Magic Inc. -- Chicago I've been to Magic Inc. three or four times now, and every visit has been a great experience. If you're a magician, hobby magician, or just somebody who loves magic, this is a place you need to check out. It's more than just a magic shop. It's a place where you can actually talk magic. The staff has always been great, and they've shared some fantastic stories about local Chicago magicians and mentalists. Pedro, the owner, even gave me the whole backstory on one of my favorite mentalists. As a hobby magician, I really appreciate that kind of conversation and the history behind the art. Every time I've stopped in, I've learned something, heard a good story, or discovered something interesting. You can tell these guys genuinely love magic and its history. They also have some great prices and plenty of magic, books, collectibles, and other items that you're just not going to find anywhere else. After three or four visits, I can honestly say that every experience has been a good one. If you're into magic, make the stop. Even if you don't buy anything, go in, look around, and talk some magic. You'll probably walk out with something you didn't know you needed. Five stars from this hobby magician. read more

See all

This shop is a place that is a must visit in Chicago! I just left the shop and my daughter has not stop talking to her mom about her experience. She is 6 years old and Pedro is a pro! He made my daughter laugh and even thought her a magic trick. We purchased an awesome trick and my daughter has been practicing this non stop beyond excited. She said I must do this like Pedro did dad! Thanks a million for the awesome experience. My wife asked my daughter if she preferred going to climb zone or Magic inc..... without a miss of a beat! She said MAGIC INC! read more

It's THE magic store...full of everything magic. From beginner to professional, to tricks to books, to videos...all supported with friendly knowledgeable staff. Highly recommend anyone with an interest in magic to visit and shop! read more

Excellent magic shop for everyone, whether you're looking for fun toys, or do magic as a hobby, or are an advanced professional magician. Staff is very helpful and knowledgeable. We have gone several times and there's a good chance to meet other magicians while there. One of the few brick and mortar magic shops around. Worth a visit, and prices are good for their products. read more

Magic Inc is an institution. I fell in love with magic when I was a kid in grade school. My parents surprised me with my first magic kit a Mattel Magic Showstopper set. Then they took me to places that are now all be a distant memory... Schulien's Bar and the Old Barn that had magicians that performed some of the best close up magic I've ever seen. They introduced me to Magic Inc, and the folks there were kind enough to send me via mail their magic catalog. I would save for months to buy numerous illusions and tricks. My Dad would drive me to the shop from Berwyn where the staff and customers, magicians all would give advice, instruct and perform magic and illusions for me. Some of my best memories from childhood! I went on to even perform magic shows for fun and the love of magic. As a teacher, I find myself sharing my love for magic with my students and even performed illusions while Zoom teaching. If your a parent and your child had an interest in magic, don't just by some kit off of the internet. Take a visit to Magic Inc. , where the magic is real. read more

Visited this shop while on holiday in Chicago. I'm a very amateur magician, so I wanted to check Magic Inc out. I was greeted by Pedro who helped me pick out some tricks for my daughter and chatted with me for well over two hours. He told me about the Chicago magic scene, and about area magicians I needed to check out. Another staff member helped me with my own magic: despite being quite skilled, he had all the patience in the world for my bad moves. My fear when visiting any sort of specialty store is that folks will be a bit of an in-group and not too welcoming. That definitely wasn't the case here--they have all the time in the world for every customer that walks in. Be sure to check out this magic institution if you're in the area. read more

