Our Visit America team is passionate about uncovering the best of the United States, and few urban experiences rival a deep dive into Chicago's Museum Campus. We cut through generic travel fluff to deliver confident, specific, and actionable advice for your 2026 visit, ensuring you make the most of your time exploring these world-class destinations.
Why Visit Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum
When planning a trip to Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum consistently rank at the top of must-see attractions, and for good reason. These two institutions, nestled side-by-side on the picturesque Museum Campus, offer an unparalleled journey through natural history and aquatic wonders. Our team believes a visit to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is essential for anyone seeking to engage with science, culture, and the natural world on a grand scale.
The Shedd Aquarium, a historic landmark opened in 1930, was one of the first inland aquariums to feature a permanent collection of saltwater fish. Today, it houses over 32,000 animals, from majestic beluga whales and playful sea otters to vibrant coral reef ecosystems and formidable sharks. It's a place where you can truly "look nature in the eye," fostering a deep connection to aquatic life and inspiring conservation.
Adjacent to the Shedd, the Field Museum of Natural History stands as a titan among museums, boasting an incredible collection of 40 million artifacts. Here, you can come face-to-face with SUE, the world's most complete T. rex skeleton, marvel at the colossal Máximo the Titanosaur, and explore ancient Egyptian tombs and the rich history of Chinese culture. The sheer scale and diversity of exhibits at both locations mean there's something to captivate every member of your travel party, regardless of age or interest. They offer a unique blend of educational enrichment and awe-inspiring discovery that makes them cornerstones of any Chicago itinerary.
Who It's Best For
The Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois are truly universal attractions, appealing to a broad spectrum of visitors. From curious toddlers to seasoned academics, these institutions offer engaging experiences for everyone.
- Families with Children: Both the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum are exceptionally family-friendly. Kids will be mesmerized by the vibrant marine life at Shedd, particularly the penguins, sea otters, and dolphin shows. The Field Museum's dinosaur halls, ancient Egypt exhibits, and interactive Crown Family PlayLab are huge hits with younger explorers. Many exhibits are designed to be hands-on and interactive, making learning an adventure.
- Science & Nature Enthusiasts: If you have a passion for biology, geology, anthropology, or zoology, you'll find endless fascination here. The Field Museum's extensive collections and scientific research are world-renowned, while the Shedd Aquarium offers deep dives into aquatic ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- History Buffs: At the Field Museum, ancient civilizations come to life. Explore mummies, artifacts from the Americas, and the Cyrus Tang Hall of China. It's a journey through billions of years of Earth's history and thousands of years of human civilization.
- Couples & Solo Travelers: While excellent for families, these museums also provide a fantastic experience for adults. Enjoy leisurely strolls through exhibits, attend special adult-focused events, or simply take in the architectural grandeur and world-class collections at your own pace.
Ultimately, if you appreciate learning, discovery, and immersive experiences, you'll find immense value in visiting the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum.
Getting There & Parking
Navigating to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is straightforward, whether you're driving or utilizing Chicago's excellent public transportation. The Museum Campus, where both institutions are located, is easily accessible from downtown Chicago. Our team highly recommends considering public transport to avoid parking complexities, especially during peak season or event days.
Public Transportation: The Smart Way to Go
Chicago's CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) offers convenient routes to Museum Campus. The closest CTA train stop for both museums is Roosevelt, which services the Red, Orange, and Green lines. From there, you can connect to the #146 bus (at State and Roosevelt) which takes riders directly to the Museum Campus. During weekends and holidays from mid-May through Labor Day, the #130 bus also provides service from Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station. Commuter rail (Metra) also serves the Museum Campus/11th Street station on the Metra Electric District line.
For those wondering how to get to Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum without a car, the train is often the quickest option, taking as little as 4 minutes from downtown and costing $3-$4. The #146 bus is another economical choice, costing around $3 and taking approximately 9 minutes from State & Polk.
