15 Best TV Shows and Movies Filmed in Chicago

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the world of your favorite movie or TV Show? Me too! Ever since I watched Ferris Bueller skip school and rule Chicago for a day, I knew I had to experience the Windy City for myself.

Explore Chicago With These TV Shows and Movies Shot in Chicago

Imagine strolling through the Art Institute just like Ferris and his crew, or maybe feeling the thrill of the Shameless family tearing through the southside city streets. Well, guess what? You can! Chicago isn’t just a backdrop for Hollywood magic, it’s a thriving metropolis brimming with history, culture, and the iconic locations you’ve seen on the silver screen. So, come along with me on a cinematic adventure through Chicago, where we’ll explore filming locations from classic comedies to modern must-sees, all waiting to be your next big adventure!

Chicago, the Windy City, has long been a favorite filming location for Hollywood productions, thanks to its stunning architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse backdrops. From iconic comedies to gritty dramas, countless TV shows and movies have captured the essence of Chicago on the silver screen. Here are 15 must-see productions that showcased the city’s charm and allowed fans to catch a glimpse of their favorite filming locations.

Classic Films that Were Shot in Chicago

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

This classic comedy follows the antics of a mischievous high schooler as he skips school and explores Chicago with his friends. Fans can visit iconic locations like the Art Institute of Chicago, Wrigley Field, and the Chicago Board of Trade Building, which all made appearances in the film.

The Blues Brothers (1980)

This cult classic comedy starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd featured numerous iconic Chicago locations, including the Daley Center, the old Dixie Square Mall, and the iconic chase scene under the elevated train tracks.

The Untouchables (1987)

Brian De Palma’s crime drama about Eliot Ness and his team’s efforts to take down Al Capone showcased various Chicago landmarks, including Union Station, the Chicago Board of Trade Building, and the iconic staircase at Union Station.

Gritty Dramas & Thrillers Filmed in Chicago

The Dark Knight (2008)

Christopher Nolan’s Batman masterpiece transformed Chicago into the gritty, crime-ridden Gotham City. Memorable scenes were filmed at locations like the Renaissance Hotel, Lower Wacker Drive, and the iconic Battersea Car Terrace.

The Negotiator (1998)

This action thriller starring Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey features several recognizable Chicago landmarks, with the main location being 77 W Wacker Drive, a skyscraper right on the shore of the Chicago River. The film showcases the city’s towering architecture during tense hostage negotiations.

The Fugitive (1993)

This thrilling chase movie starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones featured several recognizable Chicago locations, including the famous St. Patrick’s Day parade, Wrigley Field, and the iconic “Fugitive” Train Station at Union Station in The Loop.

Laugh Your Way Around the City with These Iconic Comedies:

High Fidelity (2000)

Based on the novel by Nick Hornby, this romantic comedy starring John Cusack showcased the vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood. Fans can visit the famous Championship Vinyl record store and other local haunts featured in the film.

The Break-Up (2006)

This romantic comedy starring Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston was set in Chicago and featured scenes filmed around the city in famous neighborhoods like Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, and the iconic Buckingham Fountain.

My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)

This romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts, Cameron Diaz, and Dermot Mulroney showcased various iconic Chicago locations, including the Fourth Presbyterian Church, the Chicago Theatre, the Newberry Library, and O’Hare International Airport.

Modern-Day Hits and Must-Sees Filmed in the Windy City

The Bear (2022-present)

This FX on Hulu comedy-drama follows a young chef returning home to Chicago to run his deceased brother’s Italian beef sandwich shop. The chaotic kitchen and exteriors were filmed on location in Chicago, offering a glimpse into the fast-paced world of Chicago restaurants. Catch them filming in such neighborhoods as Wicker Park & River North.

Shameless (2011-2021)

This long-running Showtime series followed the dysfunctional Gallagher family and their lives in the South Side neighborhood of Canaryville. With the majority of the show filmed on location in the Garfield Park and Cicero neighborhoods of Chicago. Fans can spot recognizable spots like The Alibi Room, the old Chicago Police Station, and various residential streets

The Vow (2011)

This romantic drama has scenes all over the city, most prominently featuring the Wicker Park neighborhood for the iconic chocolate tasting date. With the wedding being filmed in the art institute, the parents house situated in northern Illinois suburbs, and scenes shot in Millennium Park – this film is full of Chicagoland landmarks.

Chicago’s Own: The “One Chicago” Franchise Dramas Take Center Stage

Chicago PD (2014-present)

This NBC drama follows the lives of uniformed patrol officers and detectives in Chicago’s District 21 police station. Fans can visit the real-life exterior of the station located at Old Maxwell Street Police station at 943 W. Maxwell Street.

Chicago Fire (2012-present)

This NBC drama depicts the heroic firefighters and paramedics of Chicago Firehouse 51. The exterior shots of the firehouse are filmed at a real operational firehouse located at 1360 S. Blue Island Avenue.

Chicago Med (2015-present)

This NBC drama dives into the world of Chicago’s Gaffney Chicago Medical Center. While the interior scenes are filmed on a set, the exterior shots showcase the impressive architecture of Rush University Medical Center in West Loop located at 1653 W. Congress Parkway.

These three dramas, collectively known as the “Chicago” franchise, offer a fascinating look into the city’s first responders and medical professionals.

BONUS – Journey Outside the City for Our Last Pick

Stranger Things (2016-present)

While the Netflix hit series is set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, many of its exterior shots and scenes were filmed in and around Atlanta, Georgia, and the greater Chicago area. Fans can visit locations like Byer’s Home in Romeoville, Illinois and the Starcourt Mall in Indiana set locations around the suburbs.

Imagine the possibilities: Bop Around the City Like Your Favorite Stars of Cinema

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply appreciate the art of filmmaking, these productions offer a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Chicago. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and embark don a cinematic journey through the Windy City’s most iconic filming locations.

Channel your inner Ferris Bueller as you pose for a goofy picture in front of the Art Institute, or feel the adrenaline rush of the Blues Brothers as you speed (safely, of course!) down a scenic Chicago avenue. For a taste of gritty drama, stand on the steps of Union Station and imagine yourself in the shoes of The Untouchables. Craving a laugh? Head to Wicker Park and visit the iconic Championship Vinyl record store from High Fidelity – who knows, you might even find your own hidden gem!

Beyond the films, Chicago will capture your heart with its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and world-class cuisine. Foodies can delve into the city’s deep-dish pizza scene, while art lovers can spend hours getting lost in the stunning collections of the Art Institute. At night, catch a breathtaking performance of improv comedy, a staple of the city’s artistic scene.

Discover Your Next Chicago Adventure

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