The Ultimate River West Shopping Guide

Over recent years River West, Chicago has experienced a resurgence. This area has transformed from a fly-over zone to a trendy spot to live and hang out.

While the neighborhood has welcomed an influx of new residential developments, River West has also introduced new retail options to the area.

Many of those retail options include unique boutiques that you can’t find anywhere else.

If you’re looking to spend a day exploring this urban area’s shopping scene, check out our River West shopping guide.

Best Places to Shop in River West

If you’re interested in refurbishing your space, the South Loop Loft is a great place to start shopping. Here you can find an exciting and eclectic range of vintage furniture, home decor, art, and rugs.  

Threadless HQ is the hip and stylist retail outpost of the iconic online t-shirt and apparel store featuring artist-submitted designs. You can choose from an assortment of creative and unique tees that you can’t find anywhere else.

For a higher-end selection of clothes, stop by Billy Reid, a modern boutique offering designer men’s and women’s clothing.

While you’re sprucing up your wardrobe, search for complimentary jewelry pieces at Uncommon James. This chic Chicago boutique is actress-entrepreneur Kristin Cavallari’s third location, with her two other shops in Nashville and Los Angeles. 

History aficionados would appreciate a day spent at the Abraham Lincoln Book Shop. Since 1938 this neat space has offered an incredible selection of historical books and memorabilia.

Open Books is another great shop if you’re on the hunt for a new read. This adorable bookstore is stocked with thousands of donated books for adults and kids. All of the shop’s profits go towards their literacy programs.

Best Way to Get to the Shopping Areas

If you’re commuting to River West for a day of shopping, public transit is an easy way to get to the neighborhood. River West is easily accessible by the CTA Blue Line and multiple bus routes.

For those who prefer driving, River West provides easy access to the highway and convenient parking options.

If you’d rather not deal with parking, uber or other ride-sharing apps offer a convenient transportation alternative.

River West is also extremely pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and protected bike lanes.

Take advantage of this River West shopping guide and plan a day to indulge in some retail therapy!