Shedd Aquarium’s long-awaited Wonder of Water exhibit opened to visitors Tuesday, ushering in a new era for Chicago’s largest aquarium.
A multi-habitat experience
The exhibit replaces the Shedd’s Caribbean Reef installation in the museum’s rotunda, and features a dual-habitat walk through experience.
Both habitats feature a unique underwater ecosystem, one freshwater and one saltwater, showcasing distinct forms of aquatic biodiversity.
The freshwater half of the exhibit alone includes more than 5,000 fish and 50 kinds of aquatic plants. Meanwhile, the marine exhibit hosts 1,500 sea dwelling fish as well as live corals.
Ever-evolving ecosystems
Wonder of Water is more than an exhibit– it’s a self-sustaining ecosystem within Shedd’s walls.
The exhibit’s plants and living organisms will grow and evolve over time, providing a unique, ever-changing experience that visitors will bear witness to in real time.
Situated side by side, guests can compare the two habitats, observing differences and similarities between each ecosystem.
The exhibit’s expansive, 360 degree windows bring visitors up close and personal to the thriving aquatic life within. Visitors can explore a plethora of angles and vantage points, discovering hidden surprises throughout the exhibit.
“The message of this exhibit is a simple one: water is what makes the dazzling biodiversity on Earth possible. Water is a precious and finite resource,” said Sarah Hezel, vice president of design and exhibits at Shedd Aquarium.
“This space transports our guests out of their lives for a moment to connect with life underwater, to spark our visitors’ curiosity and sense of wonder.”
Shedd’s Centennial Commitment
Wonder of Water is just one facet of Shedd’s Centennial Commitment, an ongoing $500 million overhaul ahead of the aquarium’s 100th anniversary in 2030.
The ambitious plan will outfit the museum with modernized exhibits and galleries, improved accessibility features, new educational programs, advanced animal care, and new research initiatives.
Wonder of Water is open to visitors with general admission tickets. Click here to reserve yours and learn more information.