PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Where else in Chicago are you going to see fish that swim by and see you as dinner? Combine that with the fun dolphins, beluga whales, penguins and otters, on top of all those neat and bizarre fish from all over the world, and you will find yourselves at the Shedd Aquarium. It’s probably one of the best aquariums in the country, not to mention impressive, considering the nearest ocean is over a thousand miles away!

Besides what has already been mentioned, two other favorite spots include the delicate sea horses stingrays and the awe inspiring moon jellies. What I found to be particularly impressive is the tank with sturgeon, which are just now beginning to make a comeback to Lake Michigan, and watching scuba divers feed the animals is just plain cool, okay!

Free parking is available by the meters on Sundays, but since they’re in high demand, you need to get down there early to scoop one up! There is also a cash lot nearby, with cabs and public transportation always available. Oh and also, Chicago residents who have a library card can stop by the library and check out a museum pass at the counter! It’s good for 4 people, gets you in for free and lets you bypass the lines! Sunday mornings are probably the best bet if a weekday isn’t practical, since the tourists haven’t gotten into town yet.

Because the Shedd is undoubtedly the most visited museum in the city, the lines here can get worse than camping out for Cubs tickets, especially in summer. The place is also on the pricey side of things, but is understandable due to the sheer magnitude of running such a facility. The Surroundings restaurant, while absolutely delicious and remarkable, is also on the expensive side, but offers a wonderful view of the skyline that makes up for it, and yes, they take reservations. Of course, locals know parking at the museum campus is tricky at best, but I fail to see how $25 valet parking is justified. I say go in winter, get the pass, pack a lunch and ride the bus or trolley!