Last Updated on February 22, 2023
Chicago is an amazing city to explore that is full of history, food, and culture. There are a ton of Instagrammable places in Chicago, ranging from unique landmarks to public art pieces and gorgeous parks. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the 40 Best Chicago Instagram Spots you can’t miss on your next visit to the Windy City! This Chicago Instagrammable places guide is perfect for professionals and casual photographers alike who want to level up their vacation photos.
Did you know that we lived in Chicago for over five years?! We’ve put together this list so you can make the most of your visit to the Windy City. Keep reading for all the information about each Chicago Instagram spot on this list!
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in the below article are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase. All opinions on the most Instagrammable places in Chicago are our own. Click here for the full disclosure statement.
Table of Contents
Map of the Best Chicago Instagram Spots
For being such a large city, the best Chicago Instagram sports are mostly all centrally located, making it a perfect destination when visiting from out of town. The Instagrammable locations in Chicago are relatively easy to see over the course of a weekend in the city. However, we recommend choosing your favorites, as seeing all of the best Chicago Instagram Spots during one short trip would be exhausting!
This map includes all of the best Chicago Instagram spots to help you plan your trip to explore this amazing city.
Most Instagrammable Landmarks in Chicago
As a large world-class city, Chicago has a number of famous landmarks that have made it onto this list of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago.
Cloud Gate aka “the Bean”
Starting off this list of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago is one of the city’s most well-known landmarks, Cloud Gate (also known as the Bean)! Cloud Gate is a public art piece in the heart of downtown Chicago that has become one of the best Chicago Instagram spots. Cloud Gate offers beautiful reflections of the Chicago skyline that will serve as an incredible backdrop for your Instagram photos. We also featured Cloud Gate on our list of Top 5 Things to See in Chicago, so make sure to give that a read as well!
Location: Millenium Park
Best Time for Photos: The best time to take photos at Cloud Gate is early in the day or later in the evening when there are less crowds. Summertime and the weekends are some of the busiest times in Chicago for tourists, so expect large crowds at the Bean if you visit during these times.
Due to how large and reflective the Bean is, taking an Instagram photo here without a lot of others in the shot is very difficult unless you visit early in the morning.
Tips: Play around with how close or far you stand from Cloud Gate to get a variety of reflections in the art piece. That way, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for your Instagram!
Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain is known for being one of the largest fountains in the world. The beautiful sculptures easily make it one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago.
The fountain, which was built in the 1920s, features an impressive 20-minute water display where water is shot up to 150 feet in the air! At dusk, light and music also accompany the water display, making for a truly spectacular sight.
Location: Buckingham Fountain
Best Time for Photos: Since Buckingham Fountain is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, it’s best to visit around sunrise or sunset when there will be less crowds.
Tips: Make sure to visit at the start of the hour to capture the central plume of water shoot up into the sky!
Honeycomb – at Lincoln Park Zoo
The Honeycomb is an incredibly unique landmark and one of the less popular Chicago Instagram spots – but no less beautiful.
Facing south through the arch of the Honeycomb, you’ll be able to spot the skyline of downtown Chicago, including the iconic John Hancock Building. Taking a stroll through this one-of-a-kind landmark will give you plenty of opportunities to capture gorgeous photos for your Instagram.
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo
Best Time for Photos: Since the Honeycomb is one of Chicago’s lesser known Instagrammable places, you can visit during any time of day. The Honeycomb will be busier during the summer and on weekends, so a visit in the morning or at sunset may be best for smaller crowds.
Tips: Make sure you pack your wide-angle lens to capture some amazing photos of this spot! If you are flexible, you can also sit inside the openings of the Honeycomb for unique angles and photos.
North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is a stunning lakeside beach that ranks high on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places. During the summers you can find swimmers, bikers, and runners enjoying this beautiful Chicago Instagram spot.
North Avenue Beach is also home to a massive beach house that offers beautiful views of the city. You really can’t go wrong with a visit to North Avenue Beach, and you’re sure to take some beautiful photos as you explore.
Location: North Avenue Beach
Best Time for Photos: Visit this Chicago Instagram spot at sunset to capture gorgeous colors and reflections on Lake Michigan.
Tips: Cloudy days are a great time to visit North Avenue Beach because you’ll avoid harsh shadows cast by direct sunlight.
Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, offering stunning views of both the lake and the city at the same time!
Lakefront Trail consists of an 18 mile (29 km) bike and pedestrian trail, and is often used by families, tourists, and athletes. The contrast of Lake Michigan’s natural beauty with the towering skyscrapers of the city will surely make for some great Instagram photos.
Location: Lakefront Trail
Best Time for Photos: To avoid crowds, visit the Lakefront Trail early in the morning or later in the evening.
Tips: Rent a bike or pack your walking shoes to enjoy all that Lakefront Trail has to offer! The Divvy bikes in Chicago are the perfect way to explore more of the Lakefront Trail than you can on foot. Visitors can rent bikes at $3.30 USD for a single trip, or $15 USD for a day pass. We highly recommend the day pass as biking is a great way to get around Chicago!
Carousel at Navy Pier
The carousel at Navy Pier is a whimsical piece of history that is one of the most unique Chicago Instagram spots on this list. The ornate details and playful hand-painted touches found on the carousel pay homage to the 1920s, known as Navy Pier’s “golden age”. Take a spin on this fun landmark and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time!
Location: Navy Pier
Cost: $9 USD to ride the carousel, which also includes a ride on the Light Tower ride.
Best Time for Photos: As with many other of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, it’s best to visit the carousel at Navy Pier right when it opens. Alternatively, you can also visit later in the evening when crowds begin to thin out. Navy Pier is particularly busy on weekends.
Tips: Wear something flowy that offers movement to compliment the motion of the carousel! It’s also best to visit this location with a friend so one person can ride the carousel while the other takes the Instagram pictures!
Milton Lee Olive Park
Milton Lee Olive Park makes our list of Chicago Instagrammable places because it feels like a natural oasis in the heart of the city. Located just north of Navy Pier, home to a few other Chicago Instagram spots, Milton Lee Olive Park feels like a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is full of tree-lined paths, fountains, and skyline views that provide ample opportunities for some amazing Instagram photos.
Location: Milton Lee Olive Park
Best Time for Photos: You can capture great photos any time of day at this park, but early morning or late afternoon will provide especially beautiful lighting.
Tips: Use an object, such as a bike, or a person to offer perspective when taking photos of the Chicago skyline!
The Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building combines historic architecture with innovation, making it one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. For over 100 years, the Wrigley Building, which was originally built as the headquarters for the Wrigley Company, has been an iconic landmark of the Chicago skyline.
Located on the famous Michigan Avenue, the Wrigley Building is an unforgettable sight that holds its own as one of the top Chicago Instagram spots.
Location: The Wrigley Building is located along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, a popular shopping and dining district.
Best Time for Photos: Early morning is the best time to visit the Wrigley Building to avoid excessive crowds.
Tips: Make sure you walk around and fully explore the Wrigley Building to get a variety of backdrops for your photos!
DuSable Bridge
This bridge in the heart of downtown Chicago is one of the most iconic city landmarks on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places. It is also easily our favorite Instagram spot in the city due to its versatility and the stunning views.
DuSable Bridge is known as the location where Michigan Avenue crosses the Chicago River. This makes it a beautiful spot to see the contrast between the river’s natural beauty and the city surrounding it. DuSable Bridge is also the spot where green dye is injected into the Chicago River every year in honor of St. Patrick’s Day!
Location: DuSable Bridge
Best Time for Photos: This Chicago Instagram spot gets very popular during the summer and on weekends. Try to visit in the morning or later in the day when there are fewer visitors.
Tips: Walking or playfully jogging towards the camera will add movement and life to your DuSable Bridge photos! The Chicago bridges are sometimes raised on Wednesday and Saturday mornings to accommodate sail boats going to and from the river and Lake Michigan.
Chicago Theatre
The Chicago Theatre is a stunning building and a true historic landmark that has been in operation for over 100 years! From the lavishly-decorated interiors to the massive outdoor marquee, the Chicago Theatre is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. The Chicago Theatre was actually modeled after Parisian architecture and features replicas of the Arc de Triomphe and the Royal Chapel at Versailles.
Location: Chicago Theatre
Best Time for Photos: Although the Chicago Theatre is a beautiful backdrop for photos any time of day, it truly comes to life at night when the marquee lights up.
Tips: Include a person in your photographs of the Chicago Theatre to offer perspective on the grand size of its outdoor marquee! To capture the full theatre, many people prefer to photograph this location from the opposite side of the street.
Chicago Riverwalk
Next up on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places is the Chicago Riverwalk, a 1.25 mile (2 km) long path that winds through the heart of the city. The Riverwalk follows the Chicago River through four distinct districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and The Esplanade. You’ll get gorgeous views of the river and city architecture. Along the way you may also spot some public art in the form of murals and banners.
Location: Chicago Riverwalk
Best Time for Photos: As the Chicago Riverwalk is a popular recreational spot, morning and evening are the best times to visit to avoid peak crowds.
Tips: The Chicago Riverwalk is the perfect combination of natural beauty and manmade architecture, and the contrast serves as a beautiful backdrop for Instagram photos!
Lurie Garden
Lurie Garden, located near Cloud Gate, is a peaceful escape and a beautiful spot for photography. Sometimes referred to as Millennium Park’s “secret garden,” Lurie Garden was designed to provide peace for human visitors and wildlife alike.
Throughout the year, the garden is home to a variety of seasonal flowers and plants that are uniquely beautiful in their own ways. Lurie Garden is the perfect example of how nature can exist, and even thrive, within an urban environment.
Best Time for Photos: Lurie Garden is not as popular as some of the other locations on this list of Chicago Instagrammable places. Still, the garden does see larger crowds during summer and the weekends. Early morning and late afternoon will provide beautiful lighting and fewer visitors.
Tips: Don’t be afraid to play with perspective! For instance, try crouching down to make the plants and flowers seem as tall as the skyscrapers that surround the garden.
Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium is a gorgeous Chicago Instagram spot located on Northerly Island, along the shore of Lake Michigan. The planetarium’s unique architecture and beautiful location make it one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago.
From the front steps of the museum, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline beyond. Adler Planetarium also holds the unique distinction of being the first planetarium in America!
Location: Adler Planetarium
Best Time for Photos: Adler Planetarium is a popular destination for school field trips, so try to visit first thing in the morning or later in the day when crowds are smaller.
Tips: The steps in front of this Chicago Instagram spot are a great place to get creative with posing!
Leaning Tower of Pisa in Niles
Do you want to capture photos of a world-renowned landmark without having to fly all the way to Italy? The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Niles is the perfect spot for you!
This reconstruction of the renowned Italian landmark is an exceptionally unique addition to our list of Chicago Instagrammable places. Standing at about 94 feet (28.5 m) tall, this Leaning Tower of Pisa is about half the size of the original Italian structure. The area near this landmark is home to a lot of restaurants and shops as well, so you can spend a full afternoon exploring the area!
Location: Leaning Tower of Pisa in Niles
Best Time for Photos: To avoid harsh sunlight, try visiting in the morning or late afternoon. You’ll also miss most of the crowds!
Tips: At 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM, historic restored bells in the tower will ring for several minutes.
The Loop
The Loop is often considered the true heart of Chicago. This bustling neighborhood is full of unique architecture, restaurants, and the central business district that set Chicago apart from other major cities.
The Loop also has a thriving arts and culture scene as seen in the numerous museums and theaters that can be found throughout this area. To put it simply, The Loop is full of Chicago Instagram spots. You’ll be able to find a wide variety of settings and backdrops without having to wander very far.
Location: The Loop
Best Time for Photos: If you visit this area in the morning or late afternoon, the city will be bathed in a soft, golden light that makes for excellent pictures.
Tips: The Loop isn’t just a great Chicago Instagram spot, it’s also home to lots of hotels, restaurants, and shops that make it a great home base if you’re visiting the city!
Millennium Monument at Millennium Park
The Loop is often considered the true heart of Chicago. This bustling neighborhood is full of unique architecture, restaurants, and the central business district that set Chicago apart from other major cities.
The Loop also has a thriving arts and culture scene as seen in the numerous museums and theaters that can be found throughout this area. To put it simply, The Loop is full of Chicago Instagram spots. You’ll be able to find a wide variety of settings and backdrops without having to wander very far.
Location: Millennium Monument
Best Time for Photos: The best time to visit this spot on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places is early morning or late afternoon when there are few visitors and the sun is lower in the sky.
