On the heels of announcing its significant new 2030 Centennial Commitment, Shedd Aquarium today unveiled more details about proposed exterior improvements within its planned 4-year, onsite transformation and restoration project. “Shedd Aquarium’s interior has long been a gateway to nature, bringing guests eye-to-eye with animals from across the globe, and we have an opportunity to bring that same wonder and excitement outside of our walls,” said Meghan Curran, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Shedd Aquarium. “Our Centennial Commitment includes updates to our entryway, terraces and natural spaces, all of which will enable vibrant, animal-first programming to spill out beyond our doors – experiences that will be made available to anyone visiting Museum Campus.” The aquarium’s exterior adjustments set the stage for nature play, greater physical accessibility and the much-needed restoration of Shedd’s historic terraces. The plan is set for input by the City’s Committee on Design on Wednesday, Feb. 9. The new features will include:

• Guests headed inside for a visit will enjoy new improvements to the entryway that will create a more seamless and streamlined start to their visit, including automated security and an expedited ticket-scanning process.  

• The enhanced entry will enable new interior circulation pathways that will significantly improve Shedd’s accessibility by reducing the number of transitions between the various levels and areas of the aquarium. Beyond providing guests with multiple options regarding where they can start their journey, these changes are intentionally focused on making navigation easier and more efficient for guests with strollers, wheelchairs and other mobility needs.

• Shedd plans to add a four-season glass pavilion over the existing Sick Family Lakeside Terrace, providing year-long access to unobscured views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. Aside from making Lake Michigan more accessible, even during inclement weather, the pavilion would nearly double the seating capacity for school visits, events and more. The proposed enclosure will increase dining space for patrons by 7,700 square feet to accommodate peak seasons.

For more information, visit www.sheddaquarium.org/centennial-commitment