Capture the moment or the scene when you strike a pose or frame a stunning shot of natural beauty on Chicago’s North Shore. Explore lush gardens, vibrant lakefront views, occasional visits from wildlife and endless more. These iconic, must-see locations will add pizzazz to your social feed.
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe
1. Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe)
Vast vistas of captivating flowers and trees brimming with pretty birds and wildlife enthrall your eyes at every turn in this expansive living wonderland. From the English Walled Garden to the misty Greenhouses and much more, plan a route or wander the grounds to make yourself or the natural beauty around you the star. Check out one of their photography classes to boost your skills!
Baha'i House of Worship, Wilmette
2. Baha’i House of Worship (Wilmette)
Serene and magnificent, the architectural beauty of the lacey gleaming white temple towers majestically over an encircling series of nine gardens and fountains. Capture the very essence of peacefulness and meditation from the intricate human-made structure harmonizing with living natural shapes and colors that will inspire you.
* Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
Grosse Point Lighthouse, Evanston
3. Grosse Point Lighthouse (Evanston)
This literal beacon of the North Shore is a National Historic Landmark and a hotspot for milestone photos like those cute newlyweds and graduates. Wildflower and butterfly gardens surrounding the icon of Evanston — as well as the nearby Lighthouse Beach — provide compelling views from every angle.
Skokie Lagoons
4. Skokie Lagoons (Glencoe, Winnetka)
With nearly 900 acres of natural beauty and recreational activities to explore, this network of lagoons is a nature-lover’s dream and a birder’s hotspot. Grab shots from a canoe or kayak or from hiking trails and picnic areas dotting the expanse.
The Grove, Glenview
5. The Grove (Glenview)
Scope out a pretty mix of trails or document historical relics in the Gothic Revival House, Blacksmith Shop, schoolhouse, log cabin, and Native American Village. Snap portraits of the live turtles, birds, snakes, and fish (among other types of specimens) in the Interpretive Center.
Northbrook Mural
6. North Shore Murals
These colorful murals pop with personality on their own or as a fun backdrop. the Northbrook mural is topped by a cheeky nod to Ferris Bueller's Day Off — one of many John Hughes movies set in the area. Head to Evanston for a plethora of murals to choose from like "Elevate" on Central Street or "Time to Breath" outside of the Davis Street Metra. Skokie's murals are a visual treat, including a Sick Fisher mural on the side of the Skokie Theatre that is highlight you won't want to miss.
Lekefront, Evanston
7. The Lakefront (Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe)
Every spot along the Chicago North Shore lakefront delivers captivating views of light playing on the water and beach goers playing in the sand. For an extra dazzling image, head out to the Northwestern Lakefill where you can witness the Chicago skyline seeming to sail on Lake Michigan in the distance.
Chevy Chase Country Club, Wheeling
8. Chevy Chase Country Club (Wheeling)
The prestigious country club is more than a prime place for fancy weddings and golf events. Free patio parties outside the Grand Ballroom and other events let you enjoy their beautifully manicured grounds and fountains.
Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, Skokie
9. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park (Skokie)
So many shapes and colors and expressions to choose from in this completely free open space with guided or DIY tours. The scenic appeal of the two-mile expanse of walkways landscaped with grass, trees, and shrubs runs along the north channel of the Chicago River.
Northwestern University, Evanston