Where to Find Last-Minute Gifts in Chicago

If you haven’t finished your holiday shopping, take comfort in the fact that I haven’t even started. Here are last-minute ideas for everyone on your list.

For Transit Enthusiasts

CTA Gear

You can get posters, umbrellas, and even shower curtains with the L map. Kids can also play with toy trains while dressed as CTA workers 🥺

For the Gardener

Chicago Tomato Man Swag

Tomato season isn’t until the spring, but you can still gift tomato lovers merch like caps, mugs, and aprons from Bob Zeni, the Chicago Tomato Man. Or get a gift card for when plants go on sale in the spring.

Southside Blooms Flower Subscription

Brighten up your loved one’s space with locally grown flowers delivered on a weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly basis. Plus, you’ll be supporting a business committed to employing young people.

For the Chicago Sports Fan

Consume Vintage

Chicago sports teams have seen better days between the Sox’s historic losing streak and the Bears firing their head coach mid-season. That’s why sports fans might prefer vintage apparel from when teams were winning. Stop by this McKinley Park store for T-shirts, bomber jackets, and more.

For Entertainment

Chicago Show Calendar Membership

Not only does the Chicago Show Calendar share a comprehensive weekly list of concerts at indie venues, but the membership also connects concert-goers and offers the occasional free ticket. Bonus: City Cast marketing director Caroline Patton runs the site 🤓

The Last Chapter Bookshop Boxes

Buy romance book lovers boxes curated by the staff at the Roscoe Village bookstore. You can also add apparel and accessories.

Gene Siskel Film Center Membership

As members, Chicago cinephiles can enjoy discounted tickets to classic, international, and independent cinema at the movie theater in the Loop.

For Foodies

James Beard Chicago Box

Your foodie will eat up this box full of yummy treats from local award-winning chefs. Items include All Together Now’s honey and Monteverde’s garlic salt and lemon pepper 🤤

Monday Coffee

Do you have a co-worker whose caffeine obsession rivals Lorelai Gilmore? Get them whole beans from Mexico and Colombia or a gift card for the new brick-and-mortar coffee shop in North Lawndale.

Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery Mead Club

Chicago has many wine and beer options, so why not give something different this year? Gift a subscription of mead, or “honey wine,” from this Beverly spot.

For the Kids

Kido Chicago

Before the South Loop boutique closes Dec. 23, you can pick up gifts for kids big and small. That includes everything from an orange scooter to a mini guitar to magic markers.

For Experiences

AURA Candle Bar

Forget Bath & Body Works! Gift a candle-making experience in Lakeview 🕯️ Recipients can create a custom scent in a unique vessel.

The Forge: Lemont Quarries

Save up to 40% on admission at the southwest suburban adventure park that has activities ranging from ziplining to climbing to laser tag.