The Loop

The legendary Loop is a worldwide symbol of the commerce, the culture, the clout of Chicago.

It’s home to the city's business and theatre districts, local colleges, numerous hotels, and world-renowned tourist attractions (Art Institute of Chicago, Buckingham Fountain, Millennium Park, and Sears Tower).  

Shopping in The Loop won’t break the bank. The local workforce and student population shop here for affordable, well-known brands – conveniently located near their offices or schools. What’s more rewarding than picking up a new pair of shoes, a business casual outfit, or a last-minute gift during your lunch hour!  

Along Michigan Avenue, from Congress Parkway to the Chicago River, tourists (and locals) can pick up their favorite Chicago souvenirs at Accent Chicago, maps and guides for the city and throughout the world at The Savvy Traveller, or rent a Segway, the motorized transporter that travels the sidewalks, for an afternoon of sightseeing through Millennium Park and along the lakefront.

State Street

Two blocks west of Michigan Avenue, State Street is the original grande dame of Chicago shopping.

The Street has changed significantly over the past few years, and recently its most popular destination, Marshall Field’s, home to Frango Mints and the Walnut Room, completed its transition to Macy's.  

The name has changed, but the Field's nameplate and clock still mark its location.  Check out the newly opened first-floor department dedicated to selling merchandise from a talented group of local designers.  Clothing, jewelry, handbags, and other accessories are available.

State Street is lined with discount department stores (Filene’s Basement, Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx), trendy clothing and accessories stores popular with students (Aldo Shoes, H&M, Forever 21), and numerous specialty stores.  The ever-popular Garrett Popcorn has three locations with their newest shop next to the Oriental Theatre on Randolph St.    

Keep your eyes open for more retail changes along State Street. The area known as Block 37, the stretch of land between Macy's and Daley Plaza, is currently under construction with plans to add new space for retailers.  And Carson Pirie Scott, located on the block between Madison and Monroe Streets, recently announced that it will be closing its State Street doors in early 2007.  

Traveling beyond State Street

You won’t have any trouble finding everyday needs throughout the Loop. From convenience stores to office supplies, books to telecommunications, your last minute errand is probably within walking distance of your office, school or hotel.

Locals know about Jeweler's Row, a stretch of stores on Wabash Avenue between Washington and Monroe Streets.  Whether it’s time for that diamond ring, or to pick up a little something for yourself, discover a treasure trove of precious stones, metals and antique jewelry. The W Hotel Gift Shop, with unique items including the hotel's luxurious bedding, Graham Cracker Comic Books for collectors, and Leonidas Belgian chocolates are some of the hidden gems you'll find here.

Most stores west of State Street (between Dearborn Street and South Wacker Drive) are closed on the weekends, so call ahead first.   

2006-2007
Store openings: Akira Footwear, Annie Sez, Blick Art Supplies, Claire's Accessories, Fannie May Candies, Florodora, Jos. A Bank Clothiers, Office Depot, Urban Outfitters  

Store closings: Aldo Shoes, Brent Books, Carson Pirie Scott, Morrow's

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What you’ll find here:

Accessories: Akira Footwear, Altman's Men's Shoes, Claire’s Accessories, Emporium Luggage, Foot Locker, Naturalizer, Nine West, Payless Shoes

Books, Music & Movies: Borders, Barnes & Noble, Coconuts, Graham Cracker Comic Books, Rock Records 

Clothing & Accessories: Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor Loft, Brooks Brothers, Children’s Place, Florodora, Forever 21, H&M, Johnston & Murphy, Jos. A. Bank, Men’s Wearhouse, New York & Co, Old Navy, Urban Outfitters

Department Stores: Macy's, Sears

Department Stores (Discount): TJ Maxx, Filene's Basement, Nordstrom Rack

Grocery & Specialty Foods: Bockwinkel’s, Fannie May Candies, Garrett Popcorn, Leonidas, Moonstruck Chocolate 

Health & Beauty: Bath & Body Works, Body Shop, GNC, Sally Beauty Supply

Office Supplies: Office Max, Office Depot, Staples

Specialty Stores: Accent Chicago, Arts & Artisans, Blick Art Supplies, Central Camera, Iwan Ries, Jack Schwartz Imports, W Hotel Gift Shop

Telecommunications: Cingular, Sprint, T-Mobile, US Cellular

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Nearby Shopping Destinations: Gold Coast, Magnificent Mile, Oak Street, River North, South Loop/U of I Campus, Streeterville, West Loop  

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For more information, visit Chicago Traveler to see a Chicago Loop Neighborhood Guide.  

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SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer - E. Engquist.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by SeeMoreShopping. Publ. 10/06.Updated 04/07.