The Best Places for Chicago Skyline Photography

Chicago Skyline Photography

The Chicago skyline may be one of the most iconic, recognizable and photographed cityscapes in the world. Embedded in the mountainous skyscrapers, is a juxtaposition of modern and historic Chicago architecture that when combined is an ode to present and past. This city is a home to a melting pot of people, ideas, arts, and lifestyles. It is not just a city – it is a feeling. It is no wonder why the Chicago skyline is the is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking views in the world!

Chicago Skyline labeled Architecture Buildings

See above for the Chicago skyline labeled

Chicago Skyline History and Architecture

Chicago is the largest city in the state of Illinois an among the largest in the United States of America. As we know, it is one of the third most famous cities in the U. S. Chicago is renowned for its bold architectural looks as well as the birthplace of skyscrapers.

In 1832 when the Black Hawk War ended, Chicago was developed as a town. Afterward, in 1837, it became a city due to population growth. From 1848 it started development, and as such, it became the world’s largest grain port in 1854. Another important thing from its history is that from 1950 to 1960, Chicago’s people moved elsewhere due to the jobless environment.

Then afterward, in 2000, its population started increasing again. After a silence of many years, Chicago City has sanctioned 800 feet buildings with more jobs awaiting approval. Each day, the skyline changes Chicago design with newer layouts and innovative technology coming into the rescue of executing them from concept to completion.

Where to See the Chicago Skyline?

There are many places where you can get perfect photographs and enjoy the views of the Chicago Skyline. As you go about exploring the great beautiful city of Chicago, don’t forget to view these iconic architectural marvels:

Rush University in Chicago Skyline at Night

SOURCE Rush University Medical Center

Rush University Parking Garage

Having studied at one of Chicago’s colleges or universities, it is not necessarily a place many would return to regularly after completing your degree. You may not be intending to move back to the university, but that should not keep you from visiting Rush University.

Surprisingly, Rush University’s parking garage includes one of the most stunning views of the Chicago skyline. It is an off-the-beaten tourist path, which means that you won’t need to struggle through crowds of men and women to capture the best image of the Chicago skyline.

360 Chicago Observatory Deck

If you want to enjoy the Chicago Skyline’s great view, go upward 94 floorings within the John Hancock building and see the 360 Chicago Observation Deck.

Watch out on the town from all 360 degrees, then with interactive touch screens, click and find out about the history, structure, scenery, and culture of all these sights within your view.

As you are there, make sure to have the delight of the’ Tilt’ and then see the city from an entirely new angle. This observatory has a few of the most incredible views of Willis Tower, Lake Point Tower, in addition to the Aon Center.

Make sure you arrive first thing in the afternoon to avoid the enormous lines and the massive audiences. Because in the evening, I am 100 percent sure that you will never get the view properly because there is a huge audience at that time.

Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago is the other point from where you can see a perfect view of the Chicago Skyline. For Chicago’s amazing views and a glimpse of up to four states, investigate the notorious Willis Tower Skydeck.

At present, the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower up until 2009) is among Chicago’s most significant and greatest famous buildings. It was also the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere until 2013, when the new One World Trade Center surpassed it.

Measure ‘The Ledge,’ that extends four feet out of this building, and take in the views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. The Skydeck is available 365 days throughout the year. Therefore regardless of what time of year you decide to see, you will always be at the top of Chicago’s world.

Chicago Architecture Grid Blocks Skydeck Sunset Photography

Chicago Skydeck Skyline Photography from the Sears Tower Now Willis Tower in Downtown

The Art Institute of Chicago

If you are thinking that you will skip the Art Institute of Chicago from your queue visiting places, keep in mind that without seeing the Art Institute of Chicago, it will feel that your trip is not complete.

While you are there, not only are you going to get mesmerized by fantastic artwork, but you will also see breathtaking views of the town. Be sure to visit the Modern Wing for an unbelievable view of Millennium Park, move up to the restaurant, and enjoy views of the city while eating a tasty meal.

Navy Pier Ferris Wheel

From rides museums, the Navy Pier is filled with amusement; you will not want to overlook it. So, make sure you take a ride on the Ferris Wheel. You will enjoy the ride, but you will also have the ability to observe a fantastic view of the town after you reach the very top.

