drone-photograph-chicago-river-outer-drive

Famous Chicago Landmarks & the Most Instagrammable Places to Take Pictures in Chicago

All vacations are essentially about the experience – the sights, sounds, and tastes of the attractions you visit and the streets you walk. The way you felt at the top of the Ferris wheel, or the awe you experienced looking down from the top of a 96-story building. Beautiful memories, but all memories fade. You want the pictures you take to be the kind of shots you might frame, the ones you’ll treasure years later. To help you out on your quest to find the perfect photography subjects, we put together a list of the top places to take pictures in Chicago.

Best Ways to See Famous Chicago Landmarks

There’s plenty of great places to snap the perfect instagram photo of famous Chicago landmarks during your trip. Here are a few fun ways to help you get around while sightseeing...

  • Hop On Hop Off Chicago Bus Tour
  • Architecture River Cruise
  • Bike Rental from Bike and Roll Chicago

Here's some more info on fun Chicago sightseeing tours. Many of the photo opps we listed below are located near some of the top attractions in the Chicago – so you can combine the best sights with the best things to do. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

Best Places to Take Pictures in Chicago

1. The Bean in Millenium Park

skyline-reflection-on-bean

1. The Bean in Millenium Park

We’ve all heard of the Bean – a shiny, silver, kidney bean-shaped sculpture in the heart of Millennium Park. It’s actually called “Cloud Gate” because of its reflective qualities, but has been affectionately renamed for obvious reasons. It’s a strange experience to walk up to the Bean and see yourself and the sky above reflected in distorted proportions, but it’s certainly worth a visit. It’s one of the most famous Chicago landmarks to get your picture taken in front of, too, because it’s instantly recognizable. Afterwards, visit the nearby Art Institute of Chicago to see more modern art sculpture.

2. The View from 360 CHICAGO

360-chicago-observation-deck-night-lights

2. The View from 360 CHICAGO

While it’s not the tallest skyscraper in the city (the Willis Tower wins in that category) the open-air sky walk on the 94th floor of 360 CHICAGO provides the perfect line of sight to get those fantastic panoramic photos. This one of the few places in the country where you can take a picture of four states at once! You can also take photos from the 96th floor restaurant, which helps if you’re looking for late-night shots of the skyline, as the sky walk is only open until 10:30. (They also have some really tasty cocktails, I can tell you from personal experience.)

3. The Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza

An icon of twentieth century art innovation, Picasso is known for his use of abstract shapes and re-interpretation of form. This untitled sculpture (usually just called the Chicago Picasso) was actually commissioned specifically by the architects of the Daley Center and has never been displayed anywhere else. For this reason alone, you need to snap a shot of this one-of-a-kind statue. Plus, how many museums let you take photos of Picasso’s work? Daley Plaza is on the Loop, near a number of popular Chicago attractions, so it’s a good central place to start your day.

4. Sue the Dinosaur at The Field Museum

sue-tyrannosaurus-rex-field-museum-chicago

4. Sue the Dinosaur at The Field Museum

As one of the finest natural history museums in the country, The Field Museum certainly has plenty of things to photograph. But museums are often known for one iconic piece or exhibit, and Sue the Dinosaur is that mascot for the Field Museum. She’s actually a T. Rex, and is the largest and best-preserved example of her species ever to be uncovered. While we don’t actually know the gender of the skeleton, it was named Sue after her discoverer, Sue Hendrickson. A shot of Sue is post-card territory.

5. The Chicago Tribune Tower

view-tribune-tower-located-north-michigan

5. The Chicago Tribune Tower

The home of The Chicago Tribune, this neo-Gothic building is regarded as one of the city’s architectural masterpieces. It was built in 1922 as the winning entry in a competition to create the most unique office building in the world – an honor it arguably still holds. There are some gorgeous details on the ground floor, including the engraving and stonework around the doors, but the best shots come from afar. Stand on a nearby bridge across the Chicago River, or take an Architecture River Cruise to get the inside scoop in addition to the photo op.

6. The Chicago Skyline

chicago-skyline-buildings-seen-different-angles

6. The Chicago Skyline

This may seem like a big giant “duh,” but it needed to be said. Along with New York and San Francisco, Chicago is one of the most famous skylines in the nation. Of course, it can be hard to get a good shot of the city when you’re standing in the middle of Randolph Street, so I’d recommend giving yourself a bit of distance. The steps of the Adler Planetarium actually provide an excellent view of the Skyline from multiple angles, with the Museum Campus located just far enough away from downtown to provide that extra bit of perspective.

