Explore Chicago’s Filming Locations

Chicago, the charismatic metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, has long been a favorite location for filmmakers and storytellers. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural history, the city has been the backdrop for countless famous films. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a cinematic journey through the Windy City, exploring the locations of films, TV shows, and books set in Chicago, and offering travel tips to enhance your trip.

Famous Films Shot in Chicago

The city’s unique blend of architectural grandeur and urban grit has made it a go-to destination for filmmakers worldwide. From the high-speed chases of “The Dark Knight” to the musical extravagance of “Chicago,” the city’s streets, buildings, and landmarks have starred in a range of genres. Here are ten films that have put Chicago in the spotlight:

1. The Dark Knight  (2008): Christopher Nolan’s Batman epic features many scenes shot in the heart of downtown Chicago, doubling as Gotham City.
2. Chicago  (2002): This Oscar-winning musical was primarily filmed in Toronto, but some scenes were shot on location in Chicago, including the iconic ‘Cell Block Tango’.
3. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off  (1986): This cult classic showcases some of Chicago’s most famous sights, from the Art Institute of Chicago to Wrigley Field.
4. The Blues Brothers  (1980): This comedy film features several locations around the city, including the infamous bridge jump scene on the 95th Street Bridge.
5. High Fidelity  (2000): Based on Nick Hornby’s book, this film takes viewers on a tour of Chicago’s music scene, including the once-famous record store Championship Vinyl.
6. The Untouchables  (1987): This crime drama about Al Capone and Eliot Ness utilizes several Chicago landmarks, including Union Station and the Chicago Cultural Center.
7. Public Enemies  (2009): The biographical crime drama about gangster John Dillinger was filmed in numerous locations around Chicago.
8. The Fugitive  (1993): This thriller starring Harrison Ford features the cityscape of Chicago, most notably in the dam jump scene filmed at the Chicago River.
9. Transformers: Dark of the Moon  (2011): The third installment of the Transformers franchise includes several action sequences shot in downtown Chicago.
10. Home Alone  (1990): Although set in the Chicago suburb of Winnetka, several scenes were filmed in the city itself, including Kevin’s visit to the Art Institute of Chicago.

TV Shows Set in Chicago

Chicago’s charm isn’t limited to the big screen; it has also served as the setting for numerous TV shows. From gritty dramas to sitcoms, the city’s personality shines through in these series:

1. Shameless  (2011–2021): This acclaimed series is set in the South Side of Chicago, with the Gallagher family’s home located in the Back of the Yards neighborhood.
2. Chicago Fire  (2012–present),  Chicago P.D.  (2014–present),  Chicago Med  (2015–present): These interconnected dramas from Dick Wolf offer a comprehensive look at the city’s first responders and medical professionals.
3. The Good Wife  (2009–2016): Though primarily filmed in New York, this legal and political drama is set in Chicago and often showcases the city’s skyline.
4. ER  (1994–2009): One of television’s longest-running medical dramas, ER was set in the fictional County General Hospital in Chicago.
5. Married… with Children  (1987–1997): This classic sitcom is set in a fictional Chicago suburb and often references the city’s sports teams and landmarks.

Animated Films Set in Chicago

A handful of animated films have also found inspiration in the Windy City’s unique landscape. These include:

1. The Animatrix  (2003): In the short film “Beyond,” Chicago is depicted as a glitch-ridden area of the Matrix, complete with its recognizable skyline.
2. Bee Movie  (2007): Although not explicitly set in Chicago, the city’s skyline can be seen in several scenes.
3. Balto  (1995): The opening and closing live-action scenes of this animated film are set in Chicago’s Central Park.

Famous Books Set in Chicago: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

Chicago’s rich history and cultural diversity have also made it a popular setting for literary works. Notable novels set in the city range from classic literature to modern thrillers.

Classic Books:

1. The Jungle  by Upton Sinclair: This influential novel exposes the harsh conditions of the city’s meatpacking industry in the early 20th century.
2. Native Son  by Richard Wright: This groundbreaking novel explores the life of a young black man in 1930s Chicago, grappling with issues of race and class.
3. Sister Carrie  by Theodore Dreiser: This classic work delves into the life of a young woman who moves to the city and falls into a life of luxury and moral ambiguity.

Contemporary Books:

1. The Time Traveler’s Wife  by Audrey Niffenegger: This best-selling novel, which was later adapted into a film, is set in various locations around Chicago.
2. Divergent  by Veronica Roth: This dystopian young adult novel is set in a future Chicago, where society is divided into factions based on virtues.
3. The Devil in the White City  by Erik Larson: This non-fiction book tells the parallel stories of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the serial killer H.H. Holmes.

Exploring Chicago Filming Locations – Where to Go

To immerse yourself in Chicago’s film history, there are several key locations you must visit. Start your journey at the iconic Cloud Gate (or as locals call it, “The Bean”) in Millennium Park, a popular backdrop for many films. From there, explore the Magnificent Mile, the city’s premier shopping district that has been featured in numerous car chases and action scenes.

