I had time to kill before meeting a friend for dinner. It's a really cool store with a nice selection of back issues. I could go broke if I lived closer. They were super friendly and love that they wore white lab coats. It looks like they have a board game night. They also have a rideable Superman machine. I had to leave but I will be back. read more

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A beloved local institution. They mostly sell comic books, but it's also the place in Hyde Park to buy Magic and Pokemon cards, the place that hosts MTG events 6-8 times a month, and a general gathering spot for a certain kind of nerdiness. They're nice to kids too. Long may it thrive. read more

This place is the real deal. I'm no comic book afficionado, but the people who work here sure are (and they have real heart, too!). I've come here several times with a bunch of boisterous comic book-loving boys and the staff have amazed me with their seemingly never-ending patience as the boys browse around and ask for Magic or Yu-Gi-Oh cards off the top shelves. In addition, it is clear the staff at First Aid Comics have a real passion for all things comic books. They are happy to answer questions about everything they sell in the store and their knowledge goes above and beyond what I'd ever expect. They are even willing to put items behind the desk on hold. Every time I've walked in here, it seems like there are always people browsing or having jovial conversations with the staff. First Aid is such a friendly, welcoming place and is a true gem on the south side (and in all of Chicago). There are $1 grab bags of cards available (Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh), as well as 20-sided dice for something like $0.60 in tons of different colors. If I ever do get interested in reading comics books, then this would hands down be my first option. Until then, I'll enjoy frequenting this place every once in while with kids who are crazy about comics and who are even on a first name basis with some of the friendly staff. What a great, wholesome neighborhood comic store! read more

First Aid Comics - Free comic book day today, May 3! - Comic Books Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Came upon this comic book store yesterday, by chance, as I was heading to a meeting in the area. I decided to stop in and take a look around and I'm so glad that I did. They have a great selection and variety of comics! The staff is very friendly too. I was elated to see a big X-Men section and I found some trade papers I hadn't seen before so I had to have them. I also found a Conan the Barbarian featuring Red Sonja which was on sale. They sell some snacks and have gumball machines with comic-related toys. They also have a Comic Shop News papers which you can have for free. I've never seen this at other comic book shops. If I lived in the area I'd probably be a regular. Still, I think I'll make it a point to stop in every so often and check out the selection. This place is fantastic and one of the top comic shops in the city in my opinion. read more

First Aid Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Love this comic book store. Every time I've going there the staff is friendly and helpful. I would've given it 5 stars if they're manga selection was a little bit better. But if you're looking for comics this place is awesome read more

Great selection of comic books. Like the bouncing balls too. Highly recommend this Store. Go Marvel Heroes!

My 10 year loved all the comic collections and board games they had. Friendly staff and good prices

Stopped into this local store on a snowy Saturday afternoon with my boyfriend. The store is cozy, clean, not cluttered, had good walking space and also has a very good selection of newer books. The second floor game room is also a nice touch. However, as we were looking through the 50-cent boxes sitting on the floor, one of the clerks made their way up to the second floor to seemingly check for inventory. We didn't think anything of it until she came up the second time and proceeded to adjust the cameras, which we felt was because we were taking our time to go through at least 10 boxes (she ajusted two cameras so that both were pointed at the exact location of where we were sitting). It was disappointing to have experienced that because we try to shop local and that made us not want to purchase anything. If it weren't for the fact that I found a board game for a way cheaper price than anywhere else, I would've just left. I highly doubt we will come back and I do believe that because we are two Hispanic individuals, we were treated like outsiders who didn't belong there or somehow had to earn their trust. #DoBetter read more

