From comic books and designer figurines to Harry Potter merch, these Chicago pop culture shops have everything their biggest fans want. The list below highlights interesting pop culture shops across the city.
Harry Potter Shop
Enchanting Experience: Opened in April 2025, the Harry Potter Shop is the newest addition to the Magnificent Mile. Discover themed areas such as the speakeasy-inspired Butterbeer Bar and Confectionery, find merchandise exclusive to the store or get a personalized Hogwarts robe, acceptance letter or wand. The interior is modeled on themes found in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, including the Triwizard Tournament.
GRAHAM CRACKER COMICS
Thousands of Comics: The largest comic book chain in the United States has three locations in Chicago: The Loop, Andersonville and Lakeview. With devoted staff and a massive inventory, Graham Cracker is a favorite for fans of comic books and graphic novels. The Lakeview location also hosts weekly Magic: The Gathering games every Wednesday at 5 p.m.
POP MART
Mystery Boxes: Pop Mart is found in the heart of the Magnificent Mile. The pop culture and entertainment chain features original plushies, figurines and accessories, all designed by artists from all corners of the globe. Its signature blind boxes — a sort of mystery package — add an element of surprise to the average shopping trip.
STRANGE CARGO
Local Institution: No visit to Andersonville is complete without a stop in Strange Cargo. For more than 40 years, the store has served Chicago’s quirky and irreverent side. Packed floor-to-ceiling, it’s the sort of place where you can get devotional candles with celebrities, nostalgic lunch boxes and pun-filled socks. Strange Cargo can also produce customized t-shirts in an hour.
K-POP OF CHINATOWN
Woman-Owned K-Pop Merch: Fans of Korean pop music can head to Chinatown, where K-Pop of Chinatown features an eclectic collection of CDs, photo cards, apparel, lightsticks, trinkets and other souvenirs dedicated to their favorite groups and solo artists. This woman-owned business is abundant with options that won’t break the bank, unless, of course, you choose to.
ROTOFUGI
Award-Winning Toys: Located in Lakeview and Lincoln Park, Rotofugi has an ever-changing stock of limited-edition, artist-designed figurines, plushies and other pop culture collectibles. Rotofugi won the Designer Toy Award for its brick-and-mortar and online stores for eight consecutive years. Next door, its gallery hosts free seasonal exhibits showcasing established and up-and-coming artists.
