Golden Aquarium

Tucked into Chicago's urban landscape, Golden Aquarium packs a remarkable amount of aquatic life into a modest footprint. The store stocks an unusually deep selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish, along with coral frags, aquatic plants, and invertebrates that go well beyond what you'd find at the big box chains. Reviewers consistently highlight the goldfish selection — including A-grade show-quality ranchu and other varieties — calling it one of the best in northern Illinois.

The cichlid collection draws hobbyists from nearly two hours away, with staff who take time to discuss compatibility before bagging fish. Donny and Eric are the names that come up most often in reviews, and their hands-on approach defines the Golden Aquarium experience. Whether helping a customer manage an overpopulation issue humanely or walking a couple through building their first community tank, the staff demonstrates genuine engagement with the hobby.

One reviewer noted their accurate goldfish care advice — recommending goldfish-only tanks — as a sign of a store that prioritizes long-term fish health over a quick sale. The live plant selection is a real draw. Multiple reviewers describe a large variety of aquatic plants and attractive display tanks that serve as inspiration for planted setups at home.

You'll also find red claw crabs, shrimp, bumblebee gobies, and other invertebrates that add personality to nano and community tanks alike. On the saltwater side, the store carries coral frags and a solid selection of marine fish for reef hobbyists. The store isn't without rough edges — a few reviewers report fish arriving in poor condition, and the phone apparently goes unanswered with some regularity.

But the overwhelming majority of the nearly 300 reviews praise both selection and service. For Chicago-area aquarists looking for uncommon species, quality goldfish, healthy plants, or knowledgeable conversation about their tanks, Golden Aquarium delivers a specialty fish store experience that justifies the trip across town.