Chicago is a city of vibrant energy, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing couples in some of the most picturesque outdoor spots the city has to offer. Whether you're looking for a romantic backdrop with city skyline views or serene spots surrounded by nature, Chicago has something for every couple. Here’s a list of the top 20 outdoor locations in the city that will make your engagement or wedding photos truly unforgettable.

1. Lincoln Park South Pond

Lincoln Park South Pond is an enchanting urban oasis in the heart of Lincoln Park. Surrounded by lush trees and wildflowers, the pond creates a tranquil, natural setting perfect for couples seeking a peaceful backdrop for their photos. With the iconic Lincoln Park Zoo nearby and the Chicago skyline in the distance, this location offers a great combination of nature and city views. The boardwalk around the pond provides intimate spaces for romantic shots, making it a versatile spot for engagement or wedding photos.

Address: 2045 N Lincoln Park West, Chicago, IL 60614

2. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a Chicago icon, offering a unique blend of modern art, architecture, and nature. The Cloud Gate (or "The Bean") is a must-photograph landmark, providing an iconic reflection of the skyline and the couple. You can also explore the Lurie Garden for a more peaceful, botanical feel or capture sweeping views of the city from the park's open spaces. It's perfect for couples who want to add a bit of contemporary flair to their photos.

Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602

3. North Avenue Beach

For couples who love the water, North Avenue Beach offers stunning lakefront views with the Chicago skyline in the distance. The sandy beach, combined with the serene blue waters of Lake Michigan, creates a romantic atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Sunset shots here are particularly magical, as the soft light creates the perfect backdrop for intimate photos. The beach’s wide-open space allows for plenty of creativity and movement in your photoshoot.

Address: 1600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613

4. Grant Park

Grant Park, known as "Chicago's front yard," is an expansive and versatile location for couples' photography. With iconic landmarks like the Buckingham Fountain and the serene gardens, it provides a wide range of scenic opportunities. The park’s open spaces and surrounding cultural institutions offer a perfect balance of nature, city life, and historic beauty. It’s a favorite spot for couples who want a classic Chicago setting for their engagement or wedding photos.

Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

5. Wrigley Building

The Wrigley Building is a Chicago architectural gem that offers a blend of classic beauty and historic charm. The building's white terra-cotta façade and the iconic clock tower make it one of the most romantic photo locations in the city. The surrounding plaza and Michigan Avenue also provide excellent opportunities for street photography with the bustling city as your backdrop. This landmark is perfect for couples who want elegant, timeless photos with a touch of old-world charm.

Address: 400-410 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

6. The Art Institute of Chicago Gardens

Tucked behind the Art Institute of Chicago, the museum’s gardens offer an elegant, picturesque backdrop for couples’ photography. The formal gardens, including the beautiful South Garden, boast gorgeous fountains, manicured hedges, and vibrant flowers that change with the seasons. The juxtaposition of the grand museum building and the peaceful garden setting provides the perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty for your photos.

Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

7. Lyric Opera House

The Lyric Opera House offers a stunning mix of historic architecture and modern elegance that makes it a striking location for couples’ photos. The grand columns and dramatic steps leading up to the entrance create a romantic, timeless atmosphere, while the surrounding streets add an urban edge to your photos. Whether you're posing on the steps or capturing the beauty of the building’s façade, this location exudes sophistication and class—ideal for couples seeking a regal and elegant vibe.

Address: 20 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

8. Montrose Harbor

Montrose Harbor offers expansive views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, making it an exceptional location for couples looking to capture both natural beauty and the city's iconic architecture. The harbor features quiet piers, open spaces, and charming wooden docks that provide a perfect romantic touch for photos. Sunrise or sunset shoots here can yield breathtaking results with warm, glowing light over the water.

Address: 601 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60640

9. The Field Museum Grounds

The Field Museum and its surrounding grounds offer a beautiful combination of nature and history. The expansive lawns, adjacent to Lake Michigan, provide ample space for photos. The museum's architecture serves as a grand backdrop for couples who want an elegant, timeless feel to their photos. You can also catch stunning views of the lake and skyline, making it a versatile spot for a variety of photography styles.

Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

10. Milton Lee Olive Park

Olive Park is a peaceful green space tucked along Lake Michigan with incredible views of the city skyline. It features winding paths, open lawns, and a picturesque view of Navy Pier, making it a romantic location for intimate couple portraits. Its quiet, serene atmosphere is ideal for couples who want to capture their love while surrounded by lush greenery and the stunning blue hues of Lake Michigan.

Address: 500 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611

11. Promontory Point

Located in Hyde Park, Promontory Point is a stunning lakeside park offering panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. The rocky shoreline, beautifully landscaped gardens, and historic stone pavilion make for a diverse range of photo opportunities. The park’s secluded nature and its scenic overlook are perfect for couples who want to create lasting memories with breathtaking views.

