Adler Planetarium
Perched on a peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan, the Adler Planetarium offers one of the most iconic views of the Chicago skyline you can find anywhere in the city. The grassy promenade leading up to the building frames the skyline behind it perfectly, making it a go-to spot for wide compositions with foreground interest. A 24-35mm lens works well here, letting you include the planetarium's Art Deco facade on one side while the downtown towers fill the background. Shoot from the north-facing shoreline for a straight-on skyline view, or position yourself along the pedestrian walkway to use the path as a leading line. Blue hour and golden hour both deliver here; sunrise brings warm light on the buildings with calm water, while twilight after sunset gives you that deep blue sky contrasted against city lights. The site is easily walkable from the Museum Campus parking area, with open space to roam freely. (Chicago, Illinois, United States)
