Unique Chicago Souvenirs: Best Things to Bring Home

“The best souvenir” to bring home from a trip is a relative term that holds as many meanings as there are tourists wandering the Earth. Pretty vague, right? The truth is, a unique souvenir is something that evokes a memory for you, a reminder of a feeling you actually felt while on that trip. Any souvenir worth its money must have the power to transport you back; it needs the qualities of a time-traveling artifact…

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Travel anywhere in the world, and you’re sure to find souvenir shops selling t-shirts and caps with the location’s name printed on them, key chains, small miniature statues of famous buildings, shot glasses and, let’s not forget, the worst offenders:magnets for your gorgeous fridge of course! These trinkets often have little actual value and will start collecting dust as soon as you return home. If you love any of these items, more power to you, no judgment here, the ultimate goal of any purchase is to bring you joy. For the rest of the travelers who want to achieve that happy feeling too, this list was designed for you. 

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Chicago is a city of diverse neighborhoods and rich heritage, which means souvenir shopping here goes far beyond the typical fridge magnet or T-shirt. From edible treats born in the Windy City to handmade crafts reflecting its multicultural communities, there’s a treasure trove of unique mementos to discover. This guide highlights the best and most unique Chicago souvenirs – with a balanced mix of food, artisan crafts, books, collectibles, and clothing – all infused with the city’s cultural flavor. We’ll also touch on beloved classics (yes, there are snow globes and skyline T-shirts too) so you don’t miss a thing.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, a sports fan, or a music lover, these Chicago keepsakes will let you bring home a piece of the city’s soul. (Below, location names link to official websites where you can find these items.)

Tasty Chicago Treats (Food & Drink Souvenirs)

Chicago’s food is legendary, so why not take a bite of it home with you? A deep-dish pizza is the ultimate Chicago foodie souvenir – Lou Malnati’s pizzerias even offer half-baked or frozen pies to-go, so you can savor the famous cheesy, buttery-crusted pizza from your own oven​. For a sweet-and-salty snack, grab a tin of Garrett Popcorn. This gourmet popcorn shop has been delighting Chicagoans since 1949 with its Garrett Mix® (caramel corn and cheddar popcorn blended together) – a signature flavor so aromatic you’ll smell it down the block​. Another historic treat are Frango Mints, the silky chocolate-mint candies that date back to 1927 when Marshall Field’s made them a Chicago icon​. You can still pick up a box at Macy’s on State Street, the old Marshall Field’s flagship.

For something with a kick, consider a bottle of Jeppson’s Malört. This bitter herbal liquor is a true Chicago rite-of-passage – a local spirit famously described as “citrus-flavored gasoline” and a “regional prank beverage” that Chicagoans love to challenge friends with​. Malört’s acquired taste (born from a Swedish recipe) has earned it a cult status – it’s “so bad, it’s good,” embodying that quirky Chicago pride​. Pick one up if you dare – you’ll find Malört at many city liquor shops, often behind the register with a knowing grin from the clerk.

Not all Chicago’s sips are so intimidating; you could opt for a craft spirit from Koval Distillery, the first distillery in Chicago since the 1800s, known for its organic whiskeys and liqueurs​. Beer lovers might snag a six-pack from local breweries like Half Acre or Revolution Brewing as a hoppy souvenir of Chicago’s craft beer scene​. And for the home cook, The Spice House in Old Town sells spice blends named after Chicago neighborhoods – try the “Bronzeville Rib Rub” or “Lake Shore Drive Seasoning” to add a Windy City twist to your recipes​. Finally, don’t leave without some Chicago-style fixings: a jar of spicy giardiniera (the pickled veggie relish that goes on Italian beef sandwiches) or a pack of Vienna Beef hot dogs with the neon-green relish will let you assemble authentic Chicago hot dogs for friends back home. From deep-dish to desserts, these edible souvenirs celebrate Chicago’s flavors in all their glory.

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A Time Capsule Postcard

With FuturePosts, you can create a custom postcard online using your own photos, add a personal message and schedule it to be delivered at a later date, whether it’s next month, next year or even a decade from now. FuturePosts keeps everything we love about traditional postcards while bringing them into the digital age. Your futurepost is still a tangible keepsake following the classic postcard format with a large image on one side and a personal message framed by colorful borders on the other. Most importantly, it still arrives in your mailbox, not your inbox.

