,url-https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripexpert.com%2Fimages%2Fmarker-fade%402x.png(-87.60711,41.86639)/-87.61055510491133,41.8669929316936,15.953537528922078/1280x214@2x?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidHJpcGV4cGVydHdlYiIsImEiOiJja2Fud3l2MDcwbXZ0MndyeGF3eGI3ZWhzIn0.zLqNa1RECyZZadF8zfQM5w)
Shedd AquariumvsAdler Planetarium
Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium are both rated very highly by those who travel for a living. On balance, Shedd Aquarium scores significantly better than Adler Planetarium. Shedd Aquarium ranks #3 in Chicago with positive reviews from 9 sources like National Geographic, Time Out and Lonely Planet.
Shedd Aquarium
Fodor's
Concierge
Time Out
Not For Tourists
Michelin Guide
National Geographic
Where
Frommer's
1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
From $0/night
"One of the most popular aquariums in the country, the Shedd houses more than 32,500 creatures from around the world." Full review
"Encased in a handsome marble octagon overlooking the Lake, the Shedd is the world's largest indoor aquarium."
"Anchoring the aquatic offerings at this 75-year-old institution are enduring favorites such as piranhas, frogs and snakes of the Amazon." Full review
"Marine and freshwater creatures from around the world are on view in this 1929 Classical Greek-inspired Beaux Arts structure."
3 Stars
"The world's largest indoor aquarium. It houses some 8,000 aquatic animals comprising 650 species from around the globe." Full review
i
Don't miss the new Fantasea marine show in the Oceanarium's amphitheater.
"Popular lakefront aquarium with 1,000-seat amphitheater for dolphin shows." Full review
"From frolicking sea otters to sharks and exotic eels, the Shedd Aquarium is home to an array of fascinating aquatic animals." Full review
"The Shedd is one of the world's largest indoor aquariums and houses thousands of river, lake, and sea denizens in standard aquarium tanks and elaborate new habitats." Full review
Adler Planetarium
Travel + Leisure
Not For Tourists
Fodor's
Michelin Guide
Where
Time Out
Afar Magazine
Frommer's
1300 S Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60605
From $0/night
"One of three venues comprising the lakefront Museum Campus, the Adler was established in 1930, making it the first planetarium in the nation." Full review
"Depression era wonder that thrilled millions at 1933 Century of Progress Exposition."
"Tells amazing stories of space exploration through high-tech exhibits and immersive theater experiences... interactive elements and real space artifacts." Full review
2 Stars
"It's worth the views up and down the lakefront to walk out to the Adler, which occupies a beautiful setting." Full review
"This lakefront attraction on the Museum Campus features loads of otherworldly exhibits." Full review
"No trip to the Adler is complete without taking in a show in the museum’s Grainger Sky Theater... even though it’s not 3D, it’s vivid enough to make you feel as if you’re traveling through the stars. " Full review
"It’s difficult to design a museum suitable for both kids and adults, but Adler makes it look easy." Full review
"The building may be historic (it was the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere), but some of the attractions here will hold the attention of even the most jaded video game addict." Full review