With three floors of shopping, interactive exhibits, dining, and even salon services, The American Girl Chicago, located on the famed “Magnificent Mile,” is sure to please kids of all ages (even the Moms in their 40s!) 

American Girl Dolls hit the scene in the mid 1980s, but has grown in popularity over the years, infusing history with cross-cultural influences that makes them so unique. Owning an American Girl doll is a treasure because they remind young people about the “melting pot” of diversity and experiences America offers. Falling nothing short of magnificent, the American Girl Place promises something for everyone to enjoy.

The first floor showcases the historical dolls and their backgrounds, with interactive thematic scenery and shopping experiences. Each of these dolls comes with a “story” and a series of short, elementary age-appropriate chapter books. These stories bring the dolls to life - for example, Courtney, the 1986-themed doll, offers add-on purchases like an Arcade Bundle, to complement her side-ponytail and acid wash denim skirt look. Being a child of the 80s myself, this particular “Historical Doll” and her accessories brought me back to simpler times. I was able to tell my little girl all about those great times.

On the second floor, children can literally find dozens of dolls to create one that looks like them - blue eyes, black hair, skin tone - all of these choices and more make this a highlight of the day. Laughter and pure joy abounds when kids can customize the dolls down to the most minute detail. On our trip last week, a little shopper with a hearing impairment was able to create a doll that not only looked like her, right down to the wavy long red hair, but was also able to add on a hearing aid to match her own. The celebration of all types of children, abilities, and experiences is just part of what makes American Girl so spectacular.  

The third floor is what makes American Girl so “extra.” Moms can make reservations (or try for a walk-in appointment) for tea time, lunch, or even a birthday party for your closest friends and dolls. The dolls even receive a high chair to use at the table and a small tea cup and saucer. Your child’s imagination and creativity come to life as they pretend to help the dolls eat and drink! A short walk from the café, American Girl Place’s attention to detail extends even further with its salon services where your doll and girl can receive matching styles. We chose two intricate braids. An add-on manicure and ear piercing is a must for both your child and her doll! To round off the third floor is a Doll Hospital where even the most damaged dolls can receive a second chance with their detailed repair services. 

American Girl Place can be an all-day event if you’d like it to be and it is one that my daughter and I look forward to every year together as we (I mean, “she”) builds her collection and our hearts with memories to cherish for years to come.

You can get more details on our newly launched app KidFriendlyVenues which is available on our website.  I added my  five star rating for American Girl  to other moms' recommendations. This is a fabulous feature of the app. It is very assuring when choosing the best places to go!

Dana H