Discover Unique Finds in Chicago
Exploring Chicago’s antiques and consignment shops is like going on a treasure hunt, with each store offering unique items and stories. From vintage furniture and art to rare collectibles and jewelry, these shops provide a rich array of choices for every treasure seeker.
Broadway Antique Market
Location: Edgewater
What to Expect: Chicago’s largest and oldest antique store features furniture, art, lighting, fashion, and jewelry from 75 dealers across two levels. It’s open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Why Visit: With hundreds of vintage pieces, Broadway Antique Market is perfect for those looking to add a touch of history to their homes. The diverse collection ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a must-visit for antique lovers.
Good Old Days
Location: North Center
What to Expect: This family-owned shop has been open for over 50 years, specializing in furniture, stained glass, barware, neon signs, old advertisements, radios, and old film photos.
Why Visit: The multi-level shop allows you to dig through a treasure trove of items at various price points. It’s a fantastic place to find unique pieces that tell a story and bring character to any space.
Green Element Resale
Location: Edgewater
What to Expect: An eco-friendly store selling previously owned furniture, clothes, and electronics. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Why Visit: Green Element Resale promotes sustainable shopping by offering affordable, high-quality items. It’s ideal for eco-conscious shoppers looking to reduce their carbon footprint while finding great deals.
Brown Elephant
Location: Multiple Locations in Chicago, including Northalsted and Andersonville
What to Expect: Created by Howard Brown Health, these resale shops offer fashion and home decor. The Andersonville and Oak Park stores provide free HIV and STI screenings.
Why Visit: Shopping at Brown Elephant supports LGBTQ+ healthcare for uninsured and under-insured patients. It’s a great way to find unique items while contributing to a worthy cause.
Father Time Antiques
Location: Roscoe Village
What to Expect: Specializes in vintage clocks, pocket watches, and wristwatches, and is the Midwest’s largest clock restorer and retailer.
Why Visit: The shop is dedicated to restoring and repurposing timepieces, and every purchase comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty. The ticking clocks and oldies music create a nostalgic atmosphere that adds to the charm.
The Golden Triangle
Location: West Town
What to Expect: Combines modern and vintage furniture and home decor, specializing in European and Asian merchandise.
Why Visit: The 10,000-square-foot showroom offers reupholstery, repurposing, and design assistance services. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to blend modern and vintage styles in their home decor.
The Lazy Dog
Location: Roscoe Village
What to Expect: Features vintage art, jewelry, furniture, toys, and collectibles from various eras, focusing on Art Deco, ‘50s, and Mid-Century Modern.
Why Visit: The shop is organized for easy shopping, allowing guests to find treasures like a crystal elephant sculpture or a Chinese vanity mirror effortlessly. It’s a delightful place to explore unique and quirky items.
The Gold Hatpin
Location: Oak Park Antique Mall
What to Expect: Specializes in vintage engagement and wedding jewelry, with a custom design service for creating one-of-a-kind pieces.
Why Visit: In addition to beautiful jewelry, the shop has a $3 budget section, making it accessible for all shoppers. The custom design service is perfect for those looking to create a unique piece of fine jewelry.
Juju’s Vintage
Location: Edison Park
What to Expect: A small store packed with 15,000 square feet of merchandise, including real and costume jewelry, clothing, and accessories.
Why Visit: The traditional jazz playing in the background and the presence of Jitterbug, the owners’ toy poodle, add to the charming atmosphere. Juju’s has been a neighborhood favorite since 1976.
Woolly Mammoth Antiques and Oddities
Location: Andersonville
What to Expect: Specializes in unusual and macabre items like taxidermy, loose teeth, skulls, skeletons, medical equipment, and funerary curiosities.
Why Visit: This shop is perfect for those with a taste for the peculiar and the bizarre. It’s a fascinating place to find conversation starters and unique decor items.
Randolph Street Market
Location: West Loop (Sept. 28-29)
What to Expect: An indoor-outdoor market featuring over 225 dealers, combining vintage shopping with a street festival atmosphere.
Why Visit: Enjoy food trucks and local bands while hunting for vintage treasures. Advance tickets start at $12, with various package options available.
Why It’s Worth Your Time: Exploring these antiques and consignment shops offers a unique shopping experience filled with history, character, and one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for a fun day out, these shops provide endless opportunities to discover something special.
For more shopping adventures and hidden gems in Chicago, check out our Chicago Shopping Pages.