MAGNIFICENT MILE. A Chicago institution since 1962 (when the first Crate & Barrel opened on Well Street), this high-end retailer of housewares and furniture has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. With more than 40,000 square feet of retail space, Crate & Barrel stocks everything from holiday-themed tableware to martini glasses, cooking utensils, travel alarm clocks, and end tables. This is the flagship store; additional locations are at 850 West North Avenue (312-573-9800) and 3757 North Lincoln Avenue (773-755-3900). EL: Red Line to Chicago or Grand Ave