When you choose to shop local in Chicago, you are doing more than making a purchase—you are investing in the vision, creativity, and leadership of Black women entrepreneurs. From historic South Side tours to African fashion, innovative apparel design, and a cozy local bookstore in Hyde Park Chicago, these shops are the heartbeat of our city. Therefore, if you are looking for a Black-owned business near you or planning a Chicago trip, use this guide to find the best local stops.
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South Side Tours: Experiencing Chicago Through Storytelling
First, you must experience the city through South Side Tours. This company was created by Angela Dugan, a talented Black woman and Chicago native. Now, she uses her storytelling skills to highlight the beauty of her home. Her company offers a premier historical bus tour experience of the South Side area, built around history, culture, and neighborhood pride. Therefore, it is one of the most memorable ways to see the city through a local lens.
Founder: Angela Dugan
Specialty: Historical bus tours and cultural storytelling
Next on our list is Mama Africa’s Marketplace. This shop is a local staple owned by a Black woman named Ifarinu. For years, it has served the South Shore community. It is a great place to find traditional African clothing and handmade jewelry. Additionally, it is a community space that brings people together through culture, connection, and local events. You should check their socials for updates, pop-ups, and community moments.
Meet Honor Period Apparel. This Chicago-based brand is owned by Cecelia Towns-Scott, a Chicago native. The brand offers reusable underwear built around a patented design approach meant to support all-day comfort and longer wear. If you want to shop local in Chicago and support innovative product design, this is a strong brand to know.
Founder: Cecelia Towns-Scott
Specialty: Reusable apparel with patented design features
Finally, you must visit Call & Response Books. This local bookstore is a beautiful space in Hyde Park Chicago. It is owned by a Black woman who focuses on community and human connection. The shop places authors of color at the center of its work. Their name honors traditions of storytelling and dialogue, and the space is a gem for anyone who loves literature and wants to shop local Chicago.
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Location: 1390 E Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615
Specialty: Books by authors of color and community storytelling
Support Black Women: Strengthening Chicago Together
Supporting a Black woman in business is one of the most meaningful ways to shop local Chicago and keep our neighborhoods vibrant. Whether you book a tour, buy a book, or pick up something special in-store, your contribution helps these leaders thrive. Please share this guide and continue to seek out Black-owned businesses near you to keep Chicago’s local culture moving forward.
