Anchored by Macy’s, State Street has some of Chicago’s best shopping, all in one place. Start at Macy’s at East Randolph Street and State Street and walk south for every major store you could want, including Nordstrom, Footaction, and Express. You’ll find everything from malls to department stores, specialty shops, and off-price steals. Tourists and locals alike love the enclave’s central location, just a stone’s throw from Millennium Park and the Riverwalk.
The State Street Neighborhood
Located in the heart of the Chicago Loop, State Street has been a famous shopping destination since the 1900s. (It even has a shoutout in the musical, Chicago.) The neighborhood is a hotbed for Chicago sites—you can even see the landmark Burnham Fountain from the Macy’s escalators.
Millennium Park, The Art Institute, and Maggie Daley Park all run a few blocks parallel to State Street. Head a few blocks north and you’ll find the popular Riverwalk. There is no shortage of places to stay in the area, which is chock-full of such leading hotel chains as Cambria Theater District, Hampton Inn Majestic, Palmer House Hotel, and theWit.
The State Street Shops
Of course, Macy’s is the crown jewel of this vibrant shopping district. Located on State Street and E. Randolph, the department store is located in a landmark building. The site was originally the Marshall Field’s flagship store and features an ornate exterior. You can’t miss the iconic granite columns and Great Clocks. Inside, you’ll be just as wowed by the soaring Tiffany ceiling above the entry-level cosmetic department.
Although the department store has changed hands, this location still contains the original Walnut Room, touted as the first restaurant in a department store. Take a shopping break to enjoy the Old World touches and century-old wood paneling. For lunch, order Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie—a favorite menu item since 1907.
Macy’s isn’t the only shop on the stretch, however. Start on State and Lake Street and walk south until you hit Jackson Boulevard. Along the way, you’ll find an array of malls and trendy boutiques. At Block 37, shop big-name favorites including Anthropolgie, Magnolia Bakery and the Disney store. This multi-level mall also has an indoor cinema, so you can make a day of it.
For bargain hunters, nothing beats the on-trend offerings at Nordstrom Rack. Located on State and E Washington, find off-price offerings from leading contemporary designers. Walking south, you’ll also hit trendy favorites like Zumiez, with its skater and snowboarding style, and Urban Outfitters, popular for hip home decor and apparel.
For fast-fashion, you’ll find the likes of Forever 21, Zara, and H&M. Sporting lovers will find the Jordan store and Footaction, complete with a “kicks lounge” for every sneaker you can dream of. For other shoe-lovers, shop DSW for affordable options and popular brand names. There’s also an Aldo, Journeys and SKECHERS retail store for more great footwear.
Unlike the swanky Magnificent Mile, affordable options abound on State Street. There’s a Target for everything you can think of. Meanwhile, TJ Maxx and Burlington (conveniently located next to one another) round out the off-price options. The ever-popular Old Navy is located at the top of the strip.
There’s no shortage of trendy women’s clothing boutiques as well. From staples like Express to more niche brands like Akira, there is something for everyone. Akira sells trendy styles including sexy dresses, cute crop tops, and many shoes (as if there weren’t enough footwear boutiques). Next to Akira, you’ll find Zara, which offers on-trend clothing for women and men, inspired by designer styles.
Of course, there are upscale options as well. Shop Banana Republic, Sunglass Hut, and Kay Jewelers. In Macy’s, find leading designers like Estee Lauder, Dio, and Levenger.
After your Chicago shopping trip, grab a bite at Atwood, located within the boutique Staypineapple hotel. Or enjoy the local staple for German food and beer, The Berghoff. Just need something quick? The area is buzzing with favorites like Pret, Starbucks, and Subway.