I've always passed this place while driving on Lincoln; today, my friend and I decided to stop by to finally check it out. We expected some seedy-used-bookstore-vibe-ish type of a store, but was pleasantly and shockingly surprised when we walked in. It was full of items and materials for amateurs to the experienced - Luis, who was extremely genuine, very entertaining, and hilarious, showed us a few card tricks that still boggled my mind - he didn't push any items upon us, but gave us awesome suggestions on which products would be best to begin with. You can really tell that the customer service here is top notch, and the people who are employees are also magicians themselves who actually love sharing their passion for magic tricks. The store has been around since the '20s, which is such a cool thing. The place also services famous magicians like David Copperfield, which I thought was pretty darn impressive. They also have featured magicians and such in their theater as well as information on other magic shows in the Chicagoland area. Our experience in there was amazing - this place is wonderful, and I highly recommend anyone to stop by to check it out. I'm now a huge fan of this place, and everyone of all ages will definitely get all giddy with glee. Many thanks to Luis and to Magic, Inc.! +magic tricks for beginners to the experienced +ask for Luis :D read more

See all

Great place! A good friend of mine took me here. It's a very calm, welcoming and chill environment. Walking in, there seems to be so much history as you look around from the signed playing cards on the ceiling to the brick walls and tons of gadgets. The staff is very friendly and always happy to go over all their merchandise. You never feel rushed or pushed so for a smaller kind of store, that is a rare site. It's a great place to just check out and who knows, you might leave with some goodies. They really work with you if you're interested in learning something or are there for just the entertainment of it. Perfect for those like me that know very little about magic and just enjoy the fun in it and for those more serious. They have a stage where they have magicians come in to perform/teach. These are all coordinated events. Overall great place! Really recommend. Parking is city parking but as long as you are good with paying for the meters, you'll be fine finding parking spots. read more

Even though Ash's so-called "shop" is just down the street, Magic Inc is the ONLY magic shop in Chicago as far as I'm concerned. This is the real deal for those who love magic as a hobby or profession. The store is neat and very well organized, the staff is friendly and helpful, and the selection of items is good. I particularly appreciate that they showcase some of the work of the local Chicago talent, which means they have some merchandise you can't find at every other magic shop and/or on the web. It is very sad to me that brick and mortar magic shops are almost completely extinct. In Chicago alone, I was told there were once seven or eight magic shops located in the Loop. Over time they have gradually disappeared and there's no doubt the internet and on-line shopping have helped drive the final nail in many a magic shop's coffin. Magic Inc is a survivor and a class act for anyone who enjoys this type of performance art. I'll always support shops like this in hopes they continue to succeed for generations to come. read more

I 'won' three magic posters in an action and had to pick them up at Magic, Inc, the home of recently deceased Magician Jay Marshall and his sidekick, a puppet named Lefty. His family has been auctioning off his collections of magic ephemera (historical posters, including original Harry Houdini posters that sold for over $13,000 each), books, puppets, and props. Jay Marshall was an avid collector, and the liquidation of the estate has turned into a full-time job for many members of the extended Marshall clan. The unassuming building is on an unassuming block on the northwest side. The building is for sale, and the family is under pressure to move the collections before they have to vacate the building. The shop is comfortable and old-school, and staffed entirely by magicians (like Jay Collen - www.suchmagic.com) who also have a monthly magic show at the City Lit Theatre. They sometimes host visiting magicians from other cities as well. All this I found out on my first, and possibly only trip, to Magic Inc. They've got a great collection of magic magazines, magic books, interesting props, and even more interesting staff who, if you are lucky, will show you a trick or two. Even more amusing to me, however, was Susan Marshall, who has temporarily relocated to Chicago from New York to help with the liquidation of Jay Marshall's estate. While I was chatting with her, she asked me if I was single. Why yes...I was, in fact, single. Would I like to meet her son? Is he good looking? I asked. Is he taller than I am? Yes, yes she answered. Do you like animals, she asked me Do you smoke? Yes, I like animals. No, I don't smoke. And I asked, Why isn't he married? Most people my age are married. Oh, he was married...when he was young. Are you a sports fan? Asked one of the magicians. He hates sports. I was wearing a red sox hat. Ah. No, I'm not. I just like my red sox. Okay! She said. She called him. "Lindley E is here to pick up her posters and would like to meet you." She hung up. He's coming, she told me. He's in another part of the building working on something. As we continued to chat (I learned it was hard for him to meet people...gee, I can relate), her son showed up. Good looking guy. Suddenly I found myself reciting my resume...and then I did this, then that, then I got my MBA, I heard myself saying. He left for a moment to bring one of his dogs back to meet me. His mother took a moment to ask me what I thought. So, she asked. Do you think he's good looking? Oh yes, I said. Do you want to go out with him? Uh, well, I'd certainly go out with him. I told her that if he wanted to get in touch, she had my contact information. And then she told me that he was shy and probably terrified of "MBA types" - I tried to assure her that I was normal-ish. Really. The trip to Magic inc ended with her son wishing me luck on my condo closing. And we parted ways. oh, and here's a link to their eBay auctions: http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZjayandleftyQQhtZ-1 read more

