Hold Up! Can You Actually Walk into the Interrogation Room on the Set of Chicago PD?
Ever felt the urge to crack wise with Halstead, offer Platt a stress-baked batch of cookies, or maybe just stare intensely at Voight's impressive collection of suspicious mustaches? Yeah, me too. Chicago PD has a way of sucking you into that cop drama world, making you feel like you're practically part of the Intelligence Unit. But here's the thing: can you just waltz into their precinct and become the newest (slightly unqualified) detective?
Reality Check: Spoiler Alert, It's Not That Easy
While your enthusiasm is A+, crashing a real-life police station (even a fictionalized one) is a recipe for trouble. Remember, the Chicago PD exterior is filmed at a functioning UIC Police Department Headquarters. Those guys and gals are dealing with real stuff, not chasing after fictional drug lords (although, Chicago being Chicago, maybe that line gets a little blurry sometimes).
But fear not, intrepid fan! There are ways to get your Chicago PD fix without risking a one-way trip to the slammer (metaphorical, of course).
So, How Can You Get Your Fix?
- Embrace Your Inner Tourist: Head to the glorious city of Chicago! The UIC Police Headquarters (aka District 21) is located at 943 W. Maxwell St. While snapping pics inside is a no-go, you can grab a selfie with the iconic facade. Bonus points if you manage to snag a photo with a Chicago PD squad car cruising by (just don't ask them for a ride-along...unless you want a real-life interrogation, that is).
- Channel Your Detective Skills: Look online for behind-the-scenes footage or cast interviews. You might even unearth some hidden gems like LaRoyce Hawkins giving a hilarious set tour (yes, it's a real thing, and yes, it's amazing).
- Rewatch Every Episode. Like, Literally Every Episode: Because binge-watching is a perfectly acceptable way to live vicariously through the Intelligence Unit. Just make sure you stock up on popcorn (and maybe some tissues, because let's be honest, this show can get emotional).
Maybe one day, there will be official Chicago PD set tours. Until then, use your imagination, celebrate your fandom responsibly, and remember: imitating the cool detective swagger is totally encouraged (just maybe skip the interrogation room tactics...unless you're dealing with a particularly stubborn toaster).