Everyone's favorite Chicago aquatic escape, the Shedd Aquarium, is announcing new Illinois resident free days this year, giving guests an opportunity to ditch the cold and dive into unique environments from coral reefs to freshwater rivers, all without breaking out your wallet.
According to the aquarium’s press release, admission includes daily Animal Spotlights that highlight the amazing adaptations of marine mammals, touch experiences with sturgeon and starfish, live programs with the chance to see an animal feeding, and chats about sharks, penguins and more. Every visit to the aquarium is unique, with evolving habitats like Wonder of Water and plenty of opportunities to dive deeper and ask questions about aquatic life.
The free days for the Shedd in February will be each week between Tuesday and Thursday. In addition, the aquarium will continue to offer the popular Illinois resident free hours on Tuesday evenings through the rest of the year. A full list of upcoming free days and evening hours is listed below.
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Advance reservations for free days and free evenings are highly recommended due to high demand. Guests can secure tickets ahead of a visit using the Shedd’s website. Please note that there is a $5 convenience fee per order for free day/evening reservations made online; however, you can reserve tickets by phone at no extra cost by calling 312-939-2438.
All adults must provide proof of residency in person when redeeming tickets at a discounted rate.
2026 IL Resident Free Days
February: 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26
2026 IL Resident Free Evenings (5-9 p.m.)
March: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
April: 7, 14, 21, 28
May: 5, 12, 19, 26
June: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
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