Tips: A wide-angle lens is a great way to capture the size and magnitude of this monument!
Chicago Corncob
The Chicago Corncob, also known as Marina City or Corncob Towers, is a building complex that resembles a – you guessed it – corncob! These buildings have an incredibly unique design that gives them their signature corncob look. A visit to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without making a stop to see this iconic piece of architecture.
Fun fact: the shape of the buildings is supposed to mimic flower petals, and none of the 450 apartments within these buildings contain right angles!
Location: Chicago Corncob
Best Time to Take Photos: Sunrise or sunset are beautiful times to visit the Chicago Corncob, and nighttime is a great option if you want to see the buildings fully illuminated.
Tips: Like some of the other spots on this list of most Instagrammable places in Chicago, the Corncob is a great place to play around with perspective. Try capturing the buildings from a variety of angles to truly appreciate the one-of-a-kind architecture!
Baha’i House of Worship
The Baha’i House of Worship is a Baha’i temple intended for visitors of all faith backgrounds to visit and use. The Baha’i House of Worship is the oldest standing Baha’i temple, and its purpose is to serve the entirety of North America.
The temple is a beautiful piece of architecture and contains a number of intricate designs and details. Surrounding the temple itself are lush gardens and carefully-manicured landscaping that highlight the beauty of the structure itself.
Location: Baha’i House of Worship
Best Time for Photos: A visit to this classic Chicago Instagram spot is sure to impress any time of day, but sunrise or sunset will cast the temple and its grounds in an especially beautiful, soft light.
Tips: The Baha’i temple welcomes visitors of all spiritual beliefs, and the Baha’i faith emphasizes unification and education of different cultures and religions. The best time to visit this location is during the spring and summer months when the flowers are blooming.
Rooftop at Navy Pier
The rooftop at Navy Pier is a beautiful setting to capture views of the Chicago skyline, making it a great addition to our list of Chicago Instagrammable places. The rooftop at Navy Pier, officially known as Offshore, is a massive event venue that features cozy fire pits, expansive meeting areas, and a whole area dedicated to entertainment.
Fun fact: Offshore is actually the largest rooftop deck in the country! With spectacular views of Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago, you’re sure to capture some spectacular photos at the Navy Pier rooftop.
Location: Navy Pier
Best Time for Photos: Sunset is a beautiful time to capture dramatic colors over the water and the Chicago skyline.
Tips: The rooftop at Navy Pier is located right near the carousel, another top Chicago Instagram spot! To access this rooftop, you need to make your way to the top floor of the parking garage that is closest to the carousel.
Chicago River Cruise
If you don’t think that a river cruise would be one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, you haven’t been on the Chicago River Cruise yet! This is hands down the best tourist activity to do in Chicago.
You will get to spend some time out on the water, see a large area of the city, and learn some interesting facts about Chicago’s history. On the Chicago River Cruise, you can get some great Chicago Instagram photo spots from the top deck of the boat as you cruise down the Chicago River.
Don’t be left on the shore! Reserve your spot in advance and skip the ticket line!
Location: Shoreline Sightseeing
Best Time for Photos: Taking the Chicago Shoreline Sightseeing tour is great any time of day.
Tips: If you’re looking to capture a great Chicago Instagram photo while on the boat, head to the top deck and try to snap some photos around the bridges and historic buildings between Michigan Avenue and the Merchandise Mart.
Garfield Conservatory
The Garfield Conservatory is one of the more unique Chicago Instagram Spots on this list. It is located in a large park that has over 184 acres of parkland, lagoons, swimming pools, and the famous Conservatory building.
The Garfield Conservatory has a beautiful collection of plants and flowers from around the world. It also includes some stunning fountains and tile walls that make perfect backdrops for your next Instagram photo!
Location: Garfield Conservatory
Best Time for Photos: The best time to take photos at this Chicago Instagram spot is definitely during the week and earlier in the mornings.
Tips: Professional photography is not allowed here unless you have purchased a license in advance (think engagement or wedding photoshoots). If you want to take some Instagram photos here, go with some friends and be discreet
Chicago Skydeck
Who is ready for the ultimate Chicago Instagram Spot from high above the city? The Chicago SKYDECK, and specifically THE LEDGE, is one of the best places to take a truly epic photo!
