Famous Chicago: Tour the City Through the Big Screen

There are a ton of Starbucks all over Chicago, but this particular location was featured in Fred Claus.

The bowling scenes were filmed here. What used to be an ice factory used to double as a concert hall and bowling alley, featuring bands such as Alkaline Trio, The Ataris, Brand New, Less Than Jake and Thrice. In 2004, the Fireside stopped hosting shows, claiming the concert-goers caused too much damage to the building.

The Riviera Theater attracts many of the smaller acts that come to Chicago. The old architecture gives the Riv some character. I personally love that the place is falling apart. The venue is intimate and the sound is great.

Wrigley Field has appeared in many movies, including Rookie of the Year and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

Double Door opened its doors for the first time on June 12, 1994. It has been host to many diverse and incredible musical acts including local favorites The Smashing Pumpkins, Local H, Veruca Salt, and many, many more.

The Green Mill embodies the diverse art scene of Chicago. The jazz is great. The crowd is relaxed. I’ve heard that poetry nights are pretty fun at the Mill.

If you’re looking for great ribs in Chicago, Twin Anchors is the place to go. It’s been recommended to arrive early, as the restaurant can get pretty crowded. If you’re waiting, good luck. It has a very casual atmosphere and is a great place to hit up if you’re looking for a true Chicago eating experience.

Millennium Park has also been seen in The Lake House and The Weather Man. Specifically, the ice skating rink.

Originally constructed as the Italian Trust & Savings, the building that houses Emmit’s once housed the valuable hordes of several prominent Chicago gangsters. There have been many scenes shot in Emmit’s, including Ocean’s 11, Ocean’s 12, Backdraft, Uncle Buck, Only the Lonely, and several others.