Thanksgiving: Why You Should Skip Black Friday And Find Features From Home
Black Friday is just around the corner, on Nov. 27. If the thought of making your way through a crowded shopping mall at 5 a.m. isn't your cup of tea, then you're in luck. We have a list of Chicago-area organizations where you can purchase a great gift while also saving some time, and maybe even a little bit of money. So forego the early wakeup and crazed shop-swarming, and take it easy for your morning after by staying at home and browsing some of the offers at these places. Later, you can go check out their products and great deals at your own pace. Thanksgiving Take a look at these five must-see organizations for gift ideas for everyone on your shopping list.
Museum Memberships In Chicago
For some Chicagoans, the chance to explore a favorite museum more than once per year is a gift. If you're looking for a gift idea that's both easy to purchase and reflects the recipient's interests, then consider purchasing a membership online to a museum in Chicago. The Art Institute of Chicago, The Field Museum and Museum of Science and Industry are among the organizations in Chicago where memberships can be purchased online as a gift. A number of price points are available, too, and many memberships include perks like free parking or discounts at the museum shops.
Lettuce Entertain You
5419 N. Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 878-7340
www.leye.com
Everyone's gotta eat, so why not purchase gift cards for Lettuce Entertain You restaurants? The company's gift cards can be purchased online, making it an easy option for a last-minute gift. Both e-gift cards and classic gift cards are available for purchase, and you can include a personalized message on either option. The Chicago-based company offers gift cards that can be used at all Lettuce Entertain You restaurants, including Hub 51, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Mity Nice Bar & Grill. A full list of the company's restaurants is available online, and a number of Lettuce Entertain You's restaurants are located in Chicago and the suburbs.
Long Grove
Old McHenry and Robert Parker Coffin Roads
Long Grove, IL 60047
(847) 634-0888
www.visitlonggrove.com
If you're looking for unique store to find special gifts for everyone on your list, then consider making a trip to the historic shopping center in the northwest suburb of Long Grove. Visitors can check out boutique clothing stores, art galleries, crafts and furniture stores. Foodies on your shopping list will enjoy chocolate, candy and other delicacies found in Long Grove. You can also cool your heels and grab a bite to eat while shopping. Discounts and specials will be available at certain shops and restaurants that weekend.
Building Blocks
3306 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 525-6200
www.buildingblockstoys.com
Purchase a toy for kids — and kids at heart — at Building Blocks toy store in Chicago's trendy Lakeview neighborhood. The retailer is offering a special toy bonus from Black Friday through Sunday, Nov. 29, in honor of the start of the holiday shopping season; for additional details, check out the store's website. What's available? Building Blocks offers a wide range of puzzles, outdoor toys, construction toys, dolls, games, travel toys and more, with items available for kids of all ages. The retailer has a second location in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood.
Windward Boardshop
3317 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 472-6868
www.windwardboardshop.com
From snowboards to skateboards, Windward Boardshop offers a wide range of products for those who like some adventure. Shoppers can purchase jackets, hats, boots and more for cold weather sports, and wetsuits, paddles and more for stand-up boarding. Products for skateboarding and longboarding are also available, and swimwear is, too. You can purchase products right at the store or order via Windward Boardshop's website. The store, located in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, will offer a gift card promotion through Nov. 30.
Megan Horst-Hatch is a runner, reader, baker, gardener, knitter, and other words that end in "-er." She is also the president of Megan Writes, LLC. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.