I knew Chicago was great, BUT I didn’t know how great it was until I saw the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. Hear me out:
Chicago is full of attractions left and right — think river walks, beaches, historical landmarks and more.
But some of the absolute best things to do and see also happen to be the most photo worthy — trust me, I’ve lived here and visited several times!
I’m taking you beyond the touristy landmarks and showing you hidden gems, from cute cafés to aesthetic restaurants and picturesque gardens. They’ll be fun to explore and give you the best photo ops.
Let’s dive in!
Quick Tip: Find out if 2 days in Chicago is enough if you have limited time.
Camera Gear I Use
Before we get to some of the best Chicago Instagram spots, I recommend using high-quality camera gear if you’re a content creator or looking to level up your photography skills.
This way, you can make the most of your trip and enhance your content.
- Sony a6400 (>>check prices) — A favorite among photographers, myself included. If you’d prefer a mirrorless one, then the Canon EOS R is an excellent alternative.
- Sony 24-70 f/2.8 (>>check availability) — A versatile lens that’s suitable for all types of photography, including landscapes and portraits.
Hot Tip: Find out how you can make money as a content creator.
List of the Most Aesthetic Places in Chicago
- Navy Pier
- Field Museum
- Lakeshore Drive
- Hero Coffee
- Palmer House
- 2D Restaurant
- Magnificent Mile
- Grant Park
- Garfield Park Conservatory
- Olive Park
- Waterfall Hikes
- North Avenue
- Oak Street
- Montrose Beach
- Ohio Street Beach
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Jackson Junge Gallery
- Street Art and Murals
- The Honeycomb in Lincoln Park
- The Bean in Millenium Park
- The Chicago Theatre
- The Skydeck at Willis Tower
- The Wrigley Building
- Restaurants Along the Chicago Riverwalk
- Maison Marcel
- 3 Arts Café
And at the end of this blog, I have a map of all these places for you!
Iconic Instagrammable Places in Chicago
If you’re short on time, these are the Instagrammable places in Chicago I would prioritize!
#1 Navy Pier
Navy Pier has been one of my favorite Chicago areas since I was a kid growing up in the city and once again, it’s an icon that deserves a spot on your Instagrammable list.
You have so many photo options here: Take a picture with the ferris wheel, the stage, along the pier, or on the grassy areas.
You can’t go wrong!
#2 The Field Museum
The Field Museum is *chef’s kiss iconic. You have to go, you have to take pictures, no questions asked.
Everytime I am in Chicago, and this was especially true during my recent visit, I am reminded of just how beautiful every inch of the main lobby in the museum is.
The lobby is where Sue used to sit, but she’s a queen (lawl) and was moved to her own area of the museum.
Nonetheless, when you come here I recommend snapping some pictures!
For a different perspective, you can always go to the second floor and take some top down photos.
#3 Palmer House
The Palmer House is what I would describe as an opulent hotel located near the Chicago Theatre.
As soon as you enter, you feel like you stepped into some sort of palace.
The details, especially in the main hall, are nothing short of amazing.
I practically broke my neck staring at the ceiling, LOL.
#4 Magnificent Mile
I mean, come on, you HAVE to visit the Magnificent Mile and snap a few pics.
This is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago because of the sheer amount of architectural beauty and pure city vibes.
You have the Tribune Tower, the shopping, the river — it’s a must-see!
#5 Hero Coffee
Okay what even IS this coffee shop? Hero coffee is a vibe and a half and you need to be there ASAP.
This is an adorable coffee shop tucked away in an unassuming alley.
Come here and grab a hot latte, then sit at one of their outside bistro seats, and take some vibey pics that look like you’re in Paris to make all your friends jealous LOL.
#6 Lakeshore Drive
Lakeshore Drive is so famous there are songs written about it and if you don’t get a pic along here somewhere, you’re missing out!
It would be difficult to take a photo right on the drive itself, but you can stop along a park or beach on the drive and snap away.
I get more into my suggestions for those in the next sections!
Instagram-Worthy Places in Chicago for Nature Lovers
Known for its vast green spaces, you can’t go wrong with these lush gardens dotted throughout and beyond Chicago.
#7 Garfield Park Conservatory
Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and prettiest botanical conservatories you’ll find.
Many describe it as “landscape art under glass,” as the massive glass dome houses thousands of plant species.
It features leafy indoor gardens and 10 acres of outdoor gardens with a water lily pond and stunning landscapes perfect for photography.
The Conservatory is open year-round, and reservations are free but required to enter. Find out more about the reservations and visiting hours right here.
#8 Olive Park
Milton Lee Olive Park is a lake-front observation deck that offers gorgeous views of the city skyline.
The park has several seating areas, circular fountains, and lovely tree-lined pathways.
While underrated, it has become a hotspot for proposals, as couples pose in front of Lake Michigan and the high-rise buildings behind it.
