Famous Chicago: Tour the City Through the Big Screen
I never knew that Chicago has been featured in so many movies before putting this guide together. It seemed that LA and New York were the major cities to host movie directors, producers and actors. With Batman Begins and The Dark Knight under its belt, Chicago is quickly proving to Hollywood that its up for the job. So how many movies have been filmed in Chicago? Too many! In this guide I've highlighted some of the landmarks and attractions in the city that have been seen in movies. Obviously I couldn't share them all, but if you have any other location that you'd like to recommend, tell us what movie it was in in the comments section!
“This is the story of Henry DeTamble, an adventurous and handsome librarian who travels involuntarily through time, and Clare Abshire, an artist whose life takes a natural sequential course. Henry and Clare’s passionate love affair travels back and forth through time and captures the lovers in a romantic trap.”
Newberry Library
60 W. Walton St. Chicago, IL 60610
The Newberry Library is free and open to the public. It is one of the world’s leading independent research research libraries. If you don’t have any reason to go inside, at least take a walk by it to catch a glimpse of the amazing architecture.
Ten stories high and an entire block in size, the Harold Washington Library Center is an architectural triumph and offers many services to its patrons. Its collection of books is augmented by the Talking Book Center, which helps provide services to the disabled, the Thomas Hughes Children's Library, ...
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Ten stories high and an entire block in size, the Harold Washington Library Center is an architectural triumph and offers many services to its patrons. Its collection of books is augmented by the Talking Book Center, which helps provide services to the disabled, the Thomas Hughes Children's Library, an area providing books and activities for children, and the Visual and Performing Arts Department, with its wide selection of videos and audio recordings. The library hosts activities and exhibits designed for public enlightenment, and an assortment of murals and ornamentation can be found scattered around the building's many levels. It is located on the southern end of The Loop in downtown Chicago, a couple of blocks west of Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.
Admission Details
Free
Features
historic, family-friendly, budget, educational, library, architecture, art
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Ten stories high and an entire block in size, the Harold Washington Library Center is an architectural triumph and offers many services to its patrons. Its collection of books is augmented by the Talking Book Center, which helps provide services to the disabled, the Thomas Hughes Children's Library, an area providing books and activities for children, and the Visual and Performing Arts Department, with its wide selection of videos and audio recordings. The library hosts activities and exhibits designed for public enlightenment, and an assortment of murals and ornamentation can be found scattered around the building's many levels. It is located on the southern end of The Loop in downtown Chicago, a couple of blocks west of Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.
Caring for more than 1,000 animals in reconstructed climates ranging from arctic to desert, the Lincoln Park Zoo exceeds its goal of giving people a way to connect with the natural world. Dozens of separate areas inside the zoo feature species from habitats around the world, such as lions, kangaroos,...
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Caring for more than 1,000 animals in reconstructed climates ranging from arctic to desert, the Lincoln Park Zoo exceeds its goal of giving people a way to connect with the natural world. Dozens of separate areas inside the zoo feature species from habitats around the world, such as lions, kangaroos, penguins and sea lions. Aside from watching the zoo's many animals, visitors can rent paddle boats, ride on an animal carousel or take a train ride. The zoo is one of the attractions contained within Lincoln Park; other features include the Peggy Notebart Nature Center, the Lincoln Park Conservatory and outdoor recreation areas.
Admission Details
Free entry. Parking rates vary $14 - $24.
Features
outdoors, wildlife, family-friendly, budget, food, gift shop, educational
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Caring for more than 1,000 animals in reconstructed climates ranging from arctic to desert, the Lincoln Park Zoo exceeds its goal of giving people a way to connect with the natural world. Dozens of separate areas inside the zoo feature species from habitats around the world, such as lions, kangaroos, penguins and sea lions. Aside from watching the zoo's many animals, visitors can rent paddle boats, ride on an animal carousel or take a train ride. The zoo is one of the attractions contained within Lincoln Park; other features include the Peggy Notebart Nature Center, the Lincoln Park Conservatory and outdoor recreation areas.
There are a ton of Starbucks all over Chicago, but this particular location was featured in Fred Claus.
There are a ton of Starbucks all over Chicago, but this particular location was featured in Fred Claus.
Tribune Tower
435 N Michigan Ave Chicago, IL 60611
Upper Illinois Avenue just north or the Tribune Tower
Fred Claus was also filmed along the bridges at Wabash, State, Dearborn, LaSalle, Wells and Franklin.
