Cloud Gate

CHICAGO INSTAGRAM SPOTS

Want to know where the best Chicago Instagram Spots are located? Look no further than this post. I grew up just an hour and a half from Chicago and would visit frequently growing up. I’ve included the top Instagram-worthy photo spots in Chicago with the exact location and some photography tips. Let’s get into the list!

> See the Map at the end of this post for exact Chicago Photo locations!

SKYDECK CHICAGO

233 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606

Want the most epic photo in Chicago? Make sure you add the Skydeck Chicago on your list! Located on top of the Willis Tower 103 floors up, you find unobstructed views of the Windy City.

The coolest feature of the Skydeck is the glass boxes that protrude from the building. Only if you dare you can take in the views with nothing underneath you! At first, it’s a bit freaky (I’m terrified of heights) but I got used to it after a while.

TIP: They do limit your time in the box to 2 minutes per group so be sure to not waste any time! Get your camera settings ready and know what pose you want before you get into the box. Once in don’t look down if you are scared of heights and pose away!

Ticket Prices are children to adult $22-$26. 

CLOUD GATE

201 Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60602

Another famous photo in Chicago is Cloud Gate (AKA the Bean). It’s an Instagram-worthy public sculpture by British artist Sir Anish Kapoor. What makes this structure so interesting is the mirror reflections the bean creates.

Currently, due to COVID, there are barricades up to promote social distancing, but you can still enjoy the view with fewer people around. I would recommend getting there in the morning, but it doesn’t have to be super early!

HAMPTON SOCIAL 

353 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654

Rose All Day anyone? Sign me up for that. Hampton Social is a  super Instagrammable restaurant in Chicago is a favorite. To snap a photo in front of the ‘Rose All Day’ sign make a reservation for the first available time slot. Hampton Social does get busy during the day and it might be hard to get a photo mid-service.

I love this place for the decor, but the food is equally as good! The menu includes bar favorites like deviled eggs, chicken wings, gourmet pizza, large plates with fresh seafood, and of course burgers.

MICHIGAN AVENUE

Michigan Avenue is one of the most iconic streets in Chicago. It runs north to South and lines Millennium Park and is home to the top shopping in Chicago.

Head to the lower half of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street for a pretty manicured city view of Chicago.

NORTH AVENUE BEACH 

Located in Lincoln Park on the water, you’ll find a long pathway that offers beautiful views of the Chicago Skyline. This spot does not have a direct address, but I’ve located it on the map at the end of this post!

For the best lighting, coming here right before sunset would be beautiful. However, if you are tight on your itinerary any time will offer the same view!

FLAMINGO WALL 

601 N. Wells Street

If you are a fan of Murals, be sure to check out the Pink Flamingo. While the flamingo mural has been painted over as of August 2020, you can find an equally beautiful mural of a songbird. The great thing about this location is that is never busy so you can be sure to ger a great shot!

SUMMER HOUSE CHICAGO

1954 N Halsted St, Chicago IL 60614

Say ‘Yes” to Summer House Chicago, located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, offers a photogenic space with amazing cuisine. Everything is based on the warm and laid back vibes of California, and space reflects that.

Try to make a reservation in one of the booths for the perfect Instagram worthy spot. Also, the food does not disappoint so be sure to indulge in some cocktails and fresh cuisine.

CHICAGO THEATER

175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

The Chicago Theater is a landmark theater and was built in 1921. The exterior reflects the history of Chicago and is super Instagram Worthy! You can take photos right in front of the theater, or try for an angle across the street.

Tip: Try to take photos during sunset to get the Chicago neon sign to really light up!

SHORE CLUB CHICAGO

1603 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610

Want a colorful photo spot on the beach? Head to Shore Club Chicago. This is a fun upbeat restaurant with Meditteranean fare, oversized copper cocktails, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

This space is quite large, so you can take photos at your table, or you can head out the sand area and snap a photo in one of the Cabanas. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Z BAR CHICAGO

108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611

Z Bar Chicago offers amazing views of Michigan Avenue and direct views of the John Hancock building. Z Bar isn’t located that high but offers an awesome view where you can still recognize people on the street.

The cocktails are on the pricer side, however the service, views, and entire experience are worth it. I went around opening time and it wasn’t too busy. But I would recommend making a reservation, especially on the weekends.

DU SABLE BRIDGE

The Du Sable Bridge is an iconic Chicago Instagram Spot that overlooks one of the most famous viewpoints in Chicago. This exact location is right next to the Wrigley Building and Michigan Avenue.

You can take this photo throughout the entire day as it doesn’t get too busy, and it’s one of my personal favorite locations.

LH ROOFTOP 

85 East Wacker Drive At, N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60601

Located on top of the London House Hotel is LH Rooftop. What makes this rooftop unique is it has three chic levels of bar and event space 21 floors on top of Chicago.

Everywhere on this rooftop has amazing views, so you won’t be disappointed. I took photos inside the clock tower which is a popular spot amongst wedding photos.

Be sure to make a reservation for your visit, as the line to get in busy the entire day. (Due to COVID, no bar seating or standing room is available, only tables) Once on top, the views are beautiful and worth the wait.

CHICAGO RIVER CRUISE 

112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

There’s something so unique about seeing the Chicago skyline from the River. Take the Chicago Architecture River cruise to get amazing views of the city, all the while learning more about the amazing Architecture.

Each tour is 90 Minutes long and has outdoor seating. Be sure to bring a camera along as you can get some really awesome photos.

BEATNIK ON THE RIVER

Beatnik on the River – Francis Son

180 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Last but not least is Beatnik on the River, a bohemian restaurant with river seating offers an escape from the city. The restaurant has beautiful 60’s inspired decor and inventful colorful cocktails.

Chicago Instagram Spots Map View:

Hope you found some photoge