History

A neighborhood classic, refreshed.

Edens Plaza has been part of the fabric of Wilmette since 1956, when it opened as one of the Chicago area’s first regional shopping centers. Developed by Carson Pirie Scott & Co., the center was strategically placed at the junction of Lake Avenue, Skokie Boulevard, and the Edens Expressway – making it an easy stop for suburban shoppers and a modern retail idea ahead of its time.

From the start, Edens Plaza was built for convenience – a place where locals could grab what they needed and get on with their day. And that’s exactly what it became: a familiar destination for grocery runs, last-minute gifts, errands between carpools, or running into a neighbor you haven’t seen in a while.

In the 1990s, the plaza underwent a major transformation to keep pace with a changing retail landscape, and today, it’s evolving once again. With new tenants, fresh energy, and thoughtful updates underway, Edens Plaza is stepping into its next chapter – staying true to its roots while making room for what’s next.

Now, under the stewardship of WS Development, Edens Plaza is entering an exciting new era – one that builds on its longstanding role in the community while reimagining what a neighborhood shopping center can be. This next phase will bring renewed energy, elevated experiences, and a fresh perspective to a place that’s always been right here when you needed it.

Because some places don’t need to be reinvented. They just need a little love (and maybe a better parking lot).