Chicago is a lively city with many beautiful places to visit. It’s a great place for taking photos, whether you’re a tourist, a local, or an influencer. The city has a mix of famous landmarks, parks, and hidden gems that are perfect for Instagram.
In this guide, we’ll show you some of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. These spots are not only photogenic but also fun to explore.
Top Instagrammable Places in Chicago
Chicago is full of spots that will look amazing on your Instagram. From well-known landmarks to peaceful parks, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top places you shouldn’t miss.
Iconic Landmarks
Chicago is known for its iconic landmarks. These places are famous for a reason – they’re beautiful and perfect for photos.
Cloud Gate (The Bean)
Cloud Gate, also called “The Bean,” is one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks. It’s made of shiny metal and reflects the city’s skyline. The Bean is great for photos because of its unique shape and the way it reflects everything around it. For the best pictures, try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening when the light is soft, and there are fewer people. You can take photos from all angles to get the perfect shot of the reflection.
Willis Tower Skydeck
The Willis Tower Skydeck gives you an amazing view of Chicago. You can see the whole city from the top, and on a clear day, you can even see parts of other states. The coolest part of the Skydeck is the “Ledge.” It’s a glass box that sticks out from the building, and you can stand inside it for a thrilling photo. It’s one of the best places for unique shots in the city. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning. The lighting will also be better for your photos.
Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain is one of the largest fountains in the world and is located in Grant Park. It’s a great place for photos, especially when the water is lit up at night. The fountain looks amazing with colorful lights at night, and you can get a variety of shots, including close-ups and wide-angle views. The best time to visit for photos is in the evening or late afternoon when the fountain is running and the lighting is perfect.
Also read: San Diego Premier Dinner Cruise: An Evening of Luxury and Views
Scenic Parks and Natural Spots
While Chicago has many famous landmarks, it also has beautiful parks and nature spots where you can take stunning photos. These places offer a peaceful break from the busy city.
Lincoln Park Zoo and Nature Boardwalk
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and is free to visit. It’s home to many animals, but the Nature Boardwalk is the best part for photos. The Boardwalk is a path through a beautiful wetland area with views of the city skyline. It’s a great spot to take photos of nature, wildlife, and the city all in one shot. The boardwalk is peaceful, and the photos look especially good when the light is soft in the morning or evening.
Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest plant conservatories in the U.S. Inside, you’ll find different rooms with tropical plants, desert plants, and flowers. The bright sunlight filtering through the glass roof makes everything look even more beautiful. This place is perfect for nature lovers who want to take colorful and lively photos. For the best photos, visit in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and not too harsh.
Olive Park at Ohio Street Beach
Olive Park, located next to Ohio Street Beach, has one of the best views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. This is a great place to take photos, especially at sunset when the light is golden and the city skyline looks beautiful against the lake. The park is peaceful, and you can take pictures of the lake, the beach, or the skyline. The best time to visit is in the evening to catch the sunset or during the day when you can get clear shots of the skyline.
Also read: New York City Travel Guide: Iconic Sites and Local Tips
Artistic Murals and Unique Locations
Chicago also has some great murals and unique spots that are perfect for Instagram photos. These places are colorful, creative, and give you a chance to take fun and artistic pictures.
Greetings from Chicago Mural
The “Greetings from Chicago” mural is a well-known artwork in Logan Square. It looks like a vintage postcard with images of the city’s landmarks. The bright colors make it a perfect spot for a fun Instagram photo. It’s best to visit during the day when the mural is brightly lit and the colors pop.
Flamingo Rum Club Mural
Another vibrant mural is the Flamingo Rum Club mural in the West Loop. It features a large, colorful flamingo and bold designs. It’s a great place to add a fun, lively backdrop to your photos. The best time to visit is during the day when the colors are most vivid.
The Honeycomb at Lincoln Park Zoo
The Honeycomb is an interesting structure at Lincoln Park Zoo. Its geometric design looks like a honeycomb and makes a unique photo opportunity. Try taking pictures from different angles to capture the cool shapes and shadows.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
If you want a photo with a view of the city, Chicago’s rooftop bars are the place to be. They offer amazing views of the skyline, especially at sunset or at night when the lights are shining.
Cindy’s Rooftop
Cindy’s Rooftop is on top of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. It has a great view of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. It’s a relaxed spot with comfy seating and perfect for photos. The best time to visit is around sunset when the light gives a warm glow to the city.
The Wit Hotel Rooftop Bar
The Wit Hotel Rooftop Bar also offers great views of the Chicago skyline. It has a modern and stylish atmosphere, making it a perfect backdrop for photos. Visit in the evening when the city lights make the skyline even more beautiful.
