Shedd Aquarium is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
Allow 2.5–3.5 hours.
Shedd is a top-tier aquarium with a stunning lake-facing oceanarium and big-animal exhibits that genuinely delight younger kids. The honest catch is that it's one of the priciest museum tickets in the city and gets jammed — timed tickets and a weekday morning are close to mandatory in summer.