It seems that Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston love filming in Chicago. It helps the Chicago is home to Vince I suppose. It’s easy to spot many Chicago landmarks in The Break-Up.
The bike path of North Avenue Beach was seen in The Break-Up. North Avenue Beach isn’t the best place to go if you’re looking for a peaceful swim. If you’re in the mood for some fun in the sand, food and beer, this is the place. It can get very crowded during the summer months, so get there early and claim your spot on the sand.
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 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.
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.
Wrigley Field has appeared in many movies, including Rookie of the Year and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
UIC East Campus
1200 W. Harrison Chicago, IL 60607
Lake Point Tower
505 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60611
Lake Point Tower is four blocks east of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. The high-rise is one of the many luxurious condominiums in Chicago. The views are amazing, but I’m sure one would pay a hefty dollar for it.
The Drake Hotel
140 E. Walton Place Chicago, IL 60611
Another movie that used the Drake Hotel? Mission: Impossible.
Cuneo Museum & Gardens
1350 N. Milwaukee Ave Vernon Hills, IL 60061
The Cuneo mansion is now an historic house museum. It was built in 1914 and purchased by John Cuneo in 1937. The mansion, with its Venetian style architecture, features a 40-foot high great hall with arcaded balconies, sky lighted ceiling and grand staircase.
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.
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.
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.
A notable piece of Chicago's public art is Buckingham Fountain, a 25-foot high, multi-tiered fountain that has an impressive water display which runs for 20 minutes on the hour throughout the day. Its carved sculpture, exquisite design and main jet that shoots 150 feet in the air are augmented after ...
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A notable piece of Chicago's public art is Buckingham Fountain, a 25-foot high, multi-tiered fountain that has an impressive water display which runs for 20 minutes on the hour throughout the day. Its carved sculpture, exquisite design and main jet that shoots 150 feet in the air are augmented after dusk by a light and music show show; the last show begins at 10:00 p.m. It is located in downtown's Grant Park, about 2 blocks from the Art Institute of Chicago.
Admission Details
Free.
Features
family-friendly, historic, budget, entertainment
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A notable piece of Chicago's public art is Buckingham Fountain, a 25-foot high, multi-tiered fountain that has an impressive water display which runs for 20 minutes on the hour throughout the day. Its carved sculpture, exquisite design and main jet that shoots 150 feet in the air are augmented after dusk by a light and music show show; the last show begins at 10:00 p.m. It is located in downtown's Grant Park, about 2 blocks from the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Dark Knight is the sequel to Batman Begins, which was also filmed in Chicago. Many Chicagoans saw their city be transformed into Gotham – police cars and buildings were changed and a huge viral campaign for Harvey Dent swept the city by storm.
Richard J. Daley Center
55 W. Randolph St. Chicago, IL 60601
The Dark Knight isn’t the only movie to use the Daley Center in their film. Other movies including The Blues Brothers, Stranger Than Fiction, and The Lake House.
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.
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.
One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdo...
more »
One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdoor comedy, musical and variety shows. The pier sits just north of downtown on the lake, due east of the Magnificent Mile and also contains the Chicago Children's Museum.
Admission Details
Prices vary, check website for details.
Features
family-friendly, entertainment, outdoors, food, imax, music, water, boating, tours, shopping, restaurant, adventure, child-oriented
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One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdoor comedy, musical and variety shows. The pier sits just north of downtown on the lake, due east of the Magnificent Mile and also contains the Chicago Children's Museum.
Overlooking the Chicago River just off Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive, Hotel 71 is a destination for those looking for an alternative to the mainstream four-star hotels. Travelers enjoy a unique and memorable experience melding style, comfort, functionality, and a high level of service and breath-ta...
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Overlooking the Chicago River just off Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive, Hotel 71 is a destination for those looking for an alternative to the mainstream four-star hotels. Travelers enjoy a unique and memorable experience melding style, comfort, functionality, and a high level of service and breath-taking views of Chicago without sacrificing a single amenity.
With its central location on the Chicago River on Wacker Drive just off Michigan Avenue, Hotel 71 breaks with ordinary conventions as the first Chicago hotel of its kind to cater to business travelers, tourists and locals alike looking for a smart, stylish and reliable experience with a Chicago sensibility.
