Best places for pictures in Chicago, IL

Chicago is full of beautiful parks and amazing architectural marvels, even as a local it can be easy to miss the must-see photo locations in Chicago – and to know the rules when it comes to professional photos. So whether you are planning an outing, visiting from out of town, or planning a portrait photography session this blog covers the best places for pictures in Chicago.

Before we dive in, it’s important to note that permits are generally not required for most personal-use photography. So, if you’re spending time with friends and family and taking pictures for memories or planning to post these on social media fun, you’ll be fine without a permit.

However, if you’re organizing a professional shoot such as an engagement, wedding, quinceanera, or any commercial project, you will need to obtain a permit. This blog will explain the process and provide links to obtain the necessary permissions if required. Be sure to check your photographer’s agreement to understand who is responsible for securing the permits before the session.

North Avenue Beach Pier

A gorgeous view of the Chicago skyline with the John Hancock Tower as the main highlight. This beach and pier is the place to take pictures in the early morning at sunset or the afternoon and then kick back and relax at the beach. Parking is limited by this location, it is best to park by the Lincoln Zoo and walk over the Lakeshore Drive bridge to get to the beach and pier.

Notes: For professional photography, a $35 Application Fee + $45 Permit Fee is required at the Chess Pavilion (Architectural Art Installation) part of North Avenue. If you are taking photos at the pier, a permit is not required.

Address: 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive (North Avenue)

Chicago River Walk

The Riverwalk is the best place for photos in Chicago. You get to view amazing architecture and walk and enjoy the exciting commotion on the river. This great photo spot is great for year-round photos and is beautiful during any time of day you plan to visit. Weekends are the busiest time to visit, but the Boardwalk is huge so even though there are a lot of people there are plenty of places to take photos.

Notes: For professional photography, no permit is necessary.

Address: 229 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60601

The Wrigley Building

As you’re walking past the Chicago Riverwalk don’t forget to stop by the architectural marvel – The Wrigley Building. The colossal arch is almost always free of crowds making it a perfect destination for group photos, as well as lifestyle, wedding, engagement, or anniversary photos. In the winter you find the courtyard decorated with a Christmas Tree.

Notes: Permit is Not required.

Address: 400 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Chicago Theater Sign & Alley

Besides the famous skyline, this picturesque location is another true classic “Chicago” vibe. The best time to is early morning to avoid crowds, or stop by the evening after the sun sets. The best way to capture the photo is the pose across the street from the sign (by the train station entrances across the street), or in the middle of the street, just be mindful of the traffic!

Notes: For professional photography, no permit is necessary.

Address: 175 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Lincoln Park Zoo | South Pond Honeycomb

If you are an avid animal lover, this is a great place to go for a stroll any time of the year, especially with family. There are many places for photos, but the most popular locations include the South Pond, Nature Boardwalk, and the Honeycomb (pictured below). If you visit at Christmastime the park will be decorated with famous zoo lights that light up the park.

Notes: For professional photography, a $150 permit is required (tax-deductible). If your event is hosted by the Lincoln Park Zoo, the permit is waived.

Address: 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614

Chicago Board of Trade 

This gorgeous location is a trendy spot for wedding photos (sometimes there is even a line of wedding parties for this spot!). Going early in the morning or midday is recommended for better light. The street is quiet so you can take photos in the middle of the street if you pay attention to your surroundings.

Notes: For professional photography, no permit is necessary.

Address: 141 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60604

Rookery Building

Located right off next to the Board of Trade, The Rookery is truly one of the best places for pictures in Chicago a winding staircase and a great hall. The main hall is open to visitors most days of the week. To explore more of the building you must take a tour or book a photography session and obtain a permit.

Notes: For professional photography, a permit is required, and the fee ranges from $150-275 depending on what package you choose.

Address: 209 South LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60604

Museum Campus Skyline View & Solidarity Drive

We can almost argue that just about any spot along the famous Lakeshore Drive has the best views of the city. We recommend walking the solidarity drive to visit the Museum campus areas to see the full Chicago skyline. If you don’t have a ride directly to the Museum campus drive, plan ahead as it is a pretty long walk from the main tourist area – Millennium Park.

Notes: For professional photography you need to get a $45 permit ($35 Application Fee) for both locations.

Addresses:

Museum Campus- 1300 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60605

Solidarity – E Solidarity Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Chicago Union Station

The station of classical Greek architecture will transport you back to ancient times. Full of beautiful white marble, statues, and columns this location is a perfect photography background for lifestyle and wedding photos. It’s a very quiet station, making it perfect for resting and recharging between your transport stops.