Although the old Ferris Wheel has been replaced with a new and larger version, the same designer who designed the old one (Dutch Wheels) has also constructed the new one.

The Wit Hotel ROOFtop bar in Downtown Chicago

SOURCE theWit Hotel

The Roof On theWit

The Wit Hotel in Chicago rooftop lounge is a home to live music and musicians playing nearly every day. The pub is remarkably popular with the locals, particularly during the summertime.

Sip on a cocktail while sitting by the fireplace and appreciating the close views of the Marina Towers. We propose coming for Happy Hour and remaining long enough to see the sunset across town, a spectacular sight to see.

Chicago Skyline Fourth of July Free Fireworks at the Alder Planetarium Night Photography

From the Alder Planetarium

As I mentioned in the best places to watch the Chicago sunrise, the Alder Planetarium is a photographers dream. Located right off of Lake Michigan, you have countless opportunities to capture something spectacular. Wake up early to watch the city wake up or stay late to see the sunset behind the beautiful city skyline. In the summer months, the Alder Planetarium is the perfect place to lay out a blanket and enjoy the free firework display offered from the city.

Engagement Places for your Photoshoot Chicago Skyline at Sunset Couple Photography at the Lakefront of the Alder Planetarium photoshoot

The Golden Hour Sunset Overlooking the Bean in Millennium Park in Downtown Chicago

Millennium Park Chicago

The reflection of the Chicago skyline painted on the world famous Bean sculpture in downtown Millennium Park while watching ice skaters skating in the rink below is a wonder in its own. No matter where you walk, the city’s architecture surrounds you. Take a stroll along the Lurie Gardens and see if you can spot the John Hancock building or grab your camera and head down the BP Bridge to see catch a better glimpse of the beautiful architecture.

Have some little ones? Just head a short walk to the adjoining Maggie Daley Park. A fun little gem, that is sure to keep your kids entertained.

Chicago Millennium Park Skyline Winter in Downtown photography

Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour Taxi photography

Chicago Boat Tours

See the Chicago skyline from a unique perspective from a boat!. Whether you are taking in the scenes winding down the Chicago River or enjoying a summer day on Lake Michigan, the non stop views will keep you from going overboard. One of my favorite ways to learn and see the city is through one of many Architecture Boat Tour.

Chicago Skyline Photography from a Tour Boat on Lake Michigan with an American Flag

Chicago Skyline at Dusk Sunset on Lake Michigan Boat

hicago helicopter Experience Tour of the City Skyline during sunset photography

In a Helicopter

A helicopter tour is undoubtedly the very best way to observe the Chicago skyline together with an aerial perspective of the whole city. It is also the priciest, but it is well worth it to get an unforgettable experience.

We propose a sunset excursion since there’s nothing like watching the sunset across town. For all individuals on a budget, even a boat tour is a fantastic alternate.

Chicago North Coast Photography from a Helicopter

Sweet Home Chicago

As mentioned above, the sites are not an exhaustive list of places to view Chicago’s skyline. They are just a few points where you can enjoy the stunning view of the beautifully architectural Chicago Skyline. You can enjoy the sunset views and get photographs to document these spots and make your trip memorable.

With a vast surfeit of attractions—the Art Institute, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, the Magnificent Mile, da Bulls, world-famous comedy (Second City), and world-famous theater (Steppenwolf, Goodman), not to forget the blues—“Sweet home Chicago” is an American city second to none.

Chicago Skyline Sunrise Reflection Photography Location from the Adler Planetarium

5 Best Places to See the Chicago Sunrise

Seeing the Chicago sunrise over Lake Michigan is truly a magical experience but I do not think that it gets the appreciation that it deserves. I know, there is so much to do and not enough time. I get it, with over 77 communities, on over 234 square miles of land, Chicago is the third largest city in the America. It’s big and there is a lot to see but there are a few reasons that you should try and fit the sunrise into your next visit.

