Instagram-Worthy Places: West Loop, Chicago
If you are visiting Chicago, make it a priority to stroll through the West Loop. This neighborhood is not only known for its plethora of great restaurants and bars. Here you will find street art, Chicago urban architecture, beautiful murals, and industrial elegance. If you are a photographer or just want a super Insta-great post, I definitely recommend scouting through West Loop.
West loop has a long history with the meatpacking industry, which sadly led to abandoned warehouses after the Great Depression. In the late 80’s, Harpo Studios set up shop and shined a spotlight on West Loop (thanks Oprah!) and the economic impact went into action.
Fast forward to the present: West loop has Restaurant Row on Randolph street (home to the best restaurants in Chicago, like Girl and the Goat) and numerous beautifully revamped warehouses.
As you walk through West Loop, you will find some warehouses that are still abandoned, yet covered with beautiful art. Some places that have been flipped now carry a unique industrial elegance that you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s hard to say which are the “best” because there are so many, so I’ve managed to narrow it down to my favorite places in West Loop:
1. Solomon Souza Mural
This mural is located on W. Kinzie and Peoria St.
2. The Door at Big Monster Toys
21 S Racine Ave
3. Silos at ADM Milling
Corner of Carroll & Elizabeth
4. Green Street Smoked Meats
Inside and out. String lights in an old warehouse get me every time.
5. POSE Mural on Lake and Racine
6. Lake Street
Anywhere under the tracks with no cars are in sight pulls my heart strings.
7. Soho House Chicago
They have a super strict photo policy inside... but the outside is just as beautiful.
So there you have it. Now grab your bestie, camera (or phone), explore West Loop (maybe grab some food and drink while you’re at it) and snap some pretty photos. Your eyes and mind will thank you (and your Instagram).
