12 of Chicago's Best Photo Opportunities for Visitors

Could Chicago be one of America's most photogenic cities? Recent entries to our Show Us Your Chicago Photo Contest lead us to believe so. Its towering architectural giants and iconic skyline give photographers plenty to capture. The contest, sponsored by Chicago's own Shedd Aquarium, runs through July 31st. Here are a dozen photos (of the many submitted so far) that show off the Windy City's camera-friendly side.

Submit your photo for a chance to win tickets to Shedd Aquarium and a Fodor's guide, or view the contest slideshow.

Navy Pier
"There are lots of rides, shops, restaurants, boat tours, bikes, skates & Segway rentals... more than enough to do at The Navy Pier to entertain the whole family for the whole day."
Submitted by bainso

Adler Planetarium
"My favorite spot in Chicago, day or night, is looking back on the City from the Planetarium area."
Submitted by bsnyder67

From the Forums: Romance in Chicago...on a Budget

North Avenue Beach
"We rode south to Museum Campus and beyond and saw the quintessential Chicago skyline. Then we rode north to North Avenue Beach for a view of the "backside" of the skyline! It felt like we were the only ones in Chicago from this outcropping into Lake Michigan." Submitted by lilaki

Along the Chicago River
"This was on a beautiful summer day just before taking a river cruise."

Submitted by frankg

Plan your trip: Recommended Chicago River Tour Companies

Signature Room at the 95th John Hancock Building
"Nothing better than a drink at the bar at Signature in the John Hancock Center. The cost of the drink is the price of admission. A bargain at twice the price!"
Submitted by daveyurek

Have you been to the Signature Room? Rate your experience

The Chicago Art Institute
"I was wandering over to the Art Institute from Millennium Park, and the new modern wing was lit up so beautifully that I couldn't help but pull out my camera."
Submitted by kirsteninflagstaff

Learn more about Chicago's Art Institute

U.S. Cellular Field, The Home of the White Sox
"The beauty of the ballpark at twilight. Especially when the Sox are hitting them out of the park!"
Submitted by scdvr219

From the Forums: A Chicago Baseball Trip with Teens

The Ledge at the Sear's Tower
"We were fortunate enough to visit "The Ledge" at Sear's Tower (now known as Willis Tower). It was amazing to stand (or lie) on the pane of glass suspended 103 floors above the city of Chicago! What a view!"
Submitted by annettegiberson

From the Forums: 6 Days in Chicago--Itinerary Feedback Wanted

The Crown Fountain
"One of the two Crown fountain towers. The photos on the tower change and move, every so often water spouts from the mouths. The kids were enjoying the water on the hot day in Chicago this week past."
Submitted by SeamusK

Learn more about Millennium Park

Chicago Theatre
"Walking across lake street at dusk, it was a delight to pop around the corner and be greeted by the theatre's glow."
Submitted by TorontoJeff

From the Forums: Chicago - It's One Heck of a (Theatre) Town

The Bean
"The shiny bean sculpture is so fun to visit. Nestled in the Millennium Park, it's reflective surface provides entertainment to anyone standing near. It also offers a beautiful reflection of the Chicago urban landscape. Always a crowd pleaser!"
Submitted by kimvigue

More: 11 Ways to Experience Chicago's Biggest Bean

The Wrigley Building
"Wandering the streets of Chicago very early in the morning on a Saturday, I looked up and caught this."

Learn why it's best to visit the Wrigley Building at night

See Also

Submit your photo

View the contest slideshow