NBC’s long-running rescue drama Chicago Fire has returned with season 14, which premiered on October 1, 2025. Set in the city’s iconic Firehouse 51, the series continues to follow the high-stakes lives of first responders battling fires, rescues, and personal struggles.
With over 279 episodes aired to date, Chicago Fire remains one of network television’s most authentic portrayals of emergency service life — and that realism owes much to its real Chicago filming locations.
Here’s a full breakdown of where Chicago Fire season 14 is filmed.
1. Chicago Fire Department Engine 18 (S. Blue Island Avenue)
The beating heart of Chicago Fire is Engine 18, a fully operational fire station located on the Near West Side of Chicago. This real-life station directly inspired the fictional Firehouse 51, serving as the backdrop for exterior shots throughout the series.
According to Demetra Diamantopoulos, co-executive producer of Chicago Fire, the team collaborates closely with the real firefighters stationed there. In an interview with NBC Insider, she revealed that the Engine 18 crew “always makes space for filming and treats the team like part of the family.”
Since it’s an active firehouse, production schedules are carefully planned to respect the real department’s emergency operations.
2. Cinespace Chicago Film Studios
Most interior scenes of Firehouse 51 are filmed inside Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, one of the largest television production facilities in the Midwest.
The studio’s sets are meticulously designed to mirror the real layout of Engine 18, creating seamless transitions between exterior and interior shots. Cinespace also houses sets for other One Chicago series — including Chicago P.D. and Chicago Med — making it the central hub of NBC’s interconnected TV universe.
3. Lottie’s Pub (1924 W. Cortland St., Bucktown)
When the firefighters clock out, they head to Molly’s Bar — a fictional watering hole co-owned by Mouch, Herrmann, and Trudy from Chicago P.D.
In reality, Molly’s exterior is filmed outside Lottie’s Pub, a real Bucktown establishment known for its laid-back vibe and classic Chicago atmosphere. The interior scenes, however, are recreated on the Cinespace soundstage.
Fun fact: Lottie’s has become a fan-favourite tourist stop, and even serves themed drinks inspired by the show.
4. Street and Landmark Locations Across Chicago
To maintain authenticity, Chicago Fire frequently shoots across real neighbourhoods and landmarks. Season 14 has included sequences filmed at:
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The Chicago River and Magnificent Mile, showcasing the city’s skyline.
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Lincoln Park, often used for outdoor rescues.
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Bridgeport and Pilsen, chosen for storylines with working-class characters.
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The Gold Coast, for episodes involving the city’s wealthier residents.
According to Diamantopoulos, location choices depend on the emotional tone of each episode — ensuring that Chicago itself remains an integral part of the storytelling.
5. The Chicago Fire Academy (558 W. De Koven St.)
Another key filming location is the Chicago Fire Academy, a modern facility built on the historic site where the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 began.
This location often features in training scenes and public-safety sequences, adding historical depth to the show’s setting.
A City That Burns Bright On Screen
Every episode of Chicago Fire pays homage to the real city it portrays — from its bustling skyline to its tight-knit neighbourhoods. As season 14 continues, fans can expect more on-location action, heartfelt character arcs, and the same signature blend of courage and chaos that defines Firehouse 51.
Catch new episodes of Chicago Fire every Tuesday on NBC, with the next airing November 5, 2025.