That last of a dying breed. I've been going to this store since I was a kid, and have had the pleasure of taking my kids there. There just aren't that many places left like Magic Inc. The place itself is magical. The shelves are stocked to the ceiling with tons of cool magic tricks, gadgets, boxes, bowls, etc. The ceiling itself has a little magic, but I'll let you discover that for yourself. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, and really knows magic. You're not just getting a trick, you'll get a demo that sets you on the path to performing that trick with a good patter and performance. I've never found another magic store like this one. Chicago is lucky to have it. Check it out while it lasts, and enjoy the magic. read more

Weirdly amazing. I went here because I have a lot of specific interests that happen to overlap with magic, like playing cards. There was a book I'd seen on their website and when I realized they had a storefront in Chicago I decided to just go and check it out. So I walked in and there were about five older men, presumably magicians, hanging out around the counter. They immediately offered to help me though and while one looked for books for me, another showed me all kinds of cards, card tricks and other books. They are very willing to help with any request and took lots of time with me even though I came in close to closing. It's fairly small and most things seem to be behind the counter, so it's not really a browsing shop - don't expect to just walk in here and look around without talking to anyone. It was pretty weird, but that was exactly what I had expected and hoped for. I got a magic show and everything. If you want to have a truly bizarre experience you should just stop reading and go here. read more

Outstanding magic shop! I go to magic shops all over the country and try to visit unique and interesting ones. This store definitely qualifies! It us the first non-touristy, working magician's shop I have been in. Not only did Jay spend time with my son but also helped him with some tips on showmanship and building routine to properly to tie tricks together. We got to meet several chicago-area magicians just coming in for supplies, and they were very patient while Jay spent time with us. The only thing was missing was coffee! Maybe coffee and magic together on Saturday mornings! Thanks to Merl-ot for Wyatt's gift certificate! Really highlights the brotherhood of magicians!!! Thanks for everything! read more

I've lived near this place for years and never stopped in until one night a year or so ago and it was absolutely great. You'd never guess it from the outside but on the inside it looks just like what you'd imagine an old curious magic shop should look like. The shelves are stocked with tons of odd items in interesting packages. The night I was there about 3 other magicians were hanging out and talking with each other. You could tell they were all industry guys and it seemed like they just liked hanging out there. All I wanted to do was look around but they engaged me in friendly conversation and then began to perform various tricks for me. A real gem in the neighborhood. read more

I've adored magic since i was a kid. You'd think it would be no big deal as an adult, but this stuff is captivating. The atmosphere alone is worth a visit. It has a similar mysterious feel to the Magic Castle in Hollywood, but one room. Pedro was the bomb diggity, patiently answering my questions. As a non-professional fan of magic, I appreciated getting a context for the history of the place and what a gold mine of resources it is for magicians. It's a little out of the way, but worth a walk up from Lincoln Square. Pedro showed me a few close up super neat magic tricks. I ended up buying one of my favorites that I saw long ago and now I'm practicing to entertain my friends. Feels a little silly, but I'd love to give the awe I felt to my friends. read more

