Iconic Wedding Photos at the Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building's gleaming white terra cotta facade and ornate clock tower have defined the Chicago skyline since 1924. Combined with the DuSable Bridge and the Chicago River, this location delivers architectural grandeur that makes every wedding photo feel like a masterpiece.
Where are the best wedding photo spots near the Wrigley Building?
The Wrigley Building's best wedding photo spots include the glowing white terra cotta south facade, the DuSable Bridge with Wrigley and Tribune Tower flanking views, the intimate Wrigley Plaza courtyard, and the Chicago Riverwalk below. Best times are golden hour and blue hour for the building's dramatic illumination. No permits needed for exterior photos.
Photo Spots at the Wrigley Building
Each location offers iconic architectural backdrops for your wedding photos
Wrigley Building South Tower Facade
The south tower's gleaming white terra cotta facade, illuminated even during the day, creates a luminous backdrop unlike anything else in Chicago. The French Renaissance architectural details add layers of elegance and texture to every frame.
- White facade acts as a natural reflector
- Architectural details add elegant texture
- Clock tower frames shots dramatically
- Evening illumination is world-famous
DuSable Bridge (Michigan Avenue Bridge)
The historic double-deck bascule bridge spanning the Chicago River offers cinematic wedding photo opportunities. With the Wrigley Building on one side and Tribune Tower on the other, you are framed by two of Chicago's most iconic structures.
- Bridge railings create elegant foreground
- River views in both directions are stunning
- Wrigley and Tribune Tower flank the bridge
- Tourist boats add life to river backgrounds
Wrigley Building Plaza
The courtyard between the north and south towers of the Wrigley Building provides an intimate, enclosed setting surrounded by ornate architecture. The symmetrical design and detailed stonework create a European courtyard atmosphere.
- Enclosed courtyard blocks wind
- Symmetrical architecture aids composition
- Less foot traffic than Michigan Avenue
- Ornate details reward close-up shots
Chicago Riverwalk (Below the Bridge)
Descending to the Riverwalk level below the bridge places you right at the water's edge with the Wrigley Building soaring above. The combination of water, architecture, and urban energy creates dynamic, layered wedding photos.
- Water level provides dramatic upward angles
- River reflections double the visual impact
- Tour boats create lively backgrounds
- Multiple restaurants for bridal party breaks
Tribune Tower Gothic Details
Directly across from the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower's neo-Gothic architecture provides a dramatically different but equally stunning backdrop. The embedded stones from famous world landmarks and the flying buttresses create a medieval-meets-modern aesthetic.
- Gothic arches frame couples beautifully
- Contrasts elegantly with Wrigley's style
- Embedded world landmark stones are unique
- Steps and entryways offer varied elevations
Sample Photo Timeline
An afternoon session at the Wrigley Building
Transportation Logistics
How we ensure seamless photo transportation
Drop-off
We pull up directly on Michigan Avenue in front of the Wrigley Building. Brief stops are allowed in the loading zone for elegant arrivals and departures.
Pick-up
Flexible pickup from Michigan Avenue, the Riverwalk level, or Wacker Drive. Our chauffeurs coordinate via phone for seamless transitions.
Parking
401 N Michigan Avenue garage is directly adjacent. Wacker Drive offers metered spots. Our chauffeurs know every legal option.
Duration
Plan 2-2.5 hours for a comprehensive session covering the building, bridge, and riverwalk. Evening sessions of 1.5 hours capture the best light.
Our Route
We approach via Lower Wacker Drive to avoid Magnificent Mile traffic, emerging directly at the building. This saves 10-15 minutes versus surface streets.
Seasonal Photography Guide
What to expect throughout the year
Spring (Mar-May)
River turns green for St. Patrick's Day (March). Mild temperatures perfect for extended outdoor sessions. Trees along the river begin to bloom.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Longest golden hours and warmest riverwalk atmosphere. Architecture boat tours add vibrancy. Plan for Michigan Avenue pedestrian traffic.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Warm afternoon light creates golden facades. Fewer tourists after Labor Day. Crisp air means sharp architectural details in photos.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Magnificent Mile holiday lights and decorations. Building illumination stands out dramatically against dark skies. Cold but stunning blue hour shots.
Recommended Vehicles
Luxury transportation for your Wrigley Building session
Wrigley Building Photo FAQs
Can we take wedding photos inside the Wrigley Building?
The Wrigley Building lobby is generally accessible during business hours but interior commercial photography may require building management approval. The exterior locations and plaza are freely accessible and provide the most iconic shots.
How do you handle Michigan Avenue traffic for drop-offs?
Our chauffeurs use the loading zones on Michigan Avenue for brief, elegant arrivals. For longer sessions, we approach via Lower Wacker Drive to avoid surface congestion and park at the adjacent garage. We have this down to a science.
What makes the Wrigley Building special for wedding photos?
The Wrigley Building's white terra cotta facade literally glows, especially in golden hour light. Combined with the historic DuSable Bridge, the Chicago River below, and Tribune Tower across the street, no single block in Chicago offers more architectural variety for wedding photography.
Is the riverwalk accessible for wedding photos year-round?
The riverwalk is open year-round, though some restaurants and amenities are seasonal. Winter riverwalk sessions offer dramatic, empty settings. Summer sessions include the energy of outdoor dining and river traffic.
Can we combine Wrigley Building with other Magnificent Mile locations?
Absolutely! The Drake Hotel, Water Tower, and Tribune Tower are all within a 10-minute drive. We frequently plan multi-stop Magnificent Mile sessions that showcase the best of Chicago's architecture.
What time does the Wrigley Building illumination start?
The building's famous exterior lighting activates at dusk and stays on until late evening. Blue hour (30-45 minutes after sunset) produces the most dramatic photos with the illuminated building against a deep blue sky.
Book Your Wrigley Building Photo Session
Let us handle the logistics while you capture timeless moments at Chicago's most iconic architectural landmark.