Firstly, nothing is open so you really the only thing you have to choose between is either catching a few some more z’s or catching that morning light. That may actually be a hardest decision here but trust me after seeing a few of my sunrise photography, you won’t regret it. Next is that you can enjoy most of the places if not all without the daytime crowd. It sounds a bit cheesy but there is a sense of serenity when you are all by your self, watching the darkness turn to light, as the city slowly wakes up. And lastly, it’s free! (for the most part)

Are you ready to set your morning alarm and get out there yet? From seeing the morning rays 1000 feet high to sitting on the natural rocks off of the shore, it is truly a beautiful experience. Here are my top 5 best places to watch the sunrise in Chicago.

Sunrise at Fullerton Beach

The sunrise at Fullerton Beach off of Lake Michigan in Chicago will always have a special place in my heart. This location was the spot in which I photographed my very first morning in the city. I have seen this lookout evolve from a rugged natural piece of the lake shore to a well manicured park, where families and friends stay to hang out.

What makes Fullerton Beach such an amazing spot to catch the sunrise is that it not only gives you a some of the most beautiful views of Lake Michigan but a unique photography shot of the Chicago skyline. The beach is located right off the Fullerton Exit on Lake Shore Dive, which is on the east side of Lincoln Park Zoo and just north of North Avenue Beach. It is quite an accessible location in which you can find free parking all along Cannon Drive.

See the full collection here at sunrise at the lakefront

Chicago Skyline Reflection Sunrise Photography

North Avenue Beach Sunrise

North Avenue Beach lies just south of Fullerton Beach but it contains a completely different scale to Chicago’s sunrise. This is the most popular beach in the city. During the summer months it is alive with sunbathers, volleyball games and basically any activity that involves fun. In the morning, this beach is quiet and a beautiful place to watch the sunrise. Since it is located closer to the skyline, it gives you a completely different scale compared to Fullerton Beach. I also love the different opportunities for photography here. You can capture interesting photos of the famous wooden nautical boat, play with images from the adjoining bridge, or use lifeguard tower and other beach subjects to create a beautiful early morning scene.

The Chicago Sunrise at Northwestern University's Painted Rocks Lakeshore Path

Northwestern University Lakefront Path

Northwestern University is not as close to Chicago as the other spots on this list but the sunrise view is hard to beat. Located north of the city in Evanston, Northwestern University lies right off of Lake Michigan. There’s a beautiful lakefront path scattered with colorful rocks painted by the students of the university making this such a colorful spot. This is one of my favorite hidden gems for photographing the sunrise, mainly because of the unique landscape as well as the quietness of this place. You can find free parking in the surrounding neighborhoods if you don’t mind the short walk to the lake. If you are planning on visiting, bring a hammock and relax with one of the most beautiful views of Chicago.

Chicago Skyline Sunrise Photography Location at the Adler Planetarium

Alder Planetarium Sunrise

The Alder Planetarium is by far the best place to see the famous Chicago skyline. Located right off of Lake Michigan, this spot gives you panorama views of the city from the Shed Aquarium to the Sears tower to Navy Pier. The best part about this spot is seeing the reflection of the city’s architecture mirrored in the lake. Add in the warm glow of the beautiful architecture of the city skyline and you have the recipe of the of the perfect Chicago sunrise. You can park all along Solidarity Dr. It is paid parking but you can get some good shots before the meter starts to charge you.

Sunrise at 360 Chicago

Watching the sunrise from 360 Chicago, is that sort of experience that is truly unforgettable. This is the least accessible of the previous locations on the list, mainly because it is 1000 feet above Michigan Ave in the world renowned John Hancock building off on State street. I have been fortunate enough to have been invited to a few sunrise photography meets at this observatory deck and wow. With 360 degree views of the Chicago skyline , the sunrise photo possibilities are endless.

See the Full collection at 360 Chicago Sunrise

Where to Watch the Chicago Sunrise?

Every place on this list offers their own unique Chicago sunrise experience. Pick out one or honestly none of these but all that I ask is that you go and see one for yourself. I promise you that you will not regret it. It’s the little joys like this that makes life so incredibly beautiful. Seeing the morning light rising above Lake Michigan, the sky filled with colors of bright orange, yellow, and red hues reflecting on the crashing waves will always be one of my favorite moments in life. If you have any suggestions or would like to share your sunrise experience, comment below. I’d love to hear about it!

Chicago Sunrise Reflection Photography Location from the Adler Planetarium

What Time is the Sunrise in Chicago?