Driving & Parking
If driving is your preference, the Museum Campus offers several parking options, all owned by the Chicago Park District and managed by Standard Parking. Be aware that rates can be higher during special events, and access may be restricted on Chicago Bears home game days or during summer concerts at Soldier Field. Our team advises checking Soldier Field Parking's website before your visit for the most up-to-date information on availability and pricing.
Common parking facilities shared by both the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum include:
- Soldier Field North Garage: This garage is accessible via the main entrance on Museum Campus Drive. As of 2026, rates are approximately $27 for up to 4 hours and $32 for up to 12 hours. It's open from 5 AM to 5 PM daily, with no overnight parking.
- East Museum Lot: Located on the east side of the Field Museum, this lot is open from 9 AM to 3 PM daily and is also accessible via Museum Campus Drive. Rates are around $32 for up to 12 hours in 2026.
- Waldron Deck: Situated directly south of the Field Museum, this is often the closest parking option. Daily rates are $25, but can rise to $30-$50 on Bears game days.
- Museum Campus Lot (Adler Planetarium side): This lot also charges a base rate of $25 per day.
For convenience and potential savings, we recommend reserving parking in advance through services like SpotHero. New users can sometimes receive discounts. Valet parking is also available at Shedd Aquarium on most weekends for $35, subject to availability and not offered on certain Bears home game days.
Top Things to Do
When considering things to do at Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum, you're looking at a treasure trove of experiences. Our team has highlighted the must-see exhibits and activities to ensure you maximize your visit to these incredible institutions. Beyond the museums themselves, we'll also touch on other fantastic things to do in Chicago.
At Shedd Aquarium: Dive into Aquatic Wonders
The Shedd Aquarium is a vibrant world beneath the waves, offering captivating encounters with marine life from across the globe. Here are the top things to do at Shedd Aquarium:
- Caribbean Reef: This iconic exhibit, visible from the main rotunda, features a diver feeding sharks, sea turtles, and a dazzling array of reef fish. It's a mesmerizing spectacle.
- Abbott Oceanarium: Home to beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea otters, and California sea lions, the Oceanarium offers stunning views and engaging animal presentations. Keep an eye on the daily schedule for feeding times and training demonstrations.
- Amazon Rising: Journey through a flooded Amazon rainforest ecosystem, encountering anacondas, piranhas, monkeys, and unique freshwater fish.
- Wild Reef: Immerse yourself in a Philippine coral reef, where you can come face-to-face with sharks, stingrays, and vibrant reef fish. This exhibit is often cited as a highlight, especially if you're short on time.
- Polar Play Zone: Perfect for families with young children, this area allows kids to explore an arctic environment and get up close with penguins and rockhoppers.
- Stingray Touch: Experience the thrill of touching a cownose ray in this seasonal outdoor exhibit.
- 4-D Experiences: For an extra fee, enjoy a multi-sensory film experience that brings aquatic stories to life with special effects.
Advance reservations are highly recommended for Shedd, especially for free days, and allow about two and a half hours for a full experience.
At Field Museum: Explore Earth's History and Cultures
The Field Museum invites you on an epic journey through 4.6 billion years of natural history. Here are the top things to do at Field Museum:
- SUE the T. rex: No visit is complete without seeing SUE, the most complete and best-preserved *Tyrannosaurus rex* skeleton ever found. SUE is a true marvel of paleontology.
- Máximo the Titanosaur: Encounter the colossal cast skeleton of Máximo, a 122-foot-long titanosaur, the largest dinosaur ever discovered.
- Evolving Planet: This comprehensive exhibit takes you through the history of life on Earth, from single-celled organisms to the age of dinosaurs and beyond.
- Inside Ancient Egypt: Descend into a mastaba tomb, explore ancient Egyptian beliefs, and see a collection of mummies and artifacts, including 23 human mummies.
- The Ancient Americas: Discover 13,000 years of human history in the Western Hemisphere, from Ice Age mammoth hunters to the Incas and Aztecs.
- Cyrus Tang Hall of China: Explore over 10,000 years of Chinese history and culture through an impressive collection of artifacts.