You will head up 103 floors to the top of Chicago’s famous Willis Tower and enjoy views in every direction. From up here you can truly gain an understanding of the size of Chicago, its sprawling suburbs, and how massive Lake Michigan is.
The best photos are taken from The Ledge, glass boxes that extend 4.3 feet (1.3 m) outside the Willis Tower, over 1,353 feet (412 m) in the air. You can take photos inside each of the individual ledges, or even between the ledges for the ultimate jaw-dropping Chicago Instagram photo.
Entrance times must be reserved in advance! Book your ticket before you go!
Location: Skydeck Chicago
Best Time for Photos: The best time to take photos here is definitely immediately at opening. The Skydeck is incredibly popular, especially on weekends. If you’re looking to have the most time up here to maximize your chances at an epic Chicago Instagram photo, reserve your ticket in advance for right at opening!
Tips: You will have only a limited amount of time to take photos at The Ledge. Make sure you are already prepared and dressed in the correct outfit before you step out onto The Ledge.
Franklin-Orleans Street Bridge
The Franklin-Orleans Street bridge is another great Chicago Instagram photo spot that can’t be missed! What makes this bridge unique is that you can take photos while standing amongst the structure beams of the bridge. This allows you to achieve a cool and unique perspective with your photos. The best photo angle here is to shoot towards the lake, with the Chicago Corncob Towers and Merchandise Mart in the background.
Location: Franklin-Orleans Bridge
Best Time for Photos: The best time for photos is mid-morning when the sun has risen above the buildings of downtown Chicago, allowing you to get some sun flair into your photos.
Tips: As you are taking photos on a bridge that is actively being used by cars, cyclists, and pedestrians, be careful!
Chicago Metra Sign
Did you know that there is a replica Parisian Metro entrance sign in Chicago? The Chicago Metra (suburban rail system) station at Michigan Avenue and Van Buren Street showcases a real life replica of a Parisian Metro station sign that was gifted to the city of Chicago from its sister city, Paris, France. This is a great spot to take a photo with some Parisian vibes, without ever leaving the Midwest!
Location: Chicago Metra Sign
Best Time for Photos: The best time for photos at this Instagrammable photo spot in Chicago is during mid-morning when the sun is not too high in the sky, but provides a beautiful backlight to the subject.
Tips: It’s best to wait for the gaps between train arrivals at this Metra station, which is one of the main central Chicago stations for commuter rail from the suburbs. Bring your best Parisian inspired outfit to play the part!
Most Instagrammable Restaurants in Chicago
Chicago has no shortage of amazing restaurants, with cuisine options from everywhere around the world! The city also happens to have a number of Instagrammable restaurants and cafes that are perfect to stop by for snack, meal, or drink!
Rooftop at London House
The first of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Chicago is the London House Rooftop. London House is a chic hotel restaurant in downtown Chicago that features three dining areas, one of them being an iconic rooftop terrace.
The rooftop terrace boasts panoramic views of downtown Chicago that make for some excellent photo backdrops. From classic Chicago skyscrapers to the Chicago River, the views from the London House Rooftop are sure to impress.
Location: London House
Best Time for Photos: The Rooftop at London House is a popular Chicago Instagram spot, so try to time your visit outside of regular meal hours when the restaurant is likely to be most crowded.
Tips: Because the Rooftop is so well-known among locals and tourists alike, reservations are highly recommended!
Rooftop at Trump Tower
Another exceptional rooftop restaurant is Terrace 16, located at the Trump Tower in downtown Chicago. With indoor and outdoor seating, Terrace 16 is one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Chicago. There are a variety of potential backdrops that will elevate your IG feed to the next level.
From the rooftop of Trump Tower, you’ll be able to spot many iconic Chicago landmarks and some of the best architecture the city has to offer. The whole space feels very luxurious and idyllic, earning its place on our list of top Chicago Instagrammable places.
Location: Trump Tower
Best Time for Photos: Since the Rooftop at Trump Tower is known as one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, try to visit outside of regular meal hours, or at sunrise or sunset.
Tips: Late afternoon and early evening are great times to visit this rooftop to capture sunset and the city lights!
3 Arts Club Café
3 Arts Club Café is a gorgeous restaurant located in Restoration Hardware, a high-end furniture store. The café is located in the historical courtyard of the Restoration Hardware building, and the space beautifully combines indoor seating with the expansiveness of the outdoors.
