Chicago's Magnificent Mile
Whether you skim through the strip with a few stores and a quick bite or spend a few days exploring every block, the Mag Mile is an important stop on any Chicago tour. This section of North Michigan Avenue supports world-renowned shopping and dining, unique entertainment and culture, as well as first-class lodging.
With so many blocks of Magnificent Mile to see, you might want to hop on the Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Bus: the green triangle line goes up and down the avenue and from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., includesing stops at the Art institute, Millennium Park, and Grant Park. For hours please visit: http://www.coachusa.com/chicagotrolley/
The Magnificent Mile: Main Attractions
John Hancock Center
Built in 1969 and standing 100-stories tall, the John Hancock Center is a multi-faceted establishment in and of itself. Home to over 700 apartments, 29 stories of office space, hotel, and even an ice rink, this giant competes with the Wilis Tower to decorate Chicago’s famous skyline. Head up to the newly remodeled John Hancock Observatory for spectacular views for up to 80 miles away, or maybe stop for a bite to eat and a quick cocktail at the 95th floor Signature Room restaurant and bar.
Chicago Water Tower
As one of the lone survivors of Chicago’s Great Fire of 1871, the Chicago Water Tower represents the resiliency and strength of the city. Unique for its castle-like design of 1869, the Water Tower used to be a working pumping station for the city’s water supply. Although it has ceased functionality for some years now, visitors can still tour the inside of the building and take advantage of its visitor’s information center and City Gallery, showing photography of historic Chicago. Free admission.
Chicago Tribune Tower
At the south end of the Magnificent Mile, visitors will find the home of our very own, Chicago Tribune. Designed by the winner of a citywide competition, the Gothic-inspired Chicago Tribune Tower has anchored the Magnificent Mile since 1922. Inside the tower, its marble walls are encrypted with inspirational quotes from some of history’s greatest writers and thinkers. The outside of this Magnificent Mile tower pays homage to landmarks around the world by incorporating stones from some of the most influential buildings into its foundation, including the Coliseum and the Wall of China.
Wrigley Building
Constructed as the headquarters for the famous chewing gum corporation in 1920, the Wrigley Building has become a landmark at the Mile’s south end. Neighboring the Tribune Tower, this building illuminates the Chicago River at night and decorates the Mile with a montage of flags around the building.
The Magnificent Mile: Shopping
On the Magnificent Mile, shopping is an experience to be had, offering visitors everything from their favorite retailers to interactive shopping spaces and no shortage of the best high-end brands fashion has to offer at the Magnificent Mile stores.
Water Tower Place
A twist on the Old Water Tower building, Water Tower Place is an eight-floor shopping adventure with all of your favorite shops under one roof. After a long day of shopping, indulge in its basement-level marketplace and restaurants that are sure to satisfy everyone’s tastes.
The Shops at North Bridge
Anchored by Nordstrom, The Shops at North Bridge—conveniently located along the Magnificent Mile—offers a variety of specialty shops, from A/X Armani Exchange and Kenneth Cole to The LEGO® Store and Sephora.
The 900 Shops
A haven for the most fashion-savvy among us, the The 900 Shops (at 990 Michigan Ave.) houses some of the most elite names in designer goods. With names like Bloomingdale’s, Coach, and Gucci, these stores require serious shoppers. Complete with a fitness center, salon and spa, movie theatre, and a variety of dining options, these Magnificent Mile stores are worthy of a visit.
Niketown
Making its claim-to-fame with Chicago’s own Michael Jordan, Niketown is one of the largest, single retailers along the Magnificent Mile. The whole family can appreciate the power of the Swoosh, with products from baby to adult and tons of interactive displays kids wil love!
The Apple Store
A newcomer to the Mile, the Apple Store is the most interactive shopping experience along the strip. With daily workshops for navigating your Mac, a Genius Bar for technical support, and two-floors of everything Apple, it’s easy to lose track of time in this Apple-made world.
Hershey's Chicago
Chicago was the original home to Milton Hershey’s discovery of the machinery he would later use to build his chocolate empire. Appropriately, this world-renown confectionary has come back to its roots and set up shop along the Magnificent Mile as (you guessed it!) Hershey’s Chicago. Stop in for a homemade treat or even a t-shirt to proudly display the chocolate lover in you!
The Magnificent Mile: Just for Kids!
The Magnificent Mile and its surrounding areas even have entertaining options for its young visitors. Kid-friendly stores and restaurants keep families occupied with child-approved themes and settings. There’s also amusing year-round activities down the Magnificent Mile that everyone in your bunch will enjoy.
American Girl Place
For the little doll in your life, American Girl Place has a whole day catered specifically for her. At American Girl Place, guests can shop the boutique for outfits and accessories for girl and doll, and have a spot of tea in the café.
Bobby's Bike Hike
Take a family-friendly guided bike tour (bicycles provided) with Bobby’s Bike Hike. Tours depart from the Historic Water Tower and are designed for riders of all ages and fitness levels. A great way to learn about Chicago’s past, as well as insight into current events around the city.
The Lego Store
The LEGO Store is the ultimate LEGO land - packed with over 400 branded products, including clothing, sports gear, imports and, of course, the classic multicolored building blocks. Shoppers can free build at the oversized LEGO table, letting their creativity guide them.
The Sanrio Store
The Sanrio Store is Hello Kitty headquarters. Not only can you pick up an array of items with the cute kitten adorning each one, but you can meet some of her animal pals, too. From tiny trinkets, stationary, accessories and clothing, the Sanrio Store is guaranteed to create smiles.
Culture on the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is more than shopping and eating. The history and culture of Chicago can be found in the area, educating and entertaining visitors all at the same time. In addition to seeing first hand the amazing architecture Chicago is known for, sightseers can experience artwork, sculptures, theatre, and music.
Magnificent Mile Theaters
The newly-remodeled, state-of-the-art Drury Lane Theater at Water Tower Place has intimate seating to some of Chicago’s best plays. Dinner packages are available. Call for upcoming shows and tickets. Down the street, the Lookingglass Theatre Company creates and executes uniquely innovative work in ensemble-based performances.
Art on the Magnificent Mile
In addition to a wide selection of public art, the Magnificent Mile is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, one of the largest facilities in the country devoted to modern art. The Museum of Contemporary Art showcase sculptures, paintings, photography, video, film and performances. Also check out the River East Arts Center, Chicago’s newest art center and home to fine art galleries blended with working artist studio spaces.
