Shedd Aquarium is a beautiful and exciting place to visit in Chicago, Illinois. The Aquarium was built in 1930, it is the oldest in the world. It is also one of the largest Aquariums you will ever see with over 32 000 animals and over 15 000 aquatic species. The Aquarium welcomes everyone and it is accessible to people with disabilities including people with mobility restrictions. In this article, we are going to see Does Shedd Aquarium Have Wheelchairs?
Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the U.S and it is accessible to all types of people including those who are handicapped. The Aquarium is not only wheelchair accessible it also provides wheelchairs to those who need them, free of charge. The wheelchairs are available to guests with mobility restrictions and those who come first will be served first.
Wheelchair Availability
Shedd Aquarium offers its guests wheelchairs and rollator walkers to use for the day free of charge on a first-come/first-serve basis. If you need a wheelchair, you can ask for one at the information desk in the Aquarium. A photo ID is needed for you to be given a wheelchair. The wheelchairs are sanitized between each use for your safety.
Is The Aquarium Accessible To People Who Use Wheelchairs?
The Aquarium is accessible to people who use wheelchairs. There is a wheelchair accessible entrance, which is located south of the main entrance. A map of the aquarium that shows wheelchair accessible pathways is also provided. Where there are stairs, you can use ramps and elevators. All the restrooms are also wheelchair accessible.
The aquarium also has accessible seating areas for wheelchairs at the Abbott Oceanarium Amphitheater where aquatic presentations are held. Companion seating is also available if you are there with a friend or family member. When you need assistance, you can ask a Shedd staff member at the presentation.
There are a couple of attractions to see that are wheelchair friendly including penguin encounters, behind-the-scenes and shark feeding tours.
How Much Time Does It Take Go Through Shedd Aquarium?
The amount of time you will spend going through the Shedd Aquarium depends on how much time you spend at each exhibition. It typically takes around 2-3 hours to pass through the whole Aquarium.
Can I go without a Mask at the Shedd Aquarium?
The requirement for guests to wear a mask at the Shedd Aquarium is being lifted. You do not have to wear a mask at the Aquarium, the wearing of masks is optional.
Is the Shedd Aquarium the biggest aquarium in the US?
The Shedd Aquarium is big but it is not the largest Aquarium in the U.S currently. Georgia Aquarium which is in Atlanta, Georgia is the biggest aquarium in the U.S and the world. Georgia Aquarium has over 100 000 aquatic species.
Conclusion
Shedd Aquarium is a wonderful place to visit in Chicago, Illinois. There is so much to see and enjoy at the Aquarium. Shedd Aquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in the U.S. There are thousands of sea animals to observe and there are exciting tours to experience too. The Aquarium is accessible to everyone including people with disabilities. Shedd Aquarium is wheelchair friendly and offers wheelchairs for those with mobility restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Outside Food Allowed at The Shedd Aquarium?
You may bring your food to the Shedd Aquarium but you can only consume the food at the designated eating areas. The Marine Munchroom is a nice place to have a packed lunch. There are seating areas with tables and chairs. Although the Aquarium has other dining options for your convenience such as the Bubble Net Food Court, Soundings Café, Farmer’s Fridge and Deep Ocean Café. There is also the Popcorn Kiosk for a light snack.
- Is There Free Entrance At The Shedd Aquarium?
If you are an Illinois resident you get free entrance to the Shedd Aquarium throughout the year on selected days. Free days are announced on the Shedd aquarium website. You will have to book the tickets online before your visit. You cannot get a free ticket upon arrival at the Aquarium. You will need to provide a valid ID or driver’s license as proof that you are a resident of Illinois. There is also a $3 transaction fee that you have to pay per order for a Free day Ticket reservation.
- What Is The Best Day To Visit The Shedd Aquarium?
The best days to visit the Shed Aquarium are on weekdays, particularly from Wednesday through to Friday. It is better to visit on these days early in the morning when they open at 9 am to avoid long lines. If you want to avoid crowds, try to avoid coming on Free Days because it can get very full on those days. If you do choose to go to the Aquarium on a Free Day try to go there as early as possible.