1. Millennium Park: Chicago’s Iconic Gem
Millennium Park is perhaps one of the most recognizable spots in Chicago, making it a top choice for engagement and wedding photos. The stadium architecture and the famous Cloud Gate (The Bean) is hard to miss. Perfect for couples who want to reflect the city’s skyline in their photos, while the nearby Lurie Garden provides a more intimate, natural setting.
What You Need to Know:
- Permit: Technically, maybe. Honestly go gone so many time that I haven’t been bothered by anyone as to whether I have it or not.
- Parking: Not easy to find if you’re trying to avoid the parking garages, but may be worth the money if your not patient and trying to avoid the headache.
- Crowds: It varies from time to time. Especially with events planned such as the Chicago Marathon or Taste of Chicago. You might want to check on what’s happing during your planned shoot.
2. Chicago Riverwalk: Urban Elegance by the Water
The Chicago Riverwalk offers is pretty cool just to walk in its pathway. The skyscrapers, picturesque bridges, and scenic spots that give couples a nice, downtown feel. Whether you prefer daytime or sunset photos, the Riverwalk offers a good view day or night.
What You Need to Know:
- Best Time: Almost anytime, but it does get a good amount of traffic depending when you go.
- Parking: You also have to figure out where to leave your car.
3. The Art Institute of Chicago: Timeless and Sophisticated
You can literally have a work of art in your photos, so the Art Institute of Chicago is a perfect choice. If you head over to the south garden of the museum, we’re talking something beautiful to have in your backdrop. The museum itself is also available, but you’ll obviously have to pay for the entrance.
What You Need to Know:
- Permit: Typically the entrance fee covers it, but photographers are not allowed to use flash. Otherwise you’re good.
- Hidden Gem: The South Garden behind the museum is a quieter spot with beautiful fountains and trees, perfect for more intimate photos. Just make sure it’s available. Events like protests can encourage the Museum to close it to the public.
4. Museum Campus: Scenic and Historic
Museum Campus, home to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium, offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. This location combines historic architecture with scenic waterfront landscapes, giving you plenty of options for both grand and serene photos. There’s more than enough space for everyone to take some pictures the Chicago Skyline.
What You Need to Know:
- Wind: Chicago winds can make a difference in your photo experience. You’re fine during the summer, but come fall or spring the weather can become freezing at that time of year. Your hair, forget about it. Unless you have it pinned down, it’s going all over the place.
- Parking: As usually, can be difficult, so go ahead of time. If you’re in a limo or trolly. Chances are your driver will have to drive around to prevent congestion in this area. Police will let you know if you do.
- Traffic: Soldier Field is there. If there’s a game, there maybe some gridlock to deal with. Just figure out when the Bears are playing there.
5. Milton Lee Olive Park: Hidden Gem with Skyline Views
Tucked away near Navy Pier. This peaceful park offers a very nice view Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, making it one of the best spots for stunning engagement and wedding photos. It’s gotta a very cool platform that goes over the lake and more than one point of view to a cool skyline shot.
What You Need to Know:
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit for softer lighting and fewer people. This is a popular spot, so there’s a chance other parties will be there.
- Parking: Do you think there’s a pattern here? Yes, it’s also a pain in the butt to get to, but I think it’s worth it.
- Walking: Since it’s kinda off the beaten path, you do have to walk a little ways to get there. The hot summer days may give you something to think about.