Skip to main content

Aquariums: Let the Fantasea Begin! Save the Date to See Shedd Aquarium’s Renovated Oceanarium Before the Public

News

Media Get Exclusive Access to Shedd’s Transformed Marine Mammal Pavilion at a May 18 Sneak Peek

WHAT: 
Shedd Aquarium unveils the transformation of its Oceanarium — home to their beloved marine mammals — during a special media-only preview on Monday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m. Just days before the highly-anticipated public reopening of the world’s premier marine mammal pavilion — Saturday, May 23 — media will have the rare opportunity to explore the renovated Oceanarium, check out the refurbished habitats, welcome marine mammals home from "vacation" and experience the new, permanent exhibit Polar Play Zone made just for kids, a first for Shedd.

This summer, guests can let their fantasea begin as they experience a world of wonders at the must-see Oceanarium: Get re-acquainted with beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Alaskan sea otters, sea lions and penguins; be among the first to experience the new Polar Play Zone or the Grainger Beluga Encounter Habitat; and witness the magic of Shedd’s new marine mammal show (debuting late summer).

Just in time for Memorial Day, Shedd’s Oceanarium re-opening date has been moved to Saturday, May 23, as an exclusive members-only preview will take places on Friday, May 22. Summer hours begin May 23 and are 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily and 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Thursdays through Labor Day. Visit Shedd Aquarium online at sheddaquarium.org for information to plan your next visit.

About the Oceanarium Renovation

For the first time since its opening in 1991, the popular 3-million-gallon saltwater Oceanarium underwent major renovations. All five pools were recoated; animal habitats received routine maintenance; and the latest technology in animal life-support, heating and cooling systems were installed.

WHEN:  Exclusive media preview Monday, May 18 – 10:30 a.m.
WHERE:  John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

Shedd Aquarium is supported by the people of Chicago and the State of Illinois. Shedd Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums.

Share this

More from this author

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Find out how to update