As the Chicago summer begins to wind down, be sure to check out Jazzin’ at the Shedd at the city’s landmark Shedd Aquarium. This nighttime event brings popular jazz bands to the Shedd for live performances throughout the aquarium’s galleries and on the North Terrace while offering up food, beverages and amazing sea animals like moon jellies and sea stars.
For the past 15 years, Jazzin’ has been a weekly summer affair that attracts families, couples, tourists and locals alike. Many people come not only for the jazz and aquatic life, but also to enjoy the breathtaking views of the harbor and downtown Chicago from the outdoor terrace. If you’re like me and love sitting out on a summer night be sure to get there early so that you can tour the aquarium and still nab a terrace seat. Jazzin’ is hosted every Wednesday when guests can also take in the fireworks show from Navy Pier.
If you’d rather relax inside while gazing at knifefish, they offer live music, several bars, food stations and tables for dining indoors. You can hang out at the Carribean Reef where a band plays live tunes while visitors watch green sea turtles and parrotfish in their habitat. Public Relations Manager Melissa Kruth calls Jazzin’ “their own twist on a happy hour.” No where else in the city can you visit dolphins, spy on penguins, gape at blue iguanas and check out live octopus while sipping a cocktail. Admission is just $12/person, $10 for children and free to Shedd members. The final Jazzin’ of the summer is on Wednesday, September 1. So hurry up!
