Open 9 am - 5 pm
Northern sea otter pup, rescued from Alaska, in the arms of a Shedd Animal Care specialist

Make Your Impact

Support world-class animal care, innovative conservation and accessible nature education.

Donate

A man and his daughter gently touch the back of a penguin sitting in a trainer's lap.

Become a Member

Enjoy free admission and exclusive benefits while helping care for the animals you love.

Join Today

A black family smiles as they are presented by an animal handler with a beautiful green-winged macaw.

Join the Aquarium Council

Deepen your investment in Shedd’s mission by joining a community of animal lovers, conservation champions and committed supporters of the aquarium.

Discover More


  • Guests touch Seastar
  • The beautiful inside of a nautilus shell inscribes a perfect fibonacci spiral.
  • A young visitor grins as his dad hoists him onto his shoulder, the better to see the shimmering fish in Wild Reef's shark habitat.

Legacy Giving

Create a lasting impact with an estate gift to Shedd.

Learn more


More Ways to Give

For Love of Waterkind Gala 2026

Shedd Aquarium 2026 Gala

Gather for an elegant evening of dining, giving and surprises at Shedd’s annual fundraiser.

Join us


Deepen your connection

Become a Volunteer

Discover volunteer opportunities throughout the aquarium and give the gift of time.

take the next step

Volunteers and staff secure plants to a floating habitat on the Chicago River
A black girl and her father press their hands against the glass of a habitat where three beluga whales look back. The text, "For Love of Waterkind" is overlaid on the image.