Instead of letting your best travel photos fade into digital clutter, why not transform them into a unique souvenir? Turn them into a postcard, creating a personal time capsule for yourself or a loved one to receive in the future. One of the benefits of designing a time capsule postcard with FuturePosts is that the message on the back of the postcard takes on a deeper significance, becoming a letter to your future self, capturing your thoughts, dreams and emotions in a single moment frozen in time.

Every day, travelers search for the perfect souvenir, often settling for generic trinkets. Why not choose something more meaningful? Make a thoughtful choice on your next trip. Choose nostalgia. Choose something with lasting value. Choose FuturePosts and create your own personalized time capsule, a beautifully crafted postcard featuring your photos and words, delivered at your chosen future date. Skip the ordinary souvenirs and futurepost your travel memories today!

Artisanal Crafts & Local Art

Chicago’s creative spirit shines in its artisan markets and cultural shops. Skip the mass-produced trinkets and hunt for handcrafted pieces that tell a story. In the artsy Pilsen neighborhood, the gift shop at the National Museum of Mexican Art overflows with vibrant Mexican folk art, from hand-painted Day of the Dead figurines to embroidered textiles, reflecting the city’s large Mexican community. In a similar vein, the Polish Museum of America in West Town offers beautiful Polish crafts – think ornate Wycinanki paper cuttings or painted wooden eggs – perfect for a unique gift that honors Chicago’s Polish heritage. Head north to Andersonville and you’ll find the Swedish American Museum store, where you can pick up a traditional Dala horse or Scandinavian linens as a nod to the area’s Swedish roots. These cultural institutions let you take home a piece of the many cultures that call Chicago home.

Chicago is also bursting with independent artists and designers. The Andersonville Galleria is like a year-round indoor art fair, featuring over 100 local artisans under one roof​. There you can browse everything from local photography and prints of the Chicago skyline, to handmade jewelry, ceramics, and quirky housewares – all crafted by Chicago hands. Another beloved spot is Wolfbait & B-Girls in Logan Square, a women-owned boutique showcasing the wares of more than 250 Chicago artisans and fair-trade designers​. Here you’ll find playful accessories, chic apparel, and one-of-a-kind art pieces – essentially a snapshot of Chicago’s indie craft scene.

If you’re a fan of city-themed art, keep an eye out for Chicago flag-inspired creations. The city’s flag (with its bold red stars and blue stripes) adorns countless artisan items: you might find it on coasters, wall art, tote bags, or even jewelry made by local makers. Transit Tees, a local shop, is famous for turning Chicago’s icons into art – from CTA train logo magnets to puzzles and home decor featuring city maps​. And for a functional piece of art, consider picking up a Frank Lloyd Wright inspired souvenir – Chicago’s architecture legacy lives on in items like stained-glass suncatchers and geometric jewelry available at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio gift shop in Oak Park. Each artisan souvenir carries a slice of Chicago’s identity – crafted with local love and perfect for remembering the city’s creative energy.

Books & Literary Keepsakes

For bookworms and history buffs, Chicago offers plenty of page-turning souvenirs. A great starting point is literature that captures Chicago’s spirit. Pick up a copy of “The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson – a gripping bestseller that weaves together the 1893 World’s Fair and a chilling true crime story. It’s both a fascinating history lesson and a dark thriller set in old Chicago, making it an engrossing keepsake after you’ve walked the city’s streets. If history is your thing, look for illustrated books like “Chicago Then and Now” or “Lost Chicago” which pair vintage photographs with modern skylines, or a compilation of Studs Terkel’s famous interviews that give voice to everyday Chicagoans. These books let you dive deeper into Chicago’s past and present long after your trip.

Chicago is proud of its literary heritage – after all, it’s the home of authors like Saul Bellow, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Nelson Algren. At the American Writers Museum downtown, the gift shop has unique finds for literature lovers. You might snag a book cover poster, a typewriter-inspired mug, or anthologies from the museum’s exhibits celebrating American writers​. In the charming neighborhood bookstores (such as Myopic Books in Wicker Park or The Book Cellar in Lincoln Square), you can also find Chicago-centric titles and maybe a signed copy from a local author.