Address: 5491 S Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60615

12. Maggie Daley Park

Maggie Daley Park combines beautiful green spaces, unique landscapes, and modern design elements. Couples can explore areas like the whimsical “Skating Ribbon,” the whimsical play garden, or take in city views from the park’s elevated walking paths. The park’s mix of urban design with lush landscapes creates an atmosphere full of fun and romance, making it a fantastic choice for vibrant, energetic photos.

Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

13. Jackson Park

Jackson Park, located on Chicago’s South Side, is an expansive green space known for its beautiful gardens, lagoons, and scenic walking paths. The Japanese Garden, located on an island within the park, offers a peaceful, serene setting for couples who want something more intimate and tranquil. The park's expansive layout provides a variety of shooting locations, from elegant bridges to lush landscapes.

Address: 6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60649

14. Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of nature and urban life. With its combination of art, culture, and natural beauty, Wicker Park offers a unique and trendy backdrop for couples looking for something a little different. Stop by The Robey for spectacular views of the city.

Address: 2018 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

15. Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is an iconic location that combines beautiful architecture with scenic views of the Chicago River. The waterfront pathways offer picturesque backdrops with bridges, boats, and the city skyline. Whether you want a modern urban vibe or a tranquil riverside scene, the Riverwalk provides a stunning location for romantic photos.

Address: 8 W Riverwalk S, Chicago, IL 60601

16. Chicago Lakefront in Hyde Park

The Chicago Lakefront in Hyde Park offers a peaceful, scenic escape with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. The wide open spaces along the shore provide an ideal setting for romantic couple portraits, with the lake’s calming waters and natural beauty as a backdrop. Whether you're strolling along the shoreline or capturing intimate moments on the grassy knolls, this location offers a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for couples looking for both tranquility and scenic views. The nearby wooded areas and beautiful walking paths make it a versatile choice for a variety of photo styles.

Address: 5300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60615

17. Lurie Garden

Lurie Garden, located within Millennium Park, is a lush, beautifully landscaped garden that provides a tranquil and vibrant setting for couples. With its mix of native plants, winding pathways, and tranquil water features, it offers a serene atmosphere perfect for intimate photos. The backdrop of modern city architecture paired with the garden’s natural beauty creates a unique juxtaposition, offering an elegant and peaceful setting for engagement or wedding shoots.

Address: 1200 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

18. Kinzie Bridge

The Kinzie Bridge offers a beautiful blend of Chicago’s historic architecture and its bustling urban vibe. With the Chicago River flowing beneath and the iconic skyscrapers framing the scene, the bridge provides an industrial-chic backdrop that is both unique and romantic. The area around the bridge is perfect for couples who want to capture the essence of Chicago’s urban landscape while enjoying a more quiet and intimate moment.

Address: 400 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654

19. Chicago Board of Trade

The Chicago Board of Trade is an architectural masterpiece, featuring beautiful Art Deco design that serves as a stunning backdrop for couples seeking timeless elegance. The grand exterior, towering columns, and surrounding urban streets create a bold and dramatic setting for your photos. Its rich history and iconic status in the city make it a perfect location for couples who want their photos to exude power, sophistication, and style.

Address: 141 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604

20. University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful campus, making it a perfect location for romantic couples' photography. The iconic Harper Memorial Library, with its grand arches and intricate detailing, offers an elegant backdrop for timeless photos, among many other buildings. The picturesque quadrangles and serene gardens provide plenty of intimate spots, and the historic cobblestone paths add a charming, vintage feel to your photoshoot. Whether you're capturing the grandeur of the buildings or the peacefulness of the campus, this location is ideal for couples who appreciate classic beauty.

Address: 5801 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL 60637

Final Thoughts

Chicago offers a wealth of incredible outdoor locations that can make your couples’ photography session truly unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of nature or the energy of the city, there’s something in Chicago that will perfectly capture your love story. Each of these locations offers its own unique charm, ensuring that no matter where you choose, your photos will reflect the essence of your relationship in stunning, timeless imagery.

About the Author

Sasha is a wedding photographer based in the Chicagoland area, with a passion for capturing the moments that make each couple's story unique. She loves writing blog articles that cover a wide range of topics, from portrait locations to gift ideas, wedding advice, and more—anything that will help her couples create a meaningful and stress-free journey. When she’s not behind the camera, Sasha enjoys traveling internationally and indulging in her favorite treat, salted peanut butter ice cream from Jeni’s. Sasha also spends her downtime hanging out with her foster cat, Missy, and listening to pop punk bands. Currently, she’s booking weddings for 2025 and 2026, and she’s excited to help even more couples bring their wedding visions to life!

Top 20 Locations for Wedding and Couples Photography in Chicago

SASHA STRAHLER

Top 20 Locations for Wedding and Couples Photography in Chicago

33 Date Night Activities in Chicago for Couples and Newlyweds

14 Ways to Plan a Wedding on a Budget

SASHA STRAHLER