Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is one of the world’s largest, with more than 32,000 fish from 1,500 different species.  It is the most visited attraction in Chicago with more than 2,000,000 guests annually.  The aquarium was built between 1927 and 1930, and was one of the world’s first inland aquariums.  Seawater had to be brought in by train via railroad from Key West, Florida.  Along with the Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum of Natural History, the Shedd Aquarium is part of the Museum Campus Chicago.  The aquarium is named for its founder John G. Shedd, president of retailer Marshall Fields.

The Shedd Aquarium is divided into five permanent exhibits: Amazon Rising, Caribbean Reef, Waters of the World, the Oceanarium, and Wild Reef.  In addition to fish, the aquarium holds thousands of birds and mammals.  Wild Reef is the largest and most diverse shark exhibit in North America.  The Oceanarium features sea lion, dolphin, and whale shows.  Another highlight is the collection of frogs and lizards of the Amazon.

This is without a doubt one of the best aquariums in the world.  The displays are interesting and informative, but of course the fish are the stars of the show.  You can spend hours hypnotically watching them go about their business.  The drawback is the cost, but if you can afford it the Shedd Aquarium is a great place to spend an afternoon.  It’s also a good choice for children.

Address: 1200 South Lake Shore Drive

Telephone: (312) 939 2438

Website: www.sheddaquarium.org

Train: Roosevelt, Museum Campus/11th Street (Metra)

Hours: Open daily, hours vary throughout the year.

Admission:
$28.95 Adults
$19.95 Children (3-11)