State Street in Chicago is renowned as a premier destination for shoppers, drawing both locals and tourists alike. This bustling avenue offers an incredible array of shopping experiences, from contemporary malls to historic department stores, unique boutiques, and budget-friendly options, all conveniently located near iconic Chicago landmarks like Millennium Park, the Riverwalk, and the Theatre District. Among these retail gems, Macy’s on State Street stands out as a true icon, blending architectural grandeur with a shopper’s paradise.
Macy’s State Street: A Chicago Landmark and Retail Haven
Macy’s on State Street is more than just a department store; it’s a National Historic Landmark that offers a unique experience combining architectural appreciation with retail therapy. The building’s exterior is instantly recognizable with its majestic granite columns and the iconic Great Clocks, welcoming visitors to this State Street institution. Stepping inside reveals an equally impressive interior, highlighted by the breathtaking Tiffany ceiling that graces the first-floor cosmetics area. This stunning feature alone makes a visit to Macy’s State Street Chicago worthwhile.
As you explore further, locate the main escalators to admire the Burnham Fountain, a masterpiece designed by the celebrated Chicago architect Daniel Burnham. For a delightful pause during your shopping excursion, the historic Walnut Room awaits. Known as the first restaurant ever established within a department store, the Walnut Room exudes old-world charm with its Austrian chandeliers and century-old wood paneling. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Mrs. Hering’s Chicken Pot Pie, a menu staple since 1907. For those visiting during the festive season, Macy’s State Street Chicago holiday windows are an enchanting Chicago tradition, drawing crowds from near and far.
Exploring State Street’s Diverse Retail Scene
To fully embrace the State Street shopping experience, focus on the section stretching from Lake Street to Jackson Boulevard. This vibrant strip is home to a diverse mix of trendy stores, major retailers, and charming local boutiques, ensuring there’s something for every taste and preference.
Directly opposite Macy’s State Street, you’ll find Block 37, a modern shopping center buzzing with fashionable stores and diverse dining options. Here, you can explore popular retailers like Anthropologie, Banana Republic Factory, Francesca’s, Sephora, and ZARA, among others. Block 37 also offers entertainment venues such as Five Iron Golf, First Ascent Climbing and Fitness, and AMC Theatres, making it more than just a shopping destination.
A short stroll down State Street will lead you to AKIRA, a Chicago-born boutique that has become a fashion staple throughout the Midwest. AKIRA is renowned for its bold women’s clothing and personalized customer service, offering a unique and stylish shopping experience distinct from larger department stores like Macy’s on State Street Chicago.
State Street is also populated with many other beloved and trend-setting stores, including UNIQLO, TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack, Target, Journeys, and Zumiez, providing a comprehensive shopping landscape that caters to various needs and styles, complementing the iconic presence of Macy’s State Street.
State Street Culinary Delights
The Berghoff Exterior
Shopping at Macy’s State Street Chicago and exploring State Street’s retail offerings can certainly stimulate your appetite. Fortunately, State Street and its surroundings are packed with fantastic dining options. Here are a few notable Chicago restaurants in the area:
Atwood: Located within the Staypineapple boutique hotel, Atwood offers innovative American cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in a setting designed by the architectural luminary Daniel Burnham, adding a touch of historical elegance to your dining experience.
The Berghoff: A cherished Chicago landmark since 1898, The Berghoff is a local favorite known for its authentic German dishes and beers, providing a taste of Chicago’s rich culinary history.
Lockwood: Situated in the Palmer House Hilton, Lockwood is where you can sample the original brownie, created at the hotel for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Indulge in this historic dessert in a luxurious lobby restaurant setting.
The Dearborn: With its classic tavern atmosphere and contemporary flair, The Dearborn is a consistently lively spot. Settle into a comfortable booth and enjoy modern Midwestern cuisine, perfect for refueling after a day of shopping near Macy’s State Street.
State and Lake Chicago Tavern: Found inside theWit hotel, this modern gastropub offers bistro-style food in a relaxed setting, providing a convenient and stylish dining option close to your State Street explorations.
Sightseeing Adventures Near State Street
Art Institute in fall
When you’re shopping on State Street, including a visit to Macy’s State Street Chicago, you are perfectly positioned in the heart of the Loop, within easy walking distance of some of Chicago’s most significant attractions.
Millennium Park: Home to the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), Crown Fountain, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and Lurie Garden, Millennium Park offers a wealth of attractions and stunning public art, making it a must-visit destination.
Maggie Daley Park: Adjacent to Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park provides recreational fun with a climbing wall, skating ribbon, mini golf, and expansive green spaces, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Art Institute of Chicago: Explore one of the nation’s largest and oldest art museums, boasting the acclaimed Modern Wing and the most extensive collection of Impressionist art outside of the Louvre, offering a rich cultural experience.
Chicago Cultural Center: This cultural hub offers numerous free attractions, including art exhibitions, classical concerts, dance performances, and the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, providing enriching and free activities. You can also take a free guided tour with a Chicago Greeter to gain local insights into the city.
American Writers Museum: Discover the only museum of its kind in the United States, a treasure trove for lovers of American literature and history.
Chicago Riverwalk: Enjoy scenic views, impressive architecture, dinner cruises, kayak rentals, outdoor dining, and public art along the Chicago Riverwalk, a vibrant and picturesque urban space.
Chicago Architecture Center: Delve into Chicago’s legendary architecture at the Chicago Architecture Center, featuring fascinating exhibits like a scale model of the city showcasing 4,000 miniature buildings.
Wabash Arts Corridor: Wander through downtown Chicago’s essential arts district, where towering murals adorn buildings throughout the South Loop, creating an open-air art gallery experience.
Exploring Macy’s State Street Chicago and the surrounding State Street area offers a comprehensive Chicago experience, blending iconic shopping with cultural and culinary adventures, all within a historically rich and architecturally stunning urban landscape.
