‘Tis the season for family holiday photos, which I am sure is a family’s favorite right? (hah). After some research and crowdsourcing, I’ve put together a list of the best Chicago locations, both outdoor and indoor, to get those beautiful holiday photos!

Outdoor Photo Locations

• Clark Richard Park – This park is directly behind Lane Tech High School, which I believe is technically considered Avondale. The trees right now are so pretty and would make a great backdrop for holiday photos. It runs along the North Branch of the river and has a paved running/bike path, paddle boat rental (during the summer), a bike park and it’s just such a pretty part of the city. It’s a secluded area and never crowded, which is always nice while taking pics. Bonus, there’s always tons of parking right on Rockwell Street. I would bring a blanket because there are very few benches.
• DePaul University’s Quad and the University of Chicago – We took our engagement photos here in late October and the trees are just beautiful. It’s been our go-to hangout spot when we need fresh air and space during lockdown. The trees and space are beautiful. Another college spot would be the University of Chicago, their campus is gorgeous!

• Lincoln Park Zoo – I like this location for a few reasons. There are SO many shooting locations. There is The Honeycomb, the bridge, the lawn in front of the conservatory, the Lily Pond, the tall grass along the petting zoo, and more! We even did our baby announcement with Mila here. Plus you can always run inside the zoo for the bathroom.

• Humboldt Park – There’s a lot of tall grass and wide open spaces to take some really great shots in front of the boat house. It’s also a bird and wildlife sanctuary, you might get a few animals in your shot. I think with a layer of fresh snow, it would be beautiful! There are a few small bridges that would look nice as well to stage some pictures there too!
• Wrigley Building – This is my absolute favorite tree and we have taken photos infant of it before! It does get crowded so I would recommend going early! We also warmed up and used the bathroom at Nordstrom’s on Michigan Avenue 🙂

• Montrose Beach – I think this has one of the best views of the skyline. There is also the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary so there is lots of space to take your time. Maybe set up a picnic with the skyline as your backdrop.
• 31st Street Beach – Just south of the Museum Campus is the 31st Street beach. This is one of my favorite beaches in the city, there are beautiful skyline views and easy parking. It’s right off the highway!
• Tom (Ping) Memorial Park – Located in Chinatown, this park has more of an industrial feel, but could be something different for your photos! This park offers a ton of things like an athletic field, playground, walking paths by the river, and a boat house, which is open for kayak rentals during the summer only.
• Milton Lee Olive Park – If you are looking some some up-close skyline views, this park is for you. This location is also perfect for engagement photos! It’s located just north of Navy Pier and just east of Ohio Street Beach.
• Winnemac Park – This park is located in Lincoln Square and has the prettiest trees that make a beautiful backdrop. Then grab brunch at Gather after (so good!)
• Horner Park – Located at the border of Albany Park and Ravenswood, this park is huge! It’s also along the river and there is a new trail with wildflowers and it’s so pretty! Nice for photos.
• Museum Campus – This area is where the Shedd, Planetarium, and Field Museum are all located. You get the best views of the city plus during the winter there are way fewer people and parking is so easy. Fun fact – my parents got engaged in that area.

Indoor

• 900 Shops – This is located in the 900 N. Michigan Avenue building. They have such a pretty tree, Santa and just decorated beautifully. You could take some nice holiday photos in front of the tree! The entire mall is decorated nicely and if you head upstairs, you can grab a drink in their Library, which has pretty views over Michigan Avenue.
• Union Station – Union Station decorates beautifully for the holidays! The architecture would make for some unique holiday photos. Plus, you can head out to the Adams Street Bridge or anywhere along the river for some quick photos outside.

• Museum Science and Industry – They have their annual Christmas Trees Around the World Exhibit. It started in 1942! Several trees and holiday lights would make nice backdrops for holiday cards.
• Conservatories – The Lincoln Park and Garfield Park Conservatory are both perfect for family photos! The lighting is always great and it’s nice and warm! We have taken photos at the Lincoln Park Conservatory when the weather is bad even in the summer. They turned out great. See below for our baby announcement! Both are open, but you might need a reservation at the Garfield Conservatory.
• Find an igloo or decorated bar – Igloos are gaining popularity for dining out but I think it would make for a cool backdrop for photos. I know City Winery, Hotel Zachary, and The Godfrey Hotel have had them in the past.

Extra tips

• Bring snacks, toys, and even a mug with cider/hot chocolate.
• A warm blanket and layer the kids with thermals.
• Look through the dollar section at Target. I found lights and confetti to add some props to your photos

Let me know what you think and if you took any this holiday season! You can see more holiday content here!

Christine