Notes: For professional photography, a $150 permit must be obtained in the form of a cash or money order.

Address: 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool

This serene location of garden waterfalls and pools is a frequent choice for many to get engaged (a lot of people come here for surprise proposals) and even get married. Unfortunately, the location no longer offers private events but you are still free to plan a photo shoot here and take as many photos as you like.

Notes: For professional photography, a $100 permit is required, and no private events can be hosted.

Address: 125 West Fullerton Parkway, Chicago, IL 60614

Tom Ping Memorial Park

Spending time in a Chicago Chinatown? Don’t forget to stop by the nearby parks, not only do you get to see beautiful murals, nature, and structures you will also see the Chicago Skyline and a part of the Chicago River.

Notes: For professional photography, you need to get a $45 permit ($35 Application Fee).

Address: 1700 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Conservatories: Lincoln Park | Garfield Park

The conservatories are wonderful places to take pictures indoors on days when the weather is too hot or too cold. Many gorgeous greenhouse rooms range from desert environments to jungle greenery. Both locations tend to get crowded, so come early in the day to capture the best lighting.

Notes: For professional photography, a $35 Application Fee + $45 Permit Fee is required, if your event is hosted by Conservatory, the permit is waived.

Addresses:

Lincoln Park – 2391 North Stockton Drive, Chicago, IL 60614

Garfield Park – 300 North Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624

Millennium Park | Maggie Daley Park

If you know anything about Chicago you must be familiar with the Cloud Gate (the Bean)! It is a perfect destination for visitors and unique pictures. Given its popularity, this is an extremely high-traffic tourist area. If you want to be amazing pictures without the crowds be sure to come as early in the morning as possible.

Notes: For professional photography, permits must be privately obtained in person for each artist’s location

Address: East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Harold Washington Library Center

Doing some shopping on State Street? After you are done head to the Harold Washington Library to the highest floor. You’ll find yourself in a gorgeous peaceful blue-green room with a glass ceiling – perfect for pictures, work, or getting some studying done!

Notes: No permit information is available.

Address: 400 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605

D’Angelo Park

Just a few blocks east of the library you find a cute little patch of greenery amid the city skyscrapers. You can have a little picnic in a little nature corner while enjoying the architectural views of the tallest building in the city.

Notes: For professional photography, you need to get a $45 permit ($35 Application Fee).

Address: 438 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60607

Lurie Garden

This gorgeous peaceful garden is located right next to the Art Institute of Chicago. in the summer it is filled with flowers making it a serene place for pictures. There is not much shade so if you plan a professional session, go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat of the sun during the summer.

Notes: Permits are required for professional photography. Email [email protected] to receive permit pricing and information.

Address: 220 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60601

Montrose Beach & Bird Sanctuary

Want a nice mix of nature and full skyline views? Pack a picnic basket full of snacks head over to Montrose beach and walk over to the bird sanctuary. Here you’ll see amazing bird species and the skyline overlooking Lake Michigan.

Notes: For professional photography, a $35 Application Fee + $45 Permit Fee is required at the Montrose Harbor Dr. Skyline View. If you are taking photos at the pier or by the bird sanctuary, a permit is not required.

Address: 4400 N. Lake Shore Drive (Montrose Harbor Dr. Chicago, IL 60613 (4400)

Chicago Botanic Garden

Need a place to spend a full day with endless photo spots? Check out the Botanic Garden, with a variety of world-inspired gardens you’ll have endless options for photos around the park. The park does get lots of traffic, but there is plenty of space for your group to go even at its busiest times.

Notes: For professional photography, a $250 permit is required. The permit is good for the day but you must come at your scheduled photo time at 10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm.

Address: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022

Bahai Temple of Worship

This location is very beautiful and unique not just in Chicago but around the world as well, there are only 7 similar architectures like it. The place is very peaceful it is unlikely that you will run into large groups of people, just be mindful of others who come for spirituality.

Notes: For professional photography, outdoor photography is allowed in certain areas outside of the temple. Large group photography requires permission ahead of time. Indoor photography is not permitted.

Address: 100 Linden Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

Best places for pictures in Chicago, Conclusion

No matter if you are taking pictures with friends or are planning a special occasion these are some of the the very best places for pictures in Chicago. More pictures and locations are consistently being added, so check back soon for new recommendations!

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Are you looking for a professional portrait photographer? We’d love to chat! Mariya S Photography specializes in creating lifestyle photography as well as family photography in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.