
The Blue Line’s Logan Square stop draws a regular stream of visitors thanks to restaurants such as
Longman & Eagle,
Lula Cafe, and
Telegraph. But the perpetually leaky-roofed stop is also the gateway to a handful of charming independent boutiques where shoppers uncover everything from earth-friendly toys to locally made clothing, artwork, and gifts.
Just across the square from the stop lies
Wolfbait & B-girls (3131 W. Logan Blvd.), where owners Shirley Kienitz and Jenny Stadler have culled items from more than 170 local artisans. Recent trips have uncovered treasures as varied as reusable coffee-cup cozies embroidered with risque slogans, baby onesies screenprinted with images of Logan Square landmarks, and artsy dresses. Kienitz and Stadler also produce every piece for their clothing labels, Bruiser and Brazen Judy, entirely in house—it doesn’t get much more local than that.
Turning left out of Wolfbait’s front door, it takes about five steps to land in the ethereal flower shop known as
Fleur (3149 W. Logan Blvd.). The whimsical bouquets often incorporate rare or unusual blooms, making them appropriate for all occasions and easily paired with equally whimsical gifts such as ring holders made from white-and-gold unicorn skulls.
If taking a trip through an enchanted garden puts you in a playful mood, head to
Play (3109 W. Logan Blvd.). Here, stuffed animals, spinning tops, play castles, figurines, and games are specifically chosen for their ability to spark imaginations and make learning fun. As an added bonus, the shop also sells many eco-friendly toys.
Afterward, it’s just a quick walk down the street to Play’s grownup-friendly sister store,
Shop 1021 (2650 N. Milwaukee Ave.), which recently got a shout-out in
Travel + Leisure magazine. The same sort of eclectic quirkiness is inherent in items such as cookbooks for homemade candy bars or cuff bracelets emblazoned with CTA maps. Another recent favorite? This
mounted moose head made from felt.