Plan a Visit

Open today 9 to 6
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Plan a Visit

Welcome to Shedd Aquarium! We can hardly wait for you to meet beluga whales and bluegills, rockhopper penguins and rockfish, alligators and an alligator snapping turtle, and so much more as you explore the world’s oceans, lakes, rivers and reefs — all in the heart of Chicago.

The best Shedd visit begins online, not in line. We offer three easy ways to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid a long wait:

Other ticket packages are available on site. Quantities are limited and may sell out.

Please note, areas of the aquarium may be closed for a portion or all of any given day without prior notice. Please contact us if you have questions about exhibit availability.

Hours

September 2018
All days: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fall
(Oct. 1 - June 2019)
Weekdays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Weekends: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Summer (June - Aug  2019)
All days: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.


Special Hours:
Tuesday, Oct. 16 - Early close at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 14 - Early close at 4 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 22 - Early close at 3 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 4 - Extended hours to 9 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 24 - Early close at 3 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 25 - Closed

Sept/Oct. Extended Hours:
The following dates have extended hours until 9 p.m.
Sept. 5, 6, 10, 12, 17, 19, 20, 24, 26, 27
Oct. 3, 10

*Last ticket sales are 45 minutes before close.

Ages

Adult: 12+ years
Child: 3-11 years
Infant (free admission): 2 years and under

Getting here

Walk, drive, or take the bus—let’s find the best route for you.

Calendar of Events

Check our calendar so you don't miss exciting upcoming programs and events.

Daily activities

Carribean Reef Dive: 10:30 a.m. | 12 p.m.| 2 p.m. | 3 p.m. | Carribean Reef

Shark Chat: 9:45 a.m. | 11:15 a.m. | 3:45 p.m. | Wild Reef

Belugas and Sea Lions Chat: 11 a.m. | 1:30 p.m. | 3 p.m. | Abbott Oceanarium

Penguins Chat:  9:45 a.m. | 12:45 p.m. | 4 p.m. | Polar Play Zone

Aquatic Presentation and 4-D Experiences: Occuring throughout the day

See the full listing of today's animal experiences!

Field trips & groups

Give your school or community group an unforgettable experience. Plan your field trip today!

Special offers

You’ll find ways to save, along with other offers here.

Tips for a great visit

Make the most of your trip with our tips for a great visit!

Policies

Help us keep Shedd safe for our guests and animals — review our policies before you arrive.

Contact info

Need more information? Send us an email or give us a call at 312-939-2438. We're happy to help!

Stay up-to-date with Shedd news

Sign up for Shedd's email newsletter to be the first to know what's happening at the aquarium, including unique events, behind-the-scenes updates, and exclusive offers.