Love the Magic Inc.! Even if you just want to see some cool magic, the guys working their are incredible at their art and very very friendly. I cant think of a better place to take your kids or some friends to get amazed. Good times guaranteed... PS: I also heart, that in the magic circles this place is famous. read more

Our 13 year old nephew was visiting from Seattle and he has an interest in magic. He had some ideas of tricks that he wanted to get, so we took him to Magic, Inc, not knowing what to expect. The staff was friendly and welcoming, gave us a demo of lots of tricks and showed our nephew how to do the tricks (while we waited in the chairs near the front window so we couldn't see how it's done). The place was lively with lots of people coming and going and chatting. It's obviously a well established community. I saw that they have a kids magic camp, and we would've signed up the nephew if we could've kept him in town for it! If you're in the market for some magic, THIS is the store to go to! Amazing customer service. read more

Awesome! Pedro is so friendly and knowledgeable!! We will definitely be back!! What a great gem in Chicago!!

I went to Magic Inc a few weeks ago and expected to be amazed. Instead I was under- enthused(if that's a word). I looked around settled on a poster I wanted to buy and was told to wait and the guy'd come back and help me. Twice this happened all the while the 2 guys running the store were trying too hard to get more than the $100 that an arrogant and dad and his indecisive 8 yr old had just bought. They 2 running the place went in the back with the dad and kid for some private magic lessons while leaving me, 2 store dicks and a lady and her 2 kids sitting around wasting an hr. She left and so did I--sans a purchase. Bad experience. read more

My all time favorite magic shop. It's a long drive but it's worth every mile. You can find all kinds of magic here and the staff is amazing!

I've been doing magic for a long time (on and off since I was 9, about 16 years ago). This is a really great shop. They have a lot of things you can't get anywhere else and will always be happy to reccomend some great tricks. I probably stop in once or twice a a month. Perhaps I should drop in more frequently, the staff always remembers me but never what tricks I have, so they always ask me if I have all the staples. All in all, I love this place a whole lot and the staff is really friendly. read more

This is the oldest magic shop in North America 52 years around. They were very helpful and patiently showed magic tricks to my 10yo. They also have lessons and magic shows. Worth checking it out. read more

Magic Inc - Hobby Shops Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

If you're interested in Magic but aren't sure where to start- this is the place! The staff is passionate, friendly, and always eager to help. Often in tight knit hobbyist communities, there can be this strange, snooty baseline skill level you feel like you need to possess in order to hold a conversation and not feel stupid. This was the opposite of the case as Nathan made myself and my partner feel very welcome. He answered all the questions I had and was very thoughtful with his responses. He even asked to show us a card trick before we left that I can't stop telling my friends about. Five stars well earned! read more

Love the place, beautiful son and father family activity. Little man and I are learning to become magicians. Thankful it's still around.

Great magic store! I probably only visit the store a couple times a year to buy gifts for my godson but every time I go in they staff/magicians are very helpful, friendly and hilarious! Even if some of the jokes are corny read more

I just wanted to look around in peace because magic stores are really cool. I couldn't because one of the magicians working there kept telling me about the private shows he could perform if I had kids or knew any kids or if I wanted him to just come over for a party of adults. Let it rest my magic friend!!! One time they had this sale upstairs of magician Jay Marshall's stuff and it was an insane collection of awesomeness. An entire floor upstairs had enough books to put some libraries to shame. I bought soooo many books and I could have bought so many more. Wild Animal Man has the best cover of any book in the world and I cherish it. There were tons of really great old posters and I bought a whole bunch. It was the best estate sale EVER. read more

