When people talk about Chicago shopping, the conversation usually circles back to the Magnificent Mile or State Street. If you're looking for an open-air retail destination with a local suburban feel, you have to head north to Skokie. Old Orchard Chicago—officially known as Westfield Old Orchard—offers an outdoor shopping experience that has anchored the North Shore since the 1950s.
This isn't just a standard suburban strip mall. It's a sprawling, beautifully landscaped pedestrian village featuring high-end department stores, local boutiques, and plenty of hidden corners that even seasoned Chicagoans miss. Whether you're planning a weekend shopping trip or trying to find the best spots to eat away from the main crowds, here's how to navigate the property like a local.
Navigating the Layout and Getting There
Located at 4999 Old Orchard Center in Skokie, Illinois, the center sits right off the Edens Expressway (I-94) at Old Orchard Road and Golf Road. If you're driving from downtown Chicago, expect a 25-to-35-minute trip north depending on traffic. Public transit users can take the CTA Yellow Line (Skokie Swift) to the Dempster station and catch a short connecting Pace bus ride directly to the center.
The open-air design means you'll be walking outside between shops, so pack a windbreaker if you're visiting during autumn or spring. The property is split into distinct zones anchored by major department stores like Nordstrom and Macy's, alongside a smaller-format Bloomie's. Parking is free across the massive surface lots and multi-level parking decks, with the green and orange decks offering the easiest access to the central walkways.
Retail Highlights Beyond the Basics
While everyone knows the major national brands, the real appeal of Old Orchard lies in its mix of luxury labels, independent retailers, and home goods hubs.
- The Home Design Cluster: If you're furnishing a space, head toward the Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, and Arhaus zone. This cluster functions almost like an independent design district, saving you from driving to multiple strip malls.
- Designer Flagships: The arrival of brands like Louis Vuitton and Tory Burch has shifted the property upscale, giving it a true North Shore luxury vibe without the congestion of downtown.
- Local Pop-Ups and Specialty Shops: Keep an eye on the rotating kiosks and smaller storefronts near the central courtyards, where regional artisans frequently showcase handmade jewelry, local apparel, and specialty home decor.
Hidden Dining and Quiet Corners
Mall food courts are easy to avoid here because the dining selection leans heavily toward independent cafes and sit-down restaurants. If you want to escape the noise, skip the main dining pavilion and look for these spots.
- Quiet Courtyards: Grab a beverage from Blue Bottle Coffee or Adagio Teas and head to the northern garden courtyards. These tucked-away benches offer plenty of shade and a peaceful break from the foot traffic.
- Diverse Sit-Down Options: Beyond standard chains, you'll find spots like Bar Siena for Italian and local favorite casual spots that draw crowds well after the retail stores close.
For official park district events and community happenings nearby, check out the Village of Skokie portal. If you're planning a broader trip along the lakeshore, the Chicago North Shore CVB provides great localized itineraries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating the Weather: Because it's entirely open-air, don't assume you can walk between stores in a light sweater during late fall or winter. Check the forecast before you leave Chicago.
- Parking on the Wrong Side: If you're heading to Nordstrom, park in the purple deck on the west side. Parking near Macy's will leave you with a long walk across the entire property if you're trying to hit specific northern retailers.
- Rushing Your Visit: With over 150 retailers and entertainment options like the CMX Luxury Cinema, trying to squeeze everything into a quick lunch hour is nearly impossible. Give yourself at least three hours to explore properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Orchard an indoor or outdoor mall?
It is an open-air shopping center. You will walk outside between stores, so dress accordingly for the weather.
Is parking free at Old Orchard?
Yes, self-parking across all surface lots and parking decks is completely free.
How do I get to Old Orchard from downtown Chicago?
You can drive north on I-94 and exit at Old Orchard Road or Golf Road, or take the CTA Red Line to Howard, transfer to the Yellow Line (Skokie Swift), and take a short bus connection.
Are dogs allowed at Old Orchard?
While service animals are welcome everywhere, general pet policies vary by individual retail stores, so it's best to check ahead if you plan to shop indoors with a pet.
