Shedd Aquarium
State-of-the-art indoor aquarium, famous for its variety of habitats & views of Lake Michigan.
Shedd Aquarium is rated 4.5 / 5 from 33,274 Google reviews and sits about 4.1 km (51 min walk) from Sox–35th station.
General overview
About Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is a major public aquarium on Chicago’s Museum Campus, overlooking Lake Michigan. Its collections span freshwater and marine habitats, with sharks, beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, penguins, sea lions and tropical reef animals. Admission is generally sold by timed entry with variable pricing.
- Abbott Oceanarium with beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions and sea otters
- Wild Reef, featuring sharks, rays and a Philippine coral-reef ecosystem
- Caribbean Reef, a large central habitat in Shedd’s historic rotunda
- Polar Play Zone and penguin habitats
- Animal Spotlight presentations and training demonstrations
- Lake Michigan views from the Museum Campus
Things to do here
Abbott Oceanarium
Large indoor marine-mammal complex featuring belugas, dolphins, sea lions and sea otters. Animal presentations may be included with admission, subject to the day’s schedule.
Wild Reef
Immersive Philippine reef galleries with sharks, rays, corals and tropical fish.
Animal Spotlight
Scheduled sessions highlighting animal behavior, care and training. Showtimes and featured species vary.
Stingray Touch
Seasonal outdoor opportunity to touch cownose rays under staff supervision. Availability and any supplemental fee vary.
4-D Experience
A short film with environmental effects such as water, wind or seat movement. This has commonly required an additional ticket.
Extraordinary animal encounters
Limited-capacity paid programs may include behind-the-scenes tours, feeding experiences or close-up encounters. Offerings, ages and prices vary.
Arrive about 15–30 minutes before the ticket time for security and ticket scanning. Museum Campus traffic and parking can be slow; public transit or a rideshare can be easier on busy days.
Reserve a dated, timed ticket in advance, particularly for weekends, holidays, summer dates, free-admission days and premium animal encounters.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Shedd Aquarium is about 4.1 km (~51 min walk) from Sox–35th station on the Chicago "L".
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Shedd Aquarium from Sox–35th station?
Shedd Aquarium is about 4110 m (roughly 51 min walk) from Sox–35th station on the Chicago "L". Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Shedd Aquarium rated?
Shedd Aquarium has a Google rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 33,274 reviews.
What's near Shedd Aquarium?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Ricobene's, MingHin Cuisine - Chinatown, Reggies Chicago.
Is Shedd Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Shedd Aquarium: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Shedd Aquarium?
Google lists these parking options near Shedd Aquarium: paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is Shedd Aquarium good for children?
Yes — Google lists Shedd Aquarium as good for children.
Do I need a timed reservation?
Advance timed admission is strongly recommended and may be required. Same-day entry can sell out, particularly on weekends, holidays and Illinois resident free days.
Are animal presentations included?
Many scheduled animal presentations have generally been included with admission, but seating is limited and schedules vary. Premium encounters and the 4-D theater may cost extra.
How do I reach Shedd Aquarium by public transit?
The Roosevelt CTA station, served by the Red, Green and Orange lines, is about a 15–20 minute walk. CTA buses serving Museum Campus may provide a closer stop, depending on current routing.
Is parking available?
Yes, paid Museum Campus parking is nearby, but spaces and rates vary and Soldier Field events can significantly affect access. Allow extra time or consider public transit.
Can I bring food?
Rules can vary, but food should generally be eaten only in designated areas. Glass containers, alcohol and large coolers may be restricted. Check current rules if you have medical or dietary needs.
Can I leave and re-enter?
Same-day re-entry may be allowed with appropriate ticket validation, but visitors should confirm the procedure with staff before exiting.
Is the aquarium suitable for young children?
Yes. Stroller-friendly routes, family restrooms, changing stations and hands-on children’s areas are generally available, though galleries can become crowded.
Does Shedd offer free admission?
Selected Illinois resident free days are offered during the year. Eligibility documents, reservations and online fees may apply. Museums for All, military, educator or partner-program discounts may also be available.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 11, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.