Survey Reveals Illinois’ 4 Most ‘Christmassy’ Stores.

• Survey of 3,022 shoppers.
• Macy’s State Street (Chicago) emerged #1, followed by Ambrose Christmas Store (Loves Park), Ritzy Christmas (Long Grove) + Oakbrook Center (Oak Brook).
• Interactive map.

One of the joys of Christmas shopping is stepping into a store that instantly feels like the holidays – the kind with twinkling lights, cinnamon-spiced air, overflowing toy aisles, and that unmistakable “this is where Christmas lives” energy. It’s the reason people make special trips to places like Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Michigan or wander the festive floors of Macy’s in New York, just to soak up the magic. This year, MarketBeat, a financial media company, wanted to uncover the most “Christmassy” stores in every state through a nationwide survey, asking 3,022 shoppers which local shops or national retailers give them the strongest holiday spirit.

Illinoisans’ top 4 choices were:

#1 Macy’s State Street, Chicago
Macy’s iconic State Street windows are a Chicago tradition, and seeing them every year still feels special. Inside, the classic holiday décor and bustling atmosphere give shoppers that unmistakable “city Christmas” feeling that only Chicago can pull off.

#2 Ambrose Christmas Store, Loves Park
Ambrose is a long-time holiday destination, known for a vast selection of decorations: illuminated trees, ornaments, wreaths, garlands, and festive lighting. Locals love visiting during the holidays because the decorated trees and glowing displays make it feel like walking through a cheerful indoor winter wonderland.

#3 Ritzy Christmas, Long Grove
Set in historic Long Grove, Ritzy Christmas has a charming, old-time feel that fits perfectly with the season. People stop in during December for its cosy displays and photo-friendly corners that make holiday shopping feel relaxed and a little nostalgic.

#4 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook
Oakbrook Center becomes a glowing winter escape, with trees wrapped in thousands of lights, cosy fire pits, and elegant seasonal décor running through its open-air promenades. Shoppers drive in for its festive, village-like atmosphere and the relaxed experience of browsing under sparkling holiday lights.

Interactive map showing the most popular Christmas spots for shopping across the country (click on ’embed’ to host on your site)

Beyond naming the most Christmassy stores in each state, the survey also dug into what actually creates that festive feeling for shoppers – from movie-set ambience to childhood nostalgia.

One of the biggest questions was which type of store makes people feel like they have “stepped into a Christmas movie.” The results revealed a perfect split:

• 36% said a large department store,
• 34% said a small independent shop,
• 16% chose a garden centre or winter market, and
• 14% pointed to a big-box retailer.

When choosing where to shop during the holidays, price still matters – but Illinois shoppers aren’t purely practical. While 41% picked price as their top priority, a notable 15% said the atmosphere and vibes matter most, even outranking convenience:

• Price: 41%
• Product variety: 18%
• Atmosphere/vibes: 15%
• Convenience: 14%
• Supporting local businesses: 12%

Nostalgia also plays a major role. When asked which stores give them the strongest childhood Christmas feeling:

• Department stores topped the list at 40%,
• followed by toy stores (36%),
• craft stores (15%),
• and bookstores (9%).

Shoppers were also asked which type of Christmas display impresses them most. Miniature villages and detailed scenes were the clear favourite:

• 38% picked miniature displays,
• 32% preferred giant trees and big showpieces,
• 19% favoured handmade or artisan decorations, and
• 11% chose interactive displays and photo spots.

Finally, the survey identified the store categories that feel the least Christmassy, even when decorated – and two tied for the top spot:

• Pharmacies: 31%
• Grocery stores: 31%
• Electronics stores: 20%
• Clothing chains: 18%

“What stood out in the data is just how emotional holiday shopping still is”, says Matt Paulson, founder of MarketBeat. “Price matters, of course, but the atmosphere of a store can completely shift someone’s experience. People want to feel like they have stepped into a Christmas movie – and the stores that lean into that nostalgia are the ones shoppers remember most.”