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Dolphins in Shedd's Oceanarium leap into the air above Whale Harbor, reaching heights of up to six feet.

Abbott Oceanarium

The Abbott Oceanarium immerses you in the vibrant coastal ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. As you stroll along the coast, encounter beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions and sea otters. You'll also find colorful creatures that make their home where freshwater flows into the ocean, or where tides turn seascapes to landscapes and back again each day.

  • The tail of a pacific white-sided dolphin forms a flat half-moon shape, the inner curve of the moon gently puckered toward the center.

    Learn

    Our experts share some of the amazing adaptations of dolphins, beluga whales, sea lions and penguins during our Animal Spotlights.

  • Beluga whale Aurek with peers at Shedd Aquarium.

    Hear

    Beluga whales chirp and call across Secluded Bay—hear why they're called "the canaries of the sea."

  • Purple sea urchins are covered in short, thick spikes and long, thin filaments used to sense their environment.

    Explore

    Discover the diverse life in the Pacific Northwest, from colorful urchins to remarkable sea stars.

Go Below the Surface – Underwater Viewing

Delve into the deep blue and get a below-the-surface look at the beluga whales and Pacific white-sided dolphins in our underwater viewing area. On lower level 2, see these fascinating marine mammals from a new perspective to inspire an even closer connection to the wonderous underwater world.