S. Barrington LL Bean to open next week
After years of stalled planning, the Arboretum of South Barrington is set to have a grand opening later this month.
However, stores like LL Bean will open before the Sept. 27 grand opening. The Freeport, Maine, retailer plans to open its first Chicago-area store on 9 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12.
The 600,000-square-foot shopping center will host a more formal grand opening for all of its stores over a three-day weekend with a host of free concerts starting on Friday, Sept. 26. The grand opening's highlight is a free performance by crooner Chris Isaak at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. Isaak's chart toppers include "Wicked Game" and "Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing."
The Arboretum, near routes 59 and 72, is built over 86 acres on the site of the former Khlem tree nursery where the upscale lifestyle center gets its name. It's across the street from Hoffman Estates' entertainment district, which includes the Sears Centre arena and Cabela's.
Plans for the shopping center have been ongoing since 1999, as there were problems with rezoning. The Arboretum will open other stores in stages later this year and into 2010, including the addition of the luxury Gold Class Cinemas movie theater.
Other businesses include Chico's, Ann Taylor Loft, The Limited Too, Aveda Spa, Soft Surroundings and Ruth's Chris Steak House.