Cool thrift and antique shop that I'm surprised I haven't had a chance to stop into before. Unfortunately I showed up on a day that they were closing early so I just did a quick walk through to get a feel. I saw a good amount of things including clothes and jewelry that would make a more thorough trip next time I am in the area worth it. read more

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A sweet little eclectic shop with great customer service. Huge selection from A to Z! Antiques to vintage clothing. Prices were great and the help was willing to negotiate prices. A definite must experience place! read more

If I could give 10 stars I would! They have rooms full of eclectic items. Fantastic jewelry at incredible prices. Great staff and the absolute best customer service. The owner went way overboard to ensure we were happy with our items. Just a genuine, kind, fair, fun lady! Don't go there to pop in and out, plan to spend some time. It's an adventure. I am editing because I read a few negative reviews... let's be clear, if you're a Walmart kinda shopper wanting cheap cookie cutter crap, stay away. Most of the prices were super reasonable for the quality but here again, if you want Walmart quality, this ain't for you. read more

So Target has a sale on the wet cat food my boyz eat where not only is the bulk pack discounted, but you get a $5 Target gift card too. I couldn't even remember the last time I was this excited... until I realized that I was going to have to spend that $5 gift card on going back to Target and buying carpet cleaner for all the clearance food my cats had just puked up. Ughhhhhh. f*cking circle of life. So I decided I needed to schedule some zen time for myself and figure out a new happy place (that isn't Target) to just release some stress and be (dare I say), feline-free... or least farther away from fur-balls. Enter: Cracker Jax This shop is totally, 100%, without a doubt worth a trip out to, even if you're driving in from the city. There's literally (and this is just ball-parking it on the lower end of the spectrum) no less than infinity +1 things in this shop that only seems little from the outside, but actually has like 10 different rooms, all floor-to-ceiling covered in vintage, used and new items for men, women and children. My guy came with me to the store on our first visit and even though he hates shopping with the passion and fire of a thousand burning suns, he found himself amused by the many grandfatherly items and things you'd expect to see in the trophy room of a one Mr Ron Swanson. Some real old school manly-man type relics up in this piece, although he admitted feeling quite a bit overwhelmed with the amount of clutter and stuff in this store. I, on the other hand, felt right at home... I've also been threatened by every person I've ever lived with in every location I've ever lived that they were going to make a tape of the way I live and send it to the show 'Hoarders'. And while I'd like to deny it and say my habit isn't that bad, I know that'll I'll probably die from a stack of magazines and junk mail toppling over on my person while fighting through the piles of junk to find a cat, that may or may not have already been impaled by a rogue stiletto at the bottom of collapsed pile of clothing. It's not ideal, but it's just the way it's always been and it's something that I've been dealing with all my life and while I'd like to not be that way, I seems as if I was programed to be a hot mess from birth, and I like that Cracker Jax (in a much more tasteful way) helps me celebrate that. So anyway... All the things. I think that meme originated after one person's visit to this shop that literally has all the things you never knew you needed, but now inexplicably can't live without. Home-wares, clothing, accessories, books, games, antiques, vintage gems, knick knacks galore, old broken mannequin parts, air fresheners, tongue-in-cheek jesus tchotchkis, and more... So.Much.More. All one-of-a-kind. It's like returning to Mrs. Havisham's old mansion of dusty, aged treasures, but without the dust. We came in about an hour-and-a-half before closing time and it honestly felt like we'd been there 5-minutes, yet before I knew it, the shop was closing up and I'd still had more rooms to explore. Definitely give yourself (at the very least) an hour in this store, but don't be surprised if your time here leans closer to 2. The shop girl was young and hip and sweet and funny... and most importantly a little twisted and totally someone who got my tasteless humor regarding a gift I bought there for a friend that I will not mention because it's only something a dark, horrible human being would think was funny, and plus, it's none of your business. I don't know that I've ever left a store regretting not getting a girl's digits because I wanted to hang out with her extra curricular-ly, but it totally happened here. They wrap your goods up in the cutest boxes and tissue and don't be surprised if while you're at the counter you convince yourself you need to throw in some of the locally-made caramel treats they sell for a quarter or something ridiculously cheap like that at the register. This place. It just 'gets' me. It reminds me of when my brother and I were (quote, unquote) "horrible monsters" and my mom would threaten to run away and never come back. I feel like the next time my kids (cats) act up and I go missing, you'll probably be able to find me here, finding myself amongst the menagerie. read more

Cracker Jax - Storefront - Antiques Near Me - DeKalb, Illinois

Great little gem of a store!! Some older LPs.. Lots of jewelry, including clip on earrings.. Vintage clothing from the 60s, 70s and 80s. Aisles are a little narrow, but they make it work! read more

