Entry No. 2 — the Chicago file — filed under: witchy

Occult Bookstore

Founded in 1918 by occultist D.G. Nelson, this is plausibly the oldest dedicated occult shop in the country and now operates as a nonprofit spiritual society as well as a store. The shelves run to rare and out-of-print esoteric texts, divination decks, blessed oils, mojo bags and custom spell candles. It hosts a recurring Wednesday-night social where the metaphysical community gathers to talk shop.

The move: Hunt the rare-books shelves for an esoteric title to read together, then time your visit to a 1st- or 3rd-Wednesday evening social.

📍 Before you go The store relocated from its old Wicker Park address; it is now at 3031 N Milwaukee in Avondale. Wednesday socials run roughly 7-8:45pm and may want an RSVP.

• 📍 Avondale
• 💸 $$
• ⚡ Up for anything
• 🌗 Indoors

Where: 3031 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Hours: Added 2026-06-23 — confirm current hours before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3 · source 4

last checked: 2026-06-23