Shedd Aquarium sits on the edge of Lake Michigan, over 2,000 miles from the Pacific Ocean and 800 miles from the Atlantic. But once inside, you’d never know. Greeted with species from around the globe, you’re invited into the underwater world the moment you step on the old limestone floor, imbedded with aquatic fossils. From the beautiful sculptures of fish dangling in the entryway to the historic carvings of aquatic life and shells on the wall, visiting Shedd is engaging and important; it’s a portal into a world thousands of miles away.
Aquariums provide experiences and interactions for guests who may not otherwise see southern sea otters along the coast of California or river giants in the Amazon River basin. Nestled in the Midwest, Shedd Aquarium opens the door to the world of aquatic life.
“"There is no guarantee that people will care if they know, but it is certain they cannot care if they do not know."”
Dr. Sylvia Earle
When you enter a gallery or view an exhibit, you’re rewiring the way you process information about an animal. Standing mere feet away from a species is a motivating experience that further connects humans and wildlife.
Each gallery tells a story, from the role an animal plays in an ecosystem to rescue and conservation. At the sea otter exhibit, guests can learn about the story of Seldovia, a rescued sea otter pup now thriving with the Shedd raft, whose story inspires millions of guests to take action to better protect and conserve sea otters in Alaska and beyond.
These stories foster a sense of empathy, and this deepened connection can inspire action. Exposure to these animals leads to increased awareness of the threats a species may be facing, like climate change, habitat degradation or overfishing. This experience could serve as motivation to act, like sending a letter to a local representative or attending a beach cleanup to protect wildlife.
Along with coming eye to eye with the aquatic world, visiting Shedd connects you with experts. You might stumble upon a chat or live program, where Shedd educators bring you even closer to animals and their environments. Dive into weird and wonderful animal behavior and biology, or simply admire with awe the beauty of what swims beneath the surface.
From ages 1 to 101, the aquarium welcomes all to engage their senses — touch a sea star, hear the chirps of a beluga or see the light dance across iridescent scales. Often, aquariums are one of the first experiences with wildlife that children have. Firsthand experiences as a child could lead to a lifetime passion for protecting animals, a career in science or simply a day to remember for years to come.
Shedd’s scientists, researchers, veterinarians, animal care team and staff have dedicated their lives to helping the aquatic animal world, but we can’t do it alone. It’s everyday guests like you who can join us to make a difference locally and globally.
As Shedd approaches our 100th anniversary in 2030, we’re embarking on an exciting transformation of the aquarium that will strengthen connections with nature and amplify ways to care and act for a thriving future for both people and aquatic life. More immersive exhibits, like the Caribbean Tunnel that offers a diver’s eye view of life on the reef, deeper community investments and new educational programs will open up a world of possibilities for millions more moments that evoke inspiration, create compassion and catalyze action.
Aquariums are hubs of information and community builders. When you encounter animals from around the world alongside family, friends and like-minded people, it’s a reminder that conservation is an issue that affects everyone. The responsibility is shared, and it takes a combined effort to create a safe future for wildlife. Seeing animals up close changes the way we think about nature, it builds empathy, motivates us to act and creates a deeper understanding of the animal world. On your next visit to Shedd, take time to reflect on nature and how your visit contributes to a world thriving with aquatic life.