I found the prices to be high, they have tons of stuff everywhere and it is hard to get around, I felt as if I was going to bump into something or break something at every turn. Lots to look at - it's packed. If you are looking for vintage clothing or a handbag - this is your place! read more

$25 for a 18" tall vinyl stool? Give me a break! A lot of the "vintage" furniture in here appears to actually be broken down furniture that has been painted or other wise further distressed to make it an "antique" with a ridiculously high price tag. Nothing appeared to have its original finish. Having said that, as a gift shop and jewelry shop, I would say it is interesting. Not sure what the prices on these sorts of things were as things are so packed into the space it is hard to tell at quick glance. Not a good resale shop to bring small children! read more

Ditching out of mass on Sunday like any good guilty Catholic? Cracker Jax is your place! You'll come home smelling like incense, and no one will be any the wiser! Plus, you can buy a few witchcraft instructional books and accessories, an you'll be good to go! Seriously, though, Cracker Jax is a pretty nifty shop. It's the motherlode for anyone who loves vintage jewelry and rhinestones--conveniently organized by color. They've also got a collection of other accessories, hair clips, vintage clothing, knick knacks, and other gift items. The store is PACKED full of stuff, so leave yourself plenty of time to browse--and don't forget to look up at the many items displayed on the walls! As with any good boutique store, things here are a little overpriced, but if you're looking for the perfect unique jewelry for a special event or formal occasion, this is your place. read more

Best thing I ever bought here was a tiny multi jointed Dia de Los Muertos skeleton for my son, which took all of 4 minutes for him to rip apart. But there is a lot more than miniature corpses in here - vintage clothing, vintage hats, vintage jewels, some new age type gifts, aromatherapy - a kitschy little shop packed to the hilt - and I believe they just opened a second shop around the corner. I used to go here daily when I was in law school, you can't beat this shop, the prices are premium, but the items are truly unique. read more

I've always been a big fan of Cracker Jax. The big downfall of this great little shop is that it's very crowded, and somewhat overpriced for the Dekalb area. Many people who come in can be overwhelmed by the amount of options. However, Cracker Jax is one of my favorite little stores in Dekalb. The jewerly is always beautiful, and you can be sure to find something special. There's alot of fun items here too, many that are very unique too. I love getting gifts at Cracker Jax, you'll always find something unique. The staff does a beautiful job of gift wrapping too, just make sure they know it's a gift. read more

This is a great shop, VERY large and full of items to thrift thru. The prices though are a but much for me on certain items. I came across a few vintage dresses and a pretty nightgown all for over $100 and not in my budget. There are 3 spacious rooms to weave in and out of while touring the shop. There are many different items placed all over the store. Thrifters paradise!! There are many photos I have uploaded to help me with this review because I believe that way you can see the store for yourself before going. This was my first trip to Cracker Jax and not my last. I recommend this shop and they are open on SUNDAYS! read more

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When my future brother-in-law said we were going to a "lady store", I wasn't sure what to expect. Upon entering, I was surrounded by soft pinks, lace, and pearls. (I get it now) Their inventory is varied in items and prices. I recommend going there for a girl's afternoon and browsing! read more

My mom has been coming here since she was in high school! The store offers super cute vintage stuff with mid range to high range prices. You can always find something here! Their jewelry is nice, they have a lot of nice kids/baby stuff as well. The store is a little cramped, which is understandable because they have a LOT of product! Well worth the visit though. read more

Definitely not going to come back here again. The last time I was here, the abstract music playing in the store gave me a panic attack. Cracker Jax has changed so much for the worse in the past 4 years. The prices are still expensive. May of this stuff could be found at other alike stores in the area for almost half the price they were being sold here. I had read about a woman saying she found items that were stolen from her house resold here, too! All of this was confirmed by detective work. On top of that, Cracker Jax does not appreciate those who do not have a roof over their head. They were a key part of getting Feed Em Soup discontinued because they constantly complained about homeless people being in the area. I honestly hope Cracker Jax closes soon. They should not rebrand or anything, the name has already been tainted. read more

This is a very eclectic store. You'll find old (vintage) items mixed with new (but vintage looking) items. It's a small space and there is literally staging of products from floor to ceiling. (I have to remind myself to look up!) I've purchased several items over the years here and it's funky, fun and moderately priced. I downgraded to 4 stars because I'm not into incense and that makes me want to cough and sneeze the entire time I'm in there. I wish that the owners would consider that not everyone finds incense appealing. I'd probably spend more time in the store and buy more if I didn't feel like a cat hacking and coughing from all the burning incense. read more

