There’s no better cold weather activity than learning something new at a Chicago cultural institutions—and this winter you can do just that for free at the Shedd!
Chicago’s largest aquarium is offering free admission to Illinois residents on select dates this month. Here’s all the deets.
Shedd Aquarium free days in February

Illinois residents can take advantage of free admission at the Shedd on several weekdays now through the end of the month.
Just be sure to bring your ID with you!
Here are all the Shedd Aquarium February free days:
- 10-12
- 17-19
- 24-26
Free nights in 2026

Free admission opportunities at the Shedd aren’t limited to February—the aquarium is also offering free nights on multiple dates throughout 2026!
The Shedd will provide free late night admission to Illinois residents on the following dates this year:
- March – 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- April – 7, 14, 21, 28
- May – 5, 12, 19, 26
- June – 2, 9, 16, 23, 30