So, if you want amazing skyline views and to pose with your doggo (since it’s dog-friendly), then I can’t recommend this urban oasis enough.
#9 Waterfall Hikes
The areas surrounding Chicago have no shortage of nature trails to explore, and among them are waterfall hikes.
Waterfalls are a guaranteed way to show off a place’s natural beauty, and they look absolutely stunning on the gram.
Waterfall Glen Forest Reserve is about a 20-minute drive outside Chicago but worth the effort as you’ll find various tranquil waterfalls on Sawmill Creek.
Then, for awe-inspiring scenery, take a day trip to Starved Rock State Park.
It has stunning rock formations, white-tailed deer, and majestic waterfalls about a 90-minute drive from Chicago.
#10 Grant Park
Grant park is super accessible and a really photogenic park you can enjoy in the city!
It features fountains and grassy areas you can use for pics.
Not to mention, it sits right along the lake making it super Instagrammable!
Picture Perfect Beaches in Chicago
Chicago beaches are something else. Instead of mountainous or tropical backdrops, you’ll have the city skyline on the shores.
Here are some of the best beaches for golden hour photography.
#11 North Avenue
North Avenue is Chicago’s most popular and Instagram-ready beach.
It draws large crowds for many reasons, but in this case, you’ll want to be here for breathtaking Chi-town skyline shots!
Now, just imagine coming here during sunset, the golden hues hitting the high-rise buildings and calm, blue waters.
It’s another popular spot for proposal and engagement shoots, and once you’ve been there, you’ll understand why.
#12 Oak Street
Over at sandy Oak Street Beach, you can enjoy scenic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from a kayak or a paddleboard.
This Gold Coast beach is also known for its volleyball tournaments, sunbathing, and Jeff Zimmermann’s colorful mural “You Know What You Should Do.”
It’s also a pretty popular beach, so expect it to be on the crowded side.
#13 Montrose Beach
If you want a beach where you can take some selfies with your pooch, come to Montrose Beach.
This dog-friendly fenced-off beach area offers wonderful moments and photo ops for you and your furry friend.
Sitting near the Uptown neighborhood, it makes for a pleasant place for sunrise photos. Parking is pretty tight, which is why I recommend coming here early in the morning.
#14 Ohio Street Beach
Ohio Street Beach is a fabulous urban beach with pristine, peaceful waters and skyscrapers right on the shore.
Like most Chicago beaches, it gets quite busy, but if you come during sunrise or sunset, you can benefit from the golden hour lighting and fewer people.
The beach is within walking distance of Navy Pier, another picturesque and Instagram-worthy attraction, and is easily accessible via the Lakefront Trail.
Cute Places in Chicago for Artsy Vibes
Chicago has a bubbling arts and culture scene.
Museums and galleries are ideal for fashionable, close-up shots to express yourself through ‘fits and makeup.
Then, street art and murals are perfect for casual, laid-back pics against alluring backdrops.
#15 Art Institute of Chicago
Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country.
With such a long history, it is no surprise that its art collection spans centuries around the globe. Pose next to iconic artwork, from well-known classics to lesser-known pieces.
These include The Bedroom by Vincent van Gogh, American Gothic by Grant Wood, and others by Salvador Dali, Georgia O’Keeffe, Claude Monet, and Francis Bacon.
Stay up-to-date with upcoming events, opening times, and fees on the official website.
#16 Jackson Junge Gallery
While the Art Institute receives more visitors, Jackson Junge Gallery is a hidden gem for those who prefer fewer crowds.
It’s such an aesthetic little gallery filled with vibrant and interesting art pieces.
These range from “surreal, expressionistic” paintings by owner Laura Lee Junge to works by other contemporary artists.
Jackson Junge Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers exploring Chicago.
Visit anywhere between 11:00 am to 8:00 pm from Monday through Saturday and 11:00 am – 7:00 pm on Sundays.
#17 Street Art and Murals
Chicago is a living canvas with thousands of square feet of murals, making it one of the best cities for street art photography.
It’s not everyone’s aesthetic, but those who love the brightly colored walls and emotions captured within the murals know how good it looks on your page.
These colorful and intricate pieces make an ideal backdrop for portraits, which you can pair with streetwear outfits.
Wabash Arts Corridor is a fantastic place to start, with 20 large-scale murals along Wabash Avenue.
Then, head over to Pilsen for murals inspired by Mexican culture.
Finally, Logan Square is a funky, hip neighborhood dotted with murals.
Instagrammable Landmarks in Chicago
They say Chicago is known for its architecture. The following iconic landmarks are sure to showcase this point.
#18 The Honeycomb in Lincoln Park
This honeycomb-like structure is a relatively unknown site in the Lincoln Park neighborhood.
