Best Shopping in Chicago
With stores ranging from Forever 21 and Marshalls to Burberry and Cartier, Chicago is a shopper’s paradise. You can find everything from the best bargains to bespoke gowns and everything in between. For visitors to the city looking to take advantage of the best shopping Chicago, we’re pulling together our favorite recommendations. From budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy venues, this list has a range of stores to explore.
900 North Michigan Shops
Located on the north end of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, the 900 North Michigan Shops feature affordable luxury through an eclectic selection of apparel, jewelry, housewares, and more. The big department store is Bloomingdales, and other favorites include Michael Kors, kate spade new york, Kendra Scott, and Karen Millen.
Water Tower Place
This seven-story mall offers a good mix of family-friendly offerings and high-end options for discerning shoppers. A must-visit for the kids is the iconic American Girl store, as well as the LEGO Store. You can also find chic clothes for women at Free People, a wide selection of makeup at Riley Rose, and fun apparel at PINK by Victoria’s Secret. The food court here is pretty popular, too. 
Oak Street
A block or two of the most high-end boutiques in the city, Oak Street is the go-to destination for those looking for something special and unique. With particular focal points on apparel, jewelry, handbags, and timepieces, the Oak Street shopping district is home to top brands new and old. Think Escada, Vince, Vera Wang, Dolce & Gabbana, Saint Laurent, and more.
The Shops at North Bridge
A more classic mall, you’ll find some mid-range stores here alongside popular budget-friendly options. Featured stores include jewelry shops like Charming Charlie or Alex and Ani, houseware giant Le Creuset, the ever-popular Forever 21, and beauty products at M.A.C. Cosmetics and Kiehl’s. There’s also a large Nordstorm here. 
Macy’s on State Street
Once known as Marshall Field’s, Macy’s on State Street is one of the brand’s four flagship stores and spans an entire city block. They’ve got floors upon floors of apparel and housewares, as well as accessories, shoes, and even a popular restaurant called the Walnut Room. This is a nice place to look for deals and reliable brands.
Andersonville
Located outside of the downtown core, the shopping district in Andersonville is best described as indie eclectic. You’ll find a lot of unique stores here, many offering products by local artisans and artists, too. There will also be abundant vintage shops, a few bookstores, a popular record store, and many businesses influenced by the neighborhood’s Swedish heritage. This is also a fun place to grab some grub.
Merchandise Mart
If you’re in the market for furniture or home décor, the Merchandise Mart should be your destination. The bottom floor of this massive Art Deco building is mostly dedicated to various showrooms that highlight everything from sofas to fabrics to patio furniture. The building is of historical interest, too—until 2008, it was so big it had its own zip code!
Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store
Housed in the historic Medinah Temple, the expansive Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store is another top destination for all things domestic. The building dates from 1914, and its fascinating exterior is matched by the seemingly endless array of merchandise found within. Keep in mind that you won’t find housewares in the Bloomies at 900 N. Michigan since it’s all located here. 
Lincoln Square / Ravenswood
Another indie shopping destination is the Lincoln Square/Ravenswood neighborhoods. They are chock full of distinctive venues selling apparel and accessories, books, vintage and antique finds, home décor, and more. The dining scene in this area is pretty good, too, and you’ll be avoiding downtown crowds and downtown pricing.
Wicker Park / Bucktown
A hip neighborhood with a plethora of indie shops—many of them are hot new Chicago-exclusive brands—this area is easy to love. The stores veer towards the hipster, with clothing that tends to be more unique and unusual. You’ll find a good mix of stores are different price points here, too, which is refreshing in Chicago. There are also some amazing restaurants and bars here, so don’t skimp on your lunch budget.
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