15 Best Outdoor Engagement Photoshoot Locations in Chicago
As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m often asked which outdoor locations create the most beautiful and meaningful engagement photos. Whether you're looking for the city skyline view at sunset or a historic building backdrop, Chicago has the perfect spot for every couple.
Here is a list of my 15 favorite outdoor engagement locations in Chicago to help make your day unforgettable.
1. LondonHouse Chicago
Address: 85 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Cost: $1000+
LondonHouse Chicago is a beautiful hotel located along the Chicago Riverwalk for engagements and proposals. The Cupola at LondonHouse is available by reservation only and has a luxurious and romantic atmosphere.
The rooftop provides a stunning city backdrop and views of downtown Chicago making it an unforgettable spot for your engagement.
Here is a detailed guide on LondonHouse Chicago.
2. Lincoln Park Honeycomb
Address: 2121 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
Cost: Free
The Lincoln Park Honeycomb, also known as the Peoples Gas Pavilion, is one of Chicago’s most unique architectural gems. The Honeycomb provides a beautiful frame for engagement photos. The best part is it's open to the public and doesn’t require a reservation.
This spot is a great choice if you want a mix of city and nature while also being close to many nearby attractions of Chicago, all within a beautiful park!
Here is a detailed guide on Lincoln Park Honeycomb.
3. North Avenue Beach
Location: 1601 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611
Cost: Free
North Avenue Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Chicago, with beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline making an unforgettable setting for engagement photos.
The beach provides plenty of space for photos, whether you're capturing candid moments during sunset by the water or dramatic silhouettes against the skyline. If you’re seeking a more relaxed experience, the nearby grassy areas are perfect for enjoying a picnic before your engagement.
Here is a detailed guide on North Avenue Beach.
4. Chicago Botanic Garden
Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
Cost: $250
The Chicago Botanic Garden, located just north of the city in Glencoe, is a 385-acre garden filled with flowers and lush greenery that makes for an incredible spot for engagement photos.
With its wooded areas and ponds, it’s a perfect choice for couples who want to be out in nature and has many spots to visit, such as the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Water Garden. You can view the map of this location on their official website.
Here is a detailed guide on the Chicago Botanic Garden.
5. Milton Lee Olive Park
Location: E Ohio St., Chicago, IL 60611
Cost: Free
Milton Lee Olive Park is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Chicago, offering one of the most stunning skyline views in the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the buildings are covered in golden light for romantic engagement photos.
In my opinion, this location offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and the iconic Chicago skyline. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can end your session with a quick dip in the water at the nearby Ohio Street Beach for an unforgettable end to your engagement session.
Here is a detailed guide on Milton Lee Olive Park.
6. Northerly Island Park
Location: 1400 S Lynn White Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Cost: Free
Northerly Island Park is one of Chicago’s hidden gems, featuring an open trail and beautiful scenery a few minutes south of downtown. It offers a stunning view of the Chicago skyline while still being surrounded by nature. In my experience, the park is often surprisingly quiet even on weekends, which makes it a perfect location for an intimate engagement photoshoot with fewer people around.
It’s especially beautiful during sunset, when the warm light casts a beautiful glow across the park and skyline. One thing to keep in mind is that this location is at its most beautiful during the spring and early summer, particularly between May and June. I recommend planning your engagement session during this time and visiting the spot the weekend beforehand to check the condition of the park.
Here is a detailed guide on Northerly Island Park.
7. The Wrigley Building
Address: 410 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Cost: Free
The Wrigley Building is one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks and remains one of my favorite locations for engagement photos in the city. This stunning historic building creates a timeless backdrop for Chicago engagement photos and overlooks the beautiful Chicago Riverwalk, making it perfect for capturing classic downtown views.
This area of downtown Chicago can be quite busy on weekends, so if you’re planning your engagement session here, I recommend scheduling it early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Another advantage of this location is that it’s within walking distance of several other beautiful photo spots, allowing us to capture a variety of backdrops during your engagement session without having to travel far.
Here is a detailed guide on The Wrigley Building.
8. Adler Planetarium
Location: 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Cost: Free
The Adler Planetarium is located in Chicago's Museum Campus and has one of the best views of Chicago’s skyline. It provides a stunning backdrop for engagement photos, especially during sunset or blue hour when the city lights begin to glow.
The outdoor area around the planetarium is perfect for photos, with nearby greenery and the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan. I also recommend taking the time to go to 12th Street Beach as well during your engagement session which is a short walk away to mix up your photo gallery.
Here is a detailed guide on Adler Planetarium.
9. Gibsons Italia
Location: 233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606
Cost: Free
Gibsons Italia is a perfect location for an engagement photoshoot. Located right on the Chicago Riverwalk, the restaurant offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding downtown skyline, making it an incredible backdrop for romantic Chicago engagement photos.
