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Step into Shedd Aquarium, and it’s like diving into a living dream—thousands of fish swirl behind glass walls, sharks glide past with quiet grace, and the blue glow makes every breath feel softer. This isn’t just an exhibit; it’s a sensory journey where time slows down, perfect for stealing quiet moments with someone special, whispering promises only hearts can hear.
Everything you need to know about Shedd Aquarium
Marriott Waterfront Chicago is a top choice, just a 10-minute walk from Shedd Aquarium, featuring lake-view rooms with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The hotel offers free shuttle service to downtown and museum districts, plus a dedicated children’s activity center perfect for families. Its on-site lakeside outdoor restaurant serves fresh seafood, capturing authentic Chicago flavors.
Another excellent option is Conrad Chicago, located atop a high-rise with an elevated sky bar offering sweeping vistas of the lake and aquarium night lights. The hotel provides personalized travel planning services to help guests optimize their visit to Shedd Aquarium, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
The most convenient option is taking the CTA bus line 53 or 60 from downtown Chicago, which reaches Shedd Aquarium Station in about 20 minutes with frequent departures. For a scenic route, use the Divvy bike-sharing system and ride along Michigan Avenue to the museum district—approximately 15 minutes through beautiful lakeside paths. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft takes around 12 minutes and costs $20–$25, ideal for travelers with luggage or visiting at night. All options provide direct access to the aquarium entrance without transfers, maximizing convenience.
The Museum Campus Park surrounding Shedd Aquarium features engaging family experiences such as the touch pools, where children can interact with small sharks and sea stars in a safe, educational environment. Nearby, the Chicago Museum of Natural History hosts the Kids Science Discovery Center, offering interactive exhibits themed around marine life—including simulated deep-sea explorations and coral reef games—perfect for young learners. Weekly Family Discovery Days include guided tours led by expert docents, exploring both Shedd Aquarium and adjacent museums with a focus on ocean conservation. Outdoor splash pads and sand play areas also provide fun, relaxing spaces for kids to unwind.
Try The Capital Grille, located in the Chicago Millennium Building, renowned for its premium steaks and seafood. Its lakeside terrace offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the illuminated Shedd Aquarium at night, making it ideal for special occasions. Another top pick is Bistro 104, a cozy French bistro tucked within the museum district, specializing in daily fresh catches. Their signature dish, pan-seared cod with lemon cream sauce, is highly acclaimed. With quiet ambiance, attentive service, and a five-minute walk from the aquarium, it’s a perfect post-visit dining destination. Many dishes are paired with local craft beers, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
See what other travelers say about Shedd Aquarium
Located in a fantastic spot right in downtown Chicago, this hotel makes exploring the city a breeze—just a short walk or quick transit ride to major attractions. The room was well-equipped with a fridge, microwave, and all the essentials: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and a reliable hairdryer. I especially appreciated the showerhead being securely mounted on the wall—no wobbling or loose fittings, which made for a comfortable, stress-free shower. Everything was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed. The value for money is outstanding, and the staff were friendly and helpful. If you're looking for a convenient, no-frills stay in the heart of Chicago, this place is a must-try. Highly recommended!
Staying at the Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago was a great experience overall. The location is excellent—just steps away from public transit, making it super easy to get around downtown Chicago. Whether you're heading to museums, shopping districts, or live shows, everything is within reach. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, making check-in smooth and welcoming. One of the best perks? There's a Subway right across the street—perfect for quick breakfasts, snacks, or late-night meals without having to go far. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you’d need. It’s not fancy, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a reliable, no-frills stay in a prime spot. For travelers looking for convenience, value, and a solid base in the city, this hotel is definitely worth considering.
I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.
The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the Chicago River and surrounded by great dining, shopping, and attractions. From the moment I checked in, the staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast options—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed to enhance the stay. This hotel truly delivers on every level, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.
This is our second time staying at Eurostars Magnificent Mile, and we’re already planning our next visit! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Chicago, with endless shops, restaurants, tourist spots, supermarkets, and bars just steps away. We absolutely love the on-site sauna—it’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The room is spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel like a home away from home. The staff go above and beyond with their friendly, genuine hospitality. This hotel feels like a hidden gem, and it’s now our go-to choice whenever we come to Chicago. Don’t miss the downstairs restaurant, River North Bistro—especially during happy hour! The food and drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is lively yet relaxed. Highly recommend this place for both business and leisure travelers.
Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.
Staying at Hotel Felix in Chicago's North Loop was a great experience. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient to explore downtown and the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, so dining options are never an issue. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay. The only downside was a plumbing issue on our last day, which meant we had to take a cold shower—minor inconvenience, but nothing major. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value, clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
Staying at The Buckingham Hotel in Chicago was an absolute delight from start to finish. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and incredibly helpful right from the moment we arrived. I booked a room with an amazing view, and it did not disappoint—the skyline stretched out before me, especially breathtaking at night when the city lights came on. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the cozy furnishings to the quiet, well-maintained hallways. What really stood out was how accommodating the team was—they anticipated needs without being intrusive and made sure every request was handled with a smile. If I could rate this hotel 10 stars instead of 5, I absolutely would. This isn’t just a great place to stay—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll be back, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Chicago.
The Langham Chicago is perfectly located—right across from Trump Tower, with Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, riverboat docks, and a wide array of restaurants all within easy walking distance. The front desk staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. We booked two rooms—one had weak heating, making it slightly chilly; the other had a leaking toilet and water pooling in the shower area upon arrival. However, these were minor issues compared to the overall experience. The hotel’s elegant ambiance, high-quality furnishings, and attention to detail truly stand out. Despite the small setbacks, the location, service, and general luxury make this a top choice for future stays.
The location is fantastic—just half a block from Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. There’s a Walgreens and several restaurants right next door, which adds convenience for daily needs. The apartment itself is spacious with two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and great views across the street to the Cultural Center, which is definitely worth a visit. However, there were some serious issues during our stay. Water damage was visible in the unit, with flakes of ceiling paint falling onto the bed—very concerning. While the kitchen had appliances, it came completely empty; no kettle, microwave, or even basic cookware, so we couldn’t even heat water or reheat leftovers. Housekeeping also didn’t provide washcloths, and the floors were so dirty that my socks and feet turned black after walking around. Internet and cell reception were terrible—we had to contact customer service for login details, but it took hours to get a reply, and even then, the connection kept dropping in and out. Overall, the property has strong potential due to its prime location and size, but the lack of basic amenities and maintenance problems significantly impact the experience. I’d recommend this place only if you’re okay with dealing with these shortcomings.
We had an absolutely wonderful stay at this hotel with our entire family—five siblings and our kids celebrating a special anniversary. The suites were perfect for us: spacious, well-designed, and ideal for families. The mezzanine level was large, clean, and safe—our children could move around freely without any worries. Breakfast was outstanding—fresh, delicious, and offered something for everyone. We all enjoyed a relaxed meal together, which made the celebration even more memorable. The staff went above and beyond with their kindness and hospitality. They truly stood out as some of the friendliest we’ve encountered in any hotel. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt genuine and welcoming. This place is not just comfortable—it’s a true home away from home. We’ll definitely be returning.
This was hands down one of the best hostel experiences I’ve ever had—especially as a solo female traveler. From the moment I arrived, I felt completely safe and welcomed. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the hostel regularly hosts fun events like walking tours, which I joined and found incredibly informative and social. I ended up making great connections with fellow travelers from around the world. The common areas are spacious, clean, and well-equipped, perfect for relaxing or meeting people. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Chicago, just steps away from public transit and major attractions. If I ever return to the city, this will be my first choice. A truly memorable stay at an amazing value.
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