The best book, hobby & craft shops in Lake in the Hills

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Family-run, Modern Age Comics keeps every issue bagged and boarded for free, stocks back issues, trades, and new books, plus toys, supplies, and statues. Set up a pull, join the Graphic Novel Club, and let them handle CGC grading without shop upcharges... basically your friendly nearby HQ for staying current.”

“Whether you’re chasing the latest #1 or hunting a long-lost run, Alternate Reality, Inc stacks the shelves with current and vintage comics, plus action figures and posters that hit every fandom. Perfect for a quick escape from chores... and an even quicker excuse to start a new collection.”

From the Oak Lawn newsletter, August 20, 2026

“The Book Cellar is the indie bookstore cafe that fuels your TBR and your caffeine habit, with lively book clubs, frequent author events, and a stellar signed selection including John Green. Drop by this week, grab a seat, discover something unexpected, and pretend you only came for one chapter.”

From the Evanston newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Got a kid joining band this week or a guitar itch to scratch? The Instrument Barn has woodwinds, brass, ukes, guitars, and pre-owned pianos, plus school rentals, lessons, clinics and instrument repair and piano services, so you can sound good without overthinking where to start.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 3, 2026

“From chamber scores and opera vocal selections to method books, manuscript paper, tuners, and gems like the Music by Black Composers series, Performers Music keeps Chicago players stocked with the good stuff.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Friendly candle store featuring housemade creations in creative scents alongside gift items.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Whether you're restocking charcoal, watercolor, or geeking out on screen printing, Jenny G’s Art Supply champions sustainable, non-toxic picks and even has a Terracycle drop for spent supplies.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Well-stocked store specializing in new, used & vintage guitars, plus amps & accessories.”

“Curated shop for pens and paintbrushes plus notebooks.”

“Laid-back shop for new, used & vintage guitars, amps, effect pedals & more, plus repairs.”

“Whether you’re clearing out that closet of half-used yarn or hunting for inspiration that doesn’t wreck the budget, The WasteShed collects reusable art and school supplies and makes them available to teachers, artists, and everyday makers.”

From the Berwyn newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Rare Birds Music is a curated playground for Chicago players hunting vintage and pre-owned gems, from black panel Fender amps and Moog synths to vibe-heavy pedals. If your current rig feels meh, trade something in and end up with gear that actually sparks practice this week.”

From the Chicago newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Whether you're stringing up your first guitar, hunting a cymbal that finally behaves, or building a home studio, MDS Music packs a serious spread of guitars, drums, keyboards, pedals, and pro audio. Test the toys, tweak your rig, and leave sounding suspiciously better than last week.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Clean store stocking toys, snacks, decor and beauty supplies.”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“If your living room jam needs a little oomph or you've been eyeing that first guitar, Ceasar's Music of Illinois keeps a solid spread of instruments and a friendly crew ready to steer you right. Pop in this week and walk out sounding a little more like the musician you want to be.”

From the Cicero newsletter, August 17, 2026

“From banjos and mandolins to acoustic and electric guitars, sheet music, harmonicas, and even rentals, Old Town School Music Store is Chicago's acoustic source. Non-profit since 1957, every purchase supports the Old Town School of Folk Music, so your next instrument also funds more music around here.”

From the Arlington Heights newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Music store, specializing in guitars and basses.”

“Back-to-school band season sneaks up fast, and Piano Trends Music Company has your fix with instrument rentals, sheet music you can grab in print or download, legit lessons for piano, guitar, and band instruments, plus on-site repairs and a rehearsal/recording studio if you’re ready to make some noise.”

From the Crystal Lake newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Atlas Stationers is a veteran spot for fine writing, inks, and actually-good planners, with brands like Hobonichi and Kaweco plus Atlas exclusives and special editions. Stock up on notebooks, refills, and giftable gear, then peek at their events calendar for workshops and community hangs.”

“Vintage, new & used guitars plus other instruments & gear in a polished space with an acoustic room.”