You’ve seen it. Even if you don’t know the specific numbers "1-7," you’ve definitely walked past it if you've ever spent a Saturday afternoon dodging tourists on State Street. 17 North State Chicago sits right at the intersection of "classic Chicago history" and "modern retail chaos." It’s that massive, unmistakable building that houses the flagship Macy’s—though most locals still have a hard time not calling it Marshall Field’s.
It’s a weird spot.
Honestly, State Street has gone through some serious mood swings over the last decade. One minute people are saying brick-and-mortar is dead, and the next, 17 North State is packed because there’s a new art installation or a massive sale that actually makes people put down their phones and go outside. It’s not just a department store; it’s a massive chunk of real estate that basically dictates the energy of the entire Loop.
The Architecture is Doing a Lot of Heavy Lifting
When you look at 17 North State Chicago, you aren't just looking at a shop. You’re looking at a National Historic Landmark. Designed by Daniel Burnham—the guy who basically drew the blueprints for what Chicago looks like today—the building is a beast.
It covers an entire city block. Think about that for a second. In a city where every square inch of the Loop costs a fortune, this single structure occupies the space between State, Wabash, Washington, and Randolph.
The building wasn't finished all at once. It was a staggered project, completed in stages between 1892 and 1914. This is why if you wander through the upper floors today, the floor levels sometimes feel a little "off" or the hallways take a sudden, sharp turn. It’s a literal maze of Gilded Age ambition. The North State Street side is the face of the operation, featuring those massive granite pillars that make you feel tiny.
What’s Actually Inside 17 North State Chicago?
Most people assume it’s just Macy’s all the way up. That’s mostly true, but there’s more nuance to it.
The basement is where you’ll find the more casual stuff—think luggage, home goods, and a surprisingly decent food court that’s a lifesaver when you need a quick lunch that isn't a soggy sandwich from a convenience store. Then you have the ground floor. It smells like five different perfumes at once. It's high-energy, loud, and usually where the most security is stationed because, well, it’s State Street.
As you go higher, things get quieter. And weirder.
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- The Tiffany Ceiling: This is the big one. On the 5th floor, there’s a mosaic ceiling made of over 1.6 million pieces of iridescent glass. It was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany. If you’re at 17 North State Chicago and you don’t look up while you’re near the cosmetics or fine jewelry area, you’re doing it wrong. It’s one of the largest Tiffany mosaics in the world. It’s breathtaking. Seriously.
- The Walnut Room: Located on the 7th floor, this is a Chicago institution. During the holidays, there’s a massive tree—The Great Tree—that reaches toward the skylight. Even in the middle of July, the room feels like a time capsule from 1907. They still serve the "Mrs. Hering’s Famous Chicken Pot Pie," which is the exact same recipe they used over a hundred years ago.
- The Seven on State Food Hall: Also on the 7th floor, but a totally different vibe. It’s a bit more upscale than the basement food court. You can find everything from high-end burgers to actual sit-down sushi.
Why the Location Matters for the Loop
State Street is "that great street," as the song goes, but for a while, it felt like it was losing its soul to Michigan Avenue.
Michigan Ave (The Magnificent Mile) is where the tourists go to buy Apple products and stay in fancy hotels. State Street—specifically the area around 17 North State—is more grit and reality. It’s where the CTA Red Line lets out, where students from Roosevelt University and Columbia College hang out, and where office workers grab a tie before a big meeting.
Because 17 North State Chicago is so massive, its health is a barometer for the rest of the neighborhood. When Macy’s thrives, the street performers are out, the popcorn smells from Garrett’s are wafting down the block, and the whole area feels alive. When it struggles, the whole block feels heavy.
Addressing the Misconceptions
People often think 17 North State is just for shopping. It isn't.
It’s a landmark. It’s a meeting spot. "Meet me under the clock" is a real phrase people use in Chicago, referring to the massive Great Clocks on the corners of the building. These clocks weigh about 7.5 tons each. They were installed because Marshall Field noticed people were always asking for the time, and he wanted to give them a reason to stop at his store.
Another misconception is that the building is just "old." While the facade is historic, the tech inside is constantly being updated. From smart mirrors in fitting rooms to high-end logistics systems in the back of the house, it's a functioning modern machine inside a stone fortress.
The Realistic Side of Visiting
Let’s be real: visiting 17 North State Chicago can be overwhelming.
It’s crowded. The elevators are sometimes slow. If you go during the "Holidays on State" season, expect to move at a snail's pace. The sidewalk outside is a gauntlet of commuters and tourists.
But there’s a certain magic to it that you don’t get at a suburban mall. You can’t find a 1.6 million-piece glass ceiling at a Westfield in the suburbs. You can't feel the literal vibrations of the "L" train under your feet while you're looking at $500 watches anywhere else.
Navigating 17 North State Like a Local
If you want to actually enjoy your time at 17 North State Chicago, you need a plan. Don’t just wander in the front doors and hope for the best.
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- Avoid the Ground Floor Entrances: If you’re coming from the CTA, use the pedway or the lower-level entrances. It’s usually less chaotic than pushing through the main State Street doors.
- The 7th Floor is Your Safe Haven: If you need a bathroom that isn't terrifying or a place to sit down without being pressured to buy a fragrance, head to the 7th floor. It’s cleaner, quieter, and has the best views of the interior architecture.
- Check the Windows: Even if you aren't going inside, the window displays at 17 North State are legendary. During the winter, they tell a story that usually takes about ten minutes to walk through. It's free art.
- The Pedway Access: 17 North State Chicago is a major hub for the Chicago Pedway. This is the underground tunnel system that lets you walk all over the Loop without ever touching a snowflake or a raindrop. You can get from the store directly to the CTA or even over to Daley Center.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Future
Retail is changing, but 17 North State isn't going anywhere. There’s been talk for years about converting upper floors into offices or even condos. While some parts of the massive complex have been repurposed over time (like the upper floors being used for corporate office space), the core of the building remains the "cathedral of commerce."
The value of this address isn't just in the clothes sold; it's in the land and the history. Developers know that you can't recreate this kind of "vibe" with a new build. The marble stairs, the brass railings—that stuff stays.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Actionable Steps
If you’re planning to head down to the Loop, don’t just treat 17 North State Chicago as a quick stop. Make it the anchor of your trip.
First, check the events calendar. Macy's often hosts flower shows or culinary events in the Walnut Room that require reservations weeks in advance. If you show up on a whim, you'll be disappointed.
Second, use the "L" or the Metra. Parking in the Loop is a nightmare and will cost you more than a nice lunch. 17 North State is literal steps away from the Washington/Wabash station and the Lake Street Red Line.
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Third, look for the plaques. There are historical markers on the exterior of the building that explain the significance of the site. It’s a quick way to get a history lesson while you’re waiting for a friend.
Finally, bring comfortable shoes. You can easily walk two miles just by exploring every floor of the building. It’s a vertical hike.
The reality is that 17 North State Chicago is more than just an address. It’s the heartbeat of the Loop. It’s a place where 19th-century luxury meets 21st-century reality, and even with all the changes in how we shop and live, it remains the most important corner in the city.
Next Steps for Your Trip to 17 North State:
- Book a Table: If you want to eat at the Walnut Room, check OpenTable at least 48 hours in advance, especially on weekends.
- Check the Pedway Map: Download a PDF of the Chicago Pedway map before you go so you can navigate the basement levels like a pro.
- Verify Hours: State Street hours can shift based on local events or holidays; always check the specific "Macy's State Street" hours on their official site before making the trek.
- Plan Your Route: If you’re taking the CTA, the Red Line (Lake) or the Brown/Green/Pink/Orange lines (Washington/Wabash) are your best bets for a short walk.