What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: Shedd hosts huge species range, free trainer chats, app tours and optional after-hours events, so a lone visitor stays engaged all day, but heavy weekend crowds can slow movement.
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore key galleries, attend animal talks, and enjoy one paid experience at a relaxed pace.
Caribbean Reef Gallery:
Walk through the acrylic tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
Tip: Visit right at opening to enjoy quieter 360° views through the tunnel.
Sea Star & Sturgeon Touch:
Feel sea stars and sturgeon glide by your hands in open-touch pools.
Tip: Arrive early to beat the queue at this popular interactive station.
Daily Animal Chats:
Attend free 10-minute talks led by trainers in galleries like Amazon Rising and Polar Play Zone.
Tip: Check times in the Shedd Go! App and arrive 5 minutes before start.
Must See Tour:
Join a 75-minute small-group, behind-the-scenes guided tour.
Tip: Book online in advance to meet other solo travelers and secure your spot.
Virtual Reality Pods:
Experience 5-minute immersive dives like Shark Dive and Swimming with Humpbacks.
Tip: Head here midday when café lines are shorter.

MH Benbouteldja
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
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
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.
*****
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.
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 ...
Kayak for Conservation tours run spring through early fall; book online weeks ahead. Summer weekends draw long lines at touch pools—visit first thing in the morning.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General Admission | USD 39.95 |
| Virtual Reality ride | USD 9 |
| 4-D Experience | USD 4.95 |
| Total Estimated | USD 53.9 |
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
Address: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
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