15 Best Holiday Shopping Destinations in Illinois!

Shopping is extra special during the holiday season, so why not find a special destination for your Christmas shopping? Illinois has many distinctive and expansive shopping options for that special time of year. Whether you prefer more local, personal shopping or the big malls with hundreds of stores, there is something for everyone at the following top 2024 holiday shopping destinations.

900 North Michigan Shops, Chicago, IL

At the north end of the Magnificent Mile sits 900 North Michigan Shops, a visually-appealing shopping destination in downtown Chicago. This six-level shopping center features dozens of high-end retail stores, several restaurants, three spas, and even a few art galleries. There’s something for everyone on your Christmas list at 900 North Michigan Shops.

Galena Main Street, Galena, IL

If you’re looking for small town charm this holiday season, skip the crowded malls and head for Galena’s Main Street. You’ll find antique stores, eclectic boutique shops, and art galleries for more unusual gift-giving this Christmas. Galena is perfect for enjoying a quiet, relaxing shopping experience surrounded by beautiful nature.

Oakbrook Center, Oakbrook, IL

Oakbrook Center is a premier shopping destination in the western suburbs of Chicago. This spectacular outdoor mall includes a vast array of department stores, numerous one-of-a-kind dining experiences, and over 160 specialty stores. You can also catch a movie at the Oakbrook Center to help relax after a long day of Christmas shopping.

Seminary Street, Galesburg, IL

Experience the authentic charm and historic heart of Galesburg when you shop on Seminary Street. This three-block area features a group of small independent specialty boutiques features antiques, artwork, baked goods, and more. Christmas shopping on Seminary Street nurtures their community and supports local entrepreneurs.

Christkindlmarket, Chicago, IL

Christkindlmarket has been bringing a cherished German tradition to Chicago since 1996. This lively outdoor market in the Loop is an exceptional shopping experience and popular tourist destination. Shop from the various vendors and check out the holiday events such as caroling, orchestra performances, and evening lantern parades.

Oak Street, Chicago, IL

Deemed Chicago’s most prestigious shopping street, Oak Street features local boutiques and international couture houses in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Oak Street After Hours is a holiday event that offers shoppers evening access to exclusive in-store events and special offers where they can win gift certificates and services from Oak Street stores.

Water Tower Place, Chicago, IL

A landmark on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, Water Tower Place is a renowned shopping destination featuring over 100 stores, numerous restaurants, and various entertainment options. Enjoy the live theatre and holiday events such as Pet Night with Santa, American Girl Welcomes Santa, and Photos with Santa.

Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Rosemont, IL

If you missed Black Friday or Cyber Monday, Fashion Outlets is a holiday shopping solution with huge daily savings you can count on. Make your way through the over 130 designer outlets, numerous world-class brand stores, and several quick-service food options. Fashion Outlets also offers concierge services such as shopping bag storage, gift wrapping, and same-day local delivery.

Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL

Surround yourself with endless shopping possibilities at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. Featuring nearly 300 stores, Woodfield Mall offers the most distinctive collection of stores, restaurants, and entertainment in the area. They also provide a children’s play area and offer convenient access to Pace transportation.

Wabash Depot Antique Mall, Decatur, IL

Wabash Depot Antique Mall is the place to go when shopping for eclectic gifts that you can’t find in the malls. They offer a holiday open house, featuring live music, refreshments, dealer specials, and door prizes. The owners and employees are friendly and make shoppers feel welcome.

The Mart, Chicago, IL

Merchandise Mart or “The Mart” is not only a premier international business location and design center, but the world’s biggest commercial building. This enormous mart is like a mall and office building combined, featuring high-end shopping for individuals on your list who have everything. The Mart is decorated beautifully for the holidays and offers stunning interior design displays, making it worth the visit if nothing else.

The Shops at North Bridge, Chicago, IL

The Shops at North Bridge in downtown Chicago is the perfect destination for your holiday shopping expedition. Shop at 50 stores, choose from 20 restaurants, and get your Christmas shopping fix on Michigan Avenue. This upscale, urban shopping center occupies several city blocks and features exquisite architecture.

Block Thirty Seven, Chicago, IL

Block Thirty Seven isn’t the largest indoor shopping center downtown Chicago, but it’s conveniently located in the Loop and offers a smaller, yet adequate, selection of boutiques. Stop in Magnolia Bakery and try their delicious cupcakes if you visit Block Thirty Seven.

Gurnee Mills, Gurnee, IL

West of Waukegan, halfway between Milwaukee and Chicago sits Gurnee Mills. This single-level, indoor mall is the third largest in Illinois and features over 200 stores plus dozens of restaurants. If you don’t find gifts for everyone on your list at Gurnee Mills, then you likely never will. West of Waukegan, halfway between Milwaukee and Chicago sits Gurnee Mills. This single-level, indoor mall is the third largest in Illinois and features over 200 stores plus dozens of restaurants. If you don’t find gifts for everyone on your list at Gurnee Mills, then you likely never will.

Christmas Crossroads Craft Show, Lockport, IL

If you love shopping for holiday crafts, make Christmas Crossroads your destination this year. All the proceeds go to local charitable causes, so your purchases will make a positive impact on the community. This is one of the largest holiday craft fairs in the state, so you’ll feel the holiday spirit at Christmas Crossroads.

This text was created by the author with the assistance of GPT-3, a large-scale language generation model developed by OpenAI. The author reviewed, edited, and revised the draft language to their satisfaction and is fully responsible for the content of this publication.

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