This place is awesome. Here's why: - The owner, James, is super friendly and approachable. I'm a comic book nerd myself, but I've been in here with friends who aren't and they felt totally comfortable asking him questions. (None of that elitist b.s. you see at some other shops in the city). He's more than happy to order things for you if he doesn't have them in stock. - James' knowledge of comic books is pretty impressive. He's a Marvel guy (so he gets points in my book) but knows plenty about other brands, and is always reading up on what's new in the world of comics. If he hasn't heard of something, you can bet that by the next time you're in the shop, he'll have researched it and has made an informed decision. - This is the only shop of its kind in this area. James saw a need (how are there not more nerd-friendly stores around the U of Chicago- geek central?) and filled it. - Prices are reasonable- I've never seen anything marked up from its listed price. Even if you're a casual reader, head over to this shop. I promise, you'll have a lot of fun (and maybe end up with a new hobby- if so, welcome to the dark side). read more

My place to go when I need a dose of comics. The people here are great. Never a dull moment when I walk in. Everyone here is knowledgeable about comics and than some. If they don't have what you are looking for they do their best to find it at their other locations or other sources they have. I love coming here, my husband and I agree that we always leave with a smile on our face. Such a great place. read more

First Aid Comics - Our recent pick up from First Aid. Sweet covers. - Comic Books Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

A great independent comic book shop. Don't be afraid of the second floor location, once you get past a creepy hallway the store is cozy and inviting, and the owner is friendly and knowledgeable. The prices are fair the selection is excellent, plus they can quickly get anything they don't have in stock. I bought the new Jeff Smith book here and got a freebie GI Joe with it. Not my thing really, but a nice touch. Support this store, especially if you're a Hyde Parker: we're not going to get more great businesses moving onto 53rd street unless the few that are already here can make a buck. read more

This is one of the best comic book shops I been to. The staff is great, the owner goes out of his way to make you feel like a king. Great selection of comics and collectibles. Place is clean, organized and nicely decorated. Comic book shops should take lessons from this shop! read more

Friendly service, intelligent staff, courteous manners, insightful recommendations, game night. Going anywhere else would be setting yourself up for depression. Pros: Comics, service, information Elbow room Reachable via social media bike rack Childrens books Free Comic Book Day! Cons: They're not open earlier or later. Been coming here for several years now, didn't realize I hadn't left a review. First Aid Comics is a fantastic spot for superhero literature and card game knowledge. Even before becoming a return customer, the friendliness and knowledge of every single employee was impressive - there are no weak links here. First Aid Comics provides the customary behind-the-counter stash so you can collect your favorite releases and can even be reached via social media for those moments when discover something you really want but, oh!, it's after business hours. Their collection of toys, action figures, trade paperbacks, and supplies meets all my everyday requirements. First Aid also participates in C2E2 every year and other events around the city. What can I say? The staff works really hard to maintain that customer loyalty, they really deserve to be applauded. read more

recommended for comics, good vibes great service and good conditioned comics

Stopped in for the first time after visiting the Museum of Science nearby. Nice shop with a good selection.

I love this shop! Every Wednesday, I swing by not only to pick up some books but to chat for a bit with the owner (James) and the clientele. In addition to the standard superhero fair, there are some great independent and alternative selections. Hyde Park isn't the most happening neighborhood, but if you're nearby, support this very cool independent shop. James is open to special orders, gives great recommendations, and they have Luke Cage pint glasses! Unlike some of the bigger stores that charge for giveaways, there was a great FCBD presence and I got a free ring with my copy of Blackest Night! It's also right above Raging Cajun, which makes Wednesdays an entertaining and delicious tradition to look forward to. read more

My favorite and go to comic book store. They have new comics and some back issues. You can even call to see if they can get you a particular comic. The staff is cool including the owner. They sponsor some events that are awesome and have occasional movie nights at the nearby theater. There's even occasional board game events at the shop. Definitely recommend this place if you're a comic lover or have kids that are into board or card games. read more

I am expressing my appreciation for the excellent service First Aid Comics provides South-Side comic book consumers. Our continued support of this little shop in the clouds will show others that James' hard work and customer consideration are values that are rewarded by the community. Keep up the great work, James! read more

If you are looking for comic store, don't look no more. First Aid Comics should be your go-to place! They have amazing selection of comics and even better staff to help you around. It is easily my favorite place to get myself some reading material. read more

