The Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, Illinois, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and education. With over 32,000 animals from 1,500 species, the Shedd Aquarium offers an immersive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. However, one of the most common questions asked by potential visitors is: “How much does the Shedd Aquarium cost?” In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the various pricing options and packages available at the Shedd Aquarium, as well as provide valuable insights and tips to help you plan your visit and make the most of your experience.
Pricing Options and Packages
The Shedd Aquarium offers a range of pricing options and packages to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular options:
General Admission
The general admission ticket price for the Shedd Aquarium varies depending on the time of year and the visitor’s age. As of 2023, the prices are as follows:
| Age | Adult | Senior (65+) | Youth (3-11) | Children (2 and under) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Season (June 15 – August 31) | $39.95 | $34.95 | $29.95 | Free |
| Regular Season (April 1 – June 14 and September 1 – November 30) | $29.95 | $24.95 | $19.95 | Free |
| Off-Season (December 1 – March 31) | $19.95 | $14.95 | $9.95 | Free |
Special Packages and Discounts
The Shedd Aquarium offers various special packages and discounts to make your visit more affordable and enjoyable. Some of the most popular options include:
- Shedd Aquarium Membership: A membership to the Shedd Aquarium offers unlimited admission to the aquarium and other benefits such as free parking and discounts on food and merchandise.
- Group Discounts: The Shedd Aquarium offers discounted admission for groups of 10 or more people.
- Student Discounts: Students with a valid student ID can receive discounted admission to the Shedd Aquarium.
- Senior Discounts: Seniors (65+) can receive discounted admission to the Shedd Aquarium.
- Children’s Discounts: Children under 3 years old receive free admission to the Shedd Aquarium.
- Annual Passes: The Shedd Aquarium offers annual passes that provide unlimited admission to the aquarium and other benefits such as free parking and discounts on food and merchandise.
Food and Beverage Options
The Shedd Aquarium offers a range of food and beverage options to suit different tastes and budgets. Some of the most popular options include:
- Shedd Café: The Shedd Café offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, as well as coffee and other beverages.
- Caribbean Cove: Caribbean Cove is a quick-service restaurant that offers a variety of Caribbean-inspired dishes such as jerk chicken and conch fritters.
- Seafood Bar: The Seafood Bar offers a variety of seafood dishes such as fish and chips and seafood salads.
- Snack Bars: The Shedd Aquarium has several snack bars throughout the aquarium that offer a variety of snacks and beverages.
Special Events and Exhibits
The Shedd Aquarium hosts a range of special events and exhibits throughout the year, including:
Permanent Exhibits
The Shedd Aquarium has several permanent exhibits that are open year-round, including: (See Also: What Is Carbonate in Aquarium Water? The Ultimate Guide)
- Caribbean Reef: The Caribbean Reef exhibit features a 90,000-gallon tank that is home to a variety of Caribbean fish and other marine animals.
- Abbott Oceanarium: The Abbott Oceanarium is a 400,000-gallon tank that features a variety of marine animals including dolphins, beluga whales, and sea lions.
- Polar Play Zone: The Polar Play Zone is an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to learn about and interact with polar bears and other Arctic animals.
- Stingray Touch: The Stingray Touch exhibit allows visitors to touch and learn about stingrays and other marine animals.
Temporary Exhibits
The Shedd Aquarium also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year, including:
- Shedd’s Shark Encounter: Shedd’s Shark Encounter is a temporary exhibit that features a variety of shark species and other marine animals.
- Sea Otter Encounter: The Sea Otter Encounter is a temporary exhibit that allows visitors to learn about and interact with sea otters and other marine animals.
- Octopus Encounter: The Octopus Encounter is a temporary exhibit that features a variety of octopus species and other marine animals.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to the Shedd Aquarium, here are some tips and recommendations:
Plan Your Day
Plan your day at the Shedd Aquarium by checking the aquarium’s website for hours of operation, exhibit closures, and special events.
Arrive Early
Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
Bring a Stroller
Bring a stroller to help navigate the aquarium and make it easier to carry your belongings. (See Also: What Do I Need for Aquarium Plants? Essentials Guide)
Take Breaks
Take breaks to rest and recharge throughout the day.
Recap
In this comprehensive guide, we have explored the various pricing options and packages available at the Shedd Aquarium, as well as provided valuable insights and tips to help you plan your visit and make the most of your experience. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the Shedd Aquarium is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone. With its stunning exhibits, interactive experiences, and range of food and beverage options, the Shedd Aquarium is the perfect place to learn about and appreciate marine life and education.
FAQs
How Much Does the Shedd Aquarium Cost?
What is the general admission price for the Shedd Aquarium?
The general admission price for the Shedd Aquarium varies depending on the time of year and the visitor’s age. As of 2023, the prices are as follows:
| Age | Adult | Senior (65+) | Youth (3-11) | Children (2 and under) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Season (June 15 – August 31) | $39.95 | $34.95 | $29.95 | Free |
| Regular Season (April 1 – June 14 and September 1 – November 30) | $29.95 | $24.95 | $19.95 | Free |
| Off-Season (December 1 – March 31) | $19.95 | $14.95 | $9.95 | Free |
Are there any discounts available for the Shedd Aquarium?
Yes, the Shedd Aquarium offers various discounts and promotions throughout the year, including group discounts, student discounts, senior discounts, and children’s discounts. Additionally, the aquarium offers annual passes that provide unlimited admission to the aquarium and other benefits such as free parking and discounts on food and merchandise.
What are the hours of operation for the Shedd Aquarium?
What are the hours of operation for the Shedd Aquarium?
The Shedd Aquarium is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during peak season. The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Can I bring food and drink into the Shedd Aquarium?
Can I bring food and drink into the Shedd Aquarium?
No, the Shedd Aquarium has a no-outside-food policy. However, the aquarium offers a range of food and beverage options, including the Shedd Café, Caribbean Cove, Seafood Bar, and snack bars throughout the aquarium. (See Also: How to Keep Aquarium Plants Alive Before Planting? Thrive In Water)
Can I take pictures at the Shedd Aquarium?
Can I take pictures at the Shedd Aquarium?
Yes, the Shedd Aquarium allows visitors to take pictures for personal use. However, flash photography and tripods are not permitted in the aquarium’s exhibits.
Is the Shedd Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Is the Shedd Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Shedd Aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all exhibits and facilities.