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Weddings

Pricing information

Reception
$5,000 starting price
Ceremony
$5,000 starting price
Bar service
$29 per person
Reception
$5,000 starting price
Ceremony
$5,000 starting price
Bar service
$29 per person

About

Since its opening in 1930, Shedd Aquarium has ranked among the world’s leading aquariums, and it’s the No. 1 cultural attraction and “must-sea” destination in Chicago. Discover another side of Shedd—as the incomparable locale for your next corporate or special event. Encounter unbelievable animals from aquatic environments around the world, plus eye-popping architecture, at popular cultural destination in Chicago. The city’s iconic skyline and Lake Michigan’s blue expanse create a stunning backdrop for any private event. We can provide you with a spacious, gracious setting for a dinner, a cool coastline or breezy terrace for a cocktail reception, or a state-of-the-art meeting facility. A Shedd Aquarium wedding means superb service, top-of-the-line facilities, and beautiful surroundings. Your Shedd Aquarium wedding will be one to remember.

The Azure’s Sales and Catering team at Shedd Aquarium has the passion to help clients bring their events and imagination to life within incredible spaces. Azure at Shedd Aquarium brings years of culinary experience, focusing on in-house catering and special event designs. From stunning views of the Chicago skyline to world-class cuisine, guests are surrounded by the beauty and wonder of aquatic life at Shedd Aquarium. An event with Azure at Shedd Aquarium is truly unforgettable

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?

$5,000

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?

$5,000

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?

$5,000

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?

$5,000

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Clean Up
Set Up

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Server(s)

What is the starting price per person for bar service?

$29

Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?

Bartender(s)
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine

Describe your venue:

Historic Building
Museum

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Covered Outdoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party

What event services do you offer?

Bar Services
Catering Services
Clean Up
Event Planner
Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms
Outside Vendors
Wifi

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
Hors d'oeuvres
Outside Cake
Plated
Server(s)
Stations
Tastings

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)
Champagne Toast
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine
Limited Bar
Liquor License
Open Bar
Premium Liquor

What food and beverage items are available?

Barware

What transportation and access is available?

Parking

What months are included in your peak season?

May
June
July
August
September
October

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March
December
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Reviews of Shedd Aquarium

4.9 out of 5 rating
4.9 out of 5 rating
7 Reviews
99% recommend it
  • Quality of service
    5 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    5 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    5 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    5 out of 5 rating
Weddingwire
4.9/5 7 reviews
Google
4.6/5 29548 reviews
R
Rebecca Sent on 04/24/2015
5 out of 5 rating
We wanted a space that was beautiful but also children friendly, so the Shedd was an obvious first choice. Planning the wedding was so easy as the Shedd's team was responsive, professional and understanding. We had 300 guests at our wedding and everyone had A BLAST.
C
Caitlin Sent on 10/18/2013
5 out of 5 rating
I had my wedding at the Shedd on October 5, 2013 and it was perfect! The location was fantastic, food was amazing and all of the staff were beyond outstanding. All of my guests continue to talk about what a fantastic and unique venue the Shedd was.

When I was originally considering the Shedd, I met with Mary to do a walk-through. She walked me around and I knew right away that she would be wonderful to work with. Throughout the entire wedding process she was extremely professional, accommodating and a genuinely nice person.

And the best part about a wedding at the Shedd - your guests are exposed to the entire building and you're constantly moving to different locations throughout the night! My ceremony was by the beluga whales in the Oceanarium, cocktail hour was on the mezzanine level and on the outside terraces, dinner was around the Caribbean Reef and dancing happened in the main Foyer area. Guests were even encouraged to walk around and see the exhibits.

If you are considering having your wedding in downtown Chicago then make sure to include the Shedd Aquarium at the top of your list!
J
Julie Sent on 06/28/2012
5 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding at the Shedd Aquarium and we couldn't have been happier! Everyone couldn't stop talking about what a great, unique place it was to have a wedding. The food was delicious and the staff was attentive. The backdrop to our big day couldn't have been beat. We worked with Danielle for almost two years planning everything and she was so patient and helpful with everything. I wouldn't have changed my venue for anything!
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Awards

7

Professional Network & Endorsements

1 Endorsement
Jennifer Wolfe Photography Jennifer Wolfe Photography Wedding Photographers

I really enjoy shooting at the Shedd, I love animals and love to be surrounded by them when creating great images! I have always had such great luck with the people, lighting, food, etc at the Shedd. Lovely venue, professional from A to Z!

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