For a taste of Chicago’s architectural grandeur, visit the Art Institute of Chicago, a frequent filming location and home to one of the world’s most impressive art collections. Don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the bohemian vibes of Wicker Park to the historic charm of Hyde Park.

Other must-see locations include:

1. Navy Pier: Featured in  Divergent  and  The Break-Up.
2. Wrigley Field: The iconic stadium is showcased in  Ferris Bueller’s Day Off  and  A League of Their Own.
3. The Chicago River: Seen in  The Fugitive  and  Transformers: Dark of the Moon.
4. The Willis Tower: Formerly the Sears Tower, it has appeared in  Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,  I, Robot, and more.

Where to Sleep in Chicago: From Luxury to Budget

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Chicago offers a range of hotels to suit every traveler’s needs.

Luxury Hotels:

1. The Drake Hotel: This historic hotel has been featured in several films, including  My Best Friend’s Wedding  and  Mission: Impossible.
2. The Langham, Chicago: Located in a Mies van der Rohe landmark tower, this luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and river.
3. The Peninsula Chicago: Known for its elegance and exceptional service, this hotel has hosted many celebrities over the years.

Budget Hotels:

1. HI Chicago Hostel: This affordable option is located in downtown Chicago, offering easy access to many filming locations.
2. The Freehand Chicago: This trendy hotel-hostel hybrid offers both shared and private rooms.
3. The Chicago Getaway Hostel: Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, this budget-friendly hostel is a great base for exploring the city.

Where to Eat in Chicago: From Budget to Luxury

Chicago’s culinary scene is as diverse as its film locations, offering everything from world-class dining to budget-friendly eats.

Luxury Dining:

1. Alinea: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its innovative tasting menu.
2. Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse: A classic Chicago steakhouse, Gibson’s has been featured in several films and TV shows.
3. The Signature Room at the 95th: Offering stunning views of the city, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Budget Dining:

1. Portillo’s: Known for their hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, this fast-food joint is a Chicago classic.
2. Pizano’s Pizza: Try the city’s famous deep-dish pizza at this family-owned pizzeria.
3. The Billy Goat Tavern: This dive bar, featured in a classic  Saturday Night Live  sketch, serves cheap beer and burgers.

Detailed Itinerary: Exploring the Windy City Day by Day

Planning a film-themed trip to Chicago? Here’s a three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Downtown Chicago

Start your day with a visit to Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. From there, head to the Art Institute of Chicago, featured in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. After lunch at The Gage, a restaurant featured in Transformers: Age of Extinction, explore the Magnificent Mile, where scenes from The Dark Knight were shot. End your day with a visit to Navy Pier, featured in Divergent.

Day 2: North Side

Begin your day in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory, both featured in Return to Me. Have lunch at the Billy Goat Tavern, a Chicago staple featured in Saturday Night Live. Spend the afternoon exploring Wrigley Field and its surrounding neighborhood, Wrigleyville, featured in The Break-Up and A League of Their Own.

Day 3: South Side

Start your day in Hyde Park, home to the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, both featured in Proof. Enjoy lunch at Valois, a cafeteria-style restaurant frequented by former President Barack Obama. In the afternoon, tour the Pullman Historic District, where scenes from Road to Perdition were filmed.

Hidden Gems in Chicago

Beyond the well-known locations, there are several hidden gems in Chicago that have made it onto the big screen. These include the Music Box Theatre, a historic movie theater that has appeared in several films; the 18th Street Bridge, which was raised for the car jump scene in The Blues Brothers; and the Uptown Theatre, a grand yet currently closed movie palace featured in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Chicago’s Film Industry

Chicago’s film industry is rife with fascinating stories and urban legends. One such tale is the story of Resurrection Mary, a supposed ghost seen on Archer Avenue, which inspired the film Resurrection Mary. Another legend is the Curse of the Billy Goat, which became a plot point in the film Catching Hell.

One curiosity is the number of John Hughes films shot in Chicago, including Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Breakfast Club, and Home Alone. Hughes, a native of the city, often used his hometown as a backdrop for his films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Chicago

When packing for Chicago, it’s important to consider the city’s variable weather. Essentials include comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for capturing your favorite film locations, and a notebook for jotting down your experiences. If visiting in the summer, pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat; in winter, be sure to bring warm clothing, gloves, and a hat. No matter the season, always carry an umbrella for Chicago’s unpredictable rain showers.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Chicago

Chicago’s public transportation system, the CTA, is an efficient way to get around the city, with extensive bus and train networks. Taxis and rideshares are also readily available. For a more scenic route, consider renting a Divvy bike or walking along the city’s Lakefront Trail. And remember, just like in the movies, always be prepared for a bit of traffic!

Conclusion

Chicago’s allure goes beyond its cinematic fame. As you explore the city’s film locations and immerse yourself in its rich culture, you’ll understand why filmmakers and authors are continually drawn to the Windy City. Whether you’re a film buff, a book lover, or a traveler seeking a unique adventure, Chicago offers an unforgettable journey through the world of storytelling. So pack your bags, roll out the red carpet, and get ready to experience Chicago like never before!