James and First Aid are wonderful. We live in NYC (though I'm a uchicago alum) and when the coronavirus shut down our local comic shop, we began ordering from First Aid. Not only do they stock everything we've been reading but they've been mailing it across the country. Fantastic shop and can't wait to visit the next time we're in town. Thank you! read more

The staff here are very knowledgeable, welcoming, and friendly. This place is not snobby or exclusive like so many specialty shops can be. I took my husband here in March for his birthday just for something different to do. While he wasn't really into comic books (more into graphic novels-which this store also has plenty of) at that time, this store has totally changed that. Now we go here a couple of times a month. Come here even if you think you aren't that interested in comics. Talk to the staff about things you do like and you'd be surprised about what they'll help you find. There's more to comics than Spider-Man and Captain America- although those are great too! read more

The other reviewer mentions that children are allowed to come in and read the comic books. I dropped my 12yo son off 6/20 around noon to browse because I was running errands. My son said that he was asked to leave and that the comic books were only for those who were going to buy them. Are children not allowed to browse anymore? He is super shy and quiet so I am wondering why he was asked to leave the store. He was really disappointed too because he was looking forward to spending a little bit of time in there browsing and looking at the costumes. I am debating whether or not to give this place another chance since the reviews are so positive. read more

Super friendly, James is awesome, the lab coat is a nice touch.

I just love James and the whole crew they always take care of me; almost on a daily basis my sun and I frequent this lovely comic shop his birthday is tomorrow and I'll be sure to be doing plenty of gift shopping!!! read more

Ok, I have yet to be here, but James used to run the comic shop I used to go to, and it hasn't been the same since he left! Go here for your books. Support the new guy. He's great and knowledgeable. If I lived down here, I'd move my pull list in a second. read more

One of the best comic book shops I've ever been to. I'm really glad it's just 10 minutes from where I live. The guys at the store are super friendly and helpful and always willing to give your nerd factor a boost with a recommendation about what's new and cool in the world of comic books. And trust me, there's way more interesting stuff out there than 99 percent of the population realizes. read more

Where has this place been all my life? No seriously. First Aid Comics is great, the staff is friendly, and they have a pretty decent selection despite their size (plus what other comic books store have you gone to where the staff are wearing lab coats? I want one!). Definitely the place to go for all my DC/Marvel needs without having to make a trip to the Northside. read more

This shop is neat!! Two levels - one for comics and one for gaming, and now on they have Heroclix on Sundays! How cool is that?!

Love this place. Was looking for a way to get back into reading comics and the staff here was extremely helpful with suggestions. I now visit about twice a month. read more

This is by far the best comic book store in Chicago. They may not be the biggest but their selection is solid. And the don't have they will get it for you. Plus the staff are the coolest, friendliest and most helpful. I always end up staying longer than I plan to. read more

When I was in high school, I read comics. And then I stopped. On re-reading a few of them, I can see why: they weren't very good! With a few notable exceptions, comics in the 80s and 90s were pretty lame. About 8 months ago, I stumbled upon James and his baby, First Aid. I asked what was new in the world of comics. About $2500 later... You should go in even if you don't read comics, because James is just that cool. read more

The best comic shop in Chicago. I am very lucky to live in Hyde Park and be so close to this place. James, the owner, is awesome and extremely knowledgeable. He knows how to run a comic shop. It's very clean, organized, and (unfortunately for us on a budget) extremely well-stocked. James runs sales here often, too. Even if you don't live in Hyde Park, I would recommend this place to anyone who loves comics or anything comic-related. read more

A great store in a neighborhood that desperately needed a comic shop. James is fantastic and commands an insane amount of comic knowledge. A buddy of mine has a pull list there although I haven't yet reached that level of geekdom. I hope to soon. read more