7. The Lurie Garden

chicago-skyline-lurie-garden

7. The Lurie Garden

A lesser-known botanical garden in the Chicago area, the Lurie Garden is the perfect place to take photos of a wide variety of plant and wildlife. It was designed to demonstrate the ways in which urban spaces could be re-claimed to provide healthy habitats for local flora and fauna. The Garden is located in Millennium Park, and is free to the public. There’s even a small, cool stream that’s perfect to dip your toes in on a hot summer day. A good place to practice taking photographs with your macro mode turned on.

8. The Storefronts along the Magnificent Mile

chicago-illinois-magnificent-mile-street-sign

8. The Storefronts along the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile, several blocks along Michigan Avenue between the Chicago River to Oak Street, is the fashion and shopping capitol of the Midwest. You’ll be able to find everything from H&M to Neiman Marcus, in addition to restaurants, gourmet food stores, and home furnishing stores. The best part from the photographer’s perspective is that each and every one of these stores is competing for the attention of tourists and locals alike, and so they spend a tremendous amount of time and artistic effort in making their storefronts attractive and unique. Even the Target has a visually stunning storefront! It’s a fun place to snap pictures of what is essentially public visual art.

9. Wrigley Field

As the second-oldest baseball stadium in the country, Wrigley Field is a historical institution and a must see Chicago landmark. It has been home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916, and much of the exterior architecture reflects its heritage. Of course, a lot of the interior has been updated very recently to accommodate modern MLB standards, but plenty of historical elements remain -- including the old fashioned scoreboard on the side, proclaiming your presence in Wrigley Field. Even if you’re not a Cubs fan, it’s an iconic building in American professional sports.

10. Lake Michigan

lake-michigan-summer-day-dunes

10. Lake Michigan

The second largest Great Lake, Lake Michigan is actually so large you can’t see the other side (it even has tides!). So taking a picture can be a bit intimidating in terms of choosing your angle, say, on a beach. I've tried and it kind of just looks like an ocean. I’ve got a solution for you – go higher up. One of the best places to get a shot of Lake Michigan is from the top of the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. The wheel intentionally moves slowly enough to allow riders to take shots of the city, the Pier, and the Lake itself, so it’s the perfect opportunity to get one of those glittering lakeview shots.

Let's Recap

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it does contain a bunch of our favorite places to take pictures in Chicago. From the most popular attractions to skyline views and scenic parks, there’s something to suit every taste when it comes to Chicago photo opportunities. Remember, a number of these famous Chicago landmarks and attractions are available with the Go Chicago Card, where you can save on combined admission prices vs. paying at the gate.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Chicago
Blog

Romantic Things to Do in Chicago - Valentine's Day & More

Looking to plan a romantic getaway with your sweetheart? There are so many wonderfully romantic things to do in Chicago that it’s hard to choose our favorites. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Chicago, either for Valentine's Day or for a romantic trip any time of year, check out a few of our top suggestions. The Signature Lounge at Hancock Center Located atop the well-known John Hancock Center you'll find the romantic cocktail bar known as The Signature Lounge. The view from the 96th floor is phenomenal (to say the least), and the food and drink are equally exquisite. This is the perfect spot to wind down after a busy day or get geared up for a romantic evening out. Keep in mind that this venue is in high demand, and will both fill up quickly and come at a high price per drink. (I, for one, tend to limit myself to sipping a single drink slowly to enjoy the view.) If you'd like the take this evening to the next level -- literally -- a visit to 360 CHICAGO (just a bit lower on the tower) is a delightful addition to a romantic drink or two. You'll get to see the city skyline from above, including the shoreline of Lake Michigan and the easily identifiable Navy Pier Centennial wheel. Skydeck Chicago (top of Willis Tower) Looking out from the Skydeck Chicago observation deck at the top of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) is one of the most romantic things to do in Chicago. You'll enjoy 360-degree views from the second tallest tower in the western hemisphere, taking your love to new heights in a serious way. For the most romantic view, head to the Skydeck at sunset or after dark when the city lights are glowing. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago If you’re a fan of art, then there are few places as romantic, in Chicago, as the #1 rated museum in the country, the Art Institute of Chicago. They’ve got some of the best collections of Impressionist Art, some gorgeous Chagall stained glass windows, plus an impressive array of sculpture, textiles, antiquities and more. Check out their seasonal special exhibits for details on new and exciting things on display right now, or hit up their permanent collections for a few love-themed pieces like their collection of 19th century Valentines and sexy photographs. Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier This 15-story Centennial Wheel is located at one of the most visited attractions in Chicago, at the exciting Navy Pier. Recently redesigned as part of their centennial project, the Centennial Wheel offers beautiful sights at thrilling heights. You can even enjoy free days once per month! From the top of the famous Centennial wheel, you and your partner will escape the crowd for a few minutes for some alone time with the scenic skyline and Lake Michigan views. After you disembark from the Centennial Wheel, Navy Pier is a lakeside wonderland to explore. You'll find romantic restaurants, shops, and other top-class attractions as you stroll along with your loved one. If you plan it right, you can even pick up tickets to a show at the well-regarded Shakespeare Theater, also located on the Pier. Attend a Show Chicago’s theater scene is pretty unbeatable when it comes to variety and quality of performances. From the traditional (like you’d find at the Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier) to the avant-garde, there’s something for all tastes. Because a theatrical performance is a pretty hot idea for Valentine’s Day, be sure to secure tickets in advance! You may be able to find discounted tickets by signing up for theater-specific mailing lists and websites like Goldstar. Stroll the Beautiful Parks While Millennium Park is often the favorite for cultural activities and current events, Grant Park has just as much in the way of sightseeing and beautiful scenery. Or, check out the Lurie Garden to find the hidden beauty of wintertime plants. Whichever venue you choose, the real treasure is in the journey. If you’re planning a date in the warmer months, be sure to check out Buckingham Fountain, a truly impressive array of water jets set against the impressive Chicago skyline. Of course, if you're visiting during the winter months around Valentine's Day and can't bear the Chicago winter cold, then a visit to the Chicago Botanic Garden is another nice option. Stick with their indoor exhibits to see some lovely tropical plants and flowers. Enjoy a Romantic Meal A romantic dinner is a classic for a reason. It’s hard to go wrong with a well-researched dinner venue this time of year, especially if they’re offering special Valentine’s Day meals or menus. It’s a great break from your own cooking and a good way to pry yourself away from Netflix. Downtown Chicago has tons of great restaurant options, many of which are in easy distance of several other great attractions to help you plan a larger itinerary. Remember to book your table early on a site like OpenTable to avoid last-minute panic! Remember to Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it. Our list of some romantic things to do in Chicago, just in time for Valentine's Day. Remember, some of these great options are included on the All-Inclusive Pass and the Explorer Pass from Go City, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate.
Katie Sagal
Blog