Property AmenitiesAn on-site fitness room is open 24 hours, and guests receive discounted access to a health club two blocks away (spa services, fitness classes, and indoor lap pool). Hotel 71 also houses 16 meeting rooms, including 8 boardroom suites and a glass-enclosed penthouse with panoramic city views?audiovisual equipment and high-speed internet access are available (surcharge). A 24-hour business center provides complimentary high speed and wireless internet access and printing capabilities.The pet policy includes a $100 non refundable deposit with a max. 25 pound weight restriction.
Features
business center, conference facilities, room service, fitness center, handicapped rooms facilities, pets allowed, concierge, meeting facilities
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Overlooking the Chicago River just off Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive, Hotel 71 is a destination for those looking for an alternative to the mainstream four-star hotels. Travelers enjoy a unique and memorable experience melding style, comfort, functionality, and a high level of service and breath-taking views of Chicago without sacrificing a single amenity. With its central location on the Chicago River on Wacker Drive just off Michigan Avenue, Hotel 71 breaks with ordinary conventions as the first Chicago hotel of its kind to cater to business travelers, tourists and locals alike looking for a smart, stylish and reliable experience with a Chicago sensibility. Property AmenitiesAn on-site fitness room is open 24 hours, and guests receive discounted access to a health club two blocks away (spa services, fitness classes, and indoor lap pool). Hotel 71 also houses 16 meeting rooms, including 8 boardroom suites and a glass-enclosed penthouse with panoramic city views?audiovisual equipment and high-speed internet access are available (surcharge). A 24-hour business center provides complimentary high speed and wireless internet access and printing capabilities.The pet policy includes a $100 non refundable deposit with a max. 25 pound weight restriction.
In the movie, the Brach’s Candy factory doubled as Gotham General Hospital. In one-shot they completely leveled the building.
Some Chicagoans might remember the muss and fuss when Angelina was here filming Wanted. In the previews, you can see the “L” being used.
Johnny Depp and Christian Bale are in Chicago filming Public Enemies, a movie about the famous John Dillinger story.
Biograph Theater
2433 N. Lincoln Chicago, IL 60614
The Biograph is one of the most famous theaters in Chicago – and not for its performances. The legendary John Dillinger was killed outside of this theater. To this day the theater is still featured in ghost tours.
Filming took place in Old Town. Specifically Wells Street between Division and North Streets. Some of the local businesses were adapted to fit the time period (the 1930’s). Driving by, you may still see some of the changes. I’m not sure if filming has stopped.
Union Station
Canal St Between Adams and Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL
Sure Union Station is where you go to hop on the Metra or Amtrak, but have you ever just sat in the ballroom and spent some time people-watching? It’s a good way to waste some time. The food court area is great because it has some of Chicago’s best: Gold Coast Hot Dogs, Nuts on Clark, etc.
Downstairs, near the ballroom, there is a small restaurant that offers a great breakfast deal. You get two eggs, cooked however you want, hash browns and toast for only $2.99! It’s delicious!
Millennium Park has also been seen in The Lake House and The Weather Man. Specifically, the ice skating rink.
Millennium Park has also been seen in The Lake House and The Weather Man. Specifically, the ice skating rink.
Hundreds of performances, art exhibitions and lectures are held each year at the Chicago Cultural Center, and most events at the center are free to the general public. Focusing on the creations of regional artists, the neoclassical building is a work of art in its own right, with a beautiful stained ...
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Hundreds of performances, art exhibitions and lectures are held each year at the Chicago Cultural Center, and most events at the center are free to the general public. Focusing on the creations of regional artists, the neoclassical building is a work of art in its own right, with a beautiful stained glass dome and detailed mosaics covering the walls. Free tours of the building are offered, and visitors can tour the art galleries or sit down for a quick meal at the center's own cafe. It rests on the western edge of Millennium Park in The Loop neighborhood, near the Art Institute of Chicago.
Admission Details
Free entry. Performances are generally free, check website for details.
Features
historic, family-friendly, art, architecture, dance, theater, entertainment, business, groups, food, regional
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Hundreds of performances, art exhibitions and lectures are held each year at the Chicago Cultural Center, and most events at the center are free to the general public. Focusing on the creations of regional artists, the neoclassical building is a work of art in its own right, with a beautiful stained glass dome and detailed mosaics covering the walls. Free tours of the building are offered, and visitors can tour the art galleries or sit down for a quick meal at the center's own cafe. It rests on the western edge of Millennium Park in The Loop neighborhood, near the Art Institute of Chicago.