While visiting the café, you’ll dine underneath a glass atrium that holds stunning olive trees and dazzling chandeliers. The café has a very timeless and elegant style that makes it truly stand out on our list of Chicago Instagrammable restaurants.
Location: Restoration Hardware
Best Time for Photos: This Chicago Instagram spot will truly shine any time of day, though it will be a lot busier on weekends and around dinnertime.
Tips: The 3 Arts Club Café is extremely popular for brunch on weekends and reservations are highly recommended, or plan to wait for your table. Waiting is not an issue though as you can browse the beautiful room designs throughout the Restoration Hardware store.
Hampton Social – Rosé All Day Wall
Hampton Social is a gorgeous, coastal-themed restaurant with several locations throughout the USA. The Rosé All Day Wall at their River North location is an iconic Chicago Instagram spot.
While the whole restaurant is very aesthetically pleasing, the Rosé All Day Wall is the backdrop to beat. Situated against a wall of greenery, the neon pink Rosé All Day sign is super cute. It really stands out as the perfect backdrop to elevate your brunch photos to the next level.
Location: Hampton Social
Best Time for Photos: Since the Rosé All Day Wall is located inside, you can only take photos when Hampton Social is open! The restaurant will be busiest around meal times and especially during brunch on the weekends.
Tips: Don’t forget your glass of rosé to pose with in front of the Rosé All Day Wall!
Doughnut Vault
Next up on our list of most Instagrammable places in Chicago is Doughnut Vault. Doughnut Vault might just take the cake for the cutest donut shop in Chicago! At Doughnut Vault, fresh and delicious donuts are served up with a side of super cute aesthetics that are perfectly Instagrammable.
From the cozy, rustic interior to the iconic blue door and brick wall out front, Doughnut Vault offers a ton of beautiful backdrops to take all the Instagram photos your heart desires.
Location: Doughnut Vault
Best Time for Photos: One of the perks of Doughnut Vault is it looks great any time of day! Be prepared for larger crowds when the shop first opens in the mornings, and on weekends.
Tips: You have to try a donut while you visit! They are simply scrumptious.
Z Bar at The Peninsula Chicago
Z Bar at The Peninsula Chicago is another fabulous rooftop lounge on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places. Z Bar is located at the top of The Peninsula Chicago, a classy hotel located right along Chicago’s iconic Michigan Avenue.
Z Bar is a great place to enjoy food and drinks while listening to live music and enjoying the luxurious atmosphere that has been carefully cultivated. Z Bar also boasts 360-degree views of downtown Chicago where you can see many of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Location: Peninsula Chicago
Best Time for Photos: Late afternoon or early evening are great times to take photos at this Chicago Instagram spot.
Tips: Z Bar enforces a “casual chic” dress code, and reservations are recommended!
Lobby at The Langham Chicago
The Langham Chicago is a 5-star hotel in downtown Chicago that is home to one of the most beautiful hotel lobbies in the city. The floor-to-ceiling windows, high-end furniture, and sleek décor make the lobby of The Langham Chicago one of the classiest additions to our list of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago.
Even if you’re not a guest at The Langham, the hotel welcomes visitors to photograph their beautiful lobby and dine in their restaurants. With lots of seating and windows to the streets outside, the lobby of the Langham offers great variety for taking photos.
Location: The Langham Chicago
Best Time for Photos: You shouldn’t have to compete with many crowds since the lobby of the Langham Chicago is one of the lesser-known Chicago Instagram spots.
Tips: A beautiful dress with body and movement will perfectly compliment the classy styling of the lobby!
Swings at Fairgrounds Café
Fairgrounds Café is a craft coffee and tea shop with one super unique feature: indoor rope swings! There are several Fairgrounds Café locations throughout Chicago, but the Fulton Market location is a must-visit for capturing photos of these fun swings.
The interior of the café is the perfect combination of rustic and sleek décor, and of course their drinks and baked goods are delicious as well! Enjoying the swings at Fairgrounds Café is probably the most fun you’ll have while grabbing a coffee in Chicago. This unique feature has definitely earned Fairgrounds Café’s spot on our list of Chicago Instagrammable places.
