Chicago is a vibrant city for Magic: The Gathering (MTG) players, with numerous stores that cater to the needs of both casual enthusiasts and competitive players. Whether you’re looking for singles, booster packs, accessories, or a place to join a tournament, here are the top 10 MTG stores in Chicago that you shouldn’t miss:
1. The Magic Vault
Location: 1460 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
The Magic Vault is one of the best-known MTG stores in the city, offering a wide range of Magic cards, booster packs, and accessories. The store hosts regular tournaments, including Friday Night Magic and other competitive events, making it a hub for the local MTG community. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to help players with deck-building advice or card selections.
2. Dice Dojo
Location: 5550 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
Dice Dojo is a popular game store in Chicago that offers a huge selection of board games, card games, and miniatures, including Magic: The Gathering products. They have a large inventory of MTG singles and are known for their frequent events, including casual play, draft nights, and competitive tournaments. The store’s spacious and welcoming environment makes it ideal for both newcomers and seasoned players.
3. Guardian Games
Location: 4259 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Guardian Games is a staple in the Chicago gaming scene, offering a wide variety of Magic: The Gathering cards and accessories. The store is known for its welcoming atmosphere and hosts a variety of events ranging from casual game nights to highly competitive tournaments. Guardian Games also provides a great space for Magic players to gather and meet other enthusiasts.
4. The Chosen Games & Comics
Location: 5150 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn, IL 60453
While a bit outside central Chicago, The Chosen Games & Comics is well worth the trip for Magic players. This store has an extensive collection of MTG singles and packs and hosts regular tournaments, including standard, modern, and commander formats. It also has a comfortable play area for casual and competitive players alike.
5. Noble Knight Games
Location: 300 N Central Ave, Oak Park, IL 60301
Noble Knight Games, located in nearby Oak Park, is another top-tier store for Magic: The Gathering. They offer a wide selection of cards, including hard-to-find singles, booster packs, and accessories. Noble Knight Games is particularly known for its rare card offerings and for hosting a variety of MTG events for all skill levels.
6. The Board Game Café
Location: 3218 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
The Board Game Café is a unique spot that combines great food and drinks with an extensive collection of tabletop games, including Magic: The Gathering. This café regularly hosts MTG events and provides a relaxed atmosphere for players who want to join casual games or participate in structured tournaments. It’s a great place to meet new friends and challenge your decks.
7. The Escapist
Location: 555 W. 18th St, Chicago, IL 60616
The Escapist is a game store that offers everything from tabletop games to Magic: The Gathering cards. They have a solid selection of singles, booster packs, and accessories. The store is also known for its wide variety of gaming events, including weekly drafts and other MTG tournaments. The Escapist also features a friendly and inclusive environment for both new and experienced players.
8. Super Secret Crisis War Games
Location: 3737 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Super Secret Crisis War Games offers a variety of gaming products, including a solid collection of Magic: The Gathering cards. Known for its great atmosphere, the store hosts regular MTG events, such as drafts, casual play nights, and high-level competitive tournaments. They also offer a great selection of Magic accessories, such as sleeves, playmats, and deck boxes.
9. The Game Shoppe
Location: 1725 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
The Game Shoppe offers a great selection of Magic: The Gathering products and is known for its friendly community of players. Whether you’re looking for singles, boosters, or playmats, The Game Shoppe has it all. The store hosts regular events for casual players and competitive tournament-goers. It’s a fantastic place to meet new people and explore different Magic formats.
10. Zia Comics
Location: 1036 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607
Zia Comics is a hidden gem in the Chicago area, offering a diverse collection of Magic: The Gathering cards, collectibles, and accessories. The store regularly hosts MTG events and is a great place for collectors looking for rare and valuable singles. Zia Comics also provides an intimate setting for casual and competitive play, making it an excellent spot for Magic enthusiasts.
Tips for Magic Players in Chicago:
- Event Schedules: Be sure to check each store’s website or social media for their event schedules, as many of them host regular tournaments, draft nights, and casual play events.
- Pre-Release Events: Stores like Dice Dojo and The Magic Vault are great places to attend pre-release events for new MTG sets, which are a fun way to explore the latest cards before they officially hit the market.
- Casual Play: Many of these stores, such as The Escapist and Guardian Games, have open play areas where players can join in on casual games. Whether you’re new to the game or looking for new people to play with, these spots provide a welcoming atmosphere.
Conclusion
Chicago’s MTG community is thriving, and these 10 stores are some of the best places to find Magic: The Gathering products, participate in tournaments, and meet fellow players. Whether you’re looking for rare singles, want to join a local tournament, or just enjoy casual games with friends, Chicago has plenty to offer for Magic: The Gathering fans!