Shops at the Mart

Category: Shopping

The Merchandise Mart, constructed in 1930, is the world’s largest commercial building, largest wholesale design center and one of Chicago’s premier international business locations. Encompassing 4.2 million square feet, The Mart spans two entire city blocks and rises 25 stories. The Mart is the largest trade center in the world and welcomes more than three million visitors each year. Sixty percent of the building’s area is devoted to wholesale showrooms. As a design center, The Merchandise Mart hosts 16 major trade shows, co-produces 15 more and also houses more than 300 conferences, seminars and special events a year.

The design centers are not open to the public (other than tours on Fridays). However, the first two floors contain the Shops at the Mart, which consists of over 50 stores, restaurants and services which are open to the public. Retailers include A&G Clothing & Accessories, Radio Shack, B. Dalton bookstore, KB Toys and more. Shops at the Mart also feature full-service restaurants and a food court, such as Armando's, Au Bon Pain, New Orleans BBQ Grill, The Great Steak & Potato Company, Starbucks, Mrs. Field's Cookies, Gourmet Market and more. Services include a beauty salon, one-hour photo, travel agency, post office, currency exchange and more. Additionally, WKQX-FM Q101 radio station in located here on the second floor.