The rooftop at Gibsons Italia is especially popular because of its elevated views of the river and city. If you’re hoping to take photos there, it’s best to coordinate your reservation with the restaurant in advance to secure a great table or spot. Whether we capture photos in the nearby courtyard along the riverwalk or on the rooftop terrace, this location is ideal for couples who want a sophisticated engagement session in downtown Chicago.
Here is a detailed guide on Gibsons Italia.
10. The Morton Arboretum
Location: 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532
Cost: $125
Located just outside of Chicago in Lisle, The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre nature preserve with many beautiful spots to choose from for engagement photos. From towering trees and lush meadows to serene ponds and lakes, this location is perfect for couples who love nature.
Make sure to contact The Morton Arboretum in advance as they require a photo permit at this location for professional photography that also serves as your entrance ticket into the park.
Here is a detailed guide to The Morton Arboretum.
11. The Japanese Garden
Location: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
Cost: Free
The Japanese Garden, also known as the Osaka Garden, is located within Jackson Park. This location has traditional Japanese buildings, cherry blossom trees, a koi pond, and lots of surrounding greenery.
The cherry blossom trees bloom in the spring, so I recommend planning your engagement shoot between April to May to take advantage of the beautiful trees here.
Here is a detailed guide on the Japanese Garden.
12. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
Location: 125 W Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614
Cost: $150
Hidden in Lincoln Park, the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool provides a romantic backdrop for engagement photos. Known for its lily-covered ponds and stone pathways, this location combines the beauty of nature with the elegance of its wooden pavilion.
The surrounding greenery and the peaceful ambiance make a beautiful setting for couples seeking a quiet, intimate space for their engagement photos in Chicago.
Here is a detailed guide on Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool.
13. Chicago Riverwalk
Location: Chicago River, Chicago, IL 60601
Cost: Free
The Chicago Riverwalk is one of the city's most happening spots downtown and for good reason! There is so much to see and do for both tourists and locals and it has many beautiful spots for engagement photos along the walking path. With scenic river views, city skyline, and boats passing by, it has become an iconic backdrop of Chicago. The best part is that no reservations or photo permits are required to take photos here.
Here is a detailed guide on Chicago Riverwalk.
14. Navy Pier Chicago
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Cost: Free
Navy Pier is the perfect spot for engagement photos with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Whether it’s the Ferris wheel or the pier’s busy outdoor spaces, Navy Pier is perfect for couples who want a more energetic setting.
One recommendation I have from experience here is that you should make sure to plan your photos during a less crowded time, such as a weekday morning for a more quiet and intimate experience.
Here is a detailed guide on Navy Pier Chicago.
15. Bahai Temple
Location: 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091
Cost: Free
The Bahai Temple is located just north of Chicago in Wilmette, IL. The temple is surrounded by perfectly symmetrical gardens and fountains making a stunning backdrop for engagement photos. The Jewish temple’s intricate architecture and surrounding gardens make it one of Chicago's most unique engagement photo locations.
Here is a detailed guide on the Bahai Temple.
Tips for an Engagement Photoshoot in Chicago
An engagement photoshoot in Chicago requires some careful preparation. Here are essential tips to keep in mind during your planning process.
Check Photo Permit Requirements: Many Chicago locations require a photo permit, especially for private locations that are not open to the public. Plan at least a week or two in advance to secure the permits or earlier if it is a very popular location.
Be Prepared for Weather: Chicago’s weather is very unpredictable. Have a backup location ready in case of rain or bring your umbrellas and hope for the best!
Choose the Right Time of Day: An hour before sunset and right after sunrise will give the best natural lighting for romantic photos.
Wear Outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable: Pick outfits that complement each other and the setting. Comfort is also key to capturing relaxed, natural moments. If you are going to be walking around a lot, bring a pair of sandals to change into between photo spots.
Add Personal Touches: Bring props, flowers, or your pet to personalize your photos and make them extra special. If you do plan to bring your pet, be sure to have a friend come along who can help hold your pet between photos.
Enjoy the Moment: Focus on each other and enjoy the experience. The best photos often come from candid and authentic moments.
Celebrate After the Shoot: End the engagement photoshoot with a celebration, such as a champagne bottle, a nice dinner, or a fun outing. This way you can reflect on your day and talk about how everything went.
Are You Ready To Get Engaged?
If you're ready to get engaged, then please contact me as soon as you can so I can help you plan your day!
You can fill out this form at https://calebschaftlein.com/contact for more info!
You can check out my engagement pricing HERE!
I’m a Chicago Wedding and Engagement Photographer and would love to make your engagement extra special!
You can view more photos of Chicago’s best proposal locations on my blog.