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.
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.
One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdo...
more »
One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdoor comedy, musical and variety shows. The pier sits just north of downtown on the lake, due east of the Magnificent Mile and also contains the Chicago Children's Museum.
Admission Details
Prices vary, check website for details.
Features
family-friendly, entertainment, outdoors, food, imax, music, water, boating, tours, shopping, restaurant, adventure, child-oriented
« less
One of Chicago's top family attractions, Navy Pier offers carnival-style amusement rides, boat cruises on Lake Michigan, unique shops and delicious restaurants. Entertainment events at the pier include shows at the 440-seat IMAX theater, performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and daily outdoor comedy, musical and variety shows. The pier sits just north of downtown on the lake, due east of the Magnificent Mile and also contains the Chicago Children's Museum.
A vast collection of art from around the world and across millennia is displayed at The Art Institute of Chicago. Its holdings are particularly strong in the fields of Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary art, containing famous works like "American Gothic" by Grant Wood and Seurat's "Sunday Afterno...
more »
A vast collection of art from around the world and across millennia is displayed at The Art Institute of Chicago. Its holdings are particularly strong in the fields of Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary art, containing famous works like "American Gothic" by Grant Wood and Seurat's "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" as well as works by Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso. The museum is located inside Grant Park in The Loop area of downtown Chicago, just south of Millennium Park.
Admission Details
Adults $12; Seniors (65+), Students and Children $7; Children under 12 are free.
Features
family-friendly, historic, art, museum, gift shop, educational
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A vast collection of art from around the world and across millennia is displayed at The Art Institute of Chicago. Its holdings are particularly strong in the fields of Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary art, containing famous works like "American Gothic" by Grant Wood and Seurat's "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" as well as works by Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso. The museum is located inside Grant Park in The Loop area of downtown Chicago, just south of Millennium Park.
Visitors entering the Chicago Board of Trade building can tour a museum with informative displays on the history, scope and policies of CBOT. It also has a gift shop and a range of educational brochures on modern technology that aids in international trade. The center is on the first floor of the mai...
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Visitors entering the Chicago Board of Trade building can tour a museum with informative displays on the history, scope and policies of CBOT. It also has a gift shop and a range of educational brochures on modern technology that aids in international trade. The center is on the first floor of the main building, located a couple blocks west of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Admission Details
Free.
Features
historic, educational, budget, gift shop
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Visitors entering the Chicago Board of Trade building can tour a museum with informative displays on the history, scope and policies of CBOT. It also has a gift shop and a range of educational brochures on modern technology that aids in international trade. The center is on the first floor of the main building, located a couple blocks west of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Built in 1973, the Sears Tower is 110 stories tall and is the tallest building in the United States as well as one of the five tallest towers in the world. Primarily an office building, the 103rd floor of the building is a Skydeck where visitors can step out and, on a clear day, peer out over Illinoi...
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Built in 1973, the Sears Tower is 110 stories tall and is the tallest building in the United States as well as one of the five tallest towers in the world. Primarily an office building, the 103rd floor of the building is a Skydeck where visitors can step out and, on a clear day, peer out over Illinois, Lake Michigan, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. The Skydeck also has a number of interesting exhibits on Chicago, its history and the sights that can be seen both with the naked eye and through the high-powered telescopes located on the deck. The famous building is located just south of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, beside the Chicago River.
Admission Details
Skydeck: Adults $12.95; Youth (3-11) $9.50; Children under 3 are free. Audio tour: $5.50.
Features
historic, observation deck, family-friendly, scenic, architecture
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Built in 1973, the Sears Tower is 110 stories tall and is the tallest building in the United States as well as one of the five tallest towers in the world. Primarily an office building, the 103rd floor of the building is a Skydeck where visitors can step out and, on a clear day, peer out over Illinois, Lake Michigan, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. The Skydeck also has a number of interesting exhibits on Chicago, its history and the sights that can be seen both with the naked eye and through the high-powered telescopes located on the deck. The famous building is located just south of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, beside the Chicago River.
Here’s a list of the many movies that have scenes shot in Chicago.
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Jennifer is a 20-something blogger from Chicago. She loves being challenged, which is why you can usually find her sharing her love for all things geek here at Guidespot, maintaining two of her own blogs & and organizing meetups for Chicago bloggers. As if that weren't enough, she is also the C...
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