🐠🐢 Shedd Aquarium | Walking Tour of Chicago in a Day

Audio Guide Chicago | Walking Tour of Chicago in a Day

Shedd Aquarium 🐠🐢

Hey there, Chicago adventurer! Planning a day at Shedd Aquarium? You're in for an amazing underwater experience. Here are all the best tips, from how to get there to where to grab a bite nearby, so you can make the most of your visit! Let’s dive in! 🌊🐟

1. Google Maps Link 🗺️
Navigate your way to Shedd with this link: Shedd Aquarium

2. Nearest Subway Station 🚇
The closest "L" stop is Roosevelt Station (Red, Orange, and Green lines). It's about a 15-minute walk from there to the Shedd, or you can hop on the #146 bus for a quick ride.

3. Great Places to Eat, Drink & Grab Coffee Nearby 🍽️☕
Here are my favorite spots around Shedd Aquarium to grab a bite, drink, or coffee:

• Soundings Café (inside Shedd) 🥪🥤: Shedd’s own café has a lovely selection of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, and the views of Lake Michigan from the seating area are amazing.
• Cafecito ☕🥪: A quick stop near Roosevelt for coffee and tasty Cuban sandwiches—perfect for fueling up before or after your aquarium visit.
• Burger Bar Chicago - South Loop 🍔🍟: Craving a burger? This spot is known for its mouth-watering gourmet burgers, just a short distance away.
• Eleven City Diner 🥞🍳: Classic diner fare with a modern twist—great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• The Field Bistro 🥗: Another option in the nearby Field Museum, serving sandwiches, salads, and snacks.

4. Best Photo Spots 📸
You won’t want to leave Shedd without snapping some unforgettable pics! Here are the top spots:

• The Aquatic Show Viewing Deck 🐬: After enjoying the aquatic show, head to the deck for amazing views of the lake, skyline, and—you guessed it—the dolphins!
• Chicago Skyline View 🌇: Right outside the aquarium, you’ll have some of the best panoramic views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. It’s Instagram gold.
• Inside the Caribbean Reef Exhibit 🐡: With its colorful coral and tropical fish, this exhibit makes for a perfect underwater-themed selfie.

5. Opening Times ⏰
Shedd Aquarium typically operates on:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

(Tip: Check their official website for any changes in hours or special holiday schedules.)

6. Insider Tips 🤫

• Best Time to Visit 🕙: Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are less crowded. If you can, try to visit during these times to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Aquatic Show Seating 🎟️: If you want the best view of the aquatic shows (think dolphins and sea lions), arrive a bit early to grab good seats—it’s a popular attraction!
• Pack Layers 🧥: Chicago’s lakefront can get windy and chilly, even in the summer. Be sure to pack a light jacket for your strolls outside.

7. Hidden Gem 💎
The Wild Reef Exhibit 🦈: Tucked away, this exhibit often gets less traffic, but it’s one of the coolest spots in the aquarium. Explore coral reefs, see sharks up close, and enjoy a quieter vibe than the main areas.

8. Public Bathrooms Nearby 🚻

• Of course, there are restrooms throughout Shedd, and they are clean and accessible.
• If you’re hanging around the nearby Museum Campus or taking a lakeside walk, you’ll also find restrooms in Field Museum and Northerly Island Park.