- Hall of Gems: Marvel at one of North America's largest collections of Chinese jade and other sparkling gemstones.
- Temporary Exhibitions: The Field Museum frequently hosts special, limited-time exhibitions like "Pokémon Fossil Museum" (through April 11, 2027) and "After the Age of Dinosaurs" (through January 3, 2027). These often require an upgrade to your general admission ticket.
Free daily docent-led tours are available and included with admission.
Beyond the Museums: Things to Do in Chicago
While the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois offer days of exploration, Chicago itself is a city brimming with attractions. Our team suggests extending your visit to include some of these other iconic things to do in Chicago:
- Millennium Park & The Bean: Just a short walk or ride from Museum Campus, Millennium Park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as "The Bean"), Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden. It's a fantastic spot for photos and enjoying public art. Millennium Park & The Bean
- The Art Institute of Chicago: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, featuring a world-renowned collection spanning centuries and cultures. The Art Institute of Chicago
- Navy Pier: Offering entertainment, dining, and stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan, including a Ferris wheel and boat tours.
- Magnificent Mile: Chicago's premier shopping district, also home to architectural marvels and fine dining.
- Architectural Boat Tour: A truly unique way to see the city's famous architecture from the Chicago River.
- Grant Park: Often called "Chicago's front yard," this large urban park hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year.
For a deeper dive into Illinois's diverse offerings, explore our guide to Best Places in Illinois, which includes destinations like Starved Rock State Park and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
Best Time to Visit
Choosing the best time to visit Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois can significantly enhance your experience. Our team has weighed various factors, including crowds, weather, and special events, to help you plan your ideal trip.
Shoulder Seasons (Spring: April-May, Fall: September-October): We generally recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons. The weather in Chicago during these months is typically pleasant, with fewer extreme temperatures than summer or winter. Crowds are also generally lighter than the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed experience at both museums. You'll find it easier to navigate exhibits and secure reservations.
Summer (June-August): Summer is peak tourist season in Chicago. While the city is vibrant with outdoor festivals and activities, the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum will be at their busiest. Expect larger crowds, longer lines (even with reservations), and potentially higher parking rates due to events at Soldier Field. If you must visit in summer, plan to arrive right at opening, visit on weekdays if possible, and book all tickets and parking well in advance. Consider visiting during "Legendary Late Hours" at the Field Museum on select Tuesday evenings (5 PM to 9 PM) for a discounted, less crowded experience.
Winter (November-March): Chicago winters can be cold and snowy, but this is also when you'll find the fewest crowds. If you don't mind bundling up, visiting in winter can offer a more intimate museum experience. Both institutions are excellent indoor activities to escape the cold. Be aware of potential holiday closures (e.g., Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day for both museums).
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Always aim for weekdays if your schedule allows. Weekends, especially during school holidays, will inevitably be more crowded. Early mornings, right at opening, are consistently the best time to visit to beat the initial rush.
Free Days for Illinois Residents: Both museums offer free admission days for Illinois residents. The Field Museum offers free general admission every Wednesday throughout 2026. The Shedd Aquarium also has numerous free days and evenings for Illinois residents throughout the year (e.g., specific dates in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, and August 2026). While a great value, these days are extremely popular and require advance reservations, which may incur a small online convenience fee. Expect significant crowds on free days.
Where to Stay Nearby
Choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your visit to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois. Our team recommends staying in areas that offer convenient access to Museum Campus, whether by walking, a short taxi ride, or public transportation. Several excellent neighborhoods provide a range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.
South Loop / Grant Park: This is arguably the most convenient neighborhood, as it borders the Museum Campus. Many hotels here are within walking distance or a very short bus/taxi ride to both the Shedd and Field Museum. You'll also be close to other attractions like Grant Park and easily connected to the rest of downtown.
- Best Western Grant Park Hotel: Located across from Grant Park, this hotel is within walking distance of the museums and offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi.
