ROSEMONT, IL – Fashion Outlets of Chicago, a premier retail destination situated strategically near O’Hare International Airport, has garnered significant national recognition, securing a coveted spot among the top-tier outlet centers in the United States. The center was ranked 3rd in the prestigious USA Today 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Outlet Mall, a testament to its appeal among shoppers nationwide.
A Testament to Excellence
The ranking process for the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards is highly regarded, relying on the authentic voice of the consumer. For the 2025 edition, the selection began with a panel of experts nominating a pool of 20 leading outlet destinations across the country. These nominated centers were then put to a public vote, allowing readers to weigh in on their favorites based on several key criteria. These included the variety of stores, the quality and selection of dining and entertainment options, ease of accessibility, and the presence of special events that enhance the shopping experience.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago’s strong performance in this reader-driven poll underscores its success in meeting and exceeding customer expectations across these crucial areas, leading to its impressive 3rd-place finish.
Strategy Validated
Responding to the announcement, Katie Walsh, Senior Marketing Manager at Fashion Outlets of Chicago, expressed enthusiasm for the recognition. “This achievement is incredibly validating for our team and our ongoing strategy,” Walsh stated. “It highlights our commitment to providing a high-quality shopping experience and demonstrates the strong connection we have built with our customers.”
Her comments reinforce the center’s focus on curated retail offerings and a customer-centric approach that has clearly resonated with the voting public in the USA Today awards.
A Diverse and Upscale Offering
The physical footprint of Fashion Outlets of Chicago spans two levels, housing an impressive collection of over 130 stores. The center is particularly noted for its blend of value and high-fashion accessibility, featuring prominent luxury brands such as Gucci, Burberry, and Versace. This allows shoppers to find sought-after designer items at potentially significant savings.
Beyond established luxury names, the center also distinguishes itself by hosting brands making their debut in the Midwest market. These include notable retailers like Sandro, Maje, Läderach, Psycho Bunny, and ARC’TERYX, offering Chicago-area residents and visitors access to brands previously unavailable in the region.
This carefully curated mix of international luxury houses and unique regional firsts contributes significantly to the center’s appeal and its high ranking among national competitors.
Regional Context in the Rankings
While Fashion Outlets of Chicago represented a strong showing for the Illinois retail landscape, it was not the only Midwest outlet center to make an impact in the USA Today top 10. Destination Outlets in Jefferson, Ohio, also earned a spot among the nation’s best, ranking 5th. This highlights the growing prominence of outlet shopping destinations within the Midwest region.
The presence of two Midwest centers in the top 5 underscores the quality and competitiveness of shopping options available outside of traditional coastal retail hubs, providing residents and travelers with diverse and high-value retail experiences.
Conclusion
The 3rd-place ranking in the USA Today 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards solidifies Fashion Outlets of Chicago’s position as a leading retail destination not just in the Chicago area, but across the entire United States. This recognition, driven by direct voter feedback on critical factors like store selection and overall experience, serves as a significant endorsement of the center’s successful model and its importance within the national outlet mall landscape.
