The Complete Magnificent Mile Shopping GuideAudrey Snyderon June 25, 2020 at 6:58 pm

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Encompassing a 13-block segment of North Michigan Avenue, The Magnificent Mile has long been known to locals and tourists alike for being a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Michigan Avenue has changed a lot since it was first set on its path to becoming a central commercial area as part of the “Chicago Plan” in 1909; though it’s no longer just a trading post, it’s still a part of town where you go to find things you need— maybe sometimes just things you want. Either way, you certainly have no shortage of options.


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Photo Credit: Tabo Sushi

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Photo Credit: 900 North Michigan Avenue Facebook Page

900 North Michigan Shops

If you need one spot where you can find any number of items, this is an important stop for you. From clothing to accessories to books, your needs are easily met by stores including Sur la table, J.Crew, Bloomingdale’s, and more. That molcajete you’ve been eyeing? It’s time to take the plunge and make some good guacamole for once in your life.

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Photo Credit: Water Tower Place Facebook Page

Water Tower Place

The Water Tower has become synonymous with shopping and the experience of being downtown for plenty of Chicagoans. It’s known for having over 100 stores — including American Girl Place, The LEGO Store, and Adidas — housed on eight floors, and even has its own live theater. Make sure you stop at Adidas first though: you’re going to need a great pair of shoes to cover so much ground.

Photo Credit: Offshore Chicago Facebook Page

Mag Mile Dining

Wait, when was the last time you ate? You’ve been so engrossed in your shopping spree that you almost forgot to eat lunch! If you’re in the mood for something more casual, check out Beacon Tavern, which offers dressed-up versions of your typical tavern fare. Or, if you’ve been wanting a rooftop experience, you can venture to Offshore Rooftop & Bar. Of course, let’s not forget the beloved Frontera Grill, full of Mexican flavors and the expert touch of chef Rick Bayless.

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Photo Credit: The Shops at North Bridge Facebook Page

The Shops at North Bridge

This collection of retailers (perhaps a bit bigger than our usual conception of “shops”) includes 50 stores and 20 restaurants, and it takes up 6 blocks. Among other popular purveyors of fashion and lifestyle items, its stores include Nordstrom, White House | Black Market, and Charming Charlie.

Photo Credit: AT&T Michigan Avenue Facebook page

AT&T Michigan Avenue

It’s true: you could just go to an AT&T store down the street from your house to replace your phone; however, the AT&T store down the street from your house is not, in fact, a Flagship store that hosts events and limited-time pop-up experiences. The Magnificent Mile is a bit of a spectacle, and the AT&T location that lives there is no different.

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Photo Credit: Gap Yelp Page

Gap

You’ve been tromping around all day trying on shoes, sniffing fragrances, leafing through books — even stopping to get a haircut. The items that have eluded you this whole shopping trip are simple but necessary: a pair of jeans, maybe a couple of unassuming tops, and a denim jacket. Luckily, Gap specializes in high-quality essentials, and there’s a location situated on The Magnificent Mile.

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Featured Image Credit: 900 North Michigan Avenue Facebook Page

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