- Le Méridien Essex Chicago: A highly-rated option just over half a mile from Shedd Aquarium.
- Hilton Chicago: A traditional landmark hotel overlooking Grant Park, about 0.7 miles from the museums.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop / Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown South Loop: These are newer options offering good amenities and proximity.
- Congress Plaza Hotel: A historic hotel with a prime location near Grant Park.
Chicago Loop: The central business district, the Loop, offers a vast array of hotels and excellent public transport connections. You'll be a bit further from the museums, but still within easy reach via CTA train or bus. Many Loop hotels are close to attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park.
- Swissôtel Chicago: Set where the Chicago River meets Lake Michigan, offering sweeping views and a seamless connection to the city's waterways. They even offer a Shedd Aquarium package.
- Travelodge by Wyndham Downtown Chicago: A budget-friendly option in the Chicago Loop, about 1.2 km from Shedd Aquarium.
- Central Loop Hotel / JW Marriott Chicago / Hyatt Regency Chicago: Other well-regarded options in the Loop.
Magnificent Mile / River North: For those who prioritize high-end shopping, dining, and a bustling urban atmosphere, hotels along the Magnificent Mile or in River North are excellent choices. While a bit further (around 2 miles) from Museum Campus, these areas offer luxury accommodations and easy access to public transport or short taxi rides.
- Four Seasons Hotel Chicago / The Peninsula Chicago / Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile: High-end luxury options.
- Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile / Courtyard Chicago Downtown/River North: Reliable mid-range options.
- The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago: Located on Chicago's premier commercial district.
Many hotels also partner with the Shedd Aquarium, sometimes offering packages that include tickets, which can be a convenient option.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To fully appreciate the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois, we recommend dedicating at least two full days. This allows for in-depth exploration without feeling rushed. Here’s a sample itinerary crafted by our team to maximize your experience:
Day 1: Aquatic Wonders and City Views
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Shedd Aquarium Deep Dive
- Arrive at the Shedd Aquarium right at opening to beat the crowds. Head straight to the Oceanarium for the first animal presentation of the day, featuring beluga whales and dolphins.
- Explore the Caribbean Reef, Wild Reef, and Amazon Rising exhibits. Don't miss the seasonal Stingray Touch if available.
- Consider adding a 4-D Experience for a multi-sensory adventure.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Museum Campus Dining
- Grab a quick bite at Shedd's Bubble Net food court or Soundings Café.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Field Museum Highlights
- Walk over to the Field Museum. Focus on key exhibits like SUE the T. rex and Máximo the Titanosaur in the main hall and the Evolving Planet exhibit.
- Take a complimentary docent-led tour to gain deeper insights into the collections.
- Evening: Millennium Park & Dinner
- Head north to Millennium Park & The Bean for iconic photos and a stroll.
- Enjoy dinner in the Loop or River North, offering a vast array of culinary options.
Day 2: Ancient Civilizations and Art
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Field Museum Immersion
- Return to the Field Museum to explore areas you missed. Delve into the Ancient Egypt exhibit, the Ancient Americas, and the Cyrus Tang Hall of China.
- If there's a special temporary exhibit that interests you (like "Pokémon Fossil Museum"), allocate time for it.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Field Museum or Nearby
- Dine at one of the Field Museum's cafes or explore nearby options in the South Loop.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Art & Architecture
- Visit The Art Institute of Chicago, just a short walk from the Field Museum across Grant Park. Focus on a specific collection or wander through its renowned galleries.
- Alternatively, take an architectural boat tour on the Chicago River for a unique perspective on the city's famous skyline.
- Evening: Chicago Exploration
- Depending on your interests, catch a show in the Theater District, explore the shops along the Magnificent Mile, or enjoy a relaxed dinner.