I lived in DeKalb in the late 90s and apparently never made my way into this store. From what I hear it was originally one store front expanded now to about three store fronts. For starters, this place is a bit overwhelming - there is SO MUCH to look at!!! This is the perfect place though if you're looking for a unique gift to give someone. I almost guarantee you can find something for them in this place. I also suggest not shopping here if you're in a hurry as there is lots to look through so you'll want to take your time. I was killing some time before heading down the street for lunch so it was the perfect place to do so. I was also able to pick up a gift - I'm shopping ahead for the holidays & stuff. I shopped on the 75% off jewelry rack and was able to pick up a nice bracelet and set of earrings for SIX bucks... yes, $6!!! Also, they gift wrap your purchase nicely so there isn't even a need to buy a gift bag if you're shopping for someone other than yourself. There are new items and gently used vintage items here so again, come in when you have time and have a look around. You'll probably end up walking out for that special gift for someone, or yourself! read more

Wow there is so much stuff to look at. I do get overwhelmed in places like this but I take my time. You literally need a good 2 hours to shop in here because you have to look at everything. read more

Cracker Jax - Antiques Near Me - DeKalb, Illinois

Lauren is absolutely delightful. Her customer service is exceptional. I had an incident where I had purchased two different rings. One where the stone had been lost and the other had broken, within a month of purchase. Her policy states no returns or exchanges on jewelry so I initially chalked it up to a loss. I felt at least for my own peace of mind I should at least attempt to contact the owner and let her know what had happened. I was beyond impressed with her response. She told me to please come back and pick out two different rings to replace the two that had been damaged. Not only did she hold true to that but she gave me a $20 gift card. She is the definition of good business. Integrity means so much. Support local, and support Cracker Jax. Thank you Lauren! read more

Cracker Jax is truly the most WONDERFUL store I have ever seen and I live in Los Angeles, have lived in New York, Chicago & Dallas. It is all the beautiful clothing, cards, jewelry, handbags, shoes & various collectable items you could want. I miss being able to shop there as often as I like. The owner has the most exquisite taste! View the store pictures on the Google search to get an idea of how truly magical it is!!! I ADORE Cracker Jax! read more

Lots of cool stuff in here. It's a great place to get a Halloween costume! The smell of incense permeates as you look through racks of 1950s prom dresses, stacks of old books, and cases of antique jewelry. read more

This store is so precious and unique. I truly can't believe a store like this exists in this area! It is so quaint. It smells amazing and is decorated beautifully. The selection of items they offer is unbelievable. They have beautiful secondhand/vintage jewelry that is reasonably prices, unique charms (if you're into jewelry making I highly recommend checking out this place), vintage clothing and purses, vintage household and decorative items, as well as some more modern stuff like items by the brand Natural Life! I cannot recommend this store enough. It is a very big store- you would never guess how big it is from the outside! It is kind of maze-like, but you get the hang of it. And it makes for a fun shopping experience, exploring the different rooms. The staff member working when I visited was very sweet. And they also give you such cute bags for your purchases when you check out, and even give out little hand sanitizers as a free gift! I truly love this store and I feel so blessed that I stumbled upon it :) read more

Cracker Jax.......... I love you! I could have spent a week here looking at all of your jewelry, soap, knickknacks, candles, keepsakes....... I WANT IT ALL! You sparkle, you shine, you smell great and had so much to offer!!! I could have spent thousands here and been just fine with that. I thank my sister for introducing me to you and I curse her too because you will be taking all of my money! Please consider having a branch out in Oak Park, Chicago or Portland, Oregon. PLEASE PLEase PLEASE!!! Thank you! read more

I've loved every experience I've ever had here. Every time I visit I'm impressed with new products and sweet smells. Keep up the good work, Lauren! read more

Cracker Jax has a special place in my heart; Lauren is a fab vintage proprietor and though I don't get out to De Kalb much anymore, it's always a sweet surprise to pay a visit to this little shop. Some great finds, and even better memories...great stuff for gifts or accessories to dress up your wardrobe. A sleek 1940's Gold Bakelite Westclox alarm clock caught my eye...and the price, less than half of the same item being sold on Etsy! Cracker Jax might be De Kalb's ONLY shop with any character left. A must see when passing through the flying ear of corn town, my hometown. read more

