Vintage and Quirky Shopping

Following are some of my favorites for "vintage and quirky shopping" (and browsing) in Chicago.

Wicker Park/West Town
Silver Moon, 1721 W. North Avenue, 773-235-5797, www.silvermoonvintage.com
Featured in Chicago Magazine, this boutique specializes in women's designer clothing from the 1890s to the 1960s. They also have a few men's items and offer custom clothing and wedding gown design services.

Lakeview
Robot City Workshop, 3226 N. Sheffield Avenue, 773-281-1008, www.robotcityworkshop.com
From remote control robot arms to wind up retro robots of 1950s toy design, this robot shop has everything for both budding robot enthusiasts as well as the more sophisticated and experienced robot aficionado. They also offer workshops to learn how to build a robot and they host birthday parties for the kids.

Lincoln Square
Magic, Inc., 5082 N. Lincoln Avenue, 773-334-2855, www.magicinc.net
Magic, Inc is one of the oldest magic shops in North America, founded in 1926 right here in Chicago. It boasts of being the “oldest continuously family-run brick and mortar magic shop in North America”. Not only do they sell a variety of tricks for all skill levels, their staff are touted as professional magicians who will gladly help customers choose and learn the tricks. They also host lectures, and sell a variety of magic-related items such as DVDs, books, and posters.

Ravenswood Antique Mart, 4727 N. Damen Avenue, 773-271-3700, www.ravenswoodantiquemart.com
Not your typical antique store! They feature antiques from the 1930s-1970s in immaculate condition. Offers jewelry, furniture, home furnishings, and one of a kind 'modern' antiques. NOTE: the links on their website weren't working when I visited. Best to call ahead to make sure they are still there!

Wrigleyville
Yesterday, 1143 W. Addison Street, 773-248-8087, No Website!
I would call this place “mecca” for the nostalgia buff! Yesterday is a vintage comic book, baseball card, movie item, historical document collection retail store. Inventory also includes records, board games, magazines and much more. Practically anything you can imagine from your youth. Has been open for over 34 years. Not just for collectors!

North Center
Architectural Artifacts Inc., 4325 N. Ravenswood Avenue, 773-348-0622, www.architecturalartifacts.com
An 80,000-square foot showroom of artifacts from historically or architecturally significant buildings that are now for sale. The showroom includes a 10,000-square foot, four-story atrium where they host many public (and private) events. It will soon be home to the “Museum of Historical Chicago Architecture”. Admission to the museum will be free. Stay tuned!

The list of Chicago's “hidden gems” seems to be endless!