Chicago is a hot spot for Instagram-worthy food, architecture, and art. However, with so much to do and see, where do you begin? We surveyed our team of Chicago experts, hit the streets, and scoped out the most Instagrammable places in Chicago.
When you finish snapping pics, head to our Tour Chicago Like a Local post to check out the other can’t-miss spots in Chicago. And, if it’s your first time in Chicago, we made a list for that, too.
Make Your Instagram Feed Rock with These Chicago Backdrops
1. #SkyDeckChicago
At a stomach-dropping 1,353 feet, the Chicago Sky Deck in the Willis Tower takes the title of highest observation deck in the United States. You can see 4 states from the 103rd floor! When not surrounded by a fluffy blanket of clouds, the SkyDeck gives you a view of Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. SkyDeck is a mandatory destination for Windy City newcomers, so it should go first on your list as you tour the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. However, those pics won’t come free: prepare to spend from the low $30s and up a person to experience this spectacular view.
2. #TheBeanChicago
Welcome to Chicago’s one of a kind… stainless steel kidney bean! Technically titled Cloud Gate (although no one calls it that), The Bean sits in the heart of Millennium Park, reflecting wavy interpretations of Chicago’s skyline in its curves. Sculpted by British artist Sir Anish Kapoor, Cloud Gate was chosen from a group of 30 contestants to reside permanently at the heart of AT&T Plaza. If you want to snap an Instagram-worthy picture in Chicago, this lovely, shiny bean will do you great justice.
3. #ChicagoRiverwalk
Part of a major renovation initiative, Chicago’s Riverwalk gives meanderers an aqueous view of the city. Boardwalks line the river, stretching for over a mile and housing eateries, wineries, tiny parks, and water sports. Here, you can join yoga classes by the water, eat delicacies from new eateries, observe a stunning ice-covered river in the winter, jump with joy at the green-dyed river on St. Patrick’s Day, and — of course — capture photos with your favorite pooch. Any spot along the Riverwalk is a good spot. You’ll get river and skyline views you can’t find anywhere else.
4. #WndrMuseum
The WNDR Museum is a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience that defies traditional museum boundaries. From colorful backgrounds and textures to aesthetics galore, this museum was practically built to be one of the most Instagrammable places in Chicago. To grab a pic, general admission starts at $32.
5. #CindysRooftop
Cindy’s is what summer #rooftopchicago dreams are made of. Grab a drink, mingle, and watch the sunset on the rooftop of The Athletic Association Hotel. Cindy’s offers some of the most beautiful views of the city’s most famous spots: Lake Michigan, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and Grant Park. Complete the scene by ordering the Jillian cocktail. Topped with a hibiscus flower and backed by the skyline, you’ll feel like you landed in a little slice of paradise.
Related: The Best Restaurants in Chicago with a View
6. #ParlorPizza
If only pizza could fly… oh, wait! This spot combines the classic “wings on a wall mural” with Chicago’s favorite food: pizza! Parlor Pizza is known for their quirky pizza decor, but equally famous for their unique pies. Get an amazing pie and grab a drink on Parlor’s patio after you snap your shot.
7. #HamptonSocial
Ever see the viral “Rosé all day” sign? Well, it comes from right here at the Hampton Social. So, if you’ve been looking for an ultimate photo wall to sip rosé in front of, we found it. Tourists and locals alike keep coming back to this spot for top-notch food and an inviting nautical aesthetic. Stop at Hampton Social for an amazing happy hour or seafood dish, it’s great for any occasion.
8. #GreetingsfromChicago
Should we change the name of this post to The Best Instagram Walls in Chicago? Yes, another wall, but this one has Chicago written all over it… literally. Located in Logan Square, the Greetings from Chicago mural creates the perfect spot for that iconic tourist picture. Look closely, it also incorporates the things Chicago is best known for: pizza, the Willis Tower, sports teams, and that shiny bean we all know and love.
9. #SweetMandyB’s
The best things in life are sweet, especially when they’re cheap. Grab a beautifully handcrafted treat — cupcakes, brownies, cookies, pies, and more — all for a decent price. Get a cupcake starting at $4.75, a cookie for $4 and up, and look out for extra-photogenic seasonal designs. If you want pastel colors and amazing deserts, and you definitely do, go to Sweet Mandy B’s.
10. #LondonHouseChicago
Another ‘grammable rooftop that you just can’t miss during summertime, the LondonHouse Chicago, a luxury hotel in the Loop, offers some of the best rooftop views in the city. With 360-degree views of Chicago, a photo op awaits at every corner. This spot has a more upscale atmosphere than our other picks, so grab a cocktail dress.
Pro tip: This beautiful backdrop also makes for amazing wedding photos.
Ready to Live in an Instagrammable Apartment?
Now that you know the most Instagrammable places in Chicago, find the best apartment views in Chicago. AptAmigo can help you find your new scenic dream home in the big city, while you scroll through your Instagram feed. We find and narrow down the best apartment options for you, all with a few clicks of a button. The best part? It’s totally free!
* The original version of this article was first published on July 11, 2019.
