While Chicago is known for many things—skyscrapers, frigid temperatures, lively music scene—there is one that locals and tourists alike can say definitive, Chicago has unbelievable shops. The shopping footprint in Chicago has malls that survived the Great Chicago Fire and malls that have recently been rejuvenated. Whether you’re on the Magnificent Mile or in the suburbs, here are the best malls in Chicago
1. 900 North Michigan Avenue
One of the best malls in Chicago also happens to be luxurious, bright, and airy. The atrium of 900 North Michigan Avenue spans 22,000 square feet and seven elongated floors—blurring the line between hospitality and retail.
The shops here are grand, between Bloomingdales, Kate Spade, Gucci, J. Crew, Club Monaco, North Shore Exchange, etc. It’s easy to wander for hours and not feel bored. However, when your stomach grumbles, you’ll find the extensive food and drink oasis, Aster Hall. The menu will cater to your cravings from Au Cheval to Ginza Ramen. And if you want to just grab a glass of rosé while you shop around, that’s okay too.
Address: 900 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
2. Water Tower Place
There is always a story when you hear the phrase “Water Tower Place” because it’s one of Chicago’s historic landmarks on the Magnificant Mile. It’s renowned for its vast selection of more than 70 stores—many of which people come from all over to experience. If you’re there with your children, beware that they’ll almost certainly drag you into the American Girl Doll Place and Lego store.
Beyond shopping, the seven-story mall also houses a number of restaurants and entertainment options, including a Broadway in Chicago live theater.
Address: 835 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
3. Block 37
Block 37 has a long history with Chicago as its name derives from one of the original fifty-eight Chicago city blocks established in 1830. The block has served Chicagoans as a social space in the Loop for almost two centuries—offering a perfect mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
You’ll find Banana Republic, Akira, Anthropologie, Francesca’s, Zara, AMC Theatres, Five Iron Golf, and more here. What makes the location different from the rest is that it’s right in the heart of Broadway in Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago—the quintessential place to go while having a touristy day.
Address: 108 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602
4. Woodfield Mall
One of the best malls in Chicago is 40 minutes outside Chicago. Woodfield Mall is not only one of the largest shopping destinations in the United States, but it also has more than 2 million square feet of retail shops, restaurants, and amenities.
The iconic destination has nearly 300 prominent department stores such as Nordstrom, Macy’s, and JCPenney while complemented by notable retailers like Apple, Michael Kors, lululemon, Anthropologie, BOSS, MAC Cosmetics, H&M, and more. Woodfield also has an expansive list of dining options ranging from eight full-service restaurants, such as Uncle Julio’s and The Cheesecake Factory, to over 30 fast-casual selections throughout the mall.
Address: 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173
5. Fashion Outlets of Chicago
While we love shopping and finding the best malls in Chicago, we also love a good deal. The Fashion Outlets of Chicago is located just five minutes from O’Hare International Airport—the region’s only two-level indoor luxury outlet shopping experience.
The center is home to over 130 top designer brands, which include Gucci, Versace, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Brunello Cucinelli, Zadig & Voltaire. Shoppers can also find various quick-service food options and may enjoy an alcoholic beverage in the common area as they shop.
Address: 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, IL 60018