Shedd Aquarium announces free admission days for Illinois residents

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Shedd Aquarium is rolling out free admission days for people who live in Illinois throughout this month and February.

It's a chance to explore coral reefs, penguins, sharks and hands-on exhibits without paying admission.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Reservations are recommended.

Shedd assistant managers Ariel Alonso and Rachael Strube joined ABC7 with a special guest on Saturday!

Adults can also celebrate Valentine's Day at the Shedd, with the first ever Heartbeat House Party.

IL Resident Free Days
- January 6-8, 13-20, 27-29
-February 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26

Closed
-January 21-22, 2026

2026 IL Resident Free Evenings (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
- March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
-April 7, 14, 21, 28
-May 5, 12, 19, 26
-June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30