Check below for sunrise and sunset times

Hope

Sometimes it is hard to find, but it is always there.

These past few weeks have been filled with ups and downs. While there are many messages of hope and optimism, some days it gets harder to see the glass half full when it slowly seems to be draining from within.

You can sit in your home while being forced to engage in social distancing and wrestle over these thoughts in your head. You can be angry, scared or frustrated. But remain hopeful.

Many people are feeling the effects that are currently occurring in our society. From businesses closing their front doors to millions of people not knowing how they’ll make ends meet next month to fellow humans risking their lives to continue to work in order for the rest of the world does not shut down entirely. Be hopeful.

This is a moment in time that no one will forget. Each day it feels like we are still waking up to a dream. That we will somehow flip on the news and hear that none of this happened and while we eat our breakfast, drink our coffee and continue with our normal daily routine. That has not happened yet. The clouds still remain dark as we slowly, day by day fight through the fog. But the sun will shine again.

‘Hellos’ will once again be able to be said and accepted face to face.

But these are the days that keep you strong. These are the times where you search in your back pocket and pull out that memory of kindness, humbleness and gratitude that once made you smile. These are the days that you remember the softness of a hug, the warmth of being surrounded in a crowd, and the inviting eyes of a stranger as you pass each other on the street.

And while many aspects of life has changed, some may be gone, hope will always be there.

A Road Trip Through the Cities of Italy

A Road Trip Through Italy: Italian Cities

Back from the Italian Alps

Still in a daze from the scenes the first half of my road trip through Italy in Northern Italy, we continue traveling on the open road. Living out the words to Chuck Berry’s No Particular Place to Go, we find ourselves in a flux of mountains and age-old cities of Italy. Arco, a small town north of Lake Garda with its ancient hilltop castle and mountainous backdrop was the stunning welcoming that we needed. Without thinking, we pulled over. From the second I pulled the door handle, my eyes were jumping from one scene to the next. This was the start of a new adventure.

Exploring the Italian Coast

Although, the objective is to head down the Italian Coast and make a loop back to Venice, this trip was not ruled by an agenda. We took each road, each turn, each place as it is. This is the only way I can imagine traveling for myself. It’s cliché to even type “Its the not the Destination, It’s the journey.” But that is what traveling, adventure and memories are. I can share pictures of beautiful Italian destinations but what I can’t share are the laughs, the long rides, the happiness that simple conversations with strangers bear. I try to convey as much as I can through photography while at the same time, I enjoy keeping some of the most important moments to myself. Moments that I will look back on in my own time and just smile. I did that, I was there, and I will never forget this.

Lost in Italian Cities

The cities of Italy is alive through their stories, through their past. From Venice to Milan to Florence, you could close your eyes and imagine with ease walking in a time that’s not yours. A hurried Filippo Brunelleschi drifting through the streets of Florence or a glimpse of Leonardo da Vinci as he adds the final brush stroke to The Last Supper in Milan. It’s hard not to get lost in your surroundings, to get soaked up in the architecture, art, nature and landscape of this beautiful land. I have never stepped on a street that felt so catalytic in the importance of history than the streets of Italy. It’s hard not to fall in love in a country like this.

Serendipity: The City of Siena

The chants of a faceless crowd finds its way through the winding, cobblestone streets of Siena, Italy. Moments later the crowd with their Contrade’s emblem banners raised in hand, marched their way around the corner. This was the celebration of the The Palio horse race. A passionate event with its origin tracing back to the 6th century. This was how Italian cities felt. Frozen in time while the rest of the world marched on.

What was important about this, was that this was never planned. We didn’t know about this city nor of this celebration that only happens twice a year. Sunset was quickly approaching and our original destination was out of reach. By chance we entered the city of Siena for the night. This was probably one of the most memorable moments of any trip that I have ever had. It wasn’t scripted, it was living in the present. It was discovering a love for a place that was waiting to be found.

If you like this, you will love A Road Trip Through Italy

First Light A Chicago Sunrise

‘Twas the morning before Christmas and all through Chicago, the lakefront was silent apart from the waves below. (I know, I know, I’m quite the gifted wordsmith.)

