Shedd Aquarium
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Chicago’s Portal to Ocean Life
Opened in 1930 with funding from John G. Shedd—and a million gallons of seawater shipped by rail from Florida—the Shedd Aquarium is an historic landmark. Shedd boasts magnificent architecture and an unbeatable location on the shore of Lake Michigan, as well as a state-of-the-art Oceanarium and natural outdoor amphitheater.
Creatures from Every Corner of the World
With equal emphasis on conservation and eye-popping displays, the Shedd Aquarium is the perfect way to spend a day in Chicago. The Aquarium is divided into six exhibits, including Lizards (featuring Komodo dragons and basilisks), Oceanarium (home to dolphins, otters, and beluga whales), Philippine Wild Reef (watch sandbar sharks and garden eels swim around corals), Amazon Rising (featuring tambaqui, anacondas and piranhas, as well as Poison Dart Frogs), Waters of the World (an exhibit of 90 habitats, from the ocean floor to the Great Lakes, featuring giant octopus and moon jellies), and Caribbean Reef (with moray eels, Cownose rays, and parrotfish).
Dedication to Conservation
The Aquarium is a partner in many conservation and research projects, including the Freshwater Mussel Survey of the Midwest; Project Seahorse; and Renew the Blue initiatives in Chicago and beyond. The aquarium restaurant serves local produce and sustainably-harvested fish and seafood.
Learn More
Visit their excellent website for a complete list of animals.
Organization type: Public Aquaria
Shedd Aquarium
1200 S Lake Shore Dr
Chicago, IL 60605
US
North America
312-939-2438