Chicago Visitors Guide - 2023

Shop local

2023-01-16 11:30:33

Find great gift ideas, from artisan jewelry to handcrafted hats, at these one-of-a-kind Chicago shops. Founded in 1997 by owner Eric Williams, The Silver Room is a chic Hyde Park institution. With the goal of creating a global community through art and culture, The Silver Room showcases a carefully curated selection of jewelry, fashion, artwork, books by Black authors, and music from around the world. Optimo Hat Company is a favorite of style-savvy celebrities. Owner Graham Thompson’s classic, Hollywood-style men’s hats are made with old-world craftsmanship, right down to the antique sewing machines used to hand-stitch each piece. Shop Optimo’s stunning hat collection at their Loop store, located in the historic Monadnock Building. You’ll find Paragon Book Gallery in Bridgeport’s Zhou B Art Center, founded by internationally acclaimed painters the Zhou Brothers. Browse rare and antiquarian books on Chinese culture, as well as current titles exploring contemporary art and literature. Afterwards, see the latest works by resident artists on display in the Art Center. Marco Rodriguez literally grew up as a kid in a candy store at Dulcelandia. His parents opened the shop in 1995 on 26th Street in Little Village, a stretch populated with family-run Mexican businesses. You’ll be wowed by the colorful selection of more than 1,000 different candies, snacks, and piñatas imported from Mexico. ¡WEPA! Mercado del Pueblo in Humboldt Park is modeled after the mercados commonly found throughout Puerto Rico and South America. A diverse group of 15 artisans sell everything from organic honey to jewelry, knitwear, and vegan skincare items at this market that has become a popular local gathering spot. James Beard Award-nominated baker Stephanie Hart is the powerhouse behind Brown Sugar Bakery. Known for its sumptuous caramel layer cake and cupcakes with unique flavors like rainbow sherbet, Brown Sugar Bakery also produces a line of handcrafted chocolates. Grab some sweets to go from the Grand Crossing shop or its outpost at Navy Pier. Angélica Varela’s passion for plants and fond memories of her grandmother’s garden led her to open Semillas Plant Studio in Pilsen. The charming shop features locally grown plants and flowers that can be turned into a unique arrangement. Also check out the preserved flowers that make a beautiful forever bouquet. ARTISAN MARKETS Chicago Artisan Market features local fashion, art, food, and home goods in the Fulton Market and Ravenswood neighborhoods on select dates throughout the year. chicagoartisanmarket.com Renegade Craft Fair showcases the wares of small local businesses once each season at various locations across the city (including the summertime Pitchfork Music Festival). renegadecraft.com/city/chicago One of a Kind Show at theMART brings together hundreds of talented artists, makers, and designers twice a year for spring and holiday shows. oneofakindshowchicago.com SAUCED Market is a free evening pop-up featuring emerging chefs, artists, and DJs that’s held on select dates at locations around the city. saucedmarket.com Maxwell Street Market has been a Chicago tradition for nearly 100 years. Held on Sundays from April through December, the market offers eclectic merchandise, along with Mexican and Latin street food. cityofchicago.org Scan here to explore more Chicago neighborhood shops.

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Shop local
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