It’s no secret that Chicago is a beautiful city designed with lots of green space and our amazing lakefront. So this makes our city the perfect backdrop for any photography session. Here are a few of my favorite locations for engagement photos around Chicago with some indoor suggestions as well for those rainy or cold winter days.
Outdoor Chicago Engagement Photo Location Ideas
Chicago Riverwalk
One of my absolute favorite locations for engagement photos in Chicago. You have the skyline, the river, the bridges, and miles of space of explore which makes every session unique.
Montrose Beach
Montrose beach is a sleeper of a location. It’s not as popular as some other spots around Chicago for engagement photos but that’s part of what makes it so great. Fewer couples and photographers means you get more of the place to yourself. If you’re looking for a beach location that’s a little unique definitely consider Montrose.
Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Walk
Easily one of the more popular spots for engagement photos. The Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Walk combines a bit of nature while still reminding you’re in the city with great skyline views. You’ll find opportunities for great photos year round, including winter as well.
Adler Planetarium & Museum Campus
Another popular spot due to its panoramic view of the Chicago skyline. In addition to taking engagement photos right along the lake, you can also walk over to the museum campus for some stunning photos as well.
North Ave Beach
It’s hard to beat North Ave Beach for engagement photos. You have the beach and lakefront but you also have the unique jetty that allows you to walk out into the lake and get, in my opinion, the best view of the Chicago skyline.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is of course a bit touristy but there’s still some great photos to be had here. Whether in front of the Wave Swinger or even better, take a ride on Centennial Wheel for some unique views. Just try and avoid the weekends and instead, aim for a weekday evening after work.
Buckingham Fountain
Another popular tourist spot but there’s no denying that Buckingham Fountain is quintessential Chicago. Right in the heart of Grant Park there’s plenty of other locations nearby to get a variety of photos during your session.
Garden of the Phoenix (Osaka Garden)
A lesser known spot in Chicago, it’s located within Jackson Park just south of the Museum of Science and Industry. The current gardens began when the Japanese government built the Phoenix Temple on Wooded Island within Jackson Park. The temple and gardens were constructed in 1893 for the World’s Columbian Exposition like much of area around the museum campus and has been maintained ever since in various forms.
Milton Lee Olive Park
Just outside of Navy Pier is Milton Lee Olive Park. Open dawn to dusk pretty much year round it’s a popular spot for photos. You get great views of the skyline, Oak Street Beach, and the lake. This is another spot that is best for early morning sessions or weekday evenings as it gets crowded on Saturdays and Sundays.
Ping Tom Park
All the way in the South Loop area and along the Chicago River you’ll find Ping Tom Park. Lots of walking paths, a pagoda, boathouse, and unique views of the skyline can be found here. If you’re from the South Loop area or looking for something a bit different this is a great option.
