We’ve been in Chicago for about five months now and recently we discovered that the city does not sell spray paint. It only took us trying three different stores before asking someone and getting the info, but you live and you learn! So, what was supposed to be a simple quick pick up of a single can of paint to DIY a photo frame, soon turned into a day trip of exploring a Chicago suburb.
Although, at first, I was a little upset to have to drive out to the ‘burbs just for a can of spray paint, as soon as I had about five minutes to be flustered, Mitch and I looked at each other and said, “Well? Trip to the ‘burbs, then?!” And just like that I got excited to check out a new area of this beautiful city.
Local Evanston Shops
We drove about 40 minutes north to Evanston, a decent sized suburb of Chicago (population ~75k). It reminded me of Overland Park, KS (if you’re familiar with KC), but mixed with a college town, since this is home to Northwestern University.
On the way out I started looking up what areas we should go to, in search of some coffee shops, restaurants and, of course, local businesses, that we should explore. After finding parking we set out for the scout! These are the local places I recommend stopping by in the area.
Backlot Coffee
Our first stop was to Backlot Coffee, a place that, “strives to be comfortable, stimulating, and diverse… where people can catch up with old friends and make new ones, where they can play games with their kids, get some work done, or just sit and read quietly.” That is exactly what you get from this local coffee shop.
With a location in Evanston and one in Chicago-proper, it’s a must stop. Plus, they have a cool mural on the back wall and really great drinks! It was hopping when we went and seemed like where “the locals” hang.
Millie Fiori!
For a fun and vibrant stop for you (and your kids), then local flower shop Millie Fiori is your jam. Filled with bright colors, patterns and flowers you will feel instant joy when stepping in. There’s cute little garden accessories and trinkets that make you smile and feel like a kid again.
The Spice House
If you’re into cooking, much like us, then you most likely enjoy spice shops and buying them in bulk. Even if you don’t, The Spice House has such a fun antiquated vibe that you should go in and check out anyways.
With two locations in the Chicagoland area and two in Milwaukee, you’ll be able to enjoy this local spice store outside of Evanston. My favorite thing is getting to smell all the possibilities and diversity of cuisines you can cook up. Learning about each spice or herb on the big jars is almost always educational and you can really dive into different worlds with each one.
Bloom3
This was probably my favorite stop. Part flower boutique, part art space, part retail shop, this little wonder was so simple, but yet there was so much to get lost in.
This dainty place had such lovely elements to it. Beautiful things to smell like candles, soaps and, of course, flowers. Fun textures with tree branches, weavings and different woods. This is a great place to stop in for some serenity and to grab a simple gift for your home or friend. And they carry other local goodies, so that’s always a plus to me!
dragonfly-df
If you’re looking for some boho-chic clothing that you won’t find anywhere else, then dragonfly-df is for you. Although this place is not exactly “my style,” I still recommend this local business with their wide array of unique clothing and home decor featuring work by different artists.
Most importantly, I love their philosophy, “we understand busy women who want to create a personal style that’s creative, distinctive and right for them…without breaking the budget.” I’m sure that can resonate with many!
Walsh Natural Health
When Mitch found Walsh Natural Health, I thought he had died and gone to heaven. This local “alternative” health store is exactly what Mitch’s (and partial mine) dreams are made of. Filled with tons of natural herbal supplements, non-toxic skin care and different alternative therapies – like aromatherapy or massage tools – we were in love!
If you live in the area or just visiting, this is a must-stop to pick up some natural care for yourself. Whether it be body lotion or some essential oils, this is the haven for all things natural and beneficial.
Foodstuffs
For a casual place to eat or a place to pop in to get a refreshment and just “take a break,” Foodstuffs is where it’s at! This place is more of a “deli counter” or grab-n-go style, so it’s definitely the spot for a lighter meal vs. a bigger, sit-down restaurant.
We didn’t eat the food, so I can’t say much about that, but they do have locations across the Chicagoland area, so it must be decent! 😉 However, I still recommend this place to grab a cold drink and just hang out for a bit. They have picnic style seating and a fun atmosphere.
Bookends and Beginnings
Our last stop was to Bookends and Beginnings, a little local bookstore found in an alleyway. They recently participated in Independent Bookstore Day, so you might have seen/heard about them lately. This was the most adorable little place. Creaky floors, dusty rugs and, of course, tons of books.
We literally spent FOREVER here because Mitch could not stop digging through all the books and we ended walking away with a couple for him. The space was bigger than expected and there’s lots to keep whoever you are with entertained. There’s even a kids section with a toy/play area and little comfy spots to sit and hang out.
With tons of natural light, a super friendly staff, found in a cool location, this is another must stop!
If you’re a local Evanston I’d love to hear what your favorite shops are! I can surely anticipate going back, especially since it’s easily accessible from the city via car or CTA. Let me know and I can go check them out!