Lincoln Park itself is a haven for nature lovers with indoor botanical gardens, manicured gardens, and lakefront green spaces.
However, the Honeycomb offers a more unique perspective, so it’s become a popular spot for staged photo shoots and selfies.
#19 The Bean in Millenium Park
Cloud Gate, affectionately named “the Bean,” is a famous sculpture synonymous with the Chicago experience.
It’s the most photographed and recognizable public art in the city.
This genius outdoor sculpture is the work of architect Anish Kapoor, acting as the centerpiece of the bustling Grainger Plaza at Millennium Park.
The Bean is a 110-ton elliptical sculpture forged from 168 massive stainless-steel plates, mirroring its surroundings.
This allows you to take cool, futuristic photos that’ll instantly tell your followers you’re in Chicago.
#20 The Chicago Theatre
If there’s ever a place that can take you back in time to the 1930s and 1940s “Golden Age of Hollywood,” it would be the exuberant Chicago Theatre.
A staple for any Chicago itinerary, this 103-year-old legendary theatre is a must-see landmark for Instagram-worthy snaps.
Starting with the exterior, it’s everything you expect with a grand, brightly lit marquee and multiple entrances.
The interior is a feast for the eyes, with massive, old-fashioned seating areas, red drapes, ornate wooden ceilings, and fancy chandeliers.
#21 The Skydeck at Willis Tower
If you want more daring and attention-grabbing photos, the Skydeck at Willis Tower is the perfect place.
The best way to describe it is that you’ll look like you’re floating high above the Chicago city skyline.
The Willis Tower is the third largest tower in the country, boasting one of the best views in the U.S.
This is why its observation deck on the 103rd floor has clear, glass observation boxes, allowing you to witness jaw-dropping vistas extending over four states.
If you have a fear of heights, you may have to skip this one.
But I promise you, once you step out onto The Ledge, a glass-floored balcony, the spectacular views and photo ops will be worth it.
#22 The Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building is one of Chicago’s most captivating skyscrapers, a true testament to the city’s magnificent architecture.
Located on North Michigan Avenue, the noteworthy building serves as a stunning backdrop for urban photography.
You’ll be going for that urban chic aesthetic, and I suggest wearing high-end fashion to match the vibe of the building.
Chicago’s Instagrammable Places for Foodies
Last but not least, you’ve got to have a few options for the food photographers. This is why I recommend the following places first for some stunning pics.
#23 Restaurants Along the Chicago Riverwalk
If you only had time to visit one place in Chicago, I’d suggest going to the Riverwalk. It’s a scenic path lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars along the riverbank.
It’s super aesthetic — all you need to do is grab a table at one of the eateries and enjoy the riverfront scenery.
You have plenty of options. However, you can’t go wrong with River Roast for lunch and dinner.
For an early coffee with views or waterside cocktails, try out Tiny Tapp.
Lastly, Taco Rio Cantina offers authentic Mexican dishes, and Brando’s Speakeasy is a fun karaoke bar.
#24 Maison Marcel
If you’re looking for a charming café with an artistic twist, Maison Marcel is your go-to spot.
Serving organic French-American fare with freshly baked goods, this quaint café is ideal for a breakfast or brunch moment in Chicago.
Besides beautifully presented dishes, the inviting interior will truly win you over.
It’s bright and airy, with splashes of greenery, enchanting light fixtures, and light natural woods.
Maison Marcel promises to ensure you “stay in tune with the latest food-grammable trends,” so definitely give it a try.
#25 3 Arts Café
Now, the 3 Arts Café is on a tier of its own. It’s the sort of place you’ll likely have seen all over Instagram related to Chicago.
It’s a skylit garden escape that provides guests with timeless classics for brunch, lunch, and dinner and a fine selection of wines and champagnes.
This opulent meeting place consists of a coffeehouse, a wine bar, and a restaurant catering to any kind of visitor.
About the aesthetic: it’s located in the grand central garden courtyard of RH Chicago.
So, think of a fairytale-like garden with sparkling, hanging chandeliers, vintage fountains, and strategically placed plants and trees.
#26 2D Restaurant
I stumbled across this restaurant the last time I was in Chicago and I couldn’t believe no one was talking about it?
2D is a cafe that looks like it was drawn out of a sketchbook and I am so obsessed.
There is a famous cafe in South Korea that people love for the look and style — this reminded me of it!
Map of the Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
Feel free to click here to view a live version of the map, too!
Best Instagram Spots in Chicago Wrapped Up
And that’s a wrap—or should I say snap? At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with these amazing Instagram spots.
And thanks to a variety of places, your photos will truly reflect on your experiences around the Windy City.
Whether you’re into scenic nature, golden hour beach selfies, or adorable galleries and cafés, Chicago has it all.
Up Next: The fun doesn’t end here. Explore more things to do in Chicago.