Don’t forget the little ones or young-at-heart readers: children’s books make wonderful souvenirs too. “C is for Chicago” is a popular board book that uses the alphabet to showcase Chicago landmarks (from A for Adler Planetarium to Z for zoo)​. It’s a fun way to share the city with kids. There are also coloring books and travel journals themed around Chicago’s sights, which can be great gifts. Lastly, consider a beautiful Chicago architecture coffee table book (available at the Chicago Architecture Center shop) filled with glossy photos of the skyline and famous buildings – a perfect memento of the city’s iconic architecture that doubles as decor. Whether you choose a novel, a history book, or a photographic collection, a literary souvenir from Chicago will continue to educate and entertain long after your visit.

Fashion & Apparel (Wearable Souvenirs)

If you want to wear your Chicago pride, the city’s got you covered – literally. Chicago-themed apparel ranges from subtle and stylish to bold and sporty. One ubiquitous symbol you’ll see is the Chicago city flag with its four red stars. You can find the flag printed on everything: t-shirts, hoodies, socks, caps, and even jewelry. A Chicago flag t-shirt or enamel pin is a cool way to sport a bit of local flair that locals themselves love to wear. For something offbeat, check out Transit Tees (with stores in Wicker Park and Andersonville) for clothing that cleverly incorporates Chicago’s transit lines and inside jokes​. Imagine a hoodie with the L train map or a tee that celebrates the city’s famous deep-dish pizza – these make fun conversation starters back home and are designed by local artists.

Chicago’s neighborhoods also offer boutique shopping with unique fashion finds. In Bucktown and Wicker Park, trendy shops feature local designers who craft Chicago-inspired designs. You might find a handmade leather bag stamped with the skyline or a silk-screened shirt featuring the silhouette of the Willis (Sears) Tower. Wolfbait & B-Girls, mentioned earlier for crafts, also sells indie designer clothing – so you could snag a dress or hat that you won’t see mass-produced in chain stores​. Vintage lovers will enjoy perusing Chicago’s thrift and vintage stores for retro sports jerseys or classic Chicago souvenirs from decades past (that 1985 Bears Super Bowl champs shirt or a vintage Cubs cap has extra character!).

For a truly special wearable, how about a custom fedora from Optimo Hats? This famous Chicago hatmaker in the Beverly neighborhood handcrafts old-school quality hats. It’s a splurge for sure – Optimo is known for outfitting celebrities and has that classic 1920s vibe​– but if you’re a hat aficionado, it’s an only-in-Chicago item. On a smaller budget, pick up a neighborhood-themed tote bag (lots of shops carry canvas totes printed with neighborhood names or ZIP codes) or a pair of Chicago flag socks (stylish and comfy). Every time you wear these souvenirs, you’ll have a piece of Chicago’s spirit with you, whether it’s the city’s flag on your sleeve or a local designer’s creation in your wardrobe.

Sports Memorabilia for the Superfan

If there’s one thing Chicago is crazy about, it’s sports. This town has passionate fans in every major league, and that means sports memorabilia galore. Whether you cheer for the team or just love the iconic logos, grabbing some Chicago sports gear is a must. The city’s two baseball teams alone offer plenty of souvenir options. For Chicago Cubs fans, a pilgrimage to Wrigley Field on the North Side is essential – and you won’t be able to resist a keepsake or two from the Cubs team store. Popular picks include a classic blue Cubs cap, a “W” flag (flown when the Cubs win), or even a piece of Wrigley itself! (One unique collectible is the Wrigley Field Brick & Ivy set – a gift pack that includes a small brick and ivy inspired by the ballpark’s famous outfield wall​.) The curse-breaking 2016 World Series Champions merch is still a hot seller, from T-shirts to commemorative tickets, letting you relive that historic victory.

