Andersonville

During the 19th-century immigrant Swedish farmers began to move north from the center of the city into what was then considered a suburb of Chicago. By the 20th century, the entire commercial strip was dominated by Swedish businesses and today the smorgasbord includes the Swedish American Museum and one-of-a-kind, locally owned, independent businesses. Among the shops in the National Historic District, you'll find more than a few antique and vintage stores; candy shops; bookstores; lots of spots featuring clothing and accessories; furniture; music; kitchenware; pet supplies; shoes; and food and wine. The community celebrates neighborhood-wide seasonal fests and spectacular sidewalk sales in summer. The Andersonville Galleria features over 90 tenants stocking apparel, jewelry, artwork, home goods, antiques fair trade and gourmet items. Unfortunately, Swedish Bakery recently closed after 88 years but you can still get Swedish meatballs, pickled herring or the Stockholm Special at Svea.