Best Comic Book Stores In Chicago

In the United States, comic books first gained popularity in the 1930s, and by the late-'70s, stores specializing in comics were popping up all over the country. And now bigger than ever, the North American comic book market is estimated at around $800 million today. Fortunately for Chicago-area comic lovers, there is a plethora of stores carrying a full gamut of comics ranging from every genre to every stylet. So, here are some of the best comic books stores in Chicago to know where to begin your comic addiction.

Quimby's Bookstore
1854 W. North Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 342-0910
www.quimbys.com

Located in the West Town/Wicker Park area of Chicago is Quimby's Bookstore, a downright treasure trove of comics and 'zines, unusual and independent publications you'll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere, graphic novels, art and music books, magazines and chap books and so much more. Founded in 1991, the independently owned Quimby's prides itself on favoring the "aberrant, the saucy and the lowbrow," and it's all under one roof. With regularly scheduled book, 'zine and comic events occurring, stop into the store itself or sign up for the newsletter to hear about everything going on at Quimby's.

Chicago Comics
3244 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 528-1983
www.chicagocomics.com

If Chicago comics doesn't have what you are looking for, the staff might be able to find it for you. Located in the city's Lakeview neighborhood, Chicago Comics offers a massive selection of not just comics but memorabilia and collectibles too. Specializing in small press and independent publications, this store embodies the beauty of exactly what an independent shop should be about. But never fear, as Chicago Comics has got plenty of the best mainstream publishers available as well.

Graham Crackers Comics
77 E. Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 629-1810
www.grahamcrackers.com

For one of the biggest comic book stores in the city, and by far the biggest in the Downtown Chicago area, visit Graham Crackers Comics just across the street from Millennium Park and a block away from the Art Institute. In addition to the vast collection of comics to browse, Graham Crackers Comics also offers items like t-shirts, actions figures and other memorabilia . Stop in on a Wednesday to receive three free comics with no purchase necessary.

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Alleycat Comics
5304 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 907-3404
www.alleycatcomics.com

Located down an alley off of Clark Street in Chicago's Andersonville area is Alleycat Comics, a small shop with a big, big heart. Offering services like pull service and ordering, if  Alleycat Comics doesn't have what you are looking for, the staff can get it. There are also gift certificates awarded to customers who pull 10 or more books per month. Do you need a recommendation? Try the staff at Alleycat Comics as they pride themselves in knowing their comic-book-stuff. And bring the kiddos too as Alleycat Comics has got an ever-growing children's section to check out as well.

First Aid Comics
1142 W. Taylor St.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 733-2080
www.firstaidcomics.com

In the heart of University Village right on Taylor Street is First Aid Comics, the kind of comic store you want to go to if you don't just want to browse and buy comics, but talk comics too. The friendly staff can assist in what you're looking for while offering the best suggestions around for new and obscure, and pay a visit to the website for some super handy comic reviews. First Aid Comics also hosts events like Dungeons And Dragons nights, graphic novel clubs and Magic The Gathering tournaments.

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Soon after earning her BA in journalism, Melanie Falina began writing about one of the loves of her life - music. Since then, she's covered some of the biggest names in music, in addition to writing on an array of other topics as well. She has written for Black Belt magazine, KISS: The Official Authorized Quarterly Magazine, Examiner, AXS.com, Yahoo Voices, and more, and was editor for Don Lemmon's KNOW HOW Book Three, Refuse To Fail. Melanie is also a poet with six published collections of poetry available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and various establishments.