On the South Side, the Chicago White Sox have their own proud fandom. You can snag a black-and-silver Sox hat or jersey at Guaranteed Rate Field or any sports shop – a nice contrast if you want to represent both of the city’s MLB teams. Moving to basketball, the red and black of the Chicago Bulls is known worldwide thanks to the Michael Jordan era. Even though the dynasty years are past, you can still grab a #23 Jordan jersey or a modern Bulls shirt and feel the legacy. Bulls souvenir options range from inexpensive (keychains, pennants, bobbbleheads) to premium (an authentic jersey or signed basketball). If you visit the United Center, check out the statue of Jordan and pop into the gift store for exclusive items.

Hockey fans, don’t worry – the Chicago Blackhawks merchandise is some of the most striking, featuring the team’s iconic Native American head logo. A Blackhawks winter hat or hockey puck can be a cool keepsake. And for NFL lovers, the Chicago Bears have a storied history – pick up that Bears sweatshirt or the classic navy-and-orange cap with the “C” logo from the Bears Pro Shop. You can even find fun items like Bears oven mitts or Bears-themed Monopoly if you look around.

The best part is you don’t have to trek to each stadium (though it’s fun if you can). Spots like Chicago Sports & Novelty at Navy Pier specialize in all teams’ gear under one roof, carrying everything from Bulls, Bears, Blackhawks, Cubs, Fire, to White Sox apparel​. They’ve been family-run since 1987 and are basically a one-stop shop for sports fans. Also, local sports shops like Clark Street Sports or Wrigleyville Sports (near Wrigley Field) have a huge range of souvenirs and often Chicago city-themed sports crossover items. For example, you might find a Chicago flag with team logos or limited-edition collectibles.

No matter which team you root for, bringing home a piece of Chicago sports culture is easy. From a Bulls championship poster to a Cubs coffee mug, these souvenirs let you share in the city’s sports pride. And who knows – wearing that lucky Chicago Bears T-shirt might even make you an honorary fan come next game day!

The iconic red marquee at Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is itself a popular image on Chicago sports souvenirs. Visiting the ballpark or local sports shops will reward you with plenty of team memorabilia to commemorate Chicago’s legendary teams.​

Music & Entertainment Souvenirs (Blues, Jazz & More)

Chicago’s musical heritage is second to none – this is the city that gave us electrified urban blues, legendary jazz clubs, and even the birthplace of house music. For music lovers, a souvenir that celebrates Chicago’s sounds is a must-have. One of the best mementos is a record or CD from a Chicago artist. Visit a local record store like Reckless Records (with multiple locations in the city) and dig through the vinyl bins for a Muddy Waters blues album or a pressing of a classic Chicago jazz recording. Reckless carries loads of new and used vinyl, so you might score an old Howlin’ Wolf record or a modern Chicago indie band LP​. It’s a tangible (and audible) piece of the city’s culture you can experience at home on your turntable.

If you prefer something wearable, consider grabbing merch from Chicago’s famous music venues. A Buddy Guy’s Legends t-shirt or a Green Mill Jazz Club cap makes a fantastic souvenir for any music fan. Buddy Guy’s Legends (owned by blues icon Buddy Guy) is heralded as the world’s premier blues club​– their logo merch not only looks cool, but when you wear it, blues aficionados will know you’ve been to a true Chicago landmark. Similarly, the Green Mill in Uptown is a historic jazz lounge (dating back to the Prohibition era) known for its glowing green neon sign and nightly live jazz. They often sell shirts or posters featuring that vintage neon “Green Mill Cocktail Lounge” sign, which has become a symbol of Chicago jazz. Wearing one is like a badge of honor that says you experienced Chicago’s jazz age vibe firsthand.

For a more interactive music souvenir, how about a harmonica? Chicago blues has a long tradition of amazing harp (harmonica) players – think Little Walter or Big Walter Horton – and picking up a quality blues harmonica from a local music shop (or even at Legends’ gift corner) is a fun nod to that tradition. It’s portable, and you can try your hand at playing the blues riffs you heard on stage. Or perhaps a set of guitar picks emblazoned with “Chicago Blues” or a famous club’s name – small, easy to carry, and actually useful for a guitarist friend back home.

Don’t overlook posters and artwork as well. Every summer, the city hosts the Chicago Blues Festival and Jazz Festival, often with beautifully designed promotional posters. If you find a vendor selling past years’ festival posters or a print by local concert poster artists, snag one and frame it – it’s art and a memory in one. Some shops in the neighborhoods (or the Chicago Cultural Center gift shop) carry prints of classic Chicago concert ads, vintage music club signs, and other musical memorabilia that make great décor.

