Swap the computer screen haze of online shopping and opt for something a little more scenic. If you’re looking for some unique hotspots to shop for a new wardrobe, look no further. Explore these Illinois shopping destinations best suited for your shopping and beyond!
The Magnificent Mile
More than 460 retailers line the strip of this popular downtown Chicago street, from major department stores to designer chic. Along this 13-block stretch you’ll also find three separate vertical shopping malls: The Shops at North Bridge, 900 North Michigan Shops and Water Tower Place. And when it’s time for a break, seek out some of the city’s most notable landmarks and dining establishments. Take a trip to the top of the 100-story John Hancock Center. Or, retrace history with the collection of famous building fragments, including the Taj Mahal, embedded into the Tribune Tower. Then dine at any one of the 275-plus restaurants, from Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse to the award-winning The Purple Pig.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago
Off of I-90, in the nearby Village of Rosemont, you’ll have no trouble finding this Illinois shopping experience. With 130 outlet stores, Fashion Outlets of Chicago lets you take advantage of holiday savings from brands like American Eagle Outfitters, Barney’s New York, and more. As you move from store to store, keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind pieces of contemporary art. Permanent commissions and rotating exhibits can be found throughout the shopping center from acclaimed artists such as Daniel Arsham, Jen Stark and Derrick Adams. Equipped with a variety of services for traveling shoppers, enjoy complimentary parking every day of the week. In addition to their Level 1 concierge services, which offer luggage storage and foreign currency exchange.
Downtown Galena
From city to small town! Nicknamed “the Helluva Half Mile”, Main Street of downtown Galena is the perfect way to round out your Illinois shopping tour. With all of the hustle, bustle and high fashion out of the way, discover the best in antique and locally made goods. If it’s wine you’re after, it’s wine you’ll find at storefronts like the Galena Cellars Winery & Tasting Room and Rocky Waters Vineyard & Winery. Which would pair nicely with a trip to Chocolat’ 229’s finest in imported European chocolates! Or, if hard liquor is more your speed, look no further than the family-owned and operated Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. Don’t forget to venture into one of their many specialty shops like Celebrity Hats, Galena Candle & Bath Company, and Northwest Designs Glass Studio.