From About Shedd Aquarium: Recognizing the busy nature of the end of summer and back to school season, Shedd Aquarium is making it easier than ever for guests to access nature and family fun in September. For 24 consecutive days, Shedd Aquarium will offer its Illinois Resident Free Days with all-inclusive access to the aquarium's 32,000 animals, aquatic presentation, special exhibit, Amphibians, special programs and more. Coupled with two new free Jazzin' At The Shedd evenings and special free days for seniors and military personnel, Shedd is more accessible than ever before, begging the challenge to locals to #ClearYourSheddule.

With this accessibility comes a challenge from the aquarium: #ClearYourSheddule and find some quality time to spend with friends and family at Shedd. The aquarium encourages guests to share photos of themselves enjoying the free days on social media with the hashtag, and may even share some favorites on Shedd's own profiles.



Illinois Resident Free Days

From Wednesday, Sept. 6 - 30, Illinoisans can enjoy free general admission with full access to the aquarium's permanent and special exhibits, including Waters of the World, Caribbean Reef, Amazon Rising, Wild Reef, Abbott Oceanarium, Amphibians special exhibit, the aquatic show and Stingray Touch experience. Admission can be upgraded to include 4-D Experience for $4.95 per guest. Illinois Resident Free Days are sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Ford Motor Company.



Proof of residency must be provided in-person when obtaining tickets. For the latest information about the aquarium hours and discounts, please visit Shedd's website or call 312-939-2438.



Illinois Resident Free Jazzin'

The final two Jazzin' at the Shedd events of the year (Sept. 6 and Sept. 13) will also be free for Illinois residents. Guests can enjoy live jazz, cool drinks and a relaxed visit with 32,000 animals. Take in the Chicago skyline while listening to some of the area's top jazz musicians. It's the perfect way to savor the summer! Jazzin' at the Shedd is sponsored by Chase.



Senior Days

Tuesdays and Wednesdays in September, Shedd will honor all senior guests, not just Illinois residents, with free admission from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seniors will receive complementary admission for themselves plus one accompanying adult partner. Arrive between 9 a.m. and noon, and senior guests will also receive a $10 voucher good at all Shedd food outlets (while supplies last). Individuals can obtain their passes on site only.



Blue Star Museums and Museums for All

Free days for military personnel will continue through Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 4) at Shedd. The offer provides free admission to active duty military personnel and up to five family members throughout the summer.



As a Museums for All partner, Shedd offers daily free admission to eligible low-income families (up to four passes per family). Participants can present their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to redeem this special offer, powered by ComEd. Shedd Aquarium is proud to be the first U.S. aquarium to participate in the Museums for All initiative.

The free Museums for All admission includes all permanent exhibits, Amphibians special exhibit, aquatic presentation (subject to availability) and seasonal Stingray Touch (open late May to October). 4-D Experience admission is a $4.95 upgrade for all guests.