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What to See at the Shedd Aquarium Chicago‎ in a Day

What to See at the Shedd Aquarium Chicago‎ in a Day

Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is filled with hundreds of tanks, thousands of sea creatures and a few really incredible exhibits and displays for all ages. No matter how many times you visit, or how long those visits last, there is always something new to see, new creatures to learn from and programming to keep everyone in the family entertained. The best way to enjoy the Shedd is to visit their website and look over what they offer before finding out what everyone is interested in.

If you only have only one day to make a visit to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, use this guide to make sure you are able to see the best it has to offer.

There are eight main exhibits in the Shedd Aquarium, with all but the Polar Play Zone being suited for visitors of every age. 

The Caribbean Reef

No matter how many new exhibits the Shedd Aquarium adds, the Caribbean Reef in the center of the hall is always the favorite. A huge round tank, the reef is an underwater viewing tank filled with 90,000 gallons of water. Twice a day a diver heads into the tank to feed the fish, interact with guests and explain more about the Shedd’s programs. Of particular interest is the Shedd’s rehab program for sea life and other animals, so be sure to point out Nickel, the sea turtle as he goes by.

Wild Reef

From the Caribbean Reef, head over to Wild Reef, one of the newer exhibits in the Shedd. Wild Reef lets guests get up close and personal with the sharks, fish and corals that you would see if you were underwater. After walking through a series of smaller tanks, you’ll get an overhead experience at the largest tank, where most people just stand in awe and watch as everything swims by. A bonus tank lets you walk over and watch over a handful of stingrays. 

The Abbott Oceanarium

To learn about and enjoy the mammals found in the deep ocean, head over to the Abbott Oceanarium, where you can catch dolphin and beluga shows, watch otters play and learn about penguins. The Oceanarium has two levels of viewing. Before and after shows, have fun watching the belugas interact with trainers and guests around their tanks– there is always at least one juvenile in the tank with adults. Head to the underground level to watch dolphins swim at their leisure in the main tank. Its here that children can take a break in the Polar Play Zone and get some of that pent up energy out. 

Jellies Exhibit

Finally, to wrap up the day, head over to the Jellies exhibit, where you can see an incredibly colorful exhibit of jellyfish from around the world. The exhibit is small, but packs a lot of life into one space. Children will be especially amazed by these delicate creatures, and since they are not a sight you see everyday, people of all ages walk away appreciative of the view they have had the opportunity to see.