My eyes slowly opened to the alarm I instantly regretted setting just a few hours ago. It was Christmas Eve morning but the view outside of my window begged to differ. I hazily grabbed my camera bag and stumbled out of my apartment which was still enclosed in the shade of night. Like the every previous time I chased the sunrise, the first 10 minutes being awake I contemplated turning around to the dream of falling back into the comfort of my own bed but how many moments worth remembering started off like that? (rhetorical question…I’m sure many.) Shaking out the cobwebs, I pressed on to my favorite place to watch the sunrise on the lakefront.

It’s always that moment just before the sun rises above the horizon, where the warming hues spill its way through the sky that keeps me forever in awe. Seeing how beautiful the start of a day can be seemed like a fitting way to end off the year. It’s like they say what feels like an end is often a new beginning.

Where to can you watch the sunrise? Click Here to see my favorite Chicago Spots

Chicago abstract Sunrise landscape Photography

If you like this, you will love 360 Chicago Sunrise

Fall in Chicago

Fall Chicago Photography

For a brief period in time, nature and Chicago becomes in accordance with each other. Bright reds, yellows and orange strewn with life throughout the city; a blanket trying to warm the life of the city as the temperatures begin to lower.

It’s beautiful.

Chicago goes through a momentary identity change as the trees begin breathing life into the architecture. Fall is my favorite time of year. It reminds me of how captivating change can be but also how delicate and short it can be as well.

This year I feel like I took it for granted. At the first change of color, I told myself that I would be out enjoying it behind my camera. But one busy weekend after the next, time quickly passed and I felt like I missed one of the most magical times in Chicago. I knew I had to make my way to see the remnants of the passing season. On a Saturday morning in November, I walked and walked throughout the city seeing familiar scenes in a new way.

Here are a few snapshots from a brief period of time I thought I missed.

If you like this, you might like 360 Chicago Sunrise

A Road Trip Through Italy: Part 1

A Road Trip Through Italy

Traveling to Italy is simply a dream. I honestly do not even know where to begin. It’s been about a month since getting back from Italy but the winding roads, the running canals, Italian cities lost in history and the picturesque backdrops are still fresh in my mind. Ever since seeing a picture of the slopes of Seceda in the Italian Dolomites, I knew that I would be walking on that very grass to witness it for myself. With no plan in mind except to go, I booked my ticket. There’s no turning back now. This is my road trip through Italy.

The Floating City

Every adventure starts somewhere, and mine began in Venice, Italy. An agglomerate of land carved out by canals running through it like veins in a body. Truly the most romantic city that I have ever seen. Without a single road, you experience every twist and turn right under your feet, seeing fragments of history at every step. From San Marco Square to the Grand Canal to the singing of the gondoliers as the sun touches down, Venice was a masterpiece that surpass every expectation that I ever thought I had about it. A dream city floating on water and this was only the start.

The Pale Mountains

Located a short few hours from Venice, sits one of the most beautiful places on earth. The Dolomites are a mountain range that crowns northern Italy. A place of wild mystery and now a friend & I are about to make our way through it. The very first time seeing just a hint of the jutting rock of the Dolomites my eyes were transfixed. The jagged mountains shooting up into the sky, surrounded by rolling green hills and mirrored lakes, this was a paradise that could have only been dreamt up in fairytales.

Lago Di Braies

This was the first night in the albino rhino (which I secretly called our white Jeep). We just spent the day on the road winding our way through the Dolomites heading north toward Pragser Wildsee for the night. Arriving in a small town well past 9pm, we found the only place that was open for a meal. It was a small Hotel/ Restaurante that I wouldn’t ever have known existed if it wasn’t for our late arrival; it was posted at the end of numerous switchbacks overlooking the small, flickering city below. It was a hidden gem that was home to some of the most welcoming people but also offered one of the best meals on this trip. These are the moments that I will always stay with me.

After eating, we found our way to a small parking lot to call home for the night. Not being a stranger to sleeping in a car I quickly got as comfortable as I could to call it a night. I laid there listening to a few passing cars but my mind was still racing with excitement. Although I could feel my body physically tired, these swimming thoughts of what was in stored for the next day won the battle for the first few hours but eventually faded.

