Where is Chicago Fire Filmed? – NBC’s long-running drama Chicago Fire brings the heroism of Chicago firefighters to life. While the stories are fictional, many scenes are shot on location in the Windy City, giving the show its authentic feel. Here’s everything you need to know about where Chicago Fire is filmed.
Chicago Fire Filming Locations Overview
The series primarily films in Chicago, Illinois, leveraging the city’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic architecture, and working emergency services for realism. Interior scenes are largely captured at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, while exteriors and action sequences take place across the city.
This blend of studio work and on-location shooting has helped make Chicago Fire a staple of Chicago’s film industry, with production continuing strong into Season 13 and beyond.
Firehouse 51: The Heart of the Show
The iconic exterior of Firehouse 51 is filmed at a real, active Chicago Fire Department station: Engine 18 at 1360 S. Blue Island Avenue in Chicago’s Near West Side. Fans often visit to snap photos, though it’s a working firehouse—respect the first responders!
Interior shots of the firehouse, including the apparatus bay, kitchen, and living quarters, are primarily filmed on detailed sets at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. Some kitchen scenes occasionally use the real firehouse for added authenticity.
Molly’s Pub: The Crew’s Favorite Hangout
Molly’s Pub, owned by characters like Herrmann, is a beloved spot for the Firehouse 51 family. Exterior shots are filmed at the real Lottie’s Pub at 1924 W. Cortland Street in the Bucktown neighborhood. The bar has embraced its fame with “Molly’s by Day, Lottie’s by Night” merch and themed items.
Interior bar scenes are now mostly shot on a soundstage replica at Cinespace to minimize disruption to the real business, but occasional exteriors keep the authentic Chicago vibe alive.
Cinespace Chicago Film Studios: The Production Hub
Most indoor filming for Chicago Fire, including detailed sets for the firehouse, hospital scenes (shared with Chicago Med), and other interiors, takes place at Cinespace Chicago Film Studios (located at 2620 W. 16th Street and other facilities). This massive studio complex is the backbone of the entire “One Chicago” franchise.
The studios feature massive soundstages that replicate everything from fire trucks to emergency rooms with impressive realism.
Other Iconic Chicago Filming Locations
- Chicago Fire Academy (558 W. De Koven St.): Frequently appears in training and academy scenes. Notably located where the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 started.
- Millennium Park and The Bean (Cloud Gate): Used for various citywide scenes and character moments.
- Neighborhoods like Pilsen, Bridgeport, and other Chicagoland areas for residential and call-response scenes.
- Soldier Field and other landmarks for major incidents.
The show frequently films throughout the city, capturing Chicago’s skyline, streets, and diverse communities.
Why Chicago? Authenticity and Economic Impact
Filming in Chicago provides unmatched realism for a show about its first responders. The city’s support for film production, combined with talented local crews, keeps the series rooted in the place it portrays. For USA visitors, especially those in the Midwest, a trip to these spots makes for an unforgettable fan experience.
Planning Your Chicago Fire Locations Tour
Guided tours are available that visit Firehouse 51 exteriors, Molly’s/Lottie’s, and other key spots. Many fans combine visits with Chicago attractions like Millennium Park. Always check current filming schedules and respect private property and working emergency services.