More Instagrammable Places in Chicago
Chicago is full of hidden gems and picture-perfect spots beyond the iconic landmarks. If you’re looking for more places to snap an Instagram-worthy shot, here are ten more locations you shouldn’t miss. Each offers its own unique charm and stunning views, perfect for your next post.
- Navy Pier
A classic Chicago attraction with beautiful waterfront views, ferris wheel, and the city skyline in the background. - The Chicago Theatre
Capture the famous marquee of this historic theater—it’s one of the most iconic sights in the city. - The Art Institute of Chicago
Home to incredible art, the museum’s exterior and the bronze lion statues are perfect for photos. - Montrose Beach
For a beachy vibe with a view of the city, Montrose Beach offers a peaceful spot to capture the skyline over Lake Michigan. - Wrigley Field
If you’re a baseball fan, this historic stadium offers amazing photo opportunities, especially during a game. - The Rookery Building
Known for its beautiful architecture and the stunning glass-domed atrium, this building is perfect for indoor photos. - Lincoln Park Conservatory
This lush indoor garden is perfect for nature lovers, with vibrant plants and flowers to make your photos pop. - Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk offers beautiful views of the city’s architecture, perfect for both daytime and evening shots. - The Field Museum
Snap a photo in front of the giant dinosaur display or capture the stunning building from the outside. - Pilsen Neighborhood Murals
This colorful neighborhood is covered in vibrant murals, making it a great spot for artsy photos.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Instagram Shot
Here are a few tips to help you take the best photos at Chicago’s Instagrammable spots:
- Best times of day for lighting: The best time for photos is early in the morning or just before sunset. The light is soft and warm during these times, which makes for beautiful photos.
- Recommended angles and poses: Try different angles to make your photos stand out. For example, take a shot from below at Cloud Gate to get a great reflection. At rooftop bars, capture the skyline or city lights in the background.
- Equipment suggestions: You don’t need expensive gear to take great photos. A smartphone with a good camera is enough. If you want more professional shots, a DSLR camera will help. A tripod is also a good idea if you want steady shots, especially in low light.
Conclusion
Chicago is full of Instagrammable places, from famous landmarks like Cloud Gate to hidden gems like the Lincoln Park Zoo. Whether you’re capturing the city skyline from a rooftop or photographing colorful murals, there are so many great spots to take pictures.
Don’t forget to take lots of photos and share them with your friends on Instagram. There’s no shortage of amazing places to snap in this vibrant city!
Things to do in Chicago
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Self-Guided Chicago Scavenger Hunt: Chicago Loop – $13.08 Discover Chicago’s best landmarks and hidden gems with this fun scavenger hunt! Perfect for groups, you’ll answer trivia questions and take on challenges while exploring the city. It’s ideal for birthdays, team-building, or just a fun outing! |
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Chicago Hauntings Ghost Walk – $40.00 Step into Chicago’s spooky past with a ghost tour! Visit haunted sites, explore Chicago’s criminal history, and even become a paranormal investigator using tools to find spirits on this one-of-a-kind tour. |
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Chicago Premier Plus Brunch Cruise – $109.90 Sail down the Chicago River and enjoy a delicious brunch with amazing views of the city’s skyline. The cruise features bottomless mimosas, a plated brunch menu, and entertainment while you relax and enjoy the sights. |
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Architectural and Historical Private Tour – $199.00 Learn about Chicago’s history and architecture with a private guide. Discover famous buildings and the stories behind them, from Roman styles to modern skyscrapers. It’s a deep dive into Chicago’s architectural wonders. |
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Autumn Maple Foliage Tour – $148.00 Take a scenic drive to view the stunning fall colors around Lake Geneva. Enjoy a boat tour to get different views of the colorful maple leaves. It’s the perfect way to experience autumn’s beauty in Wisconsin. |
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Windmill Island Tulip Festival Day Tour – $192.00 Experience the beauty of tulip fields and European-style architecture in Holland, Michigan. This springtime tour takes you to Windmill Island, where you’ll see tulips in full bloom, and enjoy a unique dune ride in Saugatuck. |
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Isabella Ramirez is a Colombian writer with a decade of freelance experience, infusing her work with the vibrant spirit of Bogotá where she was born and raised. Alongside her passion for writing, she finds solace in the company of dogs and draws inspiration from her travels around the globe. Isabella’s versatile portfolio reflects her diverse interests and curiosity about the world, with each piece reflecting her unique perspective and love for storytelling.