Lastly, Chicago’s comedy and theatre scene offers souvenirs too, since entertainment here isn’t just music. The famed Second City comedy theater sells shirts that say “Second City Training Center” or funny improv-themed gifts – a perfect souvenir if you caught a show and laughed your socks off. Broadway in Chicago theaters have gift kiosks where you can get show merchandise (if you saw a play or musical). These may not scream “Chicago” (unless the show is Chicago-based), but they mark a special experience you had in the city.

From bluesy tunes to jazzy grooves, the music (and laughs) of Chicago can be captured in these souvenirs. Each time you strum that guitar pick or see the club logo on your shirt, you’ll be reminded of those late nights on blues avenue or the toe-tapping jazz sets in the Windy City.

Classic Chicago Keepsakes (Tourist Favorites)

Of course, we can’t forget the classic Chicago souvenirs that every tourist shop in town carries – they might be ubiquitous, but they’re popular for a reason. If you love collecting city skyline memorabilia, Chicago’s skyline is one of the world’s most recognizable. You can find everything from miniature skyscraper models (a mini Willis Tower or John Hancock building for your desk) to snow globes containing tiny replicas of the skyline. A snow globe with the “Cloud Gate” Bean sculpture inside and fake snow swirling around is kitschy but undeniably cute, capturing a scene of winter at Millennium Park.

Magnets, keychains, and mugs emblazoned with Chicago in bold letters or images of the Bean and skyline are easy, affordable take-homes for friends and family. Many feature Chicago’s nicknames like “The Windy City” or images of deep-dish pizza and hot dogs (because why not wear your food pride on a magnet?). These are great last-minute grabs at the airport gift shops as well. Another fun classic item is a Chicago street sign replica – small metal signs that say “State St” or “Route 66 – Begin” (Route 66 famously starts in Chicago) are sold in souvenir stands and make a neat decoration in a garage or man-cave.

If you’re into collectible pins or patches, keep an eye out for those featuring Chicago’s flag, police or fire department logos, or sports team logos combined with city imagery. A patch with the Chicago skyline can be cool on a travel backpack. 

One popular category is holiday ornaments. Many shops offer Christmas ornaments shaped like Chicago landmarks: a glittery glass skyscraper, a tiny Chicago-style hot dog ornament complete with all the toppings (no ketchup, of course!), or a ceramic ornament of the Art Institute’s lion statues wearing holiday wreaths. These make awesome gifts if your trip is near the holidays, allowing loved ones to hang a bit of Chicago on their tree.

Lastly, novelty souvenirs can be a hoot – think Chicago-style “dibs” mini chairs (a joke about saving winter parking spots), an Al Capone “Wanted” poster or fake gangster tommy gun toy (a nod to Chicago’s Prohibition-era notoriety), or a Chicago accent mug printed with local sayings (“da Bears!” comes to mind). While these items are on the cheesy side, they embrace Chicago’s pop culture and inside jokes.

When shopping for these classics, you’ll find them at places like Navy Pier gift shops, the Shops at Willis Tower (Skydeck), Water Tower Place, and countless stores along Michigan Avenue. They may not be rare, but they’re quintessential Chicago. Mix a few of these fun keepsakes in with your unique finds – a balance of the well-known and the hidden gems is the best way to remember a multifaceted city like Chicago.

Chicago’s souvenirs are as varied and vibrant as the city itself. From a jar of zesty giardiniera that brings back the taste of your favorite beef sandwich, to a handcrafted artwork that reminds you of a special neighborhood, each item holds a story and a memory. By prioritizing the lesser-known, culturally rich treasures while also picking up a few iconic favorites, you’ll return home with a collection of souvenirs that truly capture the spirit of Chicago.

So stroll through the local markets, explore museum shops, and pop into that sports store or blues club – you never know what uniquely Chicago item will catch your eye. In a city that blends tradition with innovation, old-world with new-world, you’re sure to find the perfect mementos of your Chicago adventure. Happy souvenir hunting, and as they say in Chi-Town, thanks for stopping by!

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