Categories: Shopping
Magnificent Mile Shopping Guide
Author: Elizabeth Seymour
The word "magnificent" isn't thrown around lightly, so since Chicago's North Michigan Avenue is known for being the Magnificent Mile, rest assured you won't be disappointed. Shopping pilgrims from around the globe flock to Chicago and this epicenter of fashion - for the home as well as the self. Because it's so expansive, it might be a good idea to refine your Chicago shopping knowledge and map out some hotspots. Read on for the greatest hits of Chicago's Magnificent Mile.
Chicago attracts a wide variety of shoppers, all of whom will find something to their liking on the Magnificent Mile. For those who like their stores in one concentrated area, head to one of the truly excellent shopping centers: Water Tower Place ( 835 N. Michigan Ave., 312-440-3166), anchored by Macy's and Lord & Taylor and offering seven levels of stores and restaurants; The 900 Shops ( 900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-915-3916), home to Bloomingdale's, J. Crew, Gucci and more; The Shops at North Bridge (520 N. Michigan Ave., 312-327-2300), with Nordstrom and an arcade of shops like Lucky Brand and Sephora; and Chicago Place (700 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-4811), which features Saks Fifth Avenue, Talbots, Ann Taylor and many others.
For a street as grand as Michigan Avenue, retailers like to put their best foot forward. Nowhere is this more obvious than with such flagship stores as the four-story Crate & Barrel (646 N. Michigan Ave., 312-787-5900), three-story (and extra-wide) Banana Republic ( 744 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-0020), four-story Ralph Lauren ( 750 N. Michigan Ave., 312-280-1655), and three-story Borders Books & Music (830 N. Michigan Ave., 312-573-0564), whose café boasts excellent views of the Magnificent Mile.
Luxury seekers won't have to search far on the Magnificent Mile for top names and latest styles. Tiffany & Co. (730 N. Michigan Ave., 312-944-7500) offers bright and beautiful baubles in the heart of the shopping corridor. The ever-glamorous Chanel Boutique (935 N. Michigan Ave., 312-787-5500) sells the latest from Karl Lagerfeld's designs. For accessories, go no further than Louis Vuitton (919 N. Michigan Ave., 312-944-2010). London chic reigns at Burberry (633 N. Michigan Ave., 312-787-2500). And then there's one-stop upscale shopping at Neiman Marcus (737 N. Michigan Ave., 312-642-5900).
One of the best things about shopping on Chicago's Magnificent Mile is that it spans such a breadth of retailers. Yes, you'll find plenty of high-end stores. But you'll also find affordable, trendsetting spots to fit every budget. H&M (840 N. Michigan Ave., 312-640-0060) is a huge draw for the fashion-forward. The always-popular Gap has a three-story shop (555 N. Michigan Ave., 312-494-8580) that includes GapBody, GapKids, babyGap, and GapMaternity. For the latest and greatest in music, don't miss the Virgin Megastore (540 N. Michigan Ave., 312-645-9300).
Check out places of interest near Magnificent Mile Shopping Guide:
200 East Supper Club
200 E Chestnut St,
Chicago, IL 60611
A classic Sinatra-style establishment, 200 East Supper Club features an 1940's-esque food and drink menu as well as musical standards perfect for dancing.
Aria Restaurant
200 N. Columbus Dr.,
Chicago, IL 60601
A top Chicago restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine at The Fairmont Chicago hotel, Aria has proven that it's here to stay. Currently under the leadership of chef de cuisine Leon Gunn, the kitchen here serves a menu that's bursting with cultural influences from around the world.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
700 E. Grand Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60611
Down home southern cooking themed after the movie “Forrest Gump” is available, offering, you guessed it, shrimp, shrimp and more shrimp. Other options include baby back ribs and other seafood. Kids meals are also available.
David Burke's Primehouse
616 N. Rush St.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Nestled inside the St. James Hotel on the corner of Rush and Ontario streets, this contemporary Chicago steakhouse not only serves mouth-watering steaks, but offers patrons tastey appetizers and unique seafood creations as well.
Elephant & Castle
111 W. Adams St.,
Chicago, IL 60603
At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw
Gino's East
162 E Superior,
Chicago, IL 60611
This is the original location of Gino's East, the now-famous Chicago-style pizza restaurant chain.
Graham Elliot
217 W. Huron Street,
Chicago , IL 60654
This contemporary-American restaurant, located in the River North gallery district inside a 19th century printing warehouse, has all the taste of an uppity resaurant, but none of the bitterness.
P.J. Clarke's
302 E. Illinois St.,
Chicago, IL 60611
This American spot, which is conveniently located near Navy Pier, is a spin-off of the popular Gold Coast original.
Park Grill
11 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60602
Specializing in classic American cuisine with a hint of sophistication, Park Grill is versatile venue with an equally broad menu.
Reagle Beagle
160 E. Grand Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
A lounge that's as comfortable as an old shirt, but with the look of a new one, the Reagle Beagle is quickly becoming a top after-work spot in the Streeterville neighborhood.
Sixteen
401 N. Wabash Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Located on the16th floor of Chicago's new Trump International Hotel & Tower, Sixteen offers gorgeous city views and the modern American Cuisine of Chef Frank Brunacci.
Tavern at the Park
130 E. Randolph St.,
Chicago, IL 60601
Trying to give off that neighborhood tavern feel, while serving up fine dining dishes right across from Millennium Park.
The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60603
The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.
Walnut Room
111 N State Street,
Chicago, IL 60602
The historic Walnut Room, located on Macy's seventh floor, has been a premier Chicago dining destination since 1907.
