Looking for that perfect Chicago photo opp? Not to worry — with this roundup of must-see places to visit in Chicago, your selfie game will be on point. Get inspiration through our photography primer below, which is filled with 12 essential landmarks to capture.
We can’t wait to see what you discover here in Chicago… colorful street art, mind-blowing food, stunning skylines. While you’re at it, feel free to share your photos with us on Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #ChicagoHome.
Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”)
You’ll recognize this one. Cloud Gate is the iconic, bean-shaped sculpture in Millennium Park that mirrors and distorts the surrounding Chicago skyline. When people see this selfie, they’ll know you’re in Chicago.
Chicago skyline from the Adler Planetarium
With its prime vantage point on the edge of the Museum Campus, the stretch of Solidarity Drive between Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium boasts spectacular views of sparkling Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
The Chicago Theatre marquee
This six-story marquee sign marks the spot for The Chicago Theatre, a historic venue that has been dazzling visitors and locals alike since 1921. Take your selfie at night, when the marquee is all lit up — preferably on your way to see an exciting performance by a big-name comedian or world-renowned musician.
Picasso Sculpture in Daley Plaza
This massive cubist sculpture by Pablo Picasso was the first major piece of public artwork of its kind in downtown Chicago, and today, this Daley Plaza piece is a major landmark. Choose your selfie position — “The Picasso” looks quite different depending on where you stand.
Wrigley Field marquee
For sports fans, no trip to Chicago is complete without stopping by the beloved Wrigley Field. Snap a selfie in front of the iconic red and white marquee, and head inside to check out the latest Wrigley Field expansion and renovations, known as The 1060 Project.
Buckingham Fountain
Take your selfie next to one of the largest water fountains in the world — Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park, which features water shows every hour, from 8 am until 10 pm, from mid-April through mid-October.
The Ferris wheel at Navy Pier
You have two choices here: you can either take a selfie from afar, with Navy Pier and its massive Ferris wheel in the background, or you can buy a ticket and take the ride, snapping a selfie from 150 feet up in the air.
Máximo at Field Museum
Head to Field Museum, and snap a selfie with Máximo, the largest titanosaur — stretching 122 feet from head to tail, peeking behind your shoulder.
Skyline from Lincoln Park Zoo
Enjoy free admission to Lincoln Park Zoo, and while you’re there, explore the Nature Boardwalk to spot birds and other wildlife. Bonus: as you stroll the Lester E. Fisher Bridge that crosses the South Pond (also known as the Nature Bridge), you can take in beautiful Chicago skyline views — the perfect backdrop for your selfie.
Lion statues at the Art Institute of Chicago
Strike a pose next to one of the two bronze lions at the Michigan Avenue entrance of the Art Institute of Chicago. These magnificent beasts by sculptor Edward Kemeys have been Chicago icons since 1893.
The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago
Looking for that “wow factor” for your next selfie? Snap a picture from The Ledge, where you can stand in a glass box overlooking the city from 1,353 feet up. It’s an exhilarating view and a sure bet for an unmatched selfie.
Bronze Cow outside the Chicago Cultural Center
In 1999, a public arts project took over Chicago, as a herd of fiberglass cows could be spotted throughout the city. Today, cuddle up to the bronze cow sculpture located outside the entrance to the Chicago Cultural Center, which was gifted to the city of Chicago “in gratitude for the support of the cows and other art in public places.”
