The Magnificent Mile, one of Chicago's premier attractions, is a wide boulevard that is home to the areas ritziest and most exclusive shops. Tourists and locals alike travel the road, stopping in boutiques, simply strolling to window shop or to take in some of the cultural attractions the city has to offer.

 

While most well known for the shops and boutiques, the Magnificent Mile has many other attractions to admire. During the summer months, flowers abound and the sidewalks are crowded from end to end with busy and bustling shoppers. The winter months bring beautiful holiday decorations, lights and decorated trees. Even those visitors who don't have an interest in shopping can enjoy the beautiful scenery.

 

Like other areas of Chicago, the Magnificent Mile is an example of some of the most premier architecture in the world. Those with an interest in the history of architecture typically flock to The Water Tower. Built in 1869, the Water Tower is a castle like building that is both out of place within the more modern buildings, yet also fits in with the diverse city. Two years after it was initially built, the Chicago Great Fire wiped out many of the buildings in the area. The Water Tower survived the fire and now stands as a symbol of the resilience of this great city.

 

Of course there are plenty of new buildings on the boulevard as well. The John Hancock building, with its 100 stories, has an observation deck that many believe to be the best place in Chicago to take in the views. From the deck you can see for miles and can get a comprehensive view of the city of Chicago.

 

The shops and buildings along the Magnificent Mile are two of the most popular attractions, but there remains much to be seen beyond them. Museums and historical centers can be found in the area. Those with a great interest in the history and architecture of Chicago can take part in historical tours, which give background to the city of Chicago.

 

Whether a visitor wants to shop among the ritziest boutiques in America, they simply want to enjoy the architecture and well kept flower beds, or they want to take part in some of the historical tours in the area, the Magnificent Mile is an area that shouldn't be missed and that gives off a great flavor of what Chicago is all about.

 

© 2009 Tracey Shapley.