A Trip to Shedd Aquarium May Cost Rockford Residents More

Chicago's Shedd Aquarium wants to get rid of their tiered admission prices in favor of one flat entrance fee to attract more visitors. It will be if you live in Chicago. For those that don't, this change could actually result in a bigger hit to the pocketbook than we're used to.

Currently non-Chicago residents who visit the Shedd Aquarium pay $8 for general admission, $30.95 for a Shedd Pass, and $39.95 for an All Access pass. Basically the current tiered system allows Shedd visitors to pay for the access they want to the aquariums attractions, the flat entrance fee will do away with that. According to DNA Info Chicago;

The new pricing plan will "accommodate more people and provide a more generous and affordable experience," said Andrea Rodgers, the Shedd's vice president of communications and public relations.

The DNA Info article also says,

The Shedd says the change will make buying tickets easier, eliminate cumbersome internal ticket checkpoints, and allow the aquarium to open up all its exhibits during its 52 free days a year for Illinois residents.

If approved, the Shedd's policy change would go into effect on July 1, 2017...just in time for summer vacations.

Hmmm. Although I can see the value in a more open access experience at The Shedd, I can't help but be disappointed that a quick, budget-friendly, option for my family is no longer available. What do you think?