Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BOOKS
Barbara's Bookstore
This haven for small, independent press titles also has
extensive selections of everything current. In addition, it has a well-stocked chil-
dren's section, with sitting areas for the tots to peruse the topics. If you enjoy
author readings, call the store to see if your visit coincides with that of one of
your favorite writers. There are a total of six branches including a small tourist-
targeted shop at Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave. (
&
312/222-0890
).
201 E. Huron
St. (just east of Michigan Ave.).
&
312/926-2665.
Subway/El: Red Line to Chicago.
Barnes & Noble
This two-level store comes complete with a cafe, in case you
get the munchies while perusing the miles of books. Check out postings for
readings, book groups, and other special events. The children's section offers easy
access to picture books, first readers, and young-adult books, plus cozy reading
nooks. There's another store in Lincoln Park, at 659 W. Diversey Ave., 1 block
west of Clark Street (
&
773/871-9004
), and one at 1441 W. Webster Ave., at
Clybourn Avenue (
&
773/871-3610
).
1130 N. State St. (at Elm St.).
&
312/280-8155.
Subway/El: Red Line to Clark/Division.
Borders
You couldn't ask for a better location, right across from Water Tower
Place. Head to the lower level for the kids' section, which features a particularly
impressive collection of picture books. There are carpeted platforms for sitting and
perusing. This place is like a mini-department store, with books, magazines, CDs,
and computer software spread over four floors, and a cafe with a view overlooking
the Mag Mile. There are also author readings, book signings, and other special
events. There's also a Borders in the Loop at 150 N. State St., at Randolph Street
(
&
312/606-0750
), and one in Lincoln Park at 2817 N. Clark St., at Diversey
Avenue (
&
773/935-3909
).
830 N. Michigan Ave. (at Pearson St.).
&
312/573-0564.
Subway/El: Red Line to Chicago.
Children in Paradise Bookstore
Chicago's largest children's bookstore is
a must-see for parents with young readers. For little ones, check out the story-
telling on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Saturday you'll find special events, includ-
ing sidewalk chalk drawing and visits from book characters and authors. Highly
qualified staff makes this store a joy to visit. After you've stocked up on reading
material, head north on Rush Street to grab burgers at Johnny Rockets.
909 N. Rush
St. (between Delaware Place and Walton St.).
&
312/951-5437.
www.chicagochildrensbooks.com.
Subway/El: Red Line to Chicago.
Women & Children First
This feminist and children's bookstore holds the
best selection in the city of titles for, by, and about women. Co-owner Linda
Bubon holds a children's storybook hour every Wednesday at 10:30am; several
book groups meet regularly as well, including one for mothers and daughters.
The store also hosts frequent readings by the likes of Gloria Steinem, Amy Tan,
Alice Walker, and Naomi Wolf.
5233 N. Clark St. (between Foster and Bryn Mawr aves.).
&
773/769-9299.
Subway/El: Red Line to Berwyn.
DEPARTMENT STORES
Bloomingdale's
The first Midwestern branch of the famed New York
department store, Bloomingdale's is on par in terms of size and selection with
Marshall Field's Water Tower store. The fifth floor features kids' clothing.
900 N.
Michigan Ave. (at Walton St.).
&
312/440-4460.
Subway/El: Red Line to Chicago.
Carson Pirie Scott & Co.
This venerable Chicago institution that was
almost wiped out by the Chicago Fire has made a recent bid to capture the cor-
porate, if not the carriage, trade. Carson's has added a number of more upscale
Finds
