How to Get to Shedd Aquarium from Union Station [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to Shedd Aquarium from Union Station [2025–2026 Guide]

To get to Shedd Aquarium from Chicago Union Station (2025–2026): walk 30 minutes (free), take CTA bus #130 in 15 minutes ($2.50), or ride a taxi/Uber in 7 minutes (~$10–15).

Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is one of the city’s most famous attractions, located on the Museum Campus along Lake Michigan. If you’re starting your trip at Union Station, you’ve got several options—walking, public transit, or a quick rideshare. Here’s the easiest way to plan your journey in 2025–2026.

🚶 Option 1: Walking from Union Station

  • Distance: 1.6 miles (2.6 km)

  • Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Route: Walk east on Adams Street, then head south on Columbus Drive until you reach the Museum Campus.

  • Cost: Free
    👉 Best if you enjoy sightseeing and don’t mind a longer walk.

🚌 Option 2: CTA Bus (Best Budget Option)

  • From Union Station, walk to Jackson & Canal or Clinton Blue Line stop to catch a CTA bus #130 (Museum Campus).

  • Travel time: 15 minutes

  • Cost (2025–2026): $2.50 adult fare with Ventra card or contactless payment

  • Drops you directly at Museum Campus/Shedd Aquarium stop.

👉 This is the easiest and most cost-effective way to get there.

🚇 Option 3: CTA Train + Walk

  • Take the Red Line from Jackson Station to Roosevelt Station.

  • Walk about 15 minutes east to the Shedd.

  • Total travel time: 20–25 minutes

  • Cost: $2.50 per ride

🚖 Option 4: Taxi or Rideshare (Fastest)

  • Uber, Lyft, or Taxi from Union Station → Shedd Aquarium.

  • Travel time: 7–10 minutes (traffic dependent)

  • Cost: $10–15
    👉 Perfect if you’re traveling with kids, luggage, or in a group.

♿ Accessibility Notes

  • CTA buses and trains are fully accessible with ramps and priority seating.

  • Walking route includes sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.

  • Rideshare/taxi is the most convenient option for wheelchair users.

✅ Travel Summary Table

Option Time Cost Notes
🚶 Walk 25–30 mins Free Scenic, but longer
🚌 CTA Bus #130 15 mins $2.50 Direct to Museum Campus
🚇 CTA Red Line + Walk 20–25 mins $2.50 Train + 15 min walk
🚖 Taxi/Uber/Lyft 7–10 mins $10–15 Fastest, door-to-door

❓ FAQs: How to Get to Shedd Aquarium from Union Station

1. How far is Shedd Aquarium from Union Station?
It’s about 1.6 miles (2.6 km), a 25–30 minute walk.

2. What is the cheapest way to get from Union Station to Shedd Aquarium?
The CTA bus #130 for $2.50 is the cheapest and most direct option.

3. How much is a taxi from Union Station to Shedd Aquarium?
Around $10–15, depending on traffic.

4. How long does it take to get to Shedd Aquarium from Union Station?

  • Walking: 30 mins

  • Bus: 15 mins

  • Taxi: 7–10 mins

5. Does CTA Ventra card work for this trip?
Yes, you can pay with a Ventra card, contactless debit/credit card, or mobile wallet.

6. Which CTA train goes near Shedd Aquarium?
The Red, Green, and Orange Lines stop at Roosevelt Station, about a 15-min walk to Shedd.

7. Is the walk from Union Station to Shedd Aquarium safe?
Yes, it’s a straightforward route through downtown and Museum Campus areas.

8. Is Shedd Aquarium accessible by public transit?
Yes, both CTA buses and trains are fully accessible.

✅ Now you know the exact travel times, costs, and best routes from Union Station to Shedd Aquarium for 2025–2026.

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