Plan your summer shopping excursion to Starved Rock Country

The historic communities in Starved Rock Country are filled with cozy antique shops, artisan boutiques and unexpected retail gems waiting to be explored. Join us in exploring a few of the small businesses that give this region its character.

Blending retail, community space and creative experiences, True North (1338 Clay St., Morris) spans more than 11,000 square feet and features over 70 vendors. Inside, shoppers will find vintage clothing, salvaged furniture, artisan goods and the Next Page independent bookstore, along with interactive displays and themed spaces that encourage exploration and discovery.

Set within a restored historic lumberyard, The LumberYard (113 William St., Seneca) brings together shopping, coffee and community gathering spaces. Refuge Coffee offers a casual place to meet and relax, while The Rusty Rooster features home décor, gifts and seasonal finds, creating a laid-back environment for browsing and connection.

A downtown destination for antiques and collectibles, 229 Estates (229 W. Main St., Ottawa) specializes in rare and one-of-a-kind items ranging from vintage furniture and décor to coins, sports cards and military antiques. A second location hosts rotating antique and vendor markets, expanding the selection and variety available to visitors.

Curated home, garden and artisan goods define A Mess of Things (726 La Salle St., Ottawa), a boutique market filled with vintage décor, fair trade items, local art, jewelry and seasonal finds. Located in a downtown setting, the shop is known for its constantly evolving inventory and emphasis on handcrafted and regional products.

Prairie Fox Books (719 La Salle St, Ottawa) is home to one of Starved Rock Country’s best selections of reading material, boasting an impressive array of books, spanning nearly any genre you can think of. Children’s book, YA, thrillers, mysteries, general fiction, historical fiction and graphic novels all have sizable sections. You’ll find the latest bestseller and shelves of must-read classics.

Housed in a historic 1800s building, Jobst Monument And Gifts (402 W. Main St., Ottawa) combines thoughtful gift items with monument and memorial services. Inside, visitors will find home and garden décor alongside a distinctive fairy garden section, offering inspiration for miniature and whimsical designs.

In Streator, Wild Hearts Boutique (214 E. Main St., Streator) specializes in boho western-inspired fashion and accessories. The boutique features a curated mix of clothing, fragrances and footwear that emphasizes bold, expressive style. From leather boots to seasonal layers, the selection focuses on distinctive pieces with personality.

Fans of vintage won’t want to miss H&H Mercantile (314 E Main St, Streator), which offers an eclectic selection of antiques, jewelry, collectibles, housewares, small furniture and much more. If you’re a fan of vintage vinyl, you’ll want to pay a visit to H&H’s sibling store, Veranda Records and Art Ware (221 E Main St, Streator).

Utica’s Clarks Run Antiques (215 N Division St, North Utica) is home to a full wine bar, outdoor patio and the village’s largest selection of quality antiques and vintage pieces. Located just a short walk from bustling Mill Street, you’ll find over seventy vendor spaces selling exceptionally well-curated collections of antiques.

For those drawn to natural elements and spiritual exploration, The Rock and Soul (229 S. Clark St., North Utica) offers gemstones, minerals and meditation tools in a welcoming space near Starved Rock State Park. The shop features everything from crystal specimens and earth science items to singing bowls, mala beads and healing stones.

Fashion-focused and style-driven, T’s Midwest Boutique (124 Mill St., North Utica) provides a curated selection of women’s clothing, jewelry, shoes and accessories. The boutique also offers personalized services such as wardrobe consultations and private shopping, creating a tailored experience for customers seeking individual style guidance.

Spanning more than 6,500 square feet in downtown LaSalle, Canal Cargo Market (737 1st St., La Salle) showcases vintage furniture, reclaimed materials and industrial décor. Known for its upcycled and architectural finds, the market helps shoppers design creative spaces using salvaged and rustic-inspired pieces.