A. Brooke S.
Yelp
Old Orchard used to be 'my' mall. It was literally right across from my high school. It was where me and my friends went after school, on ditch days, to see films, have a nice dinner out, where my family went shopping or went for a quick bite-- it was THE place to be. As time has passed, I've seen Old Orchard change and not solely for the better.
Old Orchard is still a pretty solid place to go if you're looking for a nice walk around an outdoor mall. On a sunny day with little humidity, it can make for a good break in your day. Old Orchard prides itself on luxury stores and brands, which is why you'll see a lot of them while walking the mall. They have stores like Anthropologie, Apple, Rolex, Tiffany's, Coach, Dry Goods, Francesca's, Lush, White/Black, Bloomingdales, Nordstroms, Pandora, Michael Kors and Sur La Table, to name a few. (All stores I'd love to be able to afford, but can't!) There are also mall staples, like Bath and Bodyworks, Auntie Anne's, Barnes and Noble (reviewed here on Yelp) and Claires, of course, but many of the stores are more high end than you may expect. There's also a movie theater (because no mall is complete without one).
For the hungry, there are a lot of options. Cacao 70 Sweet House looks pretty divine and I wouldn't mind hitting up Chill Bubble Tea on a warm day! I would highly recommend Shake Shack. Shake Shack is delicious, albeit a little expensive. (I've reviewed it here on Yelp!) You can't go wrong with Potbelly's, either, or sit down restaurant Uncle Julio's.
Here's a few of the things that knocked this mall from 5 stars to 3. First, it's basically clothing/fashion accessory stores. I'd love to see some stores that play on pop culture, toys or more 'fun' products. (I miss when they had The Museum Store, Warner Bros and FAO!) Second, the area is getting a bit troubling. I can't say I'd wander around the mall alone at night, myself, because of the crime rates going up in and around the mall. Always lock your car when you're in the parking lot and be watchful of who's around you when you are in/around the mall.
That's basically all I have to say about Old Orchard. I hope you enjoy your visit to this outdoor mall!