It is no secret that Chicago has a remarkable range of world-class museums and attractions, but visiting them all can become costly. Luckily for us, some, like Lincoln Park Zoo and Garfield Park Conservatory, are free year-round, while others, like the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago, love to announce random Illinois Resident Free Days throughout the year.
At Chicago’s other mammoth attraction, the Shedd Aquarium, free days are not quite as much of a regular occurrence, and when they do come around, it is rarely on a weekend or outside of working hours.
The Shed Aquarium will offer many free days throughout January and February before kicking off spring with weekly free evenings through to summer.
According to the Shedd Aquarium website, “for those who prefer to plan ahead, online ticket reservations are available with a $5 convenience fee per order. Alternatively, you can reserve tickets by phone at no extra cost by calling 312-939-2438 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Central Time (CT). We also provide free walk-up reservations; however, these are subject to availability and typically sell out quickly. Advance reservations are highly recommended due to the high demand for tickets.”
All adults must provide proof of residency in person when redeeming tickets at the discounted rate. This can be a valid state ID or driver’s license with proof of Illinois residence.
Here is a breakdown of all upcoming dates offering free admission at the Shedd Aquarium:
2025 Shedd Aquarium Free Days:
- January: 7–9, 14–21, 28–30
- February: 4–6, 11–13, 18–20, 25–27
- March: 4, 11, 18, 25
- April: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- May: 6, 13, 20, 27
More information can be found at www.sheddaquarium.org.