
State Street Chicago
Chicago's iconic shopping street, blending historic architecture with modern retail, entertainment, and vibrant seasonal events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier shopping

State Street Chicago
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier shopping

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chicago's iconic shopping street, blending historic architecture with modern retail, entertainment, and vibrant seasonal events.
"A great place to walk, take pictures, and experience the energy of downtown Chicago."

🎯 CTA is King
Skip the parking hassle! The Red & Blue Lines at Block 37 make getting here a breeze. :train:
🛍️ Shop Smart
Explore diverse stores from high-end to unique boutiques. Check for sales! :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sundays on State
State Street (Randolph to Jackson)
A vibrant street festival transforming State Street into a pedestrian paradise with music, food, and activities.

Block 37 Mall
108 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602
A modern mall featuring trendy shops, a cinema, indoor rock climbing, and convenient CTA access.

Arts in the Dark Parade
State Street
A magical Halloween nighttime parade with glowing floats, puppets, and performers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating State Street Crowds
CTA is Your Best Friend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 CTA is King
Skip the parking hassle! The Red & Blue Lines at Block 37 make getting here a breeze. :train:
🛍️ Shop Smart
Explore diverse stores from high-end to unique boutiques. Check for sales! :moneybag:
📸 Picture Perfect
State Street offers great photo ops, especially during events. Capture the city vibe! :camerawithflash:
🎬 Movie Night Upgrade
Block 37's AMC has comfy reclining seats and food/drink service. Book ahead! :movie_camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 CTA is King
Skip the parking hassle! The Red & Blue Lines at Block 37 make getting here a breeze. :train:
🛍️ Shop Smart
Explore diverse stores from high-end to unique boutiques. Check for sales! :moneybag:
📸 Picture Perfect
State Street offers great photo ops, especially during events. Capture the city vibe! :camerawithflash:
🎬 Movie Night Upgrade
Block 37's AMC has comfy reclining seats and food/drink service. Book ahead! :movie_camera:
👻 Halloween Spectacle
Don't miss the Arts in the Dark Parade for a unique Chicago Halloween experience. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
State Street is a dynamic urban thoroughfare offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, particularly highlighted by events like Sundays on State. While many appreciate the convenience of Block 37 and its amenities, some dining experiences have received criticism, and customer service issues have been noted at specific establishments.
"Good place to have a walk. Yes I walked here. It’s cool, aesthetic. You can click some pictures here. Nothing fancy or unusual here, just a street in Chicago."
Anand Kamble
"This is a mall with a lot of things in it. It has food, it has stores, it has a virtual reality store to have an experience of seeing things you’ve never seen before, it has the AMC movie theater with the most comfortable seats that recline and you can order food, they also have indoor golf as well as a gym w rock climbing and some residences here. Free bathrooms are here as well and the 2 CTA lines. (blue line and red line) are inside this Block 37 mall as well. So it’s very convenient to get here. You don’t need a car. The parking will be terrible around here so you are better off taking CTA."
karina k
"My husband, and I go to the movies here most of the time.It's a very nice movie theater, it has some cooked foods and it has a bar. There are some great stores in there, but I haven't gotten really so any shopping."
Latricia Finley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach State Street is by using the CTA. The Red and Blue Lines stop directly at the Block 37 mall, which is located on State Street. This avoids the notorious Loop parking challenges.
While there are parking garages, they can be expensive and difficult to navigate. Taking the CTA is highly recommended to avoid parking stress and costs.
The CTA Red and Blue Lines are your best bet, with a direct stop at Block 37. Numerous bus routes also serve the area.
If you're staying in the Loop or nearby downtown areas, walking to State Street is very feasible and a great way to see the city.
Some businesses within Block 37 may offer validation for parking, but it's generally still costly. It's best to confirm directly with the establishment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
State Street itself is a public thoroughfare and free to access. Special events like Sundays on State and the Arts in the Dark Parade are also typically free to attend.
State Street is always open as a public street. Individual shops and attractions within the area, like Block 37, have their own operating hours.
Block 37 is a mall and does not have an entrance fee. You only pay for purchases within the stores or for activities like the cinema or rock climbing.
Weekdays offer a less crowded shopping experience. Weekends can be busy, especially during events or peak shopping times.
Generally, pets are not allowed in indoor establishments like Block 37. Service animals are typically permitted. On the street itself, local leash laws apply.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
State Street offers a wide variety of retail, from major department stores like Macy's to trendy boutiques and popular chains. You can find clothing, accessories, and more.
Yes, State Street and the surrounding Loop area have numerous dining options, including casual eateries, cafes, and sit-down restaurants within Block 37.
Block 37 features a diverse food court and several restaurants, offering everything from quick bites to more substantial meals.
While many stores are national chains, you can find some unique Chicago-themed items in gift shops or during special events like Sundays on State.
The Loop is packed with dining. Within Block 37, you'll find various options. For more local flavor, explore the side streets off State Street.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
State Street offers entertainment like the AMC movie theater at Block 37, indoor rock climbing, and virtual reality experiences. It's also a great place for people-watching and enjoying street performers during events.
Absolutely! The architecture, street life, and special events provide many opportunities for great photos. Capture the energy of downtown Chicago.
Yes, public restrooms are available within Block 37 mall.
Sidewalks are generally wide, and Block 37 is accessible. However, some older buildings or event setups might present minor challenges.
Don't miss the iconic Macy's on State Street, the diverse offerings within Block 37, and any seasonal events like Sundays on State or the Arts in the Dark Parade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Utilize the free restrooms in Block 37 and consider packing snacks, as dining can add up. The ease of CTA access means you can easily get to and from the area without the stress of parking a car with children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Take advantage of the CTA for transportation to save on parking costs. Look for deals at shops or opt for more affordable food court options within Block 37. Free public restrooms are available in Block 37.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Special events like Sundays on State and the Arts in the Dark Parade provide dynamic subjects with colorful floats, performers, and enthusiastic crowds. Even a simple walk on a weekday can yield stunning shots of the urban environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sundays on State
Visitors can expect a wide array of free activities, including live music performances, interactive art installations, food vendors offering diverse culinary delights, and opportunities to shop from local businesses. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's energy and community spirit in a unique, open-air setting.
Keep an eye on the official Loop Chicago or Choose Chicago websites for specific dates and programming details, as the event is seasonal and dates can vary year to year. It's a perfect outing for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a lively Sunday in Chicago.
Block 37: More Than Just a Mall
Beyond its retail offerings, Block 37 houses an AMC movie theater known for its comfortable, reclining seats and in-seat food ordering. For the more active visitor, there's an indoor rock climbing gym and a golf simulator. The mall also provides essential amenities like free restrooms, making it a practical stop during a day of exploring downtown.
While some reviews mention mixed experiences with dining, the convenience and variety of entertainment options make Block 37 a worthwhile stop. It’s a great place to escape the weather, catch a movie, or simply take a break from walking the bustling streets.
State Street's Haunted History
While the specifics of these tales are often anecdotal, they add a layer of mystique to the area. Exploring these stories can be a fun way to engage with the city's history and add a touch of intrigue to your visit, especially if you're interested in Chicago's more unusual narratives.
These stories are often shared through local storytelling and social media, offering a glimpse into the less-seen side of this iconic Chicago street.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit