Illinois shopping centers near Chicago named top in the U.S.

As online fast-fashion retailers make browsing and buying clothes in-store a thing of the past, the shopping mall might be better known as a feature of the 1990s than an everyday staple today.

However, Illinois has several options, including two in Chicagoland with national appeal.

Two Illinois shopping centers placed among USA TODAY’s lists of the 10 best shopping centers in the United States and 10 best outlet malls in the United States. Both locations earned high rankings, applauded for their multitude of stores and overall experience.

Here are the Illinois shopping recommendations that made the list.

Located in Rosemont, Fashion Outlets of Chicago took the No. 3 spot on the list of 10 best outlet malls in the U.S. The two-level indoor center features more than 130 designer outlets, a mix of dining options and a curated contemporary art collection with permanent and rotating exhibits.

The shopping center contains standard mall options like American Eagle, Bath & Body Works and Build-A-Bear Workshop, but also offers high-end designer stores including Burberry and Gucci. USA TODAY acknowledged Fashion Outlets for its convenient location just 5 minutes from O’Hare International Airport, making the center a good option for travelers.

West of Chicago in Oak Brook, this shopping center landed at No. 4 on USA TODAY’s 10 best shopping centers. Unlike Fashion Outlets, Oakbrook Center gives guests a breezy, open-air shopping experience with lots of greenery and more than 170 luxury and national retailers.

The center is known for its dining options, which range from upscale Japanese steakhouses and Italian food to well-known chains and cafes. There is no shortage of seasonal programming, including movies and live music during the summer, the Oak Brook Artisan Market in the spring and fall and photos with Santa for the holidays. USA TODAY pointed out the center’s Los Trompos art installation, which features three-dimensional spinning tops in a variety of colors.