Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular aquariums in the United States, attracting over 2 million visitors each year. As a premier destination for marine life enthusiasts, the Shedd Aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals, including dolphins, beluga whales, penguins, and a vast array of fish species. With its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline, the Shedd Aquarium is an ideal location for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. However, with ticket prices ranging from $20 to over $40 per person, a visit to the Shedd Aquarium can be a costly endeavor. Fortunately, there are several ways to unlock exclusive savings and enjoy discounted admission to this world-class attraction.
Key Points
- Shedd Aquarium offers various discount coupons and promotions throughout the year, including $10 off total experience tickets and $5 off basic admission tickets.
- Visitors can take advantage of free admission on select days, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the first Sunday of every month for Illinois residents.
- Shedd Aquarium membership programs provide unlimited admission for a year, as well as access to exclusive events and experiences.
- Combining a visit to the Shedd Aquarium with other Chicago attractions, such as the Field Museum or Navy Pier, can result in significant cost savings.
- Using cashback apps and rewards credit cards can provide additional discounts and perks, such as 5% cashback on ticket purchases.
Discount Coupons and Promotions
The Shedd Aquarium regularly offers discount coupons and promotions that can help reduce the cost of admission. For example, visitors can save 10 on total experience tickets, which include access to all exhibits, shows, and animal encounters, or 5 on basic admission tickets, which include access to the aquarium’s permanent exhibits. These coupons can be found on the Shedd Aquarium’s website, as well as on various coupon websites and social media platforms. Additionally, the Shedd Aquarium often partners with local businesses and organizations to offer exclusive discounts and promotions, such as discounted tickets for students, seniors, and military personnel.
Free Admission Days
The Shedd Aquarium also offers free admission on select days throughout the year. For example, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the aquarium offers free admission to all visitors, while on the first Sunday of every month, Illinois residents can enjoy free admission. These free admission days are a great way for visitors to experience the Shedd Aquarium without incurring any costs. However, it’s worth noting that these days can be quite popular, so visitors should be prepared for larger crowds and longer wait times.
| Free Admission Day | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| All visitors | |
| First Sunday of every month | Illinois residents |
Membership Programs
For visitors who plan to visit the Shedd Aquarium multiple times throughout the year, a membership program may be the best option. The Shedd Aquarium offers several membership programs, including individual, dual, and family memberships, which provide unlimited admission for a year, as well as access to exclusive events and experiences. Members also receive discounts on parking, food, and merchandise, as well as priority entry to the aquarium. With prices starting at just $60 per year, a membership program can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the Shedd Aquarium, especially for frequent visitors.
Combining Attractions
Another way to save money on a visit to the Shedd Aquarium is to combine it with other Chicago attractions. For example, visitors can purchase a Chicago CityPASS, which includes admission to the Shedd Aquarium, as well as other top attractions, such as the Field Museum, Navy Pier, and the Willis Tower. This can result in significant cost savings, as well as a more streamlined and convenient way to experience the city’s top attractions. Additionally, visitors can also consider purchasing a Chicago Explorer Pass, which allows them to choose from a list of over 25 attractions and experiences, including the Shedd Aquarium.
| Attraction Combination | Cost Savings |
|---|---|
| Chicago CityPASS | Up to 50% off individual ticket prices |
| Chicago Explorer Pass | Up to 40% off individual ticket prices |
What is the best way to get discounted tickets to the Shedd Aquarium?
+The best way to get discounted tickets to the Shedd Aquarium is to check the aquarium's website for available coupons and promotions, or to consider purchasing a membership program or combining your visit with other Chicago attractions.
Are there any free admission days at the Shedd Aquarium?
+Yes, the Shedd Aquarium offers free admission on select days, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the first Sunday of every month for Illinois residents.
Can I save money by purchasing a membership program?
+Yes, purchasing a membership program can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the Shedd Aquarium, especially for frequent visitors. Members receive unlimited admission for a year, as well as access to exclusive events and experiences.
In conclusion, visiting the Shedd Aquarium can be a fun and educational experience, but it can also be expensive. However, by taking advantage of discount coupons, free admission days, membership programs, and attraction combinations, visitors can unlock exclusive savings and enjoy a more affordable and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast, a family with kids, or just looking for a unique and exciting attraction to visit in Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium is definitely worth considering. With its stunning architecture, breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline, and incredible array of marine life, the Shedd Aquarium is an attraction that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.