Posted 19 months ago in Trending
5 MIN READ - If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path places for original Instagram photos, look no further than the Loop. From iconic or hidden-away public art to world renowned architecture to sky high views and gorgeous public spaces, your grid is about to get upgraded.
Phone eats first
Start your day with a TEArrific service at Russian Tea Time, located steps away from the Art Institute of Chicago and Chicago Symphony Orchestra. A Chicago culinary landmark of over 29 years serving cuisine from the diverse regions of Eastern Europe and Central Asia in a warm and authentic ambiance. Join them for their Afternoon Tea and Samovar Service, delicious Lunch and Dinner offerings, and traditional Caviar service. Indulge in the Artisan Tea selections, house-infused Vodka Flights, and homemade desserts. BONUS: Use code: RTCP2022 for 15% OFF through 2022. Learn more.
MAKE A SPLASH
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady
As the summer ends, some of the best cruising days are coming up! Experience the more moderate weather and photograph epic views of Chicago’s legendary architecture. In 2021, USA Today readers named the First Lady #1 Best Boat Tour in North America. Equipped with a full bar and lively narration from a Chicago Architecture Center guide, the CAFC River Cruise is a must-see. Get tickets here.
SET THE SCENE
Whether you’re on a boat or not, plenty of iconic Chicago architecture can be found in the Loop, so Instagram some of the most famous buildings in the world. A new architecture tour company, Tours with Mike, can give you guidance if you need a place to begin. Arrive at Federal Center; Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was the master of modernism, and there are so many places where the lines of these three buildings meet to create amazing pictures. Also stop by Alexander Calder’s “Flamingo” sculpture, which offers a stunning structural contrast against the surrounding architecture. Or go see Chase Tower; Perkins and Will reveals that modernism is not limited to straight lines with elegant curves extending directly overhead, depending on where you stand. Marc Chagall’s “Four Seasons” mosaic outside the tower exhibits colorful tile work that will really pop in your photographs. Then head over to the Daley Center: C.F. Murphy’s landmark building presents massive columns covered in rust-colored COR-TEN steel and Pablo Picasso’s multi-faceted, iconic sculpture. And the Chicago Architecture Center is always available for walking tours, boat tours, and an impressive exhibition hall.
HOTEL, MOTEL, HOLIDAY INN
Embrace the energy of the Windy City and explore the possibilities at W Chicago – City Center. Nestled within the downtown district, the downtown hotel is housed in a historic Beaux Arts building. Sophisticated Art Deco details combine seamlessly with a very modern sense of style, paying homage to the Great Chicago Fire and the diverse cultural neighborhoods of the city, to create an atmosphere that is nothing short of electric and the best place to capture your Chicago selfie.
The Renaissance is a gallery-like hotel that is an art experience in itself. What will guests discover at the hotel? The column artwork at Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is a discoverable moment asking guests to explore both the big picture and deeper details of the city. The artwork represents the intersection between the theater district and the central transportation system. Portraits of famous city natives also intrigue and inspire discoverers while furthering imbuing the space with local spice. In the guestrooms, each room features a red figurine, representing an individual’s passion for discovery – whether moving around Chicago or the hotel – uncovering all the hidden gems of the windy city. RED = Renaissance Encourages Discovery.
SKY HIGH
The Chicago Loop has several rooftop bars with captivating views of the city, so enjoy a night out with a beautiful backdrop and plenty of Instagram opportunities.
Raised is an urban rooftop bar with exceptional cocktails and breathtaking views of Chicago. This venue juxtaposes its industrial aesthetic with cabanas and fire pits, setting a romantic atmosphere. For a night overlooking the Chicago River and skyline, the iconic bascule drawbridges, and urban gardens, Raised welcomes you to their indoor/outdoor bar, open roof deck, and private outdoor areas that offer the perfect Instagrammable shots. More information here.
For extravagant rooftop dining 27 stories above it all, ROOF on theWIT is here to provide elevated service. Stylish design and a modern, Mediterranean ambience engulf guests. Experience twinkling city views, entertainment, private events and a unique dining experience. The ROOF offers an experience you’ll never forget with world renowned DJs, acoustic music series and live runway shows -- the perfect background for your pictures. Make your reservation here.
The jewel of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy's is an award-winning rooftop bar. For a classy experience with cascading views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, the rooftop exudes Old World charm and luxurious decor.
Capture a high moment at Skydeck Chicago or 360 CHICAGO, Downtown’s breathtaking observation decks. Thrilling views spanning as far as the eye can see, 50 miles in nearly all directions, await you and make for the perfect Instagram photoshoot. At Willis Tower’s Skydeck, step out onto The Ledge—cantilevered glass floor balconies extending four feet from the building—and photograph an awesome birds-eye view of the city zooming below you. To register for your heartracing trip, visit here. Or venture a little north of the Loop to check out 360 CHICAGO. Voted “best views all around” by Travel + Leisure, 360 CHICAGO is the best observation deck to catch impressive snapshots of the best city in the world. Every angle and time of the day exudes a different mood. Visit the venue on the 94th floor of the iconic building formerly called the John Hancock Center (875 N. Michigan Ave). Learn more here.
A WALK IN THE PARK
Visit Grant Park and walk through the giant leg sculpture entitled Agora. Capture the perfect Instagrammable photograph with contrasting light and shadows as the sun shifts in the sky. The Boeing Galleries in Millennium Park provide more sculptural forms and abstract photographs to Instagram. Also housed in Grant Park is the majestic Buckingham Fountain, so capture the dancing water feature for all your followers. And for the kid at heart (or the actual kids), Maggie Daley Park features a skating ribbon, rock climbing structure, mini golf, and the best playground in the Loop.
At sunrise, find a spot to sit along the Lakefront Trail to photograph the skyline as it meets the lake or look at the sail boats stretching out in the distant waters.
