Chicago’s Michigan Avenue is best known as a shopping destination. The stretch of Michigan Avenue north of the Chicago River is known as the Magnificent Mile. Indeed, great shopping can be found on this famous street – and so much more to delight tourists, suburbanites and city dwellers alike!
Dylan’s Candy Bar and Ghirardelli
Right near the Chicago River, there are two newer candy shops where you can satisfy your sweet tooth: Dylan’s Candy Bar and Ghirardelli.
Looking to line your pockets with candy? Dylan’s is your best bet. The shop sells all sorts of candies by weight; plus, there’s a room for nostalgia candy (Cow Tales!). Pro tip: Try the salted caramel, chocolate covered pretzels if they are available. The location has also added a cafe with plenty of candy-themed drinks. 445 N. Michigan Ave., 312-702-2247
If you are looking primarily for chocolate, head straight to Ghirardelli. The store recently took up residence in the Wrigley Building. The bottom floor contains retail, while a cafe is upstairs. Try one of the awesome milkshakes or treat yourself to an extravagant sundae. 400 N. Michigan, 311-923-0168
Tribune Tower
The home of the venerable Chicago Tribune is an architectural masterpiece. It makes a great backdrop for snapping a selfie. But, if you take a closer look at the outer walls of the building, you can see more than 140 bricks and fragments from significant sites all over the world. Most recently, bricks from Wrigley Field and the old Comiskey Park were added. 432 N. Michigan Ave.
Labriola Ristorante & Café
For anyone who loves bread, Labriola is top notch. We also like the pizza selections here. 535 N. Michigan Ave., 312-955-3100
Alice and Olivia
This location is the boutique’s only Midwest store. If you’re looking for an elegant yet sexy dress or something cute for a night on the town, this shop should definitely be part of your trip. 919 N. Michigan Ave., 312-273-1254
NoMI Garden
If it is nice out, stop by NoMI Garden at the Park Hyatt. The location is one of Make It Better’s 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Chicago and it has a great brunch/breakfast menu. 800 N. Michigan Ave., 312-335-1234
The Chicago Sports Museum
A can’t-miss destination for any sports fan. There are fun interactive exhibits, including ones that allow you to see how you measure up to hall-of-famers. There’s also an exhibit that features the curses and superstitions of Chicago teams. And there’s a ton of great memorabilia to check out, too. Water Tower Place, Level 7, 835 N. Michigan Ave., 312-202-0500
360 Chicago
At the John Hancock Building, you can get a gorgeous 360-degree view of the city – from 94 floors up! For the thrill-seeking crowd, there’s the option of being tilted 30 degrees downward over Michigan Avenue. $13 for kids, $19 for adults; 875 N. Michigan Ave., 94th floor
