Magnificent Mile

The city likes to claim that the Magnificent Mile, or ‘Mag Mile’ as it’s widely known, is one of the top five shopping streets in the world. It’s a bit of a boast, because most of the retailers here are just high-end department stores and national chains that are available throughout the country. Granted, the Mag Mile versions are more slicked up than usual, and their vacuum-packed proximity on Michigan Ave between the Chicago River and Oak St is handy. Probably what’s most magnificent is the millions of dollars they ring up annually. The road does go all out in December with a festive spread of tree lights and holiday adornments.