Shedd Aquarium welcomed more than 2 million guests in 2013, resulting in the aquarium being named the top-attended cultural organization in Chicago for the seventh year in a row.
Contributing to the success of 2013 were:
- A new 20, 000 gallon outdoor exhibit with the Stingray Touch experience
- The revamped At Home in the Great Lakes gallery
- The continuation of the popular Jellies exhibit
- Shedd provided permanent homes for three rescued sea lions and welcomed four rescue dogs in the brand new aquatic show – “One World”
Ted A. Beattie, president and CEO of the aquarium said, “Shedd is proud to be a leader amongst Chicago’s vibrant cultural partners, contributing to the more than 46 million people that visited our incredible city last year. More importantly, we are grateful to our guests whose support allows us to continue our mission to connect people to the living world. Shedds’ roots run deep in Chicago. Our partnerships with local community organizations further our important work to create affordable access and educate guests everywhere.”
Highlights of the attendance figures include:
- 2.015 million annual visitors
- 82% of visitors from beyond the City of Chicago, including 13% international visitors
- 976 volunteers
- 490, 625 guests with free admission
- 114, 214 Illinois school children admitted free
- 60, 525 Chicago Public School students admitted free
- 14, 000 tickets donated to community organizations
- 52 Illinois Resident Discount Days
