In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile
Iconic architecture, storied boutiques and plenty of sights make walking Chicago’s main shopping district a treat no matter where you start.
By Alina Dizik | May 18, 2023 (Updated January 19, 2024)
The Magnificent Mile, a 13-block stretch of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue, has long been the city’s best stroll. But over the last few years, the area has experienced a reinvention. Buzzy restaurants, family-friendly activities and local boutiques dot the pedestrian area, with plenty of outdoor patios to enjoy during the city’s warmer months.
To get a sense of Chicago’s stunning architecture, start at Michigan Avenue’s DuSable Bridge and view the historic Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower that overlook the Chicago River. Then walk toward Lake Michigan for a glimpse of the gorgeous window displays and soaring John Hancock Center. Take a break by stepping into Water Tower Place for some shopping. No matter where you go, the Second City’s most iconic avenue is sure to delight.
EAT
Whether feasting on deep-dish pizza, a food hall with all the hits or a sit-down spot from a big-name chef, the Mag Mile has plenty of delectable options. Discover:
- Aster Hall: A glitzy food hall on the top of floors of the 900 North Michigan building with stellar city views and plenty of booths to spread out. It also has a Small Cheval outpost, which serves one of the city’s best burgers.
- Labriola: The sprawling Italian cafe known for its fresh bread, has one of the area’s best patios. Locals rave about the eatery’s deep-dish pizza, said to have the perfect crust.
- Le Colonial: The first outpost of the Vietnamese-French spot is tucked away on glitzy Oak Street. Head upstairs for upscale dining surrounded by lush palms and tropical decor.
SEE
Chicago’s downtown is full of art and stunning architecture. Here’s where to take it all in:
- The Museum of Contemporary Art has some of the country’s most ambitious exhibits of modern art, including works from local artists as well as those from around the world.
- Get a peek at Chicago’s world-class architecture from the water. The Chicago River Architecture Cruise is run by volunteer docents, which means each cruise is a unique glimpse into the buildings that shape the city.
- Built in the late 1800s, the Chicago Water Tower is one of the city’s oldest and most famous landmarks. Snap a picture in front of the Gothic Revival building and wait for the likes to roll in.
SHOP
The city’s premier shopping district has a mix of well-known and independent retailers that cater to every taste. Check out these local favorites:
- Space 519: The concept store and cafe carries a curated collection of decor, beauty and accessories. Stop in to browse brands from all over the world.
- Garrett’s Popcorn: The local brand’s cheddar and caramel popcorn mix is impossible to resist. Bonus? It makes for a great souvenir!
- Colores Mexicanos: The newly opened giftshop works with artisans across Mexico to sell one-of-a-kind art and decor. Run by Chicagoans with Mexican roots, it’s the perfect way to shop local.
With more than 460 stores and 275 restaurants to explore, the Mag Mile is a quintessential Chicago experience and makes for the ideal stay in the Windy City.
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends and dining. Her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian and other top publications. She lives in Chicago and has spent time living in New York, Europe and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. She has visited more than 50 countries.
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