Fun Facts About Chicago: Your Essential Trivia

How much do you know about Chicago? Test your knowledge of the Windy City with our trivia below. These fun facts are sure to come in handy on your Chicago vacation! Top Chicago facts 1-10 The world’s very first skyscraper was erected in the city in 1885. Skydeck Chicago is a film star! Catch a glimpse of the experience in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The Willis Tower is the eighth tallest building in the world, coming in at 1,450 feet and 110 stories tall. Chicago invented deep-dish pizza. The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel was preceded by an iconic Ferris wheel, which welcomed over 17 million riders in its ten-year life span. Historic Route 66 begins in Chicago (and terminates in Santa Monica, CA). The Field Museum’s newest addition is Máximo the Titanosaur: the largest dinosaur ever discovered, weighing 70 tons. Chicago is known as “The Windy City” for the bombast of its politicians—not for its weather. Chicago is home to an impressive 56 museums, including the famous Art Institute of Chicago. The Taste of Chicago — a summer legend in Chicago — is the world’s largest free outdoor food festival. Top Chicago facts 11-20 The Museum of Contemporary Art is the only museum in the city to feature dozens of works with the title, “Untitled.” Batman’s iconic Gotham City was based on Chicago; not, as many people assume, NYC. The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the world’s rare free zoos. Malört, one of the most distinctive liquors in the world (and some say the most unpalatable), was created in Chicago. Today, more than 90% of the national consumption of Malört is still confined to the greater Chicago area. The Adler Planetarium was America’s first planetarium. The Adler Planetarium is also one of the best places to get a great view of the skyline. The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world, with more than 400,000 square feet of exhibit space. The renowned Pablo Picasso sculpture, created specifically for the city and located in Richard J. Daley Plaza, weighs an intimidating 162 tons. It is also called 'Untitled'. Chicago's Brookfield Zoo was the first such institution in the world to successfully perform brain surgery on a gorilla. The Brookfield Zoo is also known for its majestic fountain, named for Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States who is remembered for expanding protections on wildlife. Top Chicago facts 21-25 The Chicago Theater's grand lobby is inspired by the Royal Chapel at Versailles. The Chicago Theater also boasts one of the oldest Wurlitzer pipe organs remaining in existence. The Ernest Hemingway Home was the first house to have electricity in Oak Park. The American Writer’s Museum is the only museum in the world devoted exclusively to American writers and their works. The Shedd Aquarium has more than 32,000 animal inhabitants. Save on attractions Admission to many popular Chicago attractions is included with a pass for Chicago with Go City®. You could make big savings vs paying at the gate. Share your trip with us Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share your adventure with us. Tag us at @GoCity and use #GoCityPass on your travel photos to keep us up to date with your vacation!
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon