I came into Doolin's in a complete panic after the decorations I ordered from Etsy for my mom's surprise retirement party were delayed. Chelly and April immediately jumped in to help and made what could have been a disaster so much less stressful. They helped me replace all of my balloons and decorations, and they even let me borrow a hand pump so I could inflate the balloons that couldn't be filled with helium. Their kindness, patience, and willingness to go the extra mile meant so much to me, especially since all of the Party City stores had closed and I wasn't sure where else to turn. Thanks to them, my mom's retirement party came together beautifully. I'm incredibly grateful for their help and will absolutely be back for all of my future party planning needs. Thank you, Chelly and April! I think this version feels warm, genuine, and highlights the employees by name--which is something businesses and future customers really appreciate. read more

I wasn't aware all party city's closed their physical locations which led me here. Paid $50 for a few balloons & a couple party favors but what pissed me off was the inflated balloons didn't float like they used air instead of helium. This led to my questioning me in regards to her bday. Confetti gun had a malfunction as well so I want my money back & I'll just use Amazon like most of the world next time. read more

Doolin's - Air instead of helium perhaps - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Always prompt with deliveries and usually have items in stock. Glad you have the products we needed.

Love that they have a small parking lot out back, and is very close to a Blue Line stop. They seemed to have a great variety of decorations for various occasions, and I was able to get some 40th birthday balloons on the day of, without pre-ordering, which I was thankful for. Service was a bit rushed but my balloons were ready fast, which I appreciated. It's a bit pricey, though I don't frequent party stores so can't say what it's like compared to other places. But I like to think I'm supporting a small local business compared to a large corporate store. The mylar balloons I got were great - lasted several days. But the regular latex balloons I got were on the floor in less than a day which was a bit disappointing. I'd return in the future for party decorations, but would avoid getting the normal latex balloons as they didn't even last a full day. read more

So helpful in picking decorations for my MIL's 100th birthday party. This store has what you need for almost any holiday. Their Mardi Gras section looked great. read more

One of the things we like about Chicago is that, as the third biggest city in the Nation, you can pretty much find anything you are looking for, no matter how obscure ... if you do a bit of research. Believe it or not we were looking for the tray that holds Bingo balls for the gamemaster as the game is played. And yes, Doolin's had what we needed. In the past at our family picnics when we played Bingo, the flat tray we had didn't prevent some balls from rolling away ... so we wanted one that had a little depth to the individual ball holders. Looking around on the internet, we found Doolin's. Down on 500 North Halsted Street on the edge of downtown, we were pleasantly surprised by the store. Besides two different Bingo ball holders, this place had a world of stuff for parties. We think the main business here is supplying downtown and Chicago-area businesses with the materials they need to throw a party when they have a celebration ... and Doolin's has all one might need. While we didn't need a whole set-up for our project, we will be back to stock up for a party one of these days. Check out their website (https://www.doolins.com/) for all that they offer. Doolin's was well worth the trip. Party time! read more

I have been going for many years. The staff is courteous and knowledgeable about their products and willing to help with a smile.

April was amazing to work with, she was prompt and helpful and order was delivered right on time!!

Polite and courteous Eddie took my order for my daughters hiighschool event they honored the tax exemption which was a great discount especially when we have budget. Everything was delivered on time. Will definitely use them again read more

I called Doolin's this morning and asking them if they could do a Halloween balloon order for me, even though it was short notice, and boy did they come through for me. The balloons were delivered well before my actual time and the delivery driver came to the office and dropped them off. Awesome Customer Service. Thank you for doing these balloons last minute for me. read more

Doolin's - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love Doolin's for so many reasons. It reminds me of a sweet small town shop, yet it is found in the heart of the city in the West Town neighborhood. The vintage building adds to the charm. You walk in and smell that attic kind of scent and hear the old wooden floor creak with every step. High ceilings and an unusual room shape makes me feel excited to see what I can find around each corner. Whatever party accessory you need, you'll find it here. You will also find things you didn't even know you were looking for. Bingo? No problem? Kentucky Derby? They have it? Disco balls of every size and even a giant balloon drop. Yep! The truth is, if you want to throw a unique party with all the bells and whistles, Doolin's is your only stop. They offer the biggest selection of balloons anywhere. Every color, size and design is here. I have never seen a more dynamic color choice for plates, cutlery and tablecloths. Seriously, all colors are here. Every holiday is represented as well. Major holidays or smaller obscure ones you never knew you wanted to celebrate are here. So many flags are available too. It's crazy the things you can find here! The staff is so nice and helpful. They are kind and offer a genuine hospitality you won't find at other stores. If you aren't sure of what you want, they walk around with you and help you decide. They explain how to store and care for your inflated balloons so they last a long time. FYI: There is parking behind the shop accessed via the alley in addition to street parking in front. The hours are a bit interesting. They are not open late. So if you need something, shop early in the day. read more

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Came here to plan our gender reveal party and wanted to fill up giant balloons that we bought online ourselves with confetti and so forth. The service was great and knowledgeable about the proper filling so that the balloon would not only fit in the car but be safely transportable so it wouldn't pop ha. They are pricey, all we wanted was helium, and of course this was the weekend before Halloween, so party city had over hour long waits in line. But we got it done and and our party went exactly as planned. While there we saw they have a great variety of party supplies and flowers so will definitely seek them out for supplies in the future. read more

I had a work party come up last minute and my manager wanted numbered balloons. I had no idea where I was going to get them with less than 5 hours notice. I found Doolin's on google and within the second ring I was talking to someone from their team. They were able to confirm they had the balloons I needed and the weights in stock (even though their website said they were out of stock). I received a quote within minutes and a text confirming it was received and not in my junk folder. I arrived to pick up the balloons earlier than they anticipated and they were still able to process my order with plenty of time to spare before the party. Would definitely recommend if you have a themed party coming up they have a LOT to choose from! read more

My husband had rented a table and chairs for extra seating at Christmas, and recommended to try out for some party supplies when I was throwing my sister a baby shower. They have everything you need for throwing any kind of celebration! I specifically needed balloons and faux fabric disposable table cloths. I was greeted as soon and I waked in and they made suggestions and helped me get everything! I needed balloons that could last more that 24 hours since the shower was on a Sunday and they would not be open. For an extra charge per balloon they spray the inside with a special solution and they last a really long time! The prices were very fair. For table and chair rentals quite inexpensive as well if you pick it up yourself. Parking is a challenge although there are metered spots out front. Not open on Sundays. read more

Doolin's - Balloons from Doolins - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Getting balloons delivered for a 2 year old bday party turned out to be way more difficult & expensive than expected. After calling a few of the big chain party stores my husband suggested I try Doolins. Duh- why didn't I think of that? I placed the call, scheduled the delivery, which was way more reasonably priced than the other few places I found that do deliver and promised myself I would never step into a Party City again. A few days later I made good on my promise and stopped in Doolins to get some last minute necessary supplies for the bash. I made the mistake of taking my 2 year old along who picked every Halloween, Thanksgiving, Sweet 16, etc decoration off the shelf. Fortunately, the folks who work at Doolins are super friendly and didn't seem to mind my crazy toddler. In the past month I've been back to Doolins two more times. I was smarter on return trips and left the kiddo at home...and am always in and out of there within minutes because the staff is great at helping me find everything I need. read more

Who doesn't love a little dress up? Ok, scratch that, sounds a little weird. Who doesn't love cheesey costumes and all the fun details that go with theme parties? I know I'm a big fan! My best friend came to visit for a weekend and, rather than do the Chicago norm, we decided to make a themed photo scavenger hunt of it instead. Doolin's, we couldn't have done it without you! For under $20, we got two sailor hats (see profile pic), a firefighter rubber ducky, two plastic toy sailboats, and a giant button. Cuz it was sparkly. The staff could not have been nicer. Faster, yes. Nicer, no. I would definitely come back here if I were planning a party or any other kind of event that I wanted decorations for (especially Saturday morning photo scavenger hunts). Love it! read more

