Take to the city’s streets this summer for endless markets and fairs. Enjoy plenty of food, music, art, and dancing in neighborhoods across Chicago. 1. Gold Coast Art Fair Grant Park’s 60th annual Gold Coast Art Fair is making its return June 17 and 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy the works of… Read more »
Shop until you drop at these LGBTQ+ owned businesses. APPAREL COWBOYS AND ASTRONAUTS This small LGBTQ+ owned mens shop in Andersonville is a perfect place to pick up some fashion-forward pieces, hats, wallets, candles, and more. Cowboys and Astronauts pride themselves on inspiring their customers to be their best selves. ALCALA’S WESTERN WEAR Looking for… Read more »
Of the 77 Chicago neighborhoods, the Loop is probably the best known. And with good reason: it is the beating heart of the city and features some of the most popular attractions, restaurants… and shops, of course. Macy’s / Marshall Field’s Marshall Field’s was for decades one of the preeminent department stores in the world… Read more »
Sometimes older is better. Chicago has no shortage of stores to help you get your vintage fix. Whether it be your next favorite record, retro clothing, or that out-of-print book, here are some of the best places to vintage shop. Record Stores Reckless Records With locations in Wicker Park, Lakeview, and the Loop, Reckless Records… Read more »
Certain pieces of jewelry have the power to transform your entire mood. Something about the way the gems glow against your skin or the way your diamond ring catches the morning light; it’s enough to convince you to dress up and take on the day. These are the jewels you wear with an easy confidence,… Read more »
Treating her/him/them to something sweet is one of the best ways to show your love. And Chicago happens to be the perfect place to do just that… Café Cremerie CAFÉ CRÈMERIE is a European-style café inspired by owner Lisa Gasparian’s European travels and love for all things food and culture. Lisa sought to create a… Read more »
Christkindlmarket is back! After last year’s hiatus, Chicagoans and visitors alike can once again partake in holiday traditions inspired by 16th century German holiday markets. Christkindlmarket is one of the first and best known outdoor markets full of holiday cheer, food gifts, and more. The authentic Christkindlmarket in Downtown Chicago and at Gallagher Way in… Read more »
Finding the perfect gift isn’t always easy, but these neighborhood shops are a good start to find unique and special things for those you love. Or yourself of course. The Fig Tree – Cute greeting cards and more Almost everyone’s review of this store includes the word “cute.” It’s full of small, cute, and unique… Read more »
They make a perfect holiday gift, for yourself or -if you have to- someone you dearly love. Here’s where to find some of Chicago’s best chocolates: HENDRICKX BELGIAN BREAD CRAFTER This Belgian bakery in the heart of the Gold Coast not only has some of the best bread and croissants in the city, their triple… Read more »
Winter is here, time to dress appropriately. And that includes the right hat. Here are some of Chicago’s coolest places to shop for the perfect headpiece. OPTIMO Set in one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings, the Monadnock, Optimo is a must-visit shop when wandering the Loop. Graham Thompson, who founded the storefront 25 years ago,… Read more »