Edition: Holiday Shopping
Quintessential Chicago: Winter Warming
Author: Tanya Meyer
Escape winter's grasp with warm feelings and a multitude of holiday decorations that lught up downtown Chicago; take a skate, Macy's shows you what to wear; dress for the weather with snowboard wear; and chocolate is always hot. 
MILLENNIUM PARK ICE RINK
Located at the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Washington St., the Millennium Park Ice Rink is a 16,000 sq.-ft. winter tourist is a 16,000 sq.-ft. winter tourist attraction open to the public daily, 10a.m. - 10p.m. through March (weather permitting). The ice rink’s season is extended by a state-of-theart cooling system. Skating is free and rentals are available for a small fee. A warming lobby and public lockers are also available. More substantial sustenance can also be had at the Park Grill (11 N. Michigan Ave., 312-521-PARK). The “Park Grill Burger” is best had with the optional applewood-smoked bacon.
BURTON SNOWBOARDS
Mountain-style winter wear comes to Chicago via this four-story, townhouse-style flagship Burton Snowboards store (56 E. Walton St.). It opened in September to eager Chicago snowboarding masses anticipating the approaching cold weather. It houses top-of-the-line, brand-name clothing, gear, and accessories for the popular winter sport. Shoppers can chill out on couches in the living room area to watch Burton riders on the large flat-screen.
CHICAGO CONFECTIONS
If high-end sweets are what you seek, try the legendary Godiva (835 N. Michigan Ave., 312-280-1133) at Water Tower. Their rich-in-cocoa content creations can make a cold, gray day into a play day. But if historical tradition and kid-friendly fun is what you’re after, then Hershey's Chicago (822 N. Michigan Ave., 312-337-7711) is the spot. Sing along with employees to chocolate-themed songs and stock up on name brand candy treats. Warning: Kids and candy aficionados might be lost in the rapture.
FASHION GETS PERSONAL
Macy’s on State Street (111 N. State St., 312-781-1000) is taking fashion personally with its new Personal Fashion Advisor program. The free service offers professional advice on the top trends of the season and finds the fashion-forward looks that suit every customer’s shape and style. Unlike its Personal Shopping program, the store’s lone “stylista,” Crystal Reed, is based in the third floor contemporary department and accepts all walk-ins. Appointments can be made, but are not required. Reed, 22, a former Ford fashion model, is well-versed with the fashion industry.
Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602
Taking up an entire Chicago shopping block on State Street, this landmark department store opened in 1852 and continues to offer top levels of service and merchandise.
Macy's
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611
Part of Water Tower Place, this is a second downtown location of this famed department store.
Park Grill
11 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60602
