The Top 10 Family-Friendly Aquariums in the Country

Overview: Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Shedd has a rich history dating back to its 1930 opening, and was the first inland aquarium with a permanent saltwater collection. Exhibits today include Waters of the World, an exploration of reefs and rivers, the Oceanarium's re-creation of the Pacific Northwest coast, and Wild Reef's riff on the Indo-Pacific reef.

Go For: The icy Polar Play Zone, where kids can "play penguin," explore Arctic waters in a pint-sized submarine, and get up close and personal in the touch pools.

Source: Shedd Aquarium