Chicago is the perfect combination of Midwest charm and multicultural urban oasis. Despite it being the third largest city in the United States, Chicago is often overlooked as a tourist destination — much to my disbelief. As a former Chicagoan, I have a sincere soft spot for The Windy City, and I often find myself longing for more blustery days exploring the Midwestern metropolis.
Every time I return to my “home away from home,” I’m blown away by its endless beauty. Between its architectural marvels, modern murals, drool-inducing restaurants, incredible museums, and charming parks, I can vouch: Chicago is a photographer’s delight!
Today, I’m excited to share some of my favorite photogenic gems scattered throughout the city. Here are seven Instagrammable photo spots in Chicago you don’t want to miss!
Helicopter Ride
Booking a helicopter ride above the city is one of the best ways to witness the beauty of Chicago! My biggest suggestion for photographers looking for the perfect shot? Time your helicopter ride right around golden hour so you can photograph the shimmering sunset over the city skyline and massive Lake Michigan. It’s truly stunning and will give you a “lay of the land” from above!
Hero Coffee Bar
Tucked away in a secret alleyway in Chicago’s Loop is Hero Coffee Bar. Trust me when I say, photographers would be remiss without taking the journey to finding it! Hero Coffee Bar’s welcoming twinkle lights outside of its entrance give the cafe a quintessential warm, cozy vibe. It’s the perfect coffee spot to wind down or to people watch — and it doesn’t hurt that it’s incredibly Instagrammable too!
Skydeck at Willis Tower
I’m a firm believer in taking in major metropolises from above. There’s nothing quite like capturing a never-ending skyscrapers. Chicago’s Skydeck at Willis Tower gives photographers a 360-degree view of the Windy City from its 103rd floor — the second tallest building in the Western hemisphere! Be sure to take in the view from The Ledge. It’s an excellent photoshoot location for a unique perspective.
Crown Fountain
The iconic Crown Fountain is a photographer’s must-do when in Chicago. Located in Millennium Park, the Crown Fountain is an interactive public art space that’s a local favorite (especially during those muggy, humid summer months). Energetic, colorful, and filled with ongoing fun, street photographers will love to snap photos of the liveliness that ensues here!
Macy’s Tiffany Glass Ceiling
Located in the historic department store, Macy’s ceiling is one of the most gorgeous and historic in the city! Simply go up to the highest level of the building and make your way to the women’s department to snap a photo of 1.6 million pieces of Tiffany stained-glass. Its colorful mosaic is stunning and unlike any department store I’ve ever witnessed. (P.S. if you’re a real fan of Tiffany’s, the Chicago Cultural Center Landmark Building houses two more stained-glass domes!)
Nature Boardwalk in Lincoln Park
One of my favorites for an escape from the urban sprawl! Lincoln Park’s Nature Boardwalk is a natural ecosystem created to model urban sustainability and conservation. I love that Chicago has green spaces like this. You’ll find lush greenery, singing birds, lakes and more, making it the perfect photo spot for some natural beauty.
Navy Pier
Finally, no trip to Chicago is complete without a trip to the Navy Pier to take in a view of the city’s iconic skyline. This 3,300 foot long pier on the shoreline of Lake Michigan is the place to be, no matter what season you visit the city. Cultural events are constantly planned and it’s a great walking area, stocked with photogenic perspectives of Chicago.
Feature image by Nastasia Yakoub
