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United States/Things to Do in Chicago, with baby

Shedd Aquarium (with baby)

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How Baby-Friendly is Shedd Aquarium?

79%Baby-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 79% Baby-Friendly: Babies enter free, strollers fit everywhere and nursing, quiet and family rooms aid caregivers, but elevator waits and age limits on encounters leave few interactive moments for infants.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 31,812 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free for babies: Children under age 3 get free general admission and lap seating in 4-D shows
  • Baby-friendly facilities: Stroller access on all levels, family restrooms, changing tables, and a nursing room available

Challenges:

  • Age-restricted programs: Most paid encounters and feeding tours require ages 4+, so baby can’t join
  • Elevator wait times: High traffic periods can mean long waits between floors—allow extra time
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🏖️ Explore Shedd Aquarium with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Shedd Aquarium. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Shedd Aquarium?

  • An indoor public aquarium on Chicago’s Museum Campus that houses tens of thousands of aquatic animals in freshwater and marine habitats
  • A neoclassical limestone landmark opened in 1930 and expanded with modern galleries blending historic architecture with contemporary design
  • A research and conservation institution home to specialized exhibits such as the Abbott Oceanarium, Caribbean Reef, Wild Reef and Polar Play Zone

What is so special about Shedd Aquarium for with baby?

  1. Free admission and lap seating for under-3s
  2. Stroller-accessible routes with ramps and elevators
  3. Family restrooms, changing tables, nursing and quiet rooms
  4. Hands-on touch pools and large viewing windows
  5. Indoor exhibits keep baby comfortable year-round

Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours

Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time to see main galleries, take breaks, and move at a baby’s pace

(View Shedd Aquarium on Map)

Baby-Friendly Activities in Shedd Aquarium

Caribbean Reef Gallery:

Watch schools of colorful fish and rays glide in a 90,000-gallon tank

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and hold baby close at the low viewing windows

Polar Play Zone:

See sea lions and playful otters from large viewing walls

Tip: Use the nearby quiet seating area if baby needs a break from bright lights

Sea Star & Sturgeon Touch Pools:

Feel gentle sea stars and sturgeon under supervision

Tip: Wipe hands at the nearby wash station before and after touching

Abbott Oceanarium Underwater Viewing:

View belugas and whales through floor-to-ceiling windows

Tip: Use a carrier or lift baby for best sightlines; this area is quieter

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shedd Aquarium

  1. Check out sensory gear: Borrow noise-reducing headphones or sensory bags at the Info Desk for a calm visit
  2. Use the Shedd Go! app: Download maps and feeding schedules to plan shorter walks with baby
  3. Bring your own stroller: No on-site rentals available; ramps and elevators connect every level
🏖️ Tour Shedd Aquarium like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Shedd Aquarium. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Shedd Aquarium

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MH Benbouteldja

MH Benbouteldja

Jan 2026

Hello, I would like to sincerely thank you for this wonderful initiative. I had the opportunity to visit Shedd Aquarium with my children for free, and it was a great experience for our entire family. This was our first visit, and we truly enjoyed the exhibits, the organization, and the welcoming atmosphere. My children were very happy and excited. I sincerely hope this will not be our last visit. ...

Kevin Holevoet

Kevin Holevoet

Jan 2026

Purchasing tickets in advance was the key to getting in quickly. Also didn’t hurt that it was 2 degrees outside but I also believe many others thought it would be a great idea to go to the aquarium on such a cold day. The aquarium was much fun and loved the penguins, beluga whales, dolphins. Learned a lot about coral and enjoyed the different displays about jelly fish.

Cristian Martinez

Cristian Martinez

Jan 2026

This place is absolutely amazing. We got so lucky with the show and tickets. You definitely need to reserve this prior to coming, get the city pass. It was an incredible experience and I hope to come back soon. The gift shop is amazing as well bring a backpack or something to store things. They have a coffee shop inside. Staff is so nice and helpful. Loved this place completely.

*****

*****

Jan 2026

From the moment I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the beauty, care, and wonder that fill every corner of the space. The exhibits are breathtakin & each one portrayed a vivid window into the marvels of aquatic life. Tanks are pristine, with the lighting perfectly balanced to enhance the colors and movement of the animals, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws one in and holds att...

Sarah W.

Sarah W.

Jan 2026

The Shedd Aquarium is one of those check off the Chicago bucket list places, but having gone back as an adult I appreciate that not much has changed. We were able to get same day tickets, but don’t believe that is common. Parked at the parking garage and had a 10ish minute walk to the entrance. Easy entry with online tickets. There are lockers if you want to store your coats or whatever for $5 a ...

When is the best time to visit Shedd Aquarium (Chicago, United States)?

Weekday mornings are least crowded. Summer afternoons and holiday weekends fill up fast—plan accordingly.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Chicago on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)

ItemCost (Approx.)
General admission (2 adults, baby free)USD 79.9
Cafe snacks and drinksUSD 25
Locker rentalUSD 5
Total EstimatedUSD 110

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Shedd Aquarium

Address: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Shedd Aquarium (Chicago)?

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About Shedd Aquarium

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 312-939-2438

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