If you're heading to Chicago for Lollapalooza, chances are you're already thinking about your weekend recap. The festival fits, your favorite artist, the crowd singing every lyric, late-night food stops, the perfect rooftop bar.
But every great Lollapalooza carousel needs one thing before the festival even begins: a photo that says, "I'm in Chicago."
Before you head to Grant Park, take a moment to experience the city from above. From skyline views and sunsets to iconic landmarks and Instagrammable cocktails, here's your guide to capturing the photos that tell the full story of your Lollapalooza weekend.
Every trip deserves an opening photo, and there's no better place to capture it than 360 CHICAGO.
Located over 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, 360 CHICAGO gives you a panoramic view of the city before you dive into the festival crowds. From the observation deck, you'll see Grant Park, Lake Michigan, the Chicago River, Navy Pier, and miles of skyline views.
Whether you're posing against the floor-to-ceiling windows or posing with a picture-perfect cocktail at CloudBar these are the shots that instantly tell your followers exactly where your weekend began.
Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour for soft lighting and a skyline that looks even more spectacular in your photos. Bonus points if you order a Heavenly Martini which is topped with a cloud!
Once you’ve made it to Grant Park, it’s time for the classic festival photo.
Whether you’re showing off your outfit with the Chicago skyline in the background or snapping a group photo before your favorite artist takes the stage, this is the moment your carousel shifts from travel weekend to music festival.
Pro Tip: Make sure to take a photo at Buckingham Fountain for an iconic skyline background, the Lollapalooza welcome sign featuring massive 3d letters, and the T-Mobile & Bud Light Stage for the ultimate festival energy shot backed by the skyscrapers.
One of the best parts of Lollapalooza is that you're just steps from Lake Michigan.
Before the gates open or after the music winds down, take a walk along the lakefront for a peaceful break from the crowds. The combination of the skyline, blue water, and beaches creates one of Chicago's most iconic views.
Pro Tip: Walk north toward Monroe Harbor for a skyline view that perfectly frames both Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago. Early morning and sunset offer the best lighting and fewer people in the background.
If there's one thing Chicago is famous for besides its skyline, it's the food.
Whether you're capturing the perfect cheese pull from a deep-dish pizza, grabbing a Chicago-style hot dog, or stopping for a late-night bite after the final encore, make room in your camera roll for the local dishes that Chicago's known for.
Pro Tip: Head to Lou Malnati's for an iconic deep-dish cheese pull or stop by The Wiener's Circle for a classic Chicago-style hot dog. They're two local favorites that are just as worthy of your camera roll as the festival itself.
Need something to do before heading to the festival? Walk the Riverwalk, only a 5-15 minute walk from the festival grounds and one of the most picturesque locations in Chicago.
Grab a drink, watch the boats cruise by, or simply take in the world-famous architecture that lines the river. It's the perfect change of pace before another day of concerts.
Pro Tip: Grab a drink at Tiny Tapp for an upbeat riverside vibe or enjoy a glass of wine on the patio at City Winery. Both offer incredible views of the Chicago River and make the perfect backdrop for your next carousel photo.
No first trip to Chicago is complete without a photo beneath the Chicago Theatre marquee.
Located in the heart of the Loop, this historic landmark has been welcoming visitors since 1921 and has become one of the city's most recognizable photo backdrops. Whether you're snapping a solo shot, a group photo, or just letting the glowing sign take center stage, the Chicago Theatre Marquee sign lets everyone know exactly where you are.
Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when the marquee is illuminated for the most iconic photo. Arrive early if you can, as this is one of Chicago's most popular photo spots, especially during Lollapalooza weekend.
After a full day of music, there's no better way to end the night than with a rooftop view of Chicago.
Trade the festival crowds for a handcrafted cocktail, city lights, and a skyline that looks even better after dark. Whether you're already reminiscing about your favorite performance or simply taking in your last night in the city, a rooftop photo is the perfect final addition to your Lollapalooza carousel.
Pro Tip: For unforgettable skyline views, head to LondonHouse Chicago for unmatched views of the Chicago River, Cindy's Rooftop for a picture-perfect overlook of Millennium Park, or I|O Rooftop at The Godfrey Hotel for a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the skyline. Looking to escape the downtown crowds? Make your way to The Robey Lounge in Wicker Park for craft cocktails, a more laid-back vibe, and a different perspective of Chicago.
By the time you post your Lollapalooza carousel, your camera roll should be full of more than just the music festival. From panoramic skyline views at 360 CHICAGO and iconic Chicago landmarks to unforgettable meals, lakefront strolls, and rooftop cocktails, these are the moments that make a weekend in Chicago one to remember.
So before you hit "share," make sure your camera roll captures the best of both worlds: the energy of Lollapalooza and the city that makes it unforgettable.
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