Join or Contribute

Benefits of Membership

Giving levels and benefits
Support of Shedd Aquarium enables us to provide superior healthcare for our animals, meaningful exhibits for our guests and conservation initiatives and education programs for our community. In appreciation of your support and investment in the aquarium, we are pleased to offer you benefits that enhance your Shedd experience.

All membership levels receive:
    • Invitations to exclusive member events
    • Early notices and discounts on education classes and programs
    • Free subscription to e-News and the quarterly members newsletter, WaterShedd
    • Discounts in aquarium stores and restaurants
    • Reciprocal memberships at select aquariums and zoos around the country

Additional benefits by level are:

Individual $80
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for the member and one guest each visit
    • One membership card
       Join at this level

Family/Household $115
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for two adults and up to four children 18 and under
    • Two membership cards
       Join at this level

Family/Household plus $130
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for two adults and up to five children 18 and under
    • Add additional children in the household age 18 and under for $15 each
    • Two membership cards
       Join at this level

Partner $175–$249
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for up to four adults and four children 18 and under
    • Free tickets to the annual members Open House
    • Two membership cards
       Join at this level

Associate $250–$499
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for up to six adults and six children 18 and under
    • Free tickets to the annual members Open House
    • Two membership cards
    • Discounts on education programs and “Trainer for a Day”
    • Priority invitations to Right Bite dinners hosted at Chicago-area restaurants
    • Invitations to Auxiliary Board events
    • Subscription to the donor newsletter, Tidings
    • Listing in the annual report
       Join at this level

Sponsor $500–$1,499
    • Free and unlimited entry to all aquarium exhibits for up to six adults and six children 18 and under
    • Free tickets to the annual members Open House
    • Two membership cards
    • Discounts on education programs and “Trainer for a Day”
    • Priority invitations to Right Bite dinners hosted at Chicago-area restaurants
    • Invitations to Auxiliary Board events
    • Subscription to the donor newsletter, Tidings
    • Listing in the annual report
    • Entry into a drawing for a private behind-the-scenes tour
    • Invitation to the annual Board of Trustees gala
    • Recognition in the summer issue of the members newsletter, WaterShedd
       Join at this level

Visit our Aquarium Council page for information about other levels of giving.

*Please note that for tax purposes, $15 of your membership is not deductible under Internal Revenue Service guidelines. Member privileges subject to change. Memberships are not transferable.

Discounts on many educational programs and classes is just one of the great perks of Shedd membership. Become a member today!