I've been a customer of James for a long time. I've followed him because of the value added customer service he provides. He is friendly and knowledgeable and has a passion for what he does. If by small chance he doesn't have what you are looking for, he will get it for you. As someone who grew up in Hyde Park/Kenwood in the 70s/80s I was excited to learn there would be a comic store opening in the neighborhood. HPK was a comic desert for a long time. First Aid has become a staple in the neighborhood. ( They hold tournaments and special promotions from time to time) My son loved Kareoke Wednesday! You will leave feeling like a valued customer whether you are an avid collector or picking up a comic because you just liked the movie adaptation of a character. read more

I could hardly contain my excitement when First Aid relocated to 55th street a while back. I enjoy knowing it's there and I enjoy stopping to browse, chat with the "doctors" and pick up graphic novels and dollar comics. Note that new comic books are tax-free, as they count as periodicals and not books. Resale comic books require sales tax. They have a huge selection and know their stuff. If they don't have it they know how to get it. I'm a fan of this place, definitely. Makes keeping dollars in the neighborhood very easy. read more

First Aid is a well-run, comprehensive comic-book and gaming store that is a great place for kids of all ages. The owner,James, keeps stock of all the popular games - Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, Heroclix, and runs tournaments on a weekly basis. In addition, the shop has begun to stock a number of action figures, especially both recent and vintage. If you need to get ready for a super-hero movie there are plenty of super-hero t-shirts and, if you're feeling adventurous, luchador masks if you want to rep your favorite character. The staff is polite and knowledgeable and they are always willing to go the extra mile to get you something you want. The shop keeps all the major titles in stock, in addition to many independent titles and trades of older materials. If you're a collector, James works various shows on the weekend so if he doesn't have an issue, he can probably find one for you. The most important part of this shop is that when you walk in, you feel welcomed and that your experience is the most important thing in the world at that moment. read more

First Aid Comics is marvelous! I really haven't been a huge buyer/reader of comics in the past, but I'm getting increasingly addicted. James is very personable and helpful, and has taken the time to make some great recommendations for me. Whether you are a big comics enthusiast or a total n00b like me, check out First Aid Comics. read more

Although I am not a fan of comic books my boyfriend is so I have been to many different comic book stores in this city. This store opened recently in Hyde Park. It is a little hard to find because it is on the second floor of a building and you have to ring a buzzer to get into the building but it is well worth the effort. The store was very cute, clean and well organized. The owner was very freindly. Although the store was small it seemed to have everything that a comic book fan could want and some things for non comic book fans. I had a birthday party for a child coming up and bought "Cars" toys there that I had not seen before and "Tom and Jerry" figurines. There really isn't any sort of store like it in Hyde Park and I would strongly recommend it to anyone looking for a great comic book store. read more

First Aid Comics - Comic Books Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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There are no comic book stores in the south side of chicago (Im sorry, the seminary co-ops expensive collection of trades doesn't count). Location is a bit tricky , second floor, gotta ring the buzzer to get in. But the place is awesome. James, highly knowledgeable and directs you to whatever you are looking for. The comic book club seems like a good idea, and I found some fun stuff in the 50 cent bin he keeps in the back. 5 star reccomendation. read more

This store has been a lifesaver for me. Up until the advent of this business, if you lived in Hyde Park and wanted comics you would have to go downtown. Not only is it a matter of convenience but the customer service is top notch. There are tons of other reasons as to why this place rocks. Here are a few: The pull-list club offers discounts on other merchandise at a better rate than other stores in the Chicago land area. For a small store, it offers a huge variety, from superhero comics, to westerns, to romance comics, to manga. The selection also reflects the nature of the neighborhood. They have all the indie stuff for the students, but they also have a considerable selection of comics by African American creators, and from time to time they come in and to store events. The staff is friendly! Many of us have encountered the snobby characters behind the cashier that the comic book guy from the Simpson is based on. The people that work here are the bizarro version of that. They add a great contribution to the neighborhood. Hyde Park is diverse and i think the mix of businesses that this one is a part of is a great reflection of that. I love coming here every Wednesday to pick up my new comics and then head to Valois for lunch. Now I look forward to the middle of my work week! I hope the store sticks around for many many years to come, and eventually moves to a street level retail space and expand their stock! read more