Those who believe in the benefits of retail therapy would be forgiven for never wanting to leave Chicago. The city is nothing short of a consumer paradise, with hundreds of fantastic stores all within walking distance of each other.
First stop for the enthusiastic shopper would have to be the Magnificent Mile, eight city blocks which are home to nearly 500 outlets. The appropriately named "900 North Michigan Shops" is perhaps the most impressive building in the area, with everything from Gucci to Bloomingdales gathered together on six floors of upmarket retail heaven.
Just a stone's throw away is Westfield North Bridge, which prides itself on offering a shopping experience with a difference. Chicago's self-dubbed "most eclectic urban destination" is the place to come if you want to take home some uniquely Illinois souvenirs.
The bustling "Loop" area of the city will likewise satisfy even the most voracious credit card warrior. Renowned Marshall Field's department store sells, well, everything, while the surrounding streets are host to a multitude of discount stores. This is also where you'll find State Street, the historic heart of the city, where many of Chicago's most important buildings rub shoulders with shopping meccas like Carson Pirie Scott and Sears.
Nearby Oak Street meanwhile offers a unique combination of designer and speciality outlets, with Prada and Armani sitting side-by-side with curiosity shops and independent boutiques. And should you need to take a rest from carrying all those bags, the view over Lake Michigan makes stopping for a coffee a moment to be remembered.Back Next page »
