These 10 Thrift Stores in Chicago Are Perfect for Discovering Hidden Treasures

Chicago is the third most populated city in the United States. Known for its architecture, museums, and food scene, the Windy City also attracts millions of tourists each year. Whether you are a local or just passing through, Chicago is an incredible city for thrift shopping.

The 10 best thrift stores in Chicago are a haven for discovering unique finds and hidden treasures. If you’re an avid thrifter in Chicago, you’ll definitely want to stop by at least one of these stores.

Key Reasons To Shop Thrift Stores In Chicago Include:

• Endless inventory: With new donations coming in daily, you’ll always find something different on each visit.
• Affordable prices: Thrifting allows you to build a wardrobe on a budget or find one-of-a-kind pieces for a fraction of retail costs.
• Environmentally friendly: Reusing pre-loved items keeps them out of landfills.
• Support local charities: Many Chicago thrift stores donate proceeds to worthwhile causes.

From vintage boutiques to resale giants, the top thrift stores showcase the best of pre-owned style. So, grab your reusable bags – it’s time to explore the 10 best thrift stores in Chicago!

Disclaimer: Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are numerous thrift stores in Chicago that cater to different budgets, needs, and fashion preferences. It’s always a good idea to check out multiple stores to find the best deals and hidden gems.

Mt. Sinai Resale Shop, Lake View East

2902 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

Mt. Sinai Resale Shop has been operating for over 34 years out of its location in Chicago’s Lake View East neighborhood. It first opened in the late 1980s as a way to raise funds for Mt. Sinai Hospital. The shop is renowned for its vast selection of inventory, focusing on furniture, housewares, and clothing. It carries a wide range of styles for all ages and tastes. They also have a designer section with high-end labels.

Mt. Sinai accepts donations of clean, gently used items year-round. Popular donation items include clothing, accessories, books, toys, small furniture, and kitchenware. Donations allow them to keep inventory constantly refreshed. All proceeds from the Mt. Sinai Resale Shop directly benefit Mt. Sinai Hospital and its programs. Over the years, it has raised millions of dollars to support patient care, medical research, and community health services.

Out of the Closet, Boystown

3311 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL

This thrift store offers a wide range of items, including clothing, books, housewares, and unique finds. Clean, gently used items in good condition are gratefully accepted. Popular donation categories include clothing, accessories, books, home goods, and small furniture. Out of the Closet’s mission is to provide funding and awareness for organizations working to end HIV/AIDS. All proceeds from sales support these HIV services worldwide.

Since 1991, Out of the Closet thrift stores have raised over $60 million to support HIV/AIDS services. This includes research, prevention programs, and direct assistance for those living with HIV. The store holds regular sales and special events throughout the year. Recent examples include a Pride Month sale and trunk shows featuring local designers.

The Brown Elephant

Multiple locations, including 812 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL

The Brown Elephant is part of Howard Brown Health, which provides healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community. Proceeds support Howard Brown’s programs and clinics. Since 1991, Brown Elephant thrift stores have raised over $15 million to support Howard Brown Health’s services. This includes primary care, mental health support, and health promotion programs.

Shoppers can find a wide assortment of clothing, accessories, furniture, home goods, books and more. Inventory is constantly refreshed with donations. Regular sales and events offer additional savings. Recent examples include a Pride Month sale and trunk shows featuring local designers’ work. Clean used items are accepted daily and help keep the stores well-stocked. Popular donation categories include gently worn clothing, accessories, books, linens, dishes, and small furniture.

Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co.

1276 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL

This unique thrift store plays up the theme of spy gear and secret agent finds. Alongside more typical thrift items, you may discover disguises, gadgets, and other tongue-in-cheek spy accessories. Proceeds from sales benefit 826CHI, a nonprofit that provides creative writing and tutoring support to youth in under-resourced communities.

Beyond the spy theme, shoppers will uncover books, clothing, vinyl records, home goods, retro electronics, and other eclectic thrift treasures. New donations arrive daily. Regular sales and themed events are announced on their Facebook page. Recent examples include a costume party and author readings.