Location: Fairgrounds Café
Best Time for Photos: Since the swings at Fairgrounds Café are indoors, they will photograph beautifully any time of day. The café does get busy in the morning and around lunchtime, so try to visit late morning or after 12:00 PM!
Tips: The neutral background of Fairgrounds Café is a great opportunity to wear a pop of color that will really stand out.
Best Things in Life are Sweet
Who can argue with the saying “the best things in life are sweet”? At Sweet Mandy B’s in Chicago, they serve some deliciously sweet cupcakes that are sure to have you coming back for more! This beautiful Chicago café is located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, just a little bit North of downtown and River North. The color palette of this café is perfect for your next Chicago Instagram photo spot, with pastel blues, purples, and pinks.
Location: Sweet Mandy B’s
Hours: This Chicago Instagram spot is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day of the week!
Best Time for Photos: In order to secure the best photo spot in front of the “The Best Things in Life are Sweet” sign, you will want to arrive just after 9:00 AM. However, the café is great anytime of day and should not be too crowded.
Tips: Make sure to try some of their amazing latte’s and sweets if you are taking photos here! It’s always great to support the businesses that create such beautiful Instagram spots.
Maison Marcel
Sometimes it can be hard to find some proper French pastries outside of Europe, however Maison Marcel
Sometimes it can be hard to find some proper French pastries outside of Europe, however Maison Marcel does an excellent job of bringing France to Chicago. The café has a charming European feel, with fresh-baked breads and pastries, as well as some delicious macarons!
They used to have an outdoor pick-up window (as shown below) which was incredibly cute, however they now focus on the indoor café only. Be sure to stop by to try some of their pastries when snapping a few photos at this Chicago Instagram spot!
Location: Maison Marcel
Best Time for Photos: The best time to take photos here is anytime during the week as Maison Marcel is most popular on weekends.
Tips: There used to be multiple locations of Maison Marcel in the city, and the photos above are from a previous location of Maison Marcel, however the current location on Broadway is just as Instagrammable and also serves the most amazing French pastries!
Hero Coffee Bar Alley
One of Chicago’s hidden cafés is the Hero Coffee Bar location located in an alley! This super cute café is located at the end of a small alley, surrounded by brick walls. The café nicely decorates the alley with string lights and outdoor seating, making it another perfect addition to the most Instagrammable restaurants in Chicago!
Location: Hero Coffee Bar
Best Time for Photos: The best time to take photos here is anytime during the week. The café can be popular amongst locals looking for a great cup of coffee, but never usually gets too busy.
Tips: There are multiple locations of Hero Coffee Bar throughout Chicago, however the one that is located in the cool alley is located at 22 E Jackson Boulevard!
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Even if you aren’t a diehard Starbucks fan, you have to stop by the world’s largest Starbucks! This five-story, 35,000 sq ft (3,252 sq m) Starbucks Reserve Roastery Chicago makes for another great Chicago Instagram spot.
If you haven’t been to a Starbucks Reserve Roastery before, don’t fret – there are only 6 in the world! The Roastery is designed to celebrate the craft of coffee, with specialized beans, brewing techniques, top-notch pastries, and beautiful design. You also can’t forget to check out their stylish merchandise, which will have you wanting to buy everything as a souvenir!
Location: Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Best Time for Photos: The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is incredibly popular with tourists and locals! The best time for photos is shortly after they open, during the week.
Tips: Did you know that Chicago was also the first city outside of the Seattle area to have a Starbucks store back in 1987? Additionally, Chicago is home to the world’s smallest standalone Starbucks store, which you can find in Union Station.
Most Instagrammable Murals in Chicago
If you’re a fan of beautiful murals, Chicago also delivers with some great unique murals included on this list of the best Chicago Instagram spots you can’t miss.
Greetings from Chicago Mural
This Greetings from Chicago Mural might just be one of the most iconic stops on our list of most Instagrammable places in Chicago. What better way to commemorate your trip to the Windy City than with a photo in front of this gorgeous mural that highlights all the best things that Chicago has to offer?
From deep dish pizza to Cloud Gate, the first stop on this list of Chicago Instagrammable places, the Greetings from Chicago Mural truly has it all.
Location: Greetings from Chicago Mural
Best Time for Photos: The Greetings from Chicago Mural gets busiest on weekends and over the summer, which is peak tourist season in Chicago. Try to go in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds, and to get the best natural lighting.
