Shedd Aquarium

[Access_Denied]

Hey guys, I'm looking for a little bit of information on the Shedd Aquarium, and I was hoping some of your fellow Chicago CAGs could help me out. I've lived in the northern suburbs my whole life, so I'm somewhat familiar with Chicago and driving around Chicago, but I could really use some tips from experience.

Essentially, I'm planning to take the girlfriend there for a Christmas gift. But I need to know a few things. I know about ticket prices and whatnot, but I have some questions.

• First, what kind of pass should I buy? Is the All Access Pass worth all of the 'extra' stuff you get to see, or should I tell the 4D experience to take a hike?
• Where's the best place to park? I parked once in Chicago and it was $40 for the day. A total ripoff. I normally take the train, but I plan on stopping there on our way back to school, so it would be nice to drive.
• When should I go? She wants to leave Friday, Saturday or Sunday. So what day should I go? Obviously kids are out of school, so how should I account for that? And what time of day? I planned on getting there at 9am for it to open, but that's open for discussion.
• And finally, what's a decent place to eat around there? I'm looking for anything fancy, just a nice non-chain restaurant to grab a good bit to eat.

I appreciate any help you guys can offer. I'm good at planning trips and making arrangements, but there's nothing like tips from a local.

 

[soulvengeance]

[quote name='Access_Denied']Hey guys, I'm looking for a little bit of information on the Shedd Aquarium, and I was hoping some of your fellow Chicago CAGs could help me out. I've lived in the northern suburbs my whole life, so I'm somewhat familiar with Chicago and driving around Chicago, but I could really use some tips from experience.

Essentially, I'm planning to take the girlfriend there for a Christmas gift. But I need to know a few things. I know about ticket prices and whatnot, but I have some questions.

• First, what kind of pass should I buy? Is the All Access Pass worth all of the 'extra' stuff you get to see, or should I tell the 4D experience to take a hike?
• Where's the best place to park? I parked once in Chicago and it was $40 for the day. A total ripoff. I normally take the train, but I plan on stopping there on our way back to school, so it would be nice to drive.
• When should I go? She wants to leave Friday, Saturday or Sunday. So what day should I go? Obviously kids are out of school, so how should I account for that? And what time of day? I planned on getting there at 9am for it to open, but that's open for discussion.
• And finally, what's a decent place to eat around there? I'm looking for anything fancy, just a nice non-chain restaurant to grab a good bit to eat.

I appreciate any help you guys can offer. I'm good at planning trips and making arrangements, but there's nothing like tips from a local. [/QUOTE]

I lived in Chicago for about two years, so I'm somewhat familiar with the area. Parking is going to cost you no matter where you go unless you want to park and take the bus, so just find a lot somewhere and park. I would recommend getting there as early as possible, but I think Friday would be the least crowded day since most parents still need to work. One of my favorite places to eat is Pizanos off of Madison, it's in the Loop area, so it shouldn't be too hard to find.

 

[Kaelestis]

I love the Shedd. I would get the all experience pass just to be able to see all the exhibits. The 4-D thing is whatever but the aquatic show is cool. As for parking unless you really want to walk quite a bit or take a bus like doc said you're going to have to pay up probably $15-30 range depending.