Do you look for a steady supply of comic books to pass the time these days? Are you a graphic novel novice who’s wondering where to start? Luckily, there are plenty of spots in Chicago that offer wide and varied selections of comic books, graphic novels, and related products. Check out these local comic book shops to dive into new worlds of entertainment.
Chicago Comics
3244 N Clark St, Chicago IL 60657
Founded in 1991, Chicago Comics not only carries famous favorites (like superheroes), but actually specializes in “small press and hard to find indie comics titles.” In addition to the selection you’ll see on display, this comic book store in Chicago has plenty of additional stock not on display, which may include a difficult-to-locate item you’re seeking.
First Aid Comics
1617 E 55th St, Chicago IL 60615
1142 W Taylor St, Chicago IL 60607
This Hyde Park comic book shop not only sells comics from all eras and for all ages, but they also carry plenty of games and other memorabilia related to comic books. The shop even has a second location in Little Italy.
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave, Chicago IL 60647
Voted Best Comics Shop for Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago 2010, Challengers Comics opened in Bucktown in 2008, and has since established a subscription service, sold books by local artists on consignment, and stocked all sorts of comics for every kind of comic book enthusiast.
AlleyCat Comics
5304 N Clark St, Chicago IL 60640
Andersonville-based AlleyCat Comics offers a wide comic selection and a friendly atmosphere for both hardcore fans and casual perusers alike. The comic book shop’s website even includes a blog pertaining to new releases, trends, and more.
Dark Tower Comics
4835 N Western Ave, Chicago IL 60625
Catering to the steady comic book consumer, Dark Tower keeps visitors on its website updated on new releases each week. The store offers a pullsheet that allows discounts at certain purchase levels.
Graham Crackers Comics
See website for locations
At its three Chicago locations (in addition to many more beyond the city limits), Graham Crackers sells comics and all sorts of related games and memorabilia. In addition, this comic book shop offers a subscription service that includes discounts.
Third Coast Comics
6443 N. Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60626
Located in Granada Center near Loyola’s campus sits Third Coast Comics, a comic book shop that promotes diversity, quality, inclusion, and community to the Rogers Park neighborhood. Third Coast Comics is currently open, serving two people at a time inside the shop, however, like any true superhero, they have refocused their business and are serving people better than ever during COVID. Per their website, the Chef’s Choice Plan allows you to curate a list of tastes, a budget, and allow the experts at Third Coast Comics to make your graphic novel selections for you. They select, you pay, and have everything shipped directly to you.
Image by Emilie Farris from Pixabay
