One of my favorite little things to do in the city? Photo booths ✨ They’re such a fun (and affordable) way to capture memories — whether it’s with friends, a date, or just for yourself. The film-strip vibe feels so nostalgic and I always end up keeping them.
Some of my favorite Chicago spots for photo booths:
📍 MONEYGUN – cocktails + a booth = perfect night 🍸
📍 Gilt Bar – glam vibe and the cutest photo strips ✨
... Read moreIt’s amazing how a simple photo booth can turn an ordinary outing into a cherished memory! Beyond my absolute favorites like Gilt Bar, Moneygun, and Bar Tabu, I’ve found that Chicago is full of these little treasures if you know where to look. For those of you searching for 'places that have photo booths near me' or 'public photo booths near me,' here are some of my go-to strategies and types of spots to check out.
Firstly, many bars and restaurants beyond the ones I mentioned are starting to add photo booths as a fun, interactive element. Keep an eye out in popular nightlife districts like River North, Wicker Park, and Logan Square. I’ve stumbled upon some fantastic ones in smaller, indie bars that aren't widely advertised. Sometimes, just walking into a cool-looking spot can lead to a pleasant surprise! For 'restaurants with photobooth near me,' I’d suggest checking out trendy brunch spots or themed eateries – they often invest in unique experiences for their patrons.
Beyond nightlife, think about entertainment venues. Arcades, bowling alleys, and even some movie theaters occasionally feature modern photo booths, offering digital options alongside classic prints. I remember snapping some really cool strips at a 'Blush Chicago Launch' event, and the quality from places like 'SOLETTE' and 'POSH PARTY Chicago' is always top-notch. These pop-up or event-specific booths can be a great way to capture a unique moment. Speaking of events, if you're planning a party or looking for 'party entertainment service,' consider venues that already have a built-in photo booth – it's an instant hit!
For the truly nostalgic, look for vintage photo booths. These often use actual film and develop on the spot, giving you that authentic, slightly imperfect, and utterly charming film-strip vibe. While they're rarer, they offer an unparalleled experience. Digital booths, on the other hand, often come with fun filters, props, and the ability to instantly share your photos online, which is perfect for groups.
To get the most out of your photo booth experience, embrace the spontaneity! Don't overthink your poses. Grab some fun props if they're available, or just use your expressions and friends to create silly, genuine moments. The slightly cramped space encourages closeness and laughter, making for truly 'photogenic Chicago' memories. It's not just about the photo strip itself, but the fun you have creating it. I always end up with a mix of goofy and sweet pictures, and each one tells a story. So next time you're out and about, keep an eye peeled – you never know where Chicago’s next cutest photo booth might be hiding!