State Street, Chicago

Once a meandering Indian trail that stretched for miles along Chicago's eastern boundary, this route served as the final shopping destination for thousands of pioneers embarking on their westward journey to government lands in Nebraska, Kansas, and the Dakotas. In the early 1800s, this trail was a challenging path, often submerged in deep mud that humorously earned a reputation for being capable of swallowing a horse and buggy. Over time, with the aid of state-funded improvements, it adopted the moniker "State Road" and transformed into a dynamic and economically robust commercial thoroughfare. In 1870, the prestigious Palmer House hotel was constructed as part of an effort to elevate the street's status and prominence.

In the 1900s, the street became Chicago's main shopping destination and even got mentioned in the song "Chicago" as "State Street, that great street." However, the second half of the 20th century saw it eclipsed by Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile as a shopping district. Various projects to restore State Street's glory have been met with some success, and now the iconic retail corridor is once again pleasing visitors with a blend of affordable and stylish shopping, enjoying ongoing residential as well as more traditional commercial development. Among the retail anchors here are Macy’s multi-level department store, Block 37, the Sullivan Center Target, and more.

During the 1900s, State Street emerged as Chicago's premier shopping destination, even earning a mention in the iconic song 'Chicago' as "State Street, that great street"; however, in the latter half of the 20th century, it relinquished its shopping district prominence to the Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue. Several initiatives aimed at restoring the street's former glory have achieved some success. Today, this iconic retail corridor once again delights visitors with a mix of affordable and fashionable shopping, having seen continued residential development alongside traditional commercial establishments. Interestingly, many of the historic elements that appear to have stood for decades were actually part of a 1996 renovation. Streetlights are replicas of those that once lined the sidewalks from 1926 to 1958, while the subway entrances boast new and festive designs featuring ample clear glass. Planters, tree grates, and signage all harken back to the era of "that great street".

Notable retail anchors along State Street include Macy's multi-level department store, Block 37, the Target store, and more.