Taking Chicago Public Transportation to Magnificent Mile Shopping

CTA to Chicago to Shop 'til You Drop at Michigan Avenue

Chicago's Magnificent Mile is one of the most recognized streets in the world. The Magnificent Mile actually refers to North Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street at the River North neighborhood. The stretch is effectively bookended by the 100-story John Hancock Center to the north and the iconic Wrigley Building to the south.

Logically, this section of the Windy City is situated just to the north of the Chicago Loop and is the most exclusive stretch of commercial real estate in the Midwest. The beautiful thoroughfare is a splendid mix of entertainment, arts, architecture, and of course, shopping.

All major, high-end retailers maintain a presence along Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

This shopper's delight features standalone shops for Cartier, Burberry, Coach, Apple Computer, Tiffany, and Gucci, while department stores such as Nordstrom, Macy's and Bloomingdales anchor the major shopping centers at 520 N. Michigan, 835 N. Michigan (Water Tower Place), and 900 N. Michigan Avenue, respectively.

Of course, world-class Oak Street abuts Michigan Avenue and is a treasure trove for discriminating shoppers. Hermes, Kate Spade, Prada, Vera Wang, Jimmy Choo, and Barney's - New York dominate two blocks worth of the Oak Street store fronts from Michigan to State.

This truly is a shopper's paradise.

However, getting here is another issue, altogether. The River North and Magnificent Mile are notoriously congested - with Michigan Avenue being hemmed in by one-way streets and the heavily trafficked Lake Shore Drive. The direct area is a maddening mix of Chicago Loop commuters, dallying shoppers, high rise condominium tenants, and wide-eyed tourists.

I would suggest taking public transportation into the Magnificent Mile area.