The Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
Table of Contents
I can’t believe this was my first trip to the windy city! I made it a point to go to the most instagrammable places in Chicago while I was there. I covered main attractions and found some cooler under the radar locations where you’ll be sure to get some amazing photos too!
1. Cloudgate aka “The Bean”
LOCATION: Millennium Park
The sculpture opened in 2004 and is now one of the most photographed spots in the city! I went in the early morning and the light reflecting off the sculpture as well as the skyline was just so pretty! Definitely a spot you want to get there early for if you don’t want to compete with other photographers.
The Bean, Millennium Park
2. Chicago Theatre
LOCATION: City centre, North State Street, The Loop
There’s something about old school signs and lights that make them so photo worthy! The iconic venue hosts events from sport and music to theatre and comedy. I didn’t have time for a show but definitely had time for a photo!
Chicago theatre
3. Hampton Social
LOCATION: River North, 353 West Hubbard St.
A Hamptons themed bar and restaurant known for its’ “Rose’ all day” sign. I had to go for the Frose in the summer heat! The airy interior makes for a beach vibe.
Hampton Social
4. Beatnik
LOCATION: Westtown or The Loop
If you want to add some tropical vibes to your feed head to Beatnik. I went to the one in Westtown and did not want to leave! From the gorgeous interior, to the colourful food and drinks, this place won’t let you down. It actually did taste as good as it looks! At night they even have DJ’s to get your party on!
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- Beatnik
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- Beatnik
5. Chicago’s First Lady River Cruise on Chicago River
LOCATION: Entrance at Northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive (look for blue awning)
The First Lady cruise was one of the first things I did in Chicago and it was a great way to start the trip. Seeing the city from the river gives a unique perspective and the docent was so full of information. There’s nothing like learning about a city while your floating by. The photo opportunities are amazing, but it’s also a great educational activity.
First Lady River Cruise
6. Sky Deck – The Ledge at the Willis Tower
LOCATION: The Loop, Willis Tower, 233 S Wacker Dr.
The Sky Deck Ledge experience was something I definitely had to do. It actually ended up being pretty scary! Even if you’re afraid of heights, you must grin and bear it for the photo! This location tops the most instagrammable places in Chicago list. Would you go out on the Ledge?
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- Sky Deck, Willis Tower
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- Sky Deck, Willis Tower
7. Michigan Ave.
LOCATION: Lower Michigan Ave, across the river from the Wrigley Building
Most of the bridges going over the Chicago river are metal but if you walk to the side of Michigan street you will spot the stone section. It has a view of the river and a few of Chicago’s skyscrapers including the Wrigley Building over my right shoulder. It’s really cool how the river creates a gap between the buildings and makes it easier to get a full view of them.
Michigan Street
8. Cindy’s Rooftop
LOCATION: The Loop, 12 S Michigan Ave.
Cindy’s Rooftop is classic rooftop in the Athletic Association Hotel. Walk out on to their terrace for a sweeping view of Millennium Park. We had no problem walking into the bar and grabbing a photo, no reservation needed!
Cheers at Cindy’s Rooftop
9. Garfield Park Conservatory
LOCATION: North Central Park Ave. and Lake St.
Check out thousands of plants and even a Moroccan Fountain at the Garfield Park Conservatory. This activity is donation based and you’ll feel like you were transported to a tropical paradise! I’ve always been a fan of greenhouses and this was was even better because it’s free
Fern Room, Garfield Park Conservatory
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- Desert House, Garfield Park Conservatory
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- Zellij fountain, Garfield Park Conservatory
10. Maison Marcel
LOCATION: Lincoln Park, 2008 North Halsted
Maison Marcel has two locations, both which are adorable. This shot is at their takeaway window in Lincoln Park. Unfortunately, it was closed when I arrived. Make sure you check the business hours so your can actually try the coffee!
Maison Marcel takeaway windows
Map of the Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
Other Locations you should check out for the most instagrammable places in Chicago:
- Navy Pier
- Wrigley Field
- North Avenue Beach-from here you’ll get an amazing view of the Chicago Skyline.
- Lake Michigan
- Starewell at the Rookery building
- State and Roosevelt Street
- John Hancock Observatory
- Promontory Point
- La Salle Flower Shop
Heading to Chicago? You an find a full Chicago travel guide here.
Check out my other Photo guides to:
Your pictures are awesome! when did you visit Chicago? I’m planning a weekend in May.
Thanks so much! I went back in August, May should be really fun! Enjoy 🙂
These are amazing! How did you get the one from the outside of the Skydeck?!
Thanks so much Ash! My friend stood in the overhang before the one I’m in to take the photo 🙂
Why’d you copy fashiontravelrepeat blogger? From the places, poses, down to the yellow dress… you’re like 40 so why can’t you come up with your own and be unique. ? I thought I was looking at the same exact blog so I had to go back and check what date you posted this
Hi Cristina!
Me and Vicki are really good friends and travel together often! We went together to Chicago and both had similar ideas on what we wanted to do- we were both fine with the fact that we would be writing similar articles on this occassion 🙂 We also share clothes so please don’t jump to conclusions on things like this!
Best,
Lauren