We woke up at first light to the brisk mountain air and made our way to this little lake in the Prags valley. Lago di Braies is one of those places that I have/ you may have seen many pictures of but nothing could have prepared me for seeing this place in person. The water was still and blue, the light was just waking up and slowly finding it’s way through the surrounding mountains. There were few people up, making it beautifully quiet. This was the first time (but not the last) where these far away places that I grew up seeing pictures of weren’t so far away anymore.

The Seceda

Every oversea trip that I have ever been on has been based on one single image. Kirkjufell in Iceland, Trolltunga in Norway, Neist Point in Scotland and for Italy it was the Seceda. These are the places that restore the childlike mentally of how simple life can truly be. These are the places that swim over you like a breath of fresh air, that revives that sense of curiosity and adventure. These are the places, that makes me believe how beautiful the world really is. I really wish I could talk more about it, but I don’t have the words. I mean the Seceda ridge line was the catalyst of this whole trip and when I first laid eyes on it, I just sat, and laughed in disbelief. A place like this actually exists.

The first leg of this trip was the most important part to me since it was the whole reason why I pushed the confirm button at checkout for my flight. I have been fortunate enough to have seen some beautiful places in my life but experiencing the Dolomites was something else. It left me speechless with a feeling that I really can’t explain. You just have to go and experience it for yourself. It’s such a beautiful place that many people do not associate when talking about Italy and maybe that’s one of the beauties of it. With every turn was a moment filled with anticipation as I could never have predicted what I would see next. Northern Italy makes you feel small and unimportant in the best possible way, washing away egos and selfishness and shines light on the world around you. Now off to the next adventure.

If you like this, you will love A Road Trip Through the Cities of Italy

360 Chicago Sunrise pt. II

Day and Night

The Walt Disney Concert Hall

Day and night… bump bump… This being a product of my insomnia at 3am. A little symbolic too, days and nights become synonymous with each other. Some days I can fall right asleep at a ‘normal’ hour while other nights I toss & turn until the sun comes up. On those nights I find myself working on pictures like this to calm the mind. A day. A night. The rhythm of the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, California.

If you like this, you might like my Surreal Photography

A Day at the Blackstone Hotel

Walking down Michigan Ave, you’re bound to notice a few of Chicago’s most architecturally significant buildings. From the Wrigley Building to the Tribune Tower to the John Hancock Center, but if you head a little bit south there is an unmistakable mansard roof peaking above the skyline.

I was fortunate to have been able to spend a night at the historic Blackstone Hotel last month. The home of the original “smoke filled room”, today it’s a mix of historical, modernism that you can not help but wonder about the stories that were written inside of these walls. Opening the door to my room I was immediately welcomed with sunlight reflecting off the marble floor as well as their signature KOVAL bourbon waiting to be poured. It was a luxurious room that I never wanted to leave. I found myself sketching behind a desk during the day, watching the city lights at night and waking up to the sunrise over Lake Michigan in the morning. Although my time here was only for a night, it was a wonderful experience that I would not trade for the world.

Outside of the Blackstone

Located in the heart of Chicago, on one of the most vibrant streets, you immediately feel like you have the whole city in the palm of your hands. Just looking out the window to the mind blowing view of Grant Park made me want to grab my camera and just go. And so I did.

The streets were alive, Grant Park was preparing itself for summer and the tulips scattered throughout Chicago sprang to life. I don’t live in Chicago, but I’m here quite often. I usually drive up here, park and either walk or take the CTA to get around the city. But this time, I found myself walking for the entire day, never once worrying about what time it was or when I should leave. I was free to just enjoy the city… just me and my camera. This was a convenience I never once thought I’d appreciate until my stay at the Blackstone.

This was simply an amazing opportunity that I’m for ever humble to have experienced. Below are a few of my favorite pictures I have ever taken and it is all due to everyone at Blackstone Hotel. A big thanks for letting me be apart of the heart that beats the city. This was one of the most relaxing days that I’ve ever had and now I have a new favorite hotel. Until next time, and trust me, there will be a next time.

Interesting Facts of the Day:

The Blackstone Hotel opened its doors on my birthday April 6th, 1910 (I wasn’t born in 1910)
It attracted everyone from Teddy Roosevelt, the Rockefellers, to Nat King Cole and Al Capone.
The Blackstone Hotel was declared a historic landmark in 1998.