Bright lights, Windy City: Holiday retail highs in Chicago

Power hours: Combine Chicago’s world-class shopping with a holiday getaway on the Mag Mile.

By Angie Fratto

While the cold in Chicago may send us locals hibernating until spring, it’s a great time to take in the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. With world-class shopping in both the city and ‘burbs, thie Windy City is poised as a retail mecca for everyone on the holiday list without busting the budget.

If you’re looking to take in the famous downtown Chicago shopping on the Magnificent Mile, consider staying just off the glittery boulevard to save some dough. Our pick: The Whitehall Hotel, which is only steps from the epicenter of shopping, yet you can find great rates. Book your stay before Dec. 31 to save up to 30 percent.

For a great shopping experience and all around family fun, consider staying in Schaumburg, a bustling suburb just 23 miles outside of downtown Chicago and only minutes from O’Hare airport. With nearly 300 stores plus restaurants, the city’s Woodfield Mall is Chicago area’s largest, boasting dozens of retail options not found elsewhere in the Midwest. And because all of us like stashing away extra money for presents (or ourselves, we recommend the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg Chicago for its nearby location and deals. And the best part: a shuttle to and from the mall, which can save you money on fuel or taxis. Book before Dec. 29 to get a food and beverage credit good for $50.

Whether you’re looking for the high-end retailers on the Mag Mile or the sprawl of a mega-mall, Chicago is built for the best multi-tasking of all: travel + shopping.

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Angie Fratto is a Market Manager forOrbitz Worldwide. She loves to travel with her active family as long as it’s planned around her busy shopping schedule.

Tagged: Family time, Hotels