900 North Michigan Shops, Chicago

Ditch any preconceived notions you may have about shopping malls being dull suburban landscapes. Among the Mag Mile's retail gems like Water Tower Place and The Shops at North Bridge, you'll discover the 900 North Michigan Shops, an upscale haven. In fact, it's the most prestigious of them all, boasting an impressive lineup of tenants and fine dining establishments. Its sophisticated Deco design perfectly complements the high-end atmosphere of the boutiques it hosts. As you stroll through, you'll encounter the Chicago outposts of retail giants like Bloomingdale's and L.K. Bennett, along with a myriad of boutique stores including Gucci, J. Crew, and Psycho Bunny.

Architecturally, this mixed-use structure, brought to life by the creators of Water Tower Place, builds upon the commercial triumphs of its predecessor while rectifying some past shortcomings. The eight-story shopping block boldly extends to the lot line, greeting visitors with a welcoming entrance and generous, eye-catching display windows to entice passersby. Inside, a spacious yet understated neo-Deco atrium welcomes you, cleverly positioning the anchor store towards the rear so that shoppers encounter the boutique offerings first. Entrances to the hotel, offices, and condominium floors are discreetly tucked away on the side streets. Similar to Water Tower Place, the exterior is an ensemble of embellished boxes, albeit with an even more ambitious decorative scheme. While it may not all seamlessly harmonize, the quartet of imposing lanterns adorning the building's pinnacle is an absolute visual treat.

Why You Should Visit:
Really nice collection of high-end stores, providing a truly enjoyable shopping experience, as well as a relaxed place to unwind. Up on the top floor, you'll find an exceptional food court with a variety of options, perfect for sipping a cup of coffee or treating yourself to scrumptious desserts as you immerse yourself in a day of shopping (or perhaps gather inspiration for clothing and jewelry designs).