Picture-Perfect Chicago: Best Family Photo Spots for Holiday Cards
As the air turns crisp and the holiday season peeks around the corner, families across Chicago are dusting off their matching sweaters and prepping for those all-important holiday card photos. Whether you’re hiring a pro photographer or snapping your own with a timer and a little patience, Chicago offers stunning backdrops that make every shot shine.
Here are some of the most beautiful, family-friendly photo spots around the city — perfect for your holiday cards (and a few Instagram-worthy moments too). 📸✨
🏙️ North Avenue Beach – Skyline Views for Days
If you’re after that classic Chicago look, this is it. The sweeping skyline views behind Lake Michigan create a postcard-perfect background — especially around golden hour when the city lights start to glow.
Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago official website
✨ Why families love it:
Wide open space for kids to move and play naturally on camera
Gorgeous skyline backdrop without needing to edit in filters
Works for both casual and dressy photo outfits
📍 Location: North Avenue Beach, 1600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
🌳 Lincoln Park Conservatory & Gardens – Timeless Greenery, Rain or Shine
This lush spot gives you a nature-inspired backdrop, even in cooler months. With vibrant greenery, tropical plants, and floral pops inside the conservatory, it’s perfect if you want that “fresh and bright” family photo without braving the chill.
Photos courtesy of Choose Chicago & Secret Chicago
✨ Why families love it:
Perfect lighting indoors (no matter the weather)
Free admission and stroller-friendly
Nearby Lincoln Park Zoo offers bonus shots with holiday lights later in the season
📍 Location: 2391 North Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL
🎄 Millennium Park – Festive Vibes & Iconic Landmarks
By mid-November, Millennium Park starts to sparkle with holiday energy — think twinkling trees, the skating rink, and of course, The Bean (Cloud Gate). It’s one of the city’s most iconic and joyful photo locations, especially for those wanting to capture the spirit of the season.
Photo courtesy of Secret Chicago
✨ Why families love it:
Holiday decorations and city lights add instant cheer
The Bean makes a fun and reflective shot (literally!)
Nearby cafes make it easy to grab a cozy cocoa after your session
📍 Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL
🪵 Garfield Park Conservatory – Bright & Botanical Beauty
One of the most photogenic spots in the city, Garfield Park Conservatory is home to over 2 acres of lush indoor gardens — perfect for warm, color-filled shots that pop beautifully on holiday cards.
Photos courtesy of Garfield Park Official Website
✨ Why families love it:
Great lighting year-round
Variety of plants and textures for natural backdrops
A peaceful vibe that keeps little ones calm during photos
📍 Location: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL
✨ Final Tip for Families
If you’re shooting outdoors, plan your session around golden hour — that dreamy window just before sunset when Chicago’s light hits just right. And don’t forget a few candid shots between poses — those giggles and snuggles often make the best memories.
Whether it’s the city skyline, a glowing conservatory, or a festive park, Chicago offers endless photo-perfect moments to help your family capture this season’s love and laughter. 💛
Harmony Baby Concierge is a full service Newborn Care + Postpartum Support Agency based in Dallas, Austin and Houston, Texas. We have a well-rounded team of Newborn Care Specialists, Night Nurses, Postpartum Doulas, Newborn Night Nannies and Baby Nurses. We provide lactation support, newborn care, night nursing, gentle sleep training and parent education to families of newborns. We serve all families with love, warmth and care. Serving: Dallas, Austin, Houston, Highland Park, University Park, Kessler Park, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Plano, Frisco, Celina, Prosper, Fort Worth, Southlake, Westlake, Irving, Preston Hollow, Park Cities, Grand Prairie, Carrollton, Houston, Manvel, Galveston, West University, Austin, Barton Creek, Round Rock, Houston, Denver, New York City, Greenwich CT, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Englewood Colorado, Cherry Hills Village CO, and Surrounding Areas.