For some decorating enthusiasts, old is gold.
If you’re a collector or looking for an ornate chifforobe, mahogany rocking chair, or other antiques, St. Charles, Ill. is antique lovers paradise! Shopping for antiques is a great way to spend a day…or even a weekend. The trick is you need to know what you’re looking for.
We’ve tried to help you out by breaking down some shops and events that are a must when exploring antiques and collectibles.
The Chicago Toy Show
The Kane County Fairgrounds, something St. Charles is known for, are home to dozens of highly attended events throughout the year. One of these, the Chicago Toy Show, is the largest exhibition of its kind in the world. If antique toy cars, porcelain dolls, or baby shoes line a shelf in your apartment, this is a great place to find things you can’t find anywhere else. The next event, the 42nd Annual Chicago Toy Show, will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2015.
Kane County Flea Market
Held the first Saturday and Sunday from March to December, the Kane County Flea Market is a great place to get antique furniture and rare books, as well as the same items you’d expect to find at any flea market. Well over 100 dealers display their wares, giving shoppers a plethora of choice. The flea market is also held at the Kane County Fairgrounds.
Antique Shops
St. Charles and nearby Elburn, Ill. are home to more than a dozen galleries and consignment shops where antiques of all sorts can be found. Whether you’re looking for furniture, jewelry, coins, comic books, or sports memorabilia, there is a shop for you.
Circa Vintage Gallery, housed in a historic 2nd Ave. home built in 1845, has a wealth of furnishings and other home decor. Specializing in books, postcards, jewelry, glass, porcelain, and coins, Antique Market I has a nice selection of valuable antique decor. Next door, Antique Market III offers a selection of antique toys, pottery, coins, and more that ranges in value and aesthetic from economic to expensive and kitschy to elegant. Another shop worth checking out is the What-Not-Shoppe on Main Street. Its wares include antique clocks, glassware, furniture, and fine art.
Do you appreciate fine craftsmanship and vintage aesthetics? If so, St. Charles has a lot to offer. Plan to attend to one of the many shows offered or pay a visit to some of the township’s many antique shops. When it comes to antiquing, you really never know what you will find.
What is your favorite place to scope out antiques? Let us know in the comments!
View All Posts by Jason Ernst