Our team's expert verdict: This itinerary provides a comprehensive yet manageable way to experience the best of the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois, along with a taste of Chicago's other world-class attractions. Remember to book tickets and reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
FAQ
Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum tips
To make the most of your visit to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois, our team recommends purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money, especially for Shedd Aquarium where prices vary by day and time. Arrive right at opening to avoid the largest crowds, particularly during peak seasons. Consider visiting on weekdays if possible. Utilize Chicago's excellent public transportation to reach Museum Campus to avoid parking challenges and costs. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Finally, check the official websites for both institutions for daily schedules, including animal presentations at Shedd and docent-led tours at the Field Museum, to plan your day effectively.
Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum parking
Parking for the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is available at several shared lots on Museum Campus, including the Soldier Field North Garage, East Museum Lot, and Waldron Deck. Rates in 2026 typically start around $25-$32 for several hours, but can increase significantly on Bears game days or during special events. Our team strongly advises reserving parking in advance through services like SpotHero to secure a spot and potentially save money. Valet parking is also offered at Shedd on most weekends for $35, subject to availability. Public transportation is often the most hassle-free way to get there.
best time to visit Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum
The best time to visit Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) shoulder seasons. During these periods, Chicago's weather is generally pleasant, and the crowds are typically smaller than in the peak summer months. Weekdays, especially right at opening, offer the most relaxed experience. While free days for Illinois residents are available (Wednesdays for the Field Museum, various dates for Shedd), these days are extremely popular and will be very crowded, requiring advance reservations.
Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum hours and fees
Shedd Aquarium hours vary by day and season; it's generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours until 6 PM on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Some "Free Nights" for Illinois residents extend to 9 PM. The Field Museum is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, with "Legendary Late Hours" on select Tuesday evenings extending to 9 PM. Both museums are closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
For fees in 2026, general admission to the Field Museum starts at $30 for guests, with discounts for Chicago residents ($21) and free admission for Illinois residents on Wednesdays. Shedd Aquarium prices vary by day and time, with non-Chicago residents saving by booking in advance. Chicago residents receive a set adult general admission price of $19.95. Both offer various discounts (e.g., for military, educators, Museums for All program) and package deals like CityPASS.
Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum travel guide
This comprehensive travel guide from the Visit America editorial team serves as your ultimate resource for planning a trip to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois. We've covered everything from why these institutions are must-visit attractions and who they're best for, to detailed information on how to get there, parking options, and the top things to see and do at each location. We also provide insights into the best time to visit, where to stay nearby, and a sample 2-day itinerary to help you craft a memorable and enriching experience in Chicago. Remember to verify 2026 facts like hours, fees, and reservation requirements directly with the museums' official websites before your trip.
Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum itinerary
Our recommended Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum itinerary suggests dedicating two full days to these magnificent institutions. Day 1 could focus on a morning at the Shedd Aquarium, exploring the Oceanarium, Caribbean Reef, and Amazon Rising, followed by an afternoon at the Field Museum hitting highlights like SUE and Máximo. Day 2 allows for deeper exploration of the Field Museum's ancient civilizations and cultural halls, with an afternoon dedicated to other Chicago attractions like The Art Institute of Chicago or an architectural boat tour. This pacing ensures you experience the best of both museums without feeling rushed, allowing for a truly immersive visit.
Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Visit America team.
Our Visit America team is passionate about uncovering the best of the United States, and few urban experiences rival a deep dive into Chicago's Museum Campus. We cut through generic travel fluff to deliver confident, specific, and actionable advice for your 2026 visit, ensuring you make the most of your time exploring these world-class destinations.
Why Visit Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum
When planning a trip to Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum consistently rank at the top of must-see attractions, and for good reason. These two institutions, nestled side-by-side on the picturesque Museum Campus, offer an unparalleled journey through natural history and aquatic wonders. Our team believes a visit to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is essential for anyone seeking to engage with science, culture, and the natural world on a grand scale.
The Shedd Aquarium, a historic landmark opened in 1930, was one of the first inland aquariums to feature a permanent collection of saltwater fish. Today, it houses over 32,000 animals, from majestic beluga whales and playful sea otters to vibrant coral reef ecosystems and formidable sharks. It's a place where you can truly "look nature in the eye," fostering a deep connection to aquatic life and inspiring conservation.
