Shedd Aquarium, Chicago (must see)

In 1929, the renowned John G. Shedd, head honcho of Marshall Field's department store, bestowed upon Chicago this grand Beaux-Arts aquarium. It's now a top-tier city attraction, boasting an impressive collection of around 32,500 aquatic creatures spanning 1,500 diverse species, ranging from amphibians to fish and aquatic mammals.

For an adventure of Amazonian proportions, wander into "Amazon Rising". This colossal 8,600-square-foot exhibit mimics a submerged forest, narrating the captivating tale of floodwaters' ebb and flow. Brace yourself as you enter "Wild Reef", featuring a 400,000-gallon shark-filled tank that delves into marine biodiversity in the Indo-Pacific. Here, vibrant corals, gliding stingrays, and other astonishing creatures from the Philippines' waters will dazzle your senses.

The Oceanarium is an aquatic spectacle beyond compare, with an infinity pool that seemingly merges with the vast Lake Michigan. Marvel at the star-studded aquatic show, featuring graceful belugas, acrobatic dolphins, and the charming antics of penguins.

Dive deeper by peering through the underwater viewing windows on the lower level, where you'll also find a trove of engaging, hands-on activities.

Tips:
Once inside, snag (free) reservations for the Oceanarium show. There are ticket machines for scanning your tickets and selecting showtimes. Once you've made your reservations, arrive 10–15 minutes ahead to secure prime seats, and keep an eye out for the 20–30-minute Habitat Chats that often follow the shows.

Early birds catch more fish – visit the aquarium early to explore most, if not all, of the other exhibits before the Oceanarium show. Lines tend to grow later in the day, so consider buying advance tickets to skip the wait.

During June to August, jazz enthusiasts can savor melodious tunes on Wednesdays while lounging on the lush grass overlooking Lake Michigan. Pack your own picnic basket or sample scrumptious meals at the Shedd for a harmonious evening by the water.