The Most Instagrammable Spots in Chicago

North America / United States of America / Chicago /

Where to Find those Photogenic Spots in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city with attractions and activities at every turn. From the iconic skyline to beautiful parks and lakefront views, there's no shortage of photo-worthy moments. Bring your camera, keep your eyes open for an interesting angle, and have fun while you're at it. Combine this with Chicago's incredible culture scene, and you've got the perfect recipe for a great vacation full of photographic memories.

Photographic Spots in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city with attractions and activities at every turn. From the iconic skyline to beautiful parks and lakefront views, there's no shortage of photo-worthy moments. Bring your camera, keep your eyes open for an interesting angle, and have fun while you're at it. Combine this with Chicago's incredible culture scene, and you've got the perfect recipe for a great vacation full of photographic memories.

The Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building is one of the most notable early skyscrapers in Chicago. It was built in the 1920s and has two towers - a 30 story south tower and a 21 story north tower - with a walkway between the two on the 14th floor. This was also the first air conditioned building in Chicago.
400-410 N Michigan Ave, The Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL, 60611
Website
Planning a trip to Chicago? You might also be interested in The Best Views In Chicago and Things to Do In Chicago on a Rainy Day.
North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is a popular summer destination when it fills with locals playing volleyball and families playing in the sand. Swimming is popular when the water gets warm and there is plenty of water sports equipment available for rent including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and jet skis. Bands frequently play at the beach house and there's also ice cream and margaritas available.
1601 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL, 60611
Website
Navy Pier
Navy Pier
The Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions. It opened in 1916 as an amusement and entertainment area and today it includes about 50 acres of gardens, parks, restaurants, shops, and concert venues. One of the most iconic parts of the Navy Pier is the 150 foot ferris wheel, which offers breathtaking views over the city and lake. There's also a classic historic carousel in Navy Pier Park. Head hear to pick up a boat tour as well.
600 East Grand Avenue, Streeterville, Chicago, IL
Website
Centennial Wheel
Centennial Wheel was built in 1995 and offers a classic Chicago experience along the Navy Pier. It reaches a height of 200 feet and offers 360 degree views of the city and Lake Michigan. The ferris wheel has large enclosed gondolas with very open city views. The enclosed space offers reassurance so even those with a fear of heights can enjoy the experience.
Navy Pier, Streeterville, Chicago, IL, 60611
Website
Chinatown
Chicago's Chinatown is a unique area to explore with authentic Asian grocery stores, family-owned restaurants, and excellent dumplings and dim sum. The neighborhood has a number of beautiful archways, pagodas, and statues. There are also shops that sell traditional items next to souvenirs and other trinkets. The original part of Chinatown runs along Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue. Chinatown Square mall is in the area as well.
Chicago, IL
Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is one of the most famous shopping neighborhoods in the world. It's lined with brand name retail shops, boutique designers, historic hotels, luxury brands, large shopping centers, one-of-a-kind stores, and unique attractions. This neighborhood also has the original American Girl Place, Water Tower Place, and The Drake Hotel where you can enjoy high tea at the historic Palm Court.
Chicago, IL
Cloud Gate (The Bean)
Cloud Gate (The Bean)
"The Bean" is a 110 ton stainless steel sculpture that was designed by Anish Kapoor. It's surface is a mirror and the shape of the structure was inspired by a drop of liquid mercury. During the winter months, there is a public ice skating rink surrounding The Bean.
201 E Randolph St, Millennium Park, Chicago, IL, 60602
Website
Planning a trip to Chicago? You might also be interested in A History Lover's Guide to Chicago and Chicago's Best Architectural Landmarks.
Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago River is an iconic part of the city, and it runs parallel to the lakeshore through the heart of the city. The Riverwalk is along a popular stretch of the river, and it's lined with many great restaurants and some of Chicago's most impressive architecture. You can wander along the Riverwalk, rest at one of the many benches, take in the impressive views or simply people watch.
Loop, Chicago, IL, 60601
Website
Willis Tower
Willis Tower
The Willis Tower, still called the Sears Tower by most locals, is a 110 story skyscraper that was completed in 1973. For 25 years it was the tallest building in the world. The tower's observation deck is famous for its glass boxes, with glass floors, which give visitors a unique view of the city.
233 South Wacker Drive, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60606
Website
Crown Fountain
Crown Fountain
Crown Fountain is a video sculpture and work of art that's located in Chicago's Millennium Park. It opened in 2004 and has a black granite reflecting pool between two glass brick towers that display digital videos. The water is turned on between the months of May and October.
Crown Fountain, Loop, Chicago, Illinois
How much does it cost to visit the most photographed places of Chicago?

Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $89 to $135. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $112. A few of the best options are below.

Where to Stay in Chicago

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