proof of residency, Illinois residents receive free general admission, which includes access to all exhibits at Shedd, including special exhibit Underwater Beauty, as well as to the several daily animal spotlights, alternately featuring natural behaviors from Pacific white-sided dolphins, beluga whales, penguins or California sea lions. Guests can explore the aquatic world further with special, add-on activities like Stingray Feeding, 4-D Experiences or Virtual Reality Experiences.

Tickets must be secured online before a visit to reduce wait time, ensure dates are not sold-out and for the best possible guest experience. Free admission will not be granted to guests who walk up without reserved free tickets. To reserve tickets, visit https://www.sheddaquarium.org/plan-a-visit.

WHEN: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, starting Tuesday, Sept. 6 through Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. Times for each date are online.

WHERE: Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605

HOW TO GET TICKETS: Tickets must be secured ahead of a visit using Shedd’s website.

Please note: A $3 transaction fee applies to all Illinois Resident Free Day tickets reserved online. This helps ensure access to as many neighbors as possible by validating orders.

All adults must provide proof of residency in person when redeeming tickets at a discounted rate. For the latest information about the aquarium hours and discounts, please visit the “Plan a Visit” page.

Photos and video can be viewed and downloaded here:

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Photo and video credit: ©Shedd Aquarium