Adjacent to the Shedd, the Field Museum of Natural History stands as a titan among museums, boasting an incredible collection of 40 million artifacts. Here, you can come face-to-face with SUE, the world's most complete T. rex skeleton, marvel at the colossal Máximo the Titanosaur, and explore ancient Egyptian tombs and the rich history of Chinese culture. The sheer scale and diversity of exhibits at both locations mean there's something to captivate every member of your travel party, regardless of age or interest. They offer a unique blend of educational enrichment and awe-inspiring discovery that makes them cornerstones of any Chicago itinerary.
Who It's Best For
The Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois are truly universal attractions, appealing to a broad spectrum of visitors. From curious toddlers to seasoned academics, these institutions offer engaging experiences for everyone.
- Families with Children: Both the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum are exceptionally family-friendly. Kids will be mesmerized by the vibrant marine life at Shedd, particularly the penguins, sea otters, and dolphin shows. The Field Museum's dinosaur halls, ancient Egypt exhibits, and interactive Crown Family PlayLab are huge hits with younger explorers. Many exhibits are designed to be hands-on and interactive, making learning an adventure.
- Science & Nature Enthusiasts: If you have a passion for biology, geology, anthropology, or zoology, you'll find endless fascination here. The Field Museum's extensive collections and scientific research are world-renowned, while the Shedd Aquarium offers deep dives into aquatic ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- History Buffs: At the Field Museum, ancient civilizations come to life. Explore mummies, artifacts from the Americas, and the Cyrus Tang Hall of China. It's a journey through billions of years of Earth's history and thousands of years of human civilization.
- Couples & Solo Travelers: While excellent for families, these museums also provide a fantastic experience for adults. Enjoy leisurely strolls through exhibits, attend special adult-focused events, or simply take in the architectural grandeur and world-class collections at your own pace.
Ultimately, if you appreciate learning, discovery, and immersive experiences, you'll find immense value in visiting the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum.
Getting There & Parking
Navigating to the Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum Illinois is straightforward, whether you're driving or utilizing Chicago's excellent public transportation. The Museum Campus, where both institutions are located, is easily accessible from downtown Chicago. Our team highly recommends considering public transport to avoid parking complexities, especially during peak season or event days.
Public Transportation: The Smart Way to Go
Chicago's CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) offers convenient routes to Museum Campus. The closest CTA train stop for both museums is Roosevelt, which services the Red, Orange, and Green lines. From there, you can connect to the #146 bus (at State and Roosevelt) which takes riders directly to the Museum Campus. During weekends and holidays from mid-May through Labor Day, the #130 bus also provides service from Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station. Commuter rail (Metra) also serves the Museum Campus/11th Street station on the Metra Electric District line.
For those wondering how to get to Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum without a car, the train is often the quickest option, taking as little as 4 minutes from downtown and costing $3-$4. The #146 bus is another economical choice, costing around $3 and taking approximately 9 minutes from State & Polk.
Driving & Parking
If driving is your preference, the Museum Campus offers several parking options, all owned by the Chicago Park District and managed by Standard Parking. Be aware that rates can be higher during special events, and access may be restricted on Chicago Bears home game days or during summer concerts at Soldier Field. Our team advises checking Soldier Field Parking's website before your visit for the most up-to-date information on availability and pricing.
Common parking facilities shared by both the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum include:
- Soldier Field North Garage: This garage is accessible via the main entrance on Museum Campus Drive. As of 2026, rates are approximately $27 for up to 4 hours and $32 for up to 12 hours. It's open from 5 AM to 5 PM daily, with no overnight parking.
- East Museum Lot: Located on the east side of the Field Museum, this lot is open from 9 AM to 3 PM daily and is also accessible via Museum Campus Drive. Rates are around $32 for up to 12 hours in 2026.
- Waldron Deck: Situated directly south of the Field Museum, this is often the closest parking option. Daily rates are $25, but can rise to $30-$50 on Bears game days.