Tips: A wide-angle lens is helpful the capture the full scope of this awesome mural!
Chicago Wings Mural at Westfield Old Orchard Mall
A mall may seem like an unlikely choice as a Chicago Instagram spot. However, the Westfield Old Orchard Mall is home to a number of beautiful murals, including this Wings Mural. There is actually a whole stretch of murals called “Mural Alley” that you can explore at Westfield Old Orchard Mall, and this Wings Mural is one of the most Instagrammable. Wing murals are a classic backdrop for Instagram photos, and these blue and red wings are simply beautiful.
Location: Westfield Old Orchard Mall
Best Time for Photos: Try to visit the Wings Mural in the morning or later in the day to avoid harsh shadows from the sunlight as well as large crowds.
Tips: Make sure you’re framed between the wings so that you look like you’re about to take flight!
Blue and White Mural at Ping Tom Park
Ping Tom Park is home to several beautiful murals. This blue and white one titled “All As One” is a fabulous addition to our list of top Chicago Instagram spots. The murals were first commissioned in an effort to bring new life to the underpass beneath the 18th Street Bridge that runs through Ping Tom Park.
The underpass had long been considered an eye-sore and was frequently tagged with graffiti, so the Ping Tom Park Advisory Council commissioned several murals to revitalize the area. “All As One” is a stunning mural of flowers and plants that contrasts beautifully with the urban environment around it.
Location: Ping Tom Park
Best Time for Photos: Since this mural is located in the shade, you can visit any time the park is open and get great photos. This location is unlikely to become very busy.
Tips: This is another mural that would benefit from being photographed with a wide-angle lens!
Heart Mural
This Heart Mural, inspired by the classic heart emoji we all know and love, is a great spot to take some photos for your Instagram. The heart is painted on a garage door and sports vibrant pink and red colors that pop beautifully on camera.
Influencers, tourists, and locals alike often flock to his mural because it is known as one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago! While you may have to wait your turn to score a photo in front of this Heart Mural, it is definitely worth a visit.
Location: Heart Mural
Best Time for Photos: The Heart Mural is quickly becoming one of the top spots in Chicago for Instagram photos, so try to visit in the morning or later in the day when there are fewer visitors.
Tips: Avoid visiting midday when the sun is highest in the sky and prone to cast harsh shadows!
Rainbow Circle Mural at Nonna’s Chicago
Nonna’s is a pizza and sandwich shop that just so happens to feature a gorgeous rainbow circle mural! This rainbow circle mural is frequently featured on lists of Chicago Instagrammable places thanks to its striking colors and hypnotic design.
The mural is made up of smaller dots that, from a distance, give the appearance of a giant, rainbow-colored circle. This mural is an absolutely stunning backdrop that will seriously elevate your Instagram.
Location: Nonna’s Chicago
Best Time for Photos: This mural will photograph beautifully almost any time of day, but try to visit outside of regular meal hours when the restaurant will be more crowded with visitors.
Tips: Wear a neutral outfit to contrast with the vibrant colors of the mural!
Flamingo Wall (Now the Cockatoo Wall)
The Flamingo Wall is an icon in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, located on busy N Wells Street, it is known by nearly everyone in the city! Due to its huge size it makes a great Chicago Instagrammable photo spot, giving you plenty of different photo options to capture its beauty.
2022 Update: Note the Flamingo Wall has been painted over! The iconic Flamingo Wall has been repainted in a slightly more subtle color scheme and now features a cockatoo. We’ve left this location on the list of the most Instagrammable Places in Chicago, because it is still very photogenic, however it is no longer the Flamingo Wall.
Location: Flamingo Wall
Best Time for Photos: Early in the morning is best, with less traffic and less pedestrians.
Tips: Have some fun and play with the size and style of the wall! It helps if you have a friend that can take the photo with a zoom lens from the other side of the street.
Did We Miss Any of the Best Chicago Instagram Spots?
We hope this guide to the 40 best Chicago Instagram spots was helpful to you! This list is perfect to reference if you’re just visiting Chicago for a quick weekend trip or a whole week of sightseeing. Did we miss any of your favorite Chicago Instagram spots? Let us know in the comments!