Village Discount Outlet

Multiple locations, including 2032 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL

Multiple locations, including 2032 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL

With multiple locations in Chicago, Village Discount Outlet offers a vast selection of items, including clothing, shoes, accessories, and household items. Shoppers can find a variety of options at discounted prices. The inventory is regularly restocked with new merchandise. Village Discount Outlet accepts donations of clean, gently used items. Donated items contribute to the store’s inventory and help support its mission of providing affordable options to the community.

Village Discount Outlet has received positive reviews from customers, with mentions of its large selection and affordable prices. However, some reviewers note that certain locations may be more picked over due to their popularity.

Ragstock

1459 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL

Ragstock is known for offering a variety of trendy and vintage clothing, accessories, and costumes. They have a wide range of options to suit different styles and preferences. Their inventory includes items for both men and women. Their items are generally in good condition. Like all vintage clothing, they may show some signs of wear, but there are no outstanding flaws.

According to online reviews, Ragstock is highly regarded among thrift stores in the Wicker Park area. Customers appreciate the store’s selection and find it to be a great place for thrifting. Sales and Discounts: Ragstock occasionally offers sales and discounts on their merchandise. It’s recommended to check their website or visit the store to find out about any ongoing promotions.

Mercy Beaucoup

1545 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL

Mercy Beaucoup is a resale boutique that offers a curated collection of high-quality clothing, jewelry, and accessories. The boutique focuses on providing unique and stylish items to its customers. The boutique is mentioned as one of the top vintage clothing and thrift stores in Chicago in various lists on Yelp This suggests that it is well-regarded among thrift and vintage enthusiasts in the area.

The boutique’s curated collection includes a variety of clothing options, ranging from vintage pieces to contemporary styles. In addition to clothing, Mercy Beaucoup also offers a selection of jewelry and accessories to complement different outfits. Mercy Beaucoup is known for offering unique and one-of-a-kind items that can help customers create their own personal style. The boutique’s focus on high-quality items ensures that shoppers can find special pieces that stand out.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store

Multiple locations, including 2941 N Central Ave, Chicago, IL

This thrift store chain has multiple locations throughout Chicago. The Salvation Army offers a wide assortment of affordable items, including clothing, home goods, toys, books, and more. The inventory is diverse and constantly changing, providing shoppers with a variety of options to choose from.

The proceeds from The Salvation Army Thrift Store support local social services programs. When you donate goods to The Salvation Army, the donation proceeds are used to fund their Adult Rehabilitation Centers, which provide support and assistance to individuals in need.

The Salvation Army Thrift Store is well-known and respected for its charitable work and affordable prices. The Salvation Army is recognized as a compassionate organization that contributes to disaster relief efforts.

Crossroads Trading Co.

2711 N Clark St, Chicago, IL

Crossroads Trading Co. is known for its large selection of vintage and designer clothing. In addition to clothing, the store also offers furniture, accessories, records, and more. The inventory is carefully curated to provide customers with a wide range of stylish options.

The profits from Crossroads Trading Co. support arts education. By shopping at Crossroads, customers contribute to the funding of programs that promote and support arts education initiatives.

Trading Co. is generally well-regarded among thrift and vintage enthusiasts. The store’s focus on offering trendy and high-quality items has earned it a positive reputation.

Savers Value Village

5650 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL

Savers Value Village is part of the Savers chain, known for offering a wide range of new and used items at bargain prices. The store carries various categories of items, including clothing, household goods, books, and toys. Shoppers can find a diverse selection of items to meet their needs. Savers Value Village focuses on providing affordable options to its customers. The store’s pricing strategy aims to offer items at bargain prices, allowing shoppers to find great deals on their purchases.

Savers Value Village is part of the Savers chain, which operates thrift stores across the United States and Canada. The chain is known for its commitment to sustainability and recycling, as well as its support for nonprofit organizations. By shopping at Savers Value Village, customers contribute to the store’s mission of supporting local communities and reducing waste. The store’s profits help fund various social services programs and initiatives.

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