Jazzin' at the Shedd!

Being from a small town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the experience of living in the city has been very exciting for me. While interning at HI-Chicago, I have met people from all over the world as well as created close relationships with my fellow interns. The city life doesn’t leave much room for down time and between the festivals, museums, concerts and famous Chicago landmarks, we have kept ourselves very busy. One of the more unique experiences I have had took place at the Shedd Aquarium, part of Chicago’s Museum Campus. The Jazzin’ at the Shedd event combines animal gazing and live jazz music creating a wonderful social atmosphere!

This Chicago tradition takes place every Wednesday evening in the summer, transforming the typically crowded and noisy aquarium into a calm and classy environment. To match the mood of the jazz music that plays in the background, the lights are dimmed and candles throughout the area give off an extra flicker of light. Small tables draped with bright white tablecloths surround the 360 degree tank located in the center of the aquarium, home to a giant sea turtle, string rays, sharks and many others. While taking part in Jazzin’ at the Shedd, we explored the Oceanarium, the Wild Reef and Caribbean Reef displays as well as the homes of creatures from waters around the world. Next, we ventured out to the terrace for jazz music performed by the some of the areas best bands. This was also a chance to purchase food and drinks to accompany the music. However, the best part of the experience for me wasn’t the animals or the music; it was the breathtaking view of the city from the terrace of the Shedd.

The museum campus, which is also home to the Field Museum and the Alder Planetarium, is, in my opinion, the best place to enjoy the view of the city. As the sun sets, it creates beautiful colors in the sky that illuminate the tall buildings. This location also provides a great view of one of Chicago’s biggest assets, Lake Michigan. As you look past the hundreds of boats that fill the harbor, the endless amounts of calm, deep blue water takes you in. With the incredible view and jazz music in the background, you can’t help but feel at ease.

If the view captures you long enough, you will be graced with the sight of the beautiful fireworks being set off at Navy Pier. With the Chicago skyline to your left and colorful fireworks filling the sky to your right, how could you not be in your happy place? The combination of the animals, music, the view and fireworks makes this event a perfect way to spend a Chicago summer evening. Jazzin’ at the Shedd is an experience that can be shared with your family, friends or even a date! Because the city has so much to offer, visitors (and even residents) must choose what they want to do. Take it from me, Jazzin’ at the Shedd is an event that you don’t want to miss!