Nearly 2.17 million visitors discovered the wonders of the water world at Shedd Aquarium in 2012, earning the venue the highest spot in attendance among all aquariums in the US.

The World's Aquarium welcomed exactly 2,169,333 guests, which also helped the iconic Chicago institution hold its ranking as most-attended cultural attraction for the  sixth year in a row.

"The entire Shedd Aquarium organisation is grateful to our supporters who made us the top-attended aquarium in the country last year, which in turn, allows Shedd to provide world-class care for our 32,500 animals, educate the millions of guests who enter our doors and contribute to conservation research globally," said Ted Beattie, president and CEO.

"Each one of our members, guests, donors, partners and other friends of the aquarium enable us to share our passion for animals and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards."