Truly one of the great avenues in the United States, North Michigan Avenue – or The Magnificent Mile as it’s known - is a hub of activity and centre of style and home to some of the finest hotels, shopping, food and events to be found anywhere in the world.
Stretching north to south from Oak Street to the Chicago River, it’s easy to see how the Magnificent Mile got its name. Lovely gardens and floral arrangements adorn its wide boulevard while colourful flowers and seasonal plants grace the footpaths. Winter brings an added delight as the Magnificent Mile becomes a festival of lights for the holidays. No matter what the season a stroll down Michigan Avenue is always a delight for the senses.
While the avenue itself is an attraction, it’s what lies beside it that gets all the attention. The finest boutiques and department stores offer the best in retail therapy while luxury hotels cater to those who appreciate the best in accommodation. Great restaurants too are a staple of North Michigan Avenue from fine dining to casual offerings able to satisfy any craving.
Equally impressive is the architecture, including what could be described as the avenue’s crown jewel, the historic water tower. This ornate water tower built in 1869 is one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Chicago is also the birthplace of the skyscraper and there are many buildings of historical and architectural significance, several of which sit along The Magnificent Mile, including the Wrigley Building and the Tribune Tower. The 100 story John Hancock Tower offers an impressive view of the city and Lake Michigan and four states, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin, can be seen from its observation deck.
The Magnificent Mile consists of 13 blocks along North Michigan Avenue. The two closest train or “L” stops are along the red line at Chicago and Grand Avenues three blocks east of North Michigan. Taxis are plentiful and can be easily hailed when needed as there are no designated taxi ranks.
