The Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest and most popular aquariums in the world, located in Chicago, Illinois. It is home to over 32,000 animals from around the world, including fish, mammals, birds, and reptiles. With its stunning architecture and diverse exhibits, the Shedd Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families, tourists, and animal lovers alike. However, one of the most common concerns for visitors is the cost of parking. In this blog post, we will explore the topic of Shedd Aquarium parking costs, including the different options available, the fees associated with each option, and some tips for saving money on parking.
Understanding Shedd Aquarium Parking Options
The Shedd Aquarium offers several parking options for visitors, each with its own unique features and fees. The most convenient option is the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, which is located directly adjacent to the aquarium. This garage offers a range of parking options, including general parking, premium parking, and valet parking.
General Parking
General parking is the most affordable option at the Shedd Aquarium, with a fee of $20 per vehicle. This parking option is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can pay with cash or credit card. General parking is located in the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, which is a short walk from the aquarium entrance.
Premium Parking
Premium parking is a more convenient option than general parking, with a fee of $30 per vehicle. This parking option is also located in the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, but it is closer to the aquarium entrance and offers a more direct route to the building. Premium parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can pay with cash or credit card.
Valet Parking
Valet parking is the most convenient option at the Shedd Aquarium, with a fee of $40 per vehicle. This parking option is available for visitors who want to have their car parked and retrieved for them. Valet parking is located in the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, and visitors can pay with cash or credit card.
Other Parking Options
In addition to the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, there are several other parking options available for visitors. These include street parking, parking lots, and parking garages located nearby. The fees for these options vary depending on the location and availability, but they can be a more affordable option for visitors who are willing to walk a short distance to the aquarium.
Street Parking
Street parking is a free option for visitors, but it is limited and often fills up quickly. Street parking is available on nearby streets, and visitors can park for up to 2 hours without incurring a fee. However, be aware that street parking is subject to time limits and may be restricted during special events or construction. (See Also: How to Make Aquarium Water More Acidic? A Guide)
Parking Lots
Parking lots are a convenient option for visitors who want to park their car and walk to the Shedd Aquarium. There are several parking lots located nearby, with fees ranging from $10 to $20 per vehicle. These parking lots offer a range of parking options, including general parking, premium parking, and valet parking.
Parking Garages
Parking garages are another option for visitors who want to park their car and walk to the Shedd Aquarium. There are several parking garages located nearby, with fees ranging from $10 to $20 per vehicle. These parking garages offer a range of parking options, including general parking, premium parking, and valet parking.
Tips for Saving Money on Parking
While parking at the Shedd Aquarium can be expensive, there are several tips for saving money on parking. These include:
- Arriving early to secure a parking spot
- Using the Shedd Aquarium parking garage, which offers a range of parking options
- Considering alternative parking options, such as street parking or parking lots
- Using a parking app to find the cheapest parking option
- Sharing a parking spot with friends or family
Special Events and Parking
The Shedd Aquarium hosts several special events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday events. These events can attract large crowds and may impact parking availability. Visitors should be aware of the following:
- Special events may require advance parking reservations
- Parking fees may be higher during special events
- Some parking options may be restricted during special events
- Visitors should plan ahead and arrive early to secure a parking spot
Accessibility and Parking
The Shedd Aquarium is committed to providing accessible parking options for visitors with disabilities. Visitors with disabilities can park in designated accessible parking spaces, which are located in the Shedd Aquarium parking garage. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can pay with cash or credit card. (See Also: Quel Poisson Pour Petit Aquarium? Top Choices)
Accessible Parking Spaces
There are several accessible parking spaces available in the Shedd Aquarium parking garage. These spaces are designated by signs and are located near the elevator. Visitors with disabilities can park in these spaces and access the aquarium via the elevator.
Accessible Parking Fees
The fees for accessible parking spaces are the same as the fees for general parking. However, visitors with disabilities may be eligible for a discounted parking rate or a free parking pass, depending on their disability status.
Recap and Summary
The Shedd Aquarium offers several parking options for visitors, including general parking, premium parking, and valet parking. The fees for these options vary depending on the location and availability, but they can be a convenient option for visitors who want to park their car and walk to the aquarium. Visitors should be aware of the following:
- General parking is the most affordable option, with a fee of $20 per vehicle
- Premium parking is a more convenient option, with a fee of $30 per vehicle
- Valet parking is the most convenient option, with a fee of $40 per vehicle
- Street parking is a free option, but it is limited and often fills up quickly
- Parking lots and parking garages offer a range of parking options, including general parking, premium parking, and valet parking
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Much Is Shedd Aquarium Parking?
Q: What is the cost of parking at the Shedd Aquarium?
A: The cost of parking at the Shedd Aquarium varies depending on the option chosen. General parking costs $20 per vehicle, premium parking costs $30 per vehicle, and valet parking costs $40 per vehicle.
Q: Is there free parking available at the Shedd Aquarium?
A: Yes, there is free parking available at the Shedd Aquarium, but it is limited and often fills up quickly. Street parking is available on nearby streets, but it is subject to time limits and may be restricted during special events or construction.
Q: Can I reserve a parking spot in advance?
A: Yes, you can reserve a parking spot in advance by calling the Shedd Aquarium parking garage or by using a parking app. However, availability is limited, and reservations are not guaranteed. (See Also: Where Is the Aquarium in Mandalay Bay? Unveiled)
Q: Are there accessible parking spaces available at the Shedd Aquarium?
A: Yes, there are several accessible parking spaces available at the Shedd Aquarium. These spaces are designated by signs and are located near the elevator. Visitors with disabilities can park in these spaces and access the aquarium via the elevator.
Q: Can I use a parking app to find the cheapest parking option?
A: Yes, you can use a parking app to find the cheapest parking option. These apps can help you navigate the parking options available and find the best deal for your needs.