Wow Bao
835 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60610
Wow Bao serves up delectable steamed buns (bao) filled with a variety of savory meats and vegetables from around Asia. Connoisseurs of Asian food will appreciate this classic fast food traditionally served on the street in the first Asian bun shop in America.
ZED451
739 N Clark St.,
Chicago, IL 60610
ZED451 offers a guest-focused, intimate dining experience. Chefs not only prepare the meal, but present it as well.
An Original Penguin
901 N. Rush Street,
Chicago, IL 60611
An Original Penguin by Munsingwear offers trendy fashions for men, women, and boys in prices to fit every budget.
Exhale Spa
945 N. State St.,
Chicago, IL 60610
This top Chicago spa sits at the corner of Oak and State streets and is frequented by Chicago spa lovers and travelers alike. Therapies include facials, massage, acupuncture, nutrition, and more.
Garrett Popcorn Shop
4 East Madison Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60602
Since 1949, Chicagoans have been enjoying Garrett Popcorn, Carmel Corn, and Cheese Corn. The popcorn is hot-air popped using no oils or fats.
Hanig's Footwear
660 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Men's and women's shoes in a variety of styles and brands make the multiple locations of this store a must when it comes to looking for shoes in Chicago.
Lester Lampert
57 E. Oak St.,
Chicago, IL 60611
For more than 80 years, Lester Lampert has been Chicago's premiere high-end custom jewelry boutique. Lampert designers breathe new life into old-world craftsmanship with unique, original, and award-winning creations.
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.
Teuscher
900 N. Michigan Ave., #5,
Chicago, IL 60611
Teuscher Chocolate of Switzerland is at the top of the heap when it comes to fine chocolates in Chicago; and has been a top chocolate in the world for more than 70 years.
The Shops at North Bridge
520 N. Michigan Ave,
Chicago, IL 60611
Anchored by Nordstrom, Westfield North Bridge shopping center—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
Urban Shop Guide
815 W. Dickens Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60614
Urban Shop Guide offers guided, customized shopping tours of Chicago’s trendy neighborhoods, providing visitors access to small boutiques and the essence of Chicago shopping.
P.J. Clarke's
302 E. Illinois St.,
Chicago, IL 60611
This American spot, which is conveniently located near Navy Pier, is a spin-off of the popular Gold Coast original.
Potter's
17 E Monroe St.,
Chicago, IL 60603
Located inside the Palmer House Hilton, Potter's offers unique retro cocktails and delicious small plates in a classically elegant setting.
Reagle Beagle
160 E. Grand Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
A lounge that's as comfortable as an old shirt, but with the look of a new one, the Reagle Beagle is quickly becoming a top after-work spot in the Streeterville neighborhood.
The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60603
The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.
The Redhead Piano Bar
16 W. Ontario St.,
Chicago, IL 60610
Top-notch piano players make The Redhead Piano Bar a sought-after venue when it comes to sophisticated live music in Chicago. Gather around the piano, or head toward the back of the room for more intimate conversation.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
220 S. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60604
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the heartbeat of Chicago. The CSO has numerous concerts and special events throughout the year. See the full list at their website. Tickets range from $10 to $200.
Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Co.
401 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60609
Daily tours of Chicago in San Fransisco-style trolleys and London-style buses, narrated by expert guides, are offered here. Take Chicago trolley tours as a worry-free way to get around the city of Chicago; it's "Hop On Hop Off".
Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place
175 E. Chestnut St.,
Chicago, IL 60611
The newly-remodeled, state-of-the-art theater has intimate seating to some of Chicago’s best plays.
John Hancock Center Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60661
See Chicago from the top of the Hancock Building in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Center Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest.
Shoreline Sightseeing
474 N.Lake Shore Dr.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Chidago's largest boat touring company offers "Architecture Cruises" from Navy Pier, plus Skyline Boat Tours and Water Taxis. Special fireworks cruises are scheduled seasonally!
Weekend service April and November-daily service from 10:00 am May - October. On Chicago's waterways since 1939. Group rates; buy tickets online or by phone at no additional fee.
Untouchable Tours
600 N. Clark St.,
Chicago, IL 60614
This two-hour guided bus tour of Prohibition-era gangster hot spots is a wild ride. Visit notorious speakeasies, shoot-out locations and other haunts of the 1920s Chicago gangsters while tour guides provide all of the insider scoop about gangster history.
Has been designated a:
Concierge favorite
Wendella Sightseeing Boats
400 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Located on the Magnificent Mile, Wendella Boats are guided by expert staff.
Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Co.
401 N. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60609
Daily tours of Chicago in San Fransisco-style trolleys and London-style buses, narrated by expert guides, are offered here. Take Chicago trolley tours as a worry-free way to get around the city of Chicago; it's "Hop On Hop Off".
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
65 E. Lake St.,
Chicago, IL 60601
Stop in at the many Enterprise Rent-A-Car locations if you need a Chicago rental car; they will even pick you up.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
10 E. Grand Ave.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Stop in at the many Enterprise Rent-A-Car locations if you need a Chicago rental car; they will even pick you up.
Shoreline Sightseeing
474 N.Lake Shore Dr.,
Chicago, IL 60611
Chidago's largest boat touring company offers "Architecture Cruises" from Navy Pier, plus Skyline Boat Tours and Water Taxis. Special fireworks cruises are scheduled seasonally!
Weekend service April and November-daily service from 10:00 am May - October. On Chicago's waterways since 1939. Group rates; buy tickets online or by phone at no additional fee.
