Chicago has a rhythm all its own — jazz in the air, architecture that scrapes the clouds, and food that makes you fall in love with every bite.

From deep-dish indulgence to iconic sportswear and locally made art, the Windy City is full of memorable keepsakes. Here’s what to buy in Chicago to capture its creative, bold, and soulful spirit.

1. Deep-Dish Pizza Mix or Pan

• Why pick this up: Chicago’s signature dish is a buttery, cheesy monument to indulgence. A take-home mix or authentic deep-dish pan lets you recreate that famous flavor from your own kitchen.
• What to look for: Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s branded mixes, or a 9-inch deep-dish pan.
• Price bracket (2025): $10–$40.
• Where to find it: Pizzeria gift shops and local supermarkets.

2. Chicago Sports Merchandise

• Why pick this up: Chicagoans live and breathe their teams — Cubs, Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox. A piece of sportswear instantly connects you with that unbeatable hometown pride.
• What to look for: Official jerseys, hats, or retro designs from classic seasons.
• Price bracket (2025): $25–$120.
• Where to find it: Wrigleyville shops or official team stores.

3. Garrett Popcorn

• Why pick this up: This iconic sweet-and-savory popcorn blend — caramel and cheese — is pure Chicago comfort food. The scent alone is irresistible.
• What to look for: The famous “Garrett Mix” in its signature blue tin.
• Price bracket (2025): $10–$30 per tin.
• Where to find it: Garrett Popcorn Shops around the city and at O’Hare Airport.

4. Chicago Skyline Artwork

• Why pick this up: The city’s architecture is legendary, from the Willis Tower to the reflective Cloud Gate (“The Bean”). Artwork of that skyline keeps the view with you forever.
• What to look for: Prints, photography, or metal wall art featuring the skyline or Lake Michigan.
• Price bracket (2025): $30–$150.
• Where to find it: Local art fairs, souvenir shops, or Etsy makers.

5. Blues and Jazz Records

• Why pick this up: Chicago is the home of electric blues and smoky jazz clubs. Taking home a record or CD from a local artist is like bottling that soulful energy.
• What to look for: Albums from legends like Muddy Waters or Howlin’ Wolf, or modern blues compilations.
• Price bracket (2025): $20–$50.
• Where to find it: Jazz Record Mart or Reckless Records.

6. Chicago Hot Sauce or Seasoning

• Why pick this up: Chicago’s food scene isn’t shy on flavor — local condiments pack serious attitude. You’ll find hot sauces, BBQ rubs, and giardiniera that give any dish a Chi-Town twist.
• What to look for: Locally made brands with bold Midwest spice.
• Price bracket (2025): $6–$20.
• Where to find it: Farmers’ markets or gourmet stores.

7. Route 66 Memorabilia

• Why pick this up: The “Mother Road” begins right here in downtown Chicago. A Route 66 keepsake is a nod to America’s open-road spirit and the city’s historic starting point.
• What to look for: Vintage-style signs, mugs, or postcards.
• Price bracket (2025): $8–$30.
• Where to find it: Gift shops near Adams Street (Route 66’s official start).

8. Chicago Architecture Book

• Why pick this up: From Frank Lloyd Wright to modern skyscrapers, Chicago is an open-air museum of design. A coffee-table book makes the perfect gift for architecture lovers.
• What to look for: Illustrated guides or photo essays on the city’s landmarks.
• Price bracket (2025): $25–$60.
• Where to find it: Chicago Architecture Center or local bookstores.

9. Craft Beer or Spirits

• Why pick this up: Chicago’s brewing scene is booming. You’ll find creative local beers and small-batch gins and whiskeys that rival any in the country.
• What to look for: Revolution Brewing or Goose Island beer, or Koval Distillery spirits.
• Price bracket (2025): $10–$50.
• Where to find it: Brewery taprooms or specialty liquor stores.

10. Chicago Candies

• Why pick this up: From Frango Mints to local chocolate shops, Chicago has a sweet tooth. These treats have been local favorites for generations.
• What to look for: Frango Mints (sold at Macy’s on State Street) or artisanal truffles.
• Price bracket (2025): $8–$25.
• Where to find it: Candy stores and department shops.

11. Chicago Flag Merchandise

• Why pick this up: The city’s flag — with its sky-blue stripes and four red stars — is a design icon. Locals wear it proudly, and it makes for clean, stylish souvenirs.
• What to look for: T-shirts, tote bags, or enamel pins featuring the flag design.
• Price bracket (2025): $10–$40.
• Where to find it: Souvenir stores or local design markets.

12. Local Artisanal Products

• Why pick this up: Chicago has a thriving maker scene — soaps, candles, prints, and small-batch goods that reflect the city’s creativity and heart.
• What to look for: Chicago-made goods from independent makers or craft fairs.
• Price bracket (2025): $10–$60.
• Where to find it: Renegade Craft Fair or neighborhood markets.

🏙️ Final Tip

If you want souvenirs that truly capture Chicago’s flavor, go for Garrett Popcorn, a sports jersey, and skyline art — the perfect mix of taste, pride, and style.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!