Cracker Jax embodies the spirit of the kind and creative owner, Lauren, whom Dekalb is lucky to have. I would expect to find such a place somewhere like San Francisco or California. Cracker Jax is packed with so many interesting things that it could take you quite a while to see all there is to see from jewelry, odd bits of this and that, clothes, hats, and goofy gag gifts. It's a place to go if you want to have fun, wear something fun to go somewhere fun, or to see if Lauren can find you that perfect little something. Not many places have a dedicated following like Lauren does. Once she knows what you like, she'll let you know when she comes across something like it. She also really knows her antiques and the value of vintage objects, and she always has friendly young women helping her run the store. I have to fess up and tell you I worked for Lauren while in college (yes, I was one of those friendly young women!) and she was the kindest most generous boss I ever had. When we had an extra crazy day with crabby customers, she would give us a bonus just to say "thank-you". If we wanted some of the things she was selling she would always make it affordable for us. She has a huge heart and just loves doing what she does. I still go back to visit her after more years than I like to say just to say "hi" and to look for those little gems that she always has in her lovely little store. It's so great that there are still independent unique gift shops that thrive in an age of Walmarts. read more

This place is awesome. So many cool things to look at. There is something there for everyone. The lady was really nice and helpful. I will be coming here again! read more

I LOVE this store. I have been shopping here since I moved to DeKalb in 1985. Lauren reinvents Cracker Jax with the changing times and always has fresh ideas. I must say that I almost never leave empty-handed, even when I just pop in to see what's new. I walk by every evening with my dogs just to see the changing window displays. read more

Great place to shop for gifts! They have a lot of vintage, eclectic clothes and accessories, and all sorts of other items as well. They have a large inventory stuffed into a little space, which gives it all the more eclectic charm. The staff is also very nice. The prices here can be a little high, but you can always find things on sale and get some great deals. I would highly recommend this place for gift shopping when you don't really know what to get a person. read more

I absolutely adore this place! Every time I go I find so many wonderful treasures. Not only does it smell amazing as soon as you walk in, but there is so much to look at! If you can't find something you love here then you didn't look hard enough. My only complaint is that the prices are steep. read more

Again, owner is spaced out. We have met. I am not trouble. Owner is a terrible business person. DO NOT CONSIGN HERE! And, their prices are way too high. read more

I love this store! I found Cracker Jax because I wanted to buy a special gift for a friend. I didn't want something that she could have bought herself at a big box store. This was the perfect place to find it! Everything is reasonably priced too. read more

Looking for a unique boutique with all sorts of good finds? Cracker Jax is your place! With thousands and thousands( okay, I may be exaggerating but the inventory is massive!) of products you are sure to find something to bring home for yourself or find a gift for someone else. Something special, possibly vintage, unique and/or a real treat. Walking in from the outside you can already catch a glimpse of what lays ahead.. Very cool finds! Make sure you have lots of time to browse before entering so you can take it all in and not get overwhelmed. The actual store is crowded, but it gives it it's unique ambiance. Be careful not to knock anything over with your handbag or stroller. Prices can be more on the expensive side, but that's to be expected at any boutique. I really enjoy the customer service I receive here each time because they are friendly and let you take your time in their shop without harassing or stalking you. I also love, love how they gift wrap your purchases for you at no charge. read more

Crackerjax is awesome, anyplace that can stick around this long IS. the stuff is cool unique and beautiful, all the people there kind and subtle. so its crowded? who gives a hairy youknowwhat?!? anywho, for the Location, nothing else is like it, and i have made many pilgrimages there through the yrs and yeah i remember when they first opened, nice nice nice nice. read more

The staff at Cracker Jax was very helpful to me. I'm a new business on that block and didn't know where our dumpsters were located. The young lady behind the counter had no issue with telling me. My wife and I have gone in there quite a few times just to see what they have different. Yeah, there is a lot of stuff in a small space, but that's part of it's charm really. Unless you have antlers growing out of you, getting through the place isn't difficult. If the ladies at Cracker Jax need help with anything, I'm right around the corner! read more

Great store! I've been coming here for more years than I care to admit. I always find something good here. The rewards card helps me earn points for cash off my purchases. Yes, some things are a bit pricey but I don't shop here every day so I don't feel too guilty. Maybe it's not for everyone, but it's definitely for me. read more

I am IN LOVE with this store! A friend took me for a girls day, and since I have taken almost every single friend and family member to this wonderful world of fun and vintage GIRLNESS! I will forever continue to come back as I have not only found endless amounts of GREAT deals, but I have also found key staple pieces at great deals. If you are near the chicagoland area, it is totally worth the trip into Dekalb! read more

very nice store, owner is very polite, very nice. the store is always good for look through. i love checking it out. not exactly stuff i would buy. but its such a cool place i still go to look and i know its stuff alot of other people would like. highly recomended. read more