How to Christmas Shop in Chicago

The Magnificent Mile in Chicago isn't called magnificent for nothing, and it's espeically true at Christmas time with the streets aglow in millions of tiny, white lights. Take advantage of hotel and shopping deals during the holiday season in Chicago.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Start shopping at the Magnificent Mile. The eight city blocks contain more than four hundred stores, including unique boutiques and department stores. As the premiere shopping location in Chicago, you can spend days shopping, eating and sightseeing.
2. Visit Chicago's museums and find Christmas gifts at the same time. The museum shops at places like The Art Institute of Chicago and The Field Museum have a variety of items for sale and you'll find gifts to please the art and history lovers on your list.
3. Head to the Wicker Park-Bucktown area for chic boutiques and resale shops. The neighborhood is grittier than on the Magnificent Mile but you'll find one-of-a-kind items and the latest trends. Look for art galleries, antique shops and trendy clothing boutiques.
4. Buy jewelry on Chicago's Jewelers Row. State Street, south of the Chicago River, boasts the largest jewelry district in the Midwest. The street also hosts many of the city's parades throughout the year so stake out a place and buy some diamonds and gems while you're waiting.
5. Browse original art in the city's galleries and at shops like the Illinois Artisan's Shop in downtown Chicago. Get unique pieces of jewelry, art and sculpture.
6. Go upscale on Oak Street. Just off Michigan Avenue, Oak Street offers designer labels and home furnishings. Bring your pocketbook or window shop for Christmas ideas.
7. Stroll the streets to find bargains, unique items and great Christmas gifts for everyone on your list. Chicago has many neighborhoods, each with their own flair and shopping choices. Ask hotel staff or friends familiar with the city for ideas on where to go.