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 work force 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 Chicago souvenirs at Accent Chicago, maps and guides at The Saavy Traveller, artwork by local artisans at Arts & Artisans, or rent a Segway, the motorized transporters that travel the sidewalks, for an afternoon of sightseeing through Millennium Park.

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

Its most popular destination is Marshall Field’s, soon to be Macy's, with seven floors of merchandise. This world-class department store really does have something for everyone. Check out the department dedicated to local designers. [fill-in]

The street itself is lined with discount department stores (Filene’s Basement, Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx), trendy clothing and accessories popular with students (Aldo Shoes, H&M, Forever 21), and numerous specialty stores.  

And look for more changes along State Street when the area known as Block 37, the stretch of land between Marshall Field's and Daley Plaza currently under construction, adds new commercial space for retail growth.

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, what you might need 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 for picking up a little something for yourself, discover a treasure trove of precious stones, metals and antique jewelry.   

Most stores west of State Street (between Dearborn Street and South Wacker Drive) are closed on the weekends, so call ahead first.   The W Hotel Gift Shop, for unique items including the hotel's luxurious bedding, Jack Schwartz Imports for cigars, and Leonidas Belgian chocolates are some of the hidden gems you'll find here.

Newly Opened: Akira Footwear, Annie Sez, Blick Art Supplies, Claire's Accessories, Office Depot, Urban Outfitters  

What you’ll find here:

Accessories: Akira Footwear, Aldo Shoes, 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, Forever 21, H&M, Johnston & Murphy, Jos. A. Bank, Men’s Wearhouse, New York & Co, Old Navy, Urban Outfitters

Department Stores: Marshall Field's, Carson Pirie Scott, 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

SeeMore Shopping Editorial Review by E. Engquist.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by SeeMoreShopping.