10 Most Instagrammable Spots on Chicago’s North Shore

From Chicago Botanic Garden to one of the area’s many beaches, Chicago’s North Shore is filled with picture-perfect sites and hidden gems both professional and amateur photographers love. So grab your camera or phone and visit these instagrammable spots on Chicago's North Shore. You’ll impress your Instagram followers, but better yet, you just might discover a new favorite spot right in your own backyard.

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe

1. Chicago Botanic Garden
It doesn’t get much better for local nature photography than Chicago Botanic Garden. In fact, it’s such a popular spot that they provide information and guidelines for photographers. And with all of the upcoming events the garden is hosting, there are plenty of reasons to visit soon. 

Baha'i House of Worship, Wilmette

2. Baha’i House of Worship
With gorgeous gardens and fountains outside and embellishment that resembles lace inside, the Baha’i House of Worship is one of the North Shore’s most beautiful structures. More than that, though, it’s a symbol of unity and is open daily to all for prayer and meditation.

Writers Theatre, Glencoe

3. Writers Theatre
Writers Theatre has been around since 1992, but their current home, designed by Studio Gang Architects, was opened in downtown Glencoe in 2016. Before you head over for a show and a photo of the beautiful new building, stop by Guildhall or Guanajuato for dinner, drinks and/or dessert (which you’ll probably want to photograph too).

Northwestern University, Evanston

4. Northwestern University
Northwestern’s campus offers multiple places to snap a pic, including the Alice Millar Chapel, Deering Meadow and Shakespeare Garden. And, of course, there’s always a great view by the lake.

Glencoe Beach, Glencoe

5. Glencoe Beach
Speaking of the lake, Glencoe Beach is a gorgeous spot to catch the sunrise with your toes in the sand (and camera in hand). In season, rent a chair and umbrella or get more adventurous with a sailboat or hobie catamaran rental for the perfect family day or group outing.

Skokie Lagoons, Skokie

6. Skokie Lagoons
Make a stop at Skokie Lagoons on your way to Chicago Botanic Garden for even more Insta options. With 894 acres and 7.5 miles of trail, there’s plenty to explore here. Plus, you can get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, sailboat or rowboat for some relaxation (and fishing). Pack a picnic to enjoy while you consider just which photo to share.

Evanston Lakefront, Evanston

7. Evanston Lakefront
Evanston’s beaches (Lighthouse Beach, Clark Street Beach, Lee Street Beach and more) also offer prime photo ops, in addition to kayak and sailboat rentals, lessons, fishing and more. Visit the many lakefront parks between Clark Street and Lee Street to not only snap a great photo, but also take advantage of the running and bike paths.

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, Skokie

8. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park
Enjoy your next walk, run or bike at the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, where you can stop and study sculptures throughout. There are four sections of artwork, so you’ll have plenty of options for your next Insta.

Chevy Chase Country Club, Wheeling

9. Chevy Chase Country Club
There’s a reason so many weddings are held at this country club — it’s totally Insta-worthy! Of course, you can also hit the links while you’re there. Find a complete list of upcoming events here.

The Glen, Glenview

10. The Glen
The Glen Town Center offers the best of both worlds. After a day of shopping and dining (maybe at The Curragh Irish Pub & Restaurant or Your Pie?), wind down with a stroll around Lake Glenview.

Follow us on Instagram (@chicagonorthshore) for more photos from around Chicago’s North Shore. Be sure to tag #chicagonorthshore to share your lovely North Shore photos with us!