Doolin's - Fun stuff from Doolin's -- like Stanley! - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I'm writing this review for my mom, who was in charge of ordering balloons for my wedding. Doolin's was so incredibly personal, helpful, and communicative in assisting my mom in selecting balloons for the wedding. Picking balloons is difficult! Doolin's sent her home with samples for my review (glitter inside of clear balloons looks AWESOME), sent her pictures of different balloon options (we needed to cover a wall-mounted TV in a private room at our venue), and suggested some fun mylar letter balloons for our DIY photobooth station (XOXO and B&B [our initials] in giant silver mylar ballons, SO MUCH FUN). Doolin's was also precise in making recommendations for what we needed. They sent us to the venue to take measurements in order to confirm we ordered and received exactly the right amount of balloons, no more, no less. And, they delivered the balloons on time to exactly where they needed to be. Mrs. Doolin (Chris?) worked so hard to make sure my mom and I were happy with our balloons, and we absolutely were. Balloons aren't normally something that guests really notice at wedding, but family and friends all complimented the balloons, even calling dibs on taking them home! Mom and I both highly recommend Doolin's for all your balloon and party needs! read more

Doolin's came through for us at the last minute. Called around noon, described what we needed, within seconds I had pictures of balloon bundles texted to me. From there I choose what I wanted, got an invoice and paid online, and the balloons were delivered by 3 pm the same day. I never stepped foot in the store. Also received texted message updates about the delivery. This should be your go-to place for balloon purchases in Chicago. read more

They have brown balloons! After calling a few Party City locations and learning they have stopped carrying the color, I was pleased to learn Doolin's has it in stock. $0.25/balloon $1.75/inflated balloon read more

I went to Doolin's for plastic margarita glasses and came out with $200 worth of fiesta decorations! They had everything for my Mexi-themed party and I was so inspired that I couldn't resist buying one of everything they had. Maracas, signs, balloons, a donkey pinata, sombreros and of course, the plates / napkins / rita glasses, too. They were so helpful and kind in the store - you could tell they a real enthusiasm for great parties. They stayed open 30 minutes after closing time just for me and threw in a few extra balloons - which ended up being awesome when I popped two on trees after I left. I will definitely go back for birthdays, Halloweeen and the bachelorette / bridal shower I'm planning! They have tons of themed merch to choose from and they deliver - I can't wait! read more

Doolin's - The fiesta decor I picked up at Doolin's set the tone for my party! - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is why they are still in business for over 50 years!!! They will be there for you for your party needs. Nice people and good 3rd generation running this business. They have very good sense of humor and when you work with them just be as detailed as possible so you get what you are expecting. Communication is so important so there will be no misunderstanding for future patrons. Support this local and family owned business. You would want to work with professionals. Price is reasonable for tables and chairs with delivery. Cheers! To the Doolin's team. Until my next party!!! read more

They're always so great! I've been going them consistently for 5 years anytime I need balloons or decorations!

Everyone I dealt with at Doolin's was very knowledgeable and went out of their way to help me; from Chris and Derek who I spoke to on the phone, to the person that helped me in the store, to the gentleman that helped load up the tables and chairs that I rented from them. Each of them patiently answered all my questions, made helpful suggestions, and were very flexible when I changed details on my order several times. Overall a very pleasant business to deal with. read more

Classy operation. Best customer service I've had in a very long time. Approachable, friendly, honest, hardworking, knowledgeable and FUN. Now, don't get me wrong...Party City certainly has its place, but Doolin's is local Chicago biz at its FINEST. Party supplies GALORE. Floor to ceiling. Anything you ever could possibly dream up for a party...they've got it already. I recently used their helium tank rental service. Delivered on time, picked up on time, worked perfectly. Only $99 for 500 balloon capacity, $150 deposit refunded upon pick-up. Perfect for large parties, and they also offer smaller tanks/quantities... Parking lot just south of Doolin's is for customers, so check it out. Stop in Iguana for a sandwich/coffee, and then gorge yourself on party supplies. It's more fun than you'd imagine, trust me... read more

I always try to buy local before going online. However, this place is an example of why people do. I came in to get some party favors for a kids birthday and there were not many options besides candy and balloons. The stock seemed limited and somewhat dated. I finally found some Chinese finger cuffs that were not priced. They wanted $6 for a bag of 16...online $1.37 for 12. Needless to say that I did not buy them when I can get them tomorrow offline for a third of the price. I probably will not return to buy party supplies here. read more

They carried decent stuff. Be very diligent about checking your receipt before you leave if the owner if he is ringing up your supplies. I brought a hat to the counter that did not have a price tag on it, but knew it was super cheap. I offered to get the other hat that in the area where I got it, which was broken, but did have a price tag on it. He said no and "went to check on the price" and then, being overly trusting, I didn't ask what he ultimately charged, and I should have. After I walked out and looked at my receipt, I learned he ran it at $5.50! I know the tag on the identical (broken) hat that I saw was no more than $1.50. So, a word of caution to not trust the owner to give you a good deal and check your receipt before you leave to be sure the prices charged align with what you expected. I don't trust the owner. read more

I get the worst party planning award. This week, I'm doing an NYE party, but haven't planned an inch of it. I've maybe thought about the food we'll serve and that's about it. After realizing that I'm totally procrastinating on the whole decorations aspect, I head over to Doolin's on my way home. Doolin's is a party planning mecca. They have everything from New Year's Eve decorations to baby shower to birthdays. I love that they have all colors of tablecloths, napkins, and cutlery for parties. I'll be back for future wedding showers I'll throw next year. Their selection is awesome and affordable. I found party hats, decorations, and champagne flutes almost instantly walking through the door. Their staff is so helpful and laid back. As I struggled down the aisles with arms full of party hats, confetti, and decorations, one of the staff members grabbed me a basket for my purchases. In less than a half hour later, I had all of my NYE decorations in tow. Yeah for Doolin's and their amazing selection of party goods!! Thanks for helping a procrastinator out!! read more

This is my go to party place I love the owners they are the kindest people and they make you want to patronize their store! So many places have gotten away from customer service but not here from start to finish it's always a pleasurable experience! I also love the fact if they don't have what you need they will get it! We have done some amazing things with their balloons read more

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In a word, AWESOME. Need colorful paper plates/napkins/cups/utensils? Doolins has them. Already thinking about your Halloween costume? Check out their wall-of-hats for inspiration (unless you and your mate have already decided to dress as Justin Timberlake and Andy Samberg from "Dick in a Box"). Hosting a game night? Rent BINGO supplies or a giant colorful wheel (you know, for Wheel of Fortune)! Balloons, tacky plastic tablecloths, decorations galore! Plus an adorable Yorkie named Gucci... what more could you ask for? read more

For some reason, I can just get lost in a store like Party City. I've driven past this place more times than I can count and always thought it was a bar....WRONG! It's a party store! My co worker suggested we take the blue line over to this place to pick up Mardi Gras & St. Patricks Day decorations for work. As soon as we got off the blue line I told her I've seen this place many times, I just didn't know it was a party store. This place has everything you need, and from what I was told...if they don't have it, ask, they just might have it in the back, or can point you in the right direction. Even being in the city, everything was reasonably priced. From olympics themed decorations to yards of table cloth (in a variety of designs & colors) to everything Bingo, this place really has it all!!! The staff and owner were super nice and super helpful as well. Doolin's is THE PLACE for your party needs for you city folk! :) read more

Doolins is really a sensory-overload type of experience. Any possible party item you could want, in almost every freaking color. I've rented helium tanks from them, bought balloons, and raffle tickets. I've even bought wristbands, confetti, table clothes, small plastic cups, cheesy party decorations, you name it! One could even buy a life-size Elvis or Marilyn Monroe cutout, if one wanted. Parking is available behind the building, or street parking in front. They'll even deliver the helium tank to your door, for a small additional fee. read more

Conveniently located less than a 5 minute L ride from the loop (literally across the street from the Blue Line Grand stop). If you have a work function for which you need party supplies, quick and cheap, this is the place. I needed to get my hands on some of those Tyvek wrist bands (the type you get at a beer garden or a concert, to show you've paid/showed your ID, etc). It was 4:00 on a Friday afternoon, and I needed them before the end of the day. Fellow Yelpers directed me to Doolin's and I hopped the Blue Line from Daley Plaza and was there and back within half an hour. Unlike Party City, which charges about 3x as much, these guys have a large selection at $8.50 per pack of 100. Because that was all I was there for, I really can't comment on the rest of their selection. It seemed they had a good variety of stuff for just about any sort of party you could want to throw. The only downside I noted were the hours. This place closes at 4:30 on weekdays, which is a little odd I thought. read more

As a trustee at a club in Elgin, I have been doing business with Doolins for many years and have had a very good experience. They always try to satisfy our needs. Thanks to their salesman, Joe Oderio for all his help. read more

Really love Doolin's - it's a great place to find your party needs and they have that great small business feel. I'm glad we are just right up the street from them because we always make it a point to go there first. read more

Wonderful party store, with GREAT service, friendly staff and the owner Chris has the most adorable little dog! I went there to look at decorations for my birthday party this year, and Chris told me all my options regarding ballon delivery etc. She even gave us a discount on filling and delievering ballons we had purchased from another store. Their selection IS vast, not as vast as Party City, but I would much rather support a family owned buisness, that is senstive to my needs as a consumer and gives great customer service than save a FEW cents and support a chain. Just my opinion. I say go, you'll love it and buying decorations will get you hyped for your upcoming party. read more

AMAZING customer service on all parts! The balloons were beautiful, delivered early and exactly what I asked for! They were so helpful, gave great advice, and didn't overcharge. LOVE this place! read more

Doolin's - Party Supplies Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I agree with previous reviewers that this place is a gem. It's the only party store anywhere nearby for those of us who live in the city center and don't have a car. Taking public transit up to Party City in the Lincoln Park area and then hauling stuff back seemed very time intensive and a pain. No thanks. Also, they go above and beyond to help you. I called to see if they had something, and they had a few options so they offered to send me a picture...and sent me a VIDEO of the options and narrated it telling me the price. It was the next best thing to being in store. Read more and see their video on my blog: http://www.babbleandbezotes.com/2011/doolins-party-store-amazing-customer-service/ I love you, Doolins! read more

Best balloons I've found! Seriously. Not only do they have a decent selection of color choices, but the balloons look great when blown up. I mentioned this place to my boss when she was getting ready for a 1st birthday party. I made a comment a few days after the party about how great they are at blowing up balloons and she replied immediately with an "I know!!" It might sound silly, but some places just don't know how to blow them up properly. Now, the store is not big so certain sections are limited, but it's worth a trip here. Chances are if you can't find that particular item elsewhere, Doolin's will have it. Certain staff members were really helpful and friendly, others, not so much. Overall, this is a great little party supply store to stop in at least once. If you don't find anything, just know they blow up balloons perfectly and if you're buying them there, they have a nice selection of colors. read more

Ok for real- these guys came through in a clutch. I had asked my neighborhood Facebook page where to go to get ceremonial ribbon cutting scissors and they suggested Doolin's. TBH I've been past there a bunch of times and was thinking about stopping in Bc I thought it was an Irish bar. ITS SO MUCH BETTER BC THEY HAVE RIBBON CUTTING SCISSORS FOR RENT. I can't stress enough how helpful the staff was when I called to ask about the scissors, and how gracious they were when I came in 20 minutes later to pick them up. Friendly and helpful and will definitely use them for other party needs! read more

Was directed to them via Yelp folks (Thank You!) as I was looking for a Life size cut out of our soon-to-be President for our Inauguration party. Showed up bright & early and greeted by Chris... what a doll! Unfortunately, this is a very popular item and very quickly sold out. BUT she offered to call competitors(!) for me to see if she could find one - WHO now-a-days would even offer THAT !? And how AWESOME is she for offering!?! If you need party supplies... that's the place to go! I found an alternate cut-out to use and am putting Mr. President's face on it. Plus I got some great Mardi Gras beads and patriotic napkins for the celebration! YES WE CAN ! YES WE DID! read more