We all know how stressful gift shopping can get during the holidays. But guess what? It doesn’t have to be! Chicago is full of amazing local spots that make it super easy (and fun!) to find the perfect gifts — and you’ll be supporting our community at the same time.
Whether you're on the hunt for an experience gift your kids will never forget, a unique treasure from a local artist for a friend, or a gift card that tells a co-worker, "I thought of you," this guide has you covered.
Check out these LOCAL GEMS for unique products and services!
Locally-Owned Stores on the Chicago Northside
From locally-made T-shirts and baked goods to specialty stores, let's make this a year that we buy all local! Each purchase from a Chicago-owned business makes such a difference to local shop owners. These local shops offer a range of unique gifts that we love.
CREATIVO! TOYS AND GAMES - EDGEBROOK |
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The toys we sell promote skills in literacy, art, science, technology, math, communication, imagination, and more.
5407 W. Devon Ave.
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KIDZMAX - NORTH CENTER |
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Kidzmax, The Mother of All Stores, is a one-stop-shop for recycled kids' stuff, newborns to teens. Our prices and quality are guaranteed to satisfy all budget-conscious shoppers.
3954 N Lincoln Ave.
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LITTLE CHARLIE - ROSCOE VILLAGE |
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Kids Clothing and Gift Boutique
3350 N Pauline St.
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TIMELESS TOYS - LINCOLN SQUARE |
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Classic & current toys for all ages. We take the idea of play very seriously. Fun and knowledgeable staff to help you find the right toy for the right person.
4749 N Lincoln Ave.
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tori grace outfitters |
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Handmade Chicago inspired apparel, accessories, home decor and gifts for babes, kids, adults and pets.
5112 N Ravenswood Ave.
Call or Text to Stop By: 773.627.7604
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Victory's Banner Books and Gifts |
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We specialize in unique, handcrafted, and fair-trade gifts with a spiritual flavor (Tibet, India, Guatemala, Kashmir, Bali, Bangladesh, Nepal, Philippines, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, etc.) including greeting cards, meditation items, incense & holders, statues, jewelry, temporary tattoos, puzzles, coloring books, journals & much more.
2135 W. Roscoe #1S
Open Friday-Sunday 10am-3pm
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EXPERIENCE GIFTS
It's a great time to think outside of the (gift) box and get creative. Give the gift of adventure and memories this holiday season! From family-friendly activities to classes and events, experience gifts are perfect for everyone.
ABOVE AVERAGE CANDLE STUDIO - NORTH PARK |
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Above Average Candle Studio is Chicago's Top Reviewed Candle Making Experience with over 500+ Perfect 5 Star Reviews. We are a premiere destination for Date Nights, Birthdays, Bridal Showers, Team Building, Family Outings and much more! We believe candles are for everyone (and we do mean EVERYONE.)
3414 W Foster Ave.
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AURA CANDLE BAR - LAKEVIEW |
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AURA Candle Bar is a socially interactive retail experience bringing people together to explore and create through the power of scent. With 100 premium fragrance oils, soy wax, and only cotton paper wicks on offer, our candles burn cleaner and longer; it's really the only way you'll ever want to candle again.
3338 N Southport Ave.
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SHREDDER CHICAGO NORTH SIDE INDOOR SKI AND SNOWBOARD SCHOOL |
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Shredder Chicago North Side Indoor Ski and Snowboard School offers indoor skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids ages 1-10 (inquire about older children and adults), complemented by exciting services like birthday parties, summer camps, and private lessons. Experience the thrill of the slopes year-round in a safe and fun environment, making memories and honing skills at Chicago's premier and only indoor snow sports facility. Gift certificates available.
3800 N Milwaukee Ave.
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LOCAL SHOPPING CENTERS AND SEASONAL MARKETS
FASHION OUTLETS OF CHICAGO - ROSEMONT |
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Located just five minutes from O’Hare International Airport, Fashion Outlets of Chicago is the only two-level indoor luxury outlet shopping experience in the region. The center is home to more than 130 top designer brands – Gucci, Prada, Versace, Burberry, Saint Laurent – and includes a contemporary art collection. Shoppers can also find a variety of quick-service food options and may enjoy an alcoholic beverage in the common area as they shop.
5220 Fashion Outlets Way
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Have Your Local Business Added to Our Guide Today!
Send an email to debraf@macaronikid.com