Easily the best Magic shop in the area (probably all of Illinois) I'm 20 now, and my Uncle started taking me here when I was about 7 or 8. Every couple years or sometimes more often, I get an itch for Magic and go here to get my fix. I practice Card Magic and Cardistry, but when it comes to this shop they have almost any trick you can imagine (even some funny prank toys). My Uncle and I once took a private lesson with Luis, and it was an amazing experience. Pedro and Luis are some of the coolest guys, and extremely friendly and funny. There are always world renowned Magicians flying in to Chicago and performing seminars here, and once in a while there are actual magic shows. Luis who works here, who I believe specializes in metal bending, was on a television show that is basically the Spanish version of Americas Got Talent. I know he made it really far in the competition and I think he actually won the entire show. It's been a few years, so my memory escapes me. You're getting the best of the best when you go to Magic Inc. Whether you're a kid or adult, this place has what you're looking for. And even if they don't, you can ask them to order from their supplier and they will notify you when it arrives. Customer Service: A+ Product: A+ read more

My girlfriend and I had been wondering about this place and decided to stop in, even though we have no ambitions to become magicians. One of the clerks gave us a short magic show (about 5 minutes) with some cards and a few props that completely blew us away. We still have no idea how he did that stuff. This is an excellent daytime, weekend fieldtrip for anybody on Chicago's north side. read more

Our son just completed the annual one week magic camp. What a gem! Our son isn't very dexterous, he's nervous around audiences and we were amazed to see him preform one illusion and one magic trick in front of a packed house. This is a great place for kids to experience magic and the annual summer magic camp will teach them not only magic skills, but performance skills as well. read more

Not only is this the oldest and most successful magic shop in Chicago, they are also extremely friendly and supportive of anybody who wants to learn magic of any level. They are respectful and open to all questions without ever making you feel stupid or that you're asking The "wrong" question. The lessons and lecture series are beyond reproach. It's a great way to get into and explore magic. And their customer service is their highest priority. read more

Jay is a great magician. We love to go in and see some magic. We always leave qith a few tricks. Great place to fund licak magic shows.

The oldest magic shop in Chicago. A "must-visit" shop if you are in Chicago or a visitor. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. The book selection, magic tricks, lectures and magic clases makes this store one of the best places for your magic needs or magic curiosity. I had a chance to browse the store at my own leisure and helped when needed. I was able to buy books not found anywhere else. read more

What fun! I bought a GREAT trick at a very low price and entertained many of my friends. Also when they did not have what I needed they helped me find it else where. How cool is that! read more

This family owned shop is AMAZING! Pedro is brilliant!! As the general Manager, he's a force with whom to be reckoned. My son is a lover of all magic. Our family had been visiting this store for 10 years and we never leave disappointed. We're always welcomed by our own close-up show. The Magic Inc staff keep things (patter and such) appropriate for my kids. When my kids have an opportunity to purchase a new item, they steer them towards tricks they can be successful in performing, even if they aren't the most profitable. We also had the pleasure of participating in a special camp they offered last summer. My son LOVED it all. It's also great to hear about the magic happenings, in the area but also world wide. It's even better when we're informed of the family friendly options as well as great detail about different professionals to hire for varied parties and even events for work. Thank you Magic inc!! read more

I took the magic class for adults. What a fun time. The staff is excellent and very encouraging. This was a novice class and was perfect for me. I wanted to learn a few interesting tricks that I could easily recall and perform in a social setting. Picked up several and have 3 go to card tricks now. I did them at a recent function with a card deck the host had at the house and observers thought the tricks were really cool. For a fun night once a week for a few weeks, meet some new friends, pick up some easy to perform tricks with a big wow factor, try the class. read more

Like some of the other reviewers, we've driven by this place countless times. My fiancé's son is into magic gathering cards and magic so we thought we'd bring him here. The owner is very knowledgable and friendly. We were surprised to learn this shop has been around for such a long time and has serviced many famous magicians. Penn and Teller once stayed above the shop. We enjoyed our visit and will come back again! read more

This place has been on a steady decline since Frances and Maggie passed away. Such a shame, it was once a wonderful shop. Now, not so much. Sad how outsiders can kill a family business. read more