Pet Store · Chicago, IL

Old Town Aquarium

Old Town Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in aquarium and saltwater systems. The store offers custom-designed aquariums, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance services. As a family-owned business established since 1975, it provides expert support for aquatic enthusiasts across Chicagoland.

4.6ClosedClosedAquariumSaltwaterFreshwater
4018 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, USA

About

About this store

Old Town Aquarium has served the Chicago area since 1975 as a trusted destination for aquarium and saltwater systems. The store offers a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to both freshwater and saltwater environments. Customers can access aquariums, equipment, filtration systems, lighting, fish food, live plants, corals, marine fish, invertebrates, and macroalgae. The business provides professional tank setup, custom aquarium design, and ongoing maintenance, including water change service, algae control, and fish health support. All services are delivered with a focus on long-term system stability and aquatic health. The store supports custom installations with tailored solutions based on space, budget, and desired livestock. Special orders are available for specific fish, and delivery services are offered to accommodate customer needs. With a foundation in family ownership and decades of experience, Old Town Aquarium emphasizes reliable, expert guidance for both new and experienced hobbyists. The store maintains a commitment to responsible aquatic care through informed product selection and service delivery.

What they offer

Fish & livestock at Old Town Aquarium in Chicago, IL

Old Town Aquarium specializes in both freshwater and saltwater aquarium systems, offering integrated solutions from setup to long-term care. The store supports a wide range of aquatic environments through verified livestock, equipment, and services. Products include aquariums, filtration, lighting, fish food, live plants, corals, marine fish, invertebrates, and macroalgae. Services such as tank setup, custom aquarium design, aquarium maintenance, water change service, algae control, fish health support, and tank installation are available to ensure system stability. The store’s offerings are grounded in practical application, with support for both beginner and advanced setups. Expert guidance is provided through consultations that consider space, budget, and maintenance expectations. The business’s long-standing presence in Chicago reflects its focus on sustainable, informed aquatic care across diverse water types.

Livestock & products
Aquariums
Aquarium Fish
Macroalgae & Algae
Equipment
Filtration
Supplies
Marine Fish
Invertebrates
Corals
Live Plants
Lighting
Fish Food
Specializes in
Aquarium
Saltwater
Freshwater
Services
Aquarium Maintenance
Water Change Service
Tank Setup
Custom Aquariums
Fish Health Support
Algae Control
Tank Installation
Delivery

Highlights

What makes them special

  • Family-owned business with over 45 years of experience in the aquarium industry.
  • Offers custom aquarium design and professional installation services.
  • Provides ongoing aquarium maintenance with a seven-day fish health guarantee.
  • Supports both freshwater and saltwater systems with tailored products and services.
  • Special orders available for specific fish species with updated status tracking.
  • Delivery and in-store pickup options available for customer convenience.

Reference

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about visiting Old Town Aquarium, based on verified store information.

How many fish can I keep in my aquarium tank?

The capacity of an aquarium depends on various factors including tank size, shape, fish species, and filtration systems. As a general guideline, freshwater aquariums can support approximately one inch of fish per gallon of water. Saltwater aquariums typically accommodate about one-third of this capacity, or roughly three inches of fish per ten gallons. These are broad estimates, and we recommend consulting with our experts for more precise recommendations based on your specific setup.

Do you carry products for freshwater and saltwater aquariums?

Our inventory includes a comprehensive range of fish and aquarium supplies suitable for both freshwater and saltwater environments. We stock equipment, filtration, lighting, fish food, live plants, corals, marine fish, invertebrates, and macroalgae to support diverse aquatic systems. Whether you're setting up a new tank or maintaining an established one, our products are designed to meet the needs of both beginner and experienced hobbyists.

How big of a tank do I need for my aquarium?

We advise selecting the largest tank that your space and budget can accommodate. Larger tanks offer greater stability and are easier to maintain. Our clients consistently express satisfaction with larger setups, while none have regretted not choosing a smaller one. For personalized guidance on the optimal tank size for your specific requirements, please contact our professional team.

Do you sell aquarium water?

We offer filtered freshwater and distilled saltwater specifically formulated for aquarium use. These water types are designed to support stable aquatic environments and are suitable for water changes, tank cycling, and mixing with salt for marine systems. Our water products are available for in-store pickup and delivery to help maintain proper water chemistry and system health.

I'm looking for specific fish; can you get it?

We are able to process special orders for specific fish. Please be aware that availability varies, and some species may require additional time to source. In such cases, we will collect your contact information and update you on the status of your request. Our team works to fulfill orders based on current supply and seasonal availability.

Does Old Town Aquarium offer a guarantee?

We provide a seven-day health guarantee on our fish. Should you observe any issues, we urge you to contact us immediately. This allows us to promptly address your concerns and investigate potential problems. The guarantee applies to fish purchased from our store and is intended to support customer confidence in the health and quality of our livestock.

What should customers know about water change service at this store?

Our water change service involves removing a portion of the tank water, testing parameters, and replacing it with fresh, properly conditioned water. We ensure the new water matches temperature, pH, and salinity to minimize stress on livestock. This service supports stable water chemistry and helps prevent the buildup of nitrates and other waste products.

What should customers know about aquarium maintenance at this store?

Our aquarium maintenance service includes regular inspections, water testing, equipment checks, and adjustments to ensure system stability. We support both freshwater and saltwater systems with a focus on long-term health. Customers benefit from consistent care, early issue detection, and expert recommendations. Maintenance visits are scheduled based on customer needs and system complexity.

What should customers know about custom aquariums at this store?

Our custom aquarium service begins with a consultation to assess space, load limits, and design goals. We work with customers to develop a tailored system that includes stand, glass, filtration, lighting, and livestock planning. The process includes measurements, photos, and budget discussions to ensure the final product meets both aesthetic and functional needs.

What should customers know about tank setup at this store?

Our tank setup service includes selecting appropriate equipment, installing filtration and lighting, cycling the system, and introducing livestock. We tailor the setup to your space, budget, and desired aquatic goals. Our team ensures proper water chemistry, stable parameters, and safe placement of all components to support long-term system health.

Answers are compiled from the store's website and listing data. Hours, inventory, and services can change — call ahead to confirm before visiting.

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