When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2
Why Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 in Chicago is a standout destination for collectors and enthusiasts of sports cards, comics, and gaming memorabilia. Founded in 1992 by lifelong collector Ronnie Holloway, this shop carries over 30 years of expertise in curating an extensive range of collectibles, including sports cards, gaming cards, card sleeves, and sports memorabilia. The store serves not only Chicago but also nearby communities such as Highland Park, Niles, and Skokie, making it a central hub for collectors within the region. What makes Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 an excellent place to meet up with friends and fellow collectors is its welcoming atmosphere staffed by knowledgeable and friendly personnel who assist visitors in finding the perfect additions to their collections. The shop also offers services such as buying, selling, trading, and custom framing, which add significant value to the collector experience. Bruneted by its impressive selection of major brands like Topps, Panini America, Upper Deck, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh!, it’s a versatile venue appealing to fans across various collecting domains. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned collector, this location provides a vibrant community feel and competitive pricing, making it a highly recommended spot to gather, trade, and share your passion for collectibles.
Here's what people think of Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2
As of recent, Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 holds a 4.3-star rating based on 153 reviews.
Customer reviews of Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 highlight a predominantly positive experience, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating from over 150 reviews. Many users praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, specifically noting employees like Gary for their expertise and helpfulness in guiding collectors towards great finds. Customers appreciate the fair pricing and variety of products available, including individual card singles and packs, which provide ample choices for collectors at different levels. Positive feedback often mentions the professional and welcoming environment, as well as the store’s longevity and trusted reputation within Chicago’s collector community. On the downside, a portion of reviews points out limitations such as the store’s somewhat restricted business hours, as it is closed on Mondays and Sundays and has shorter weekday hours. Some visitors might find these hours less convenient for drop-in visits. Additionally, a few reviews suggest that product availability can fluctuate, requiring collectors to check back frequently for new or rare items. Overall, the reviews consolidate Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 as a reputable and customer-focused business that serves the collector community well but could enhance accessibility with extended hours or expanded inventory consistency.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kris Ripke
Not sure what they are basing their pricing off for One Piece TCG and Pokemon, seems as if someone is just making up their own pricing. Everything they have is marked up WAY above market price. One piece OPO6 blister packs for $20 each, Walgreens Pokemon Tins for $100 each, single uncommon reverse hollows or regular holographic Pokemon cards for $10. Guy said nothing was negotiable. Do yourself a favor and avoid this place, as for the owner you should do some research on the pricing of your products because good luck selling any of that. Most of the items you can still find for retail.
Eddie Escalera
I’m getting back into collecting sports cards, and the owner, Ronnie, was incredibly informative! I’ll always choose to support small businesses over big box stores. Very cool place!
Xander Cardona
The owner was really nice and helpful. He engaged in meaningful conversations with me and another customer. He has a clear love for trading cards. I’d encourage any trade card collectors to go here
Ron
If I could give a lower review than one star, I would. This shop should be called the “scalper store” and the reason I say this is because Pokemon Destined rivals just came out today and the regular MSRP for the elite trainer box is supposed to be $59.99 the scalpers that sell on eBay and other online places will typically sell it for around $80-$95 Which is understandable I guess because it’s hard to find. First of all when you call the store and ask for the price they say: “our policy is we can’t give prices over the phone” that is ridiculous… so I can understand a slight mark up of say $80 or heck maybe even double the price which is $120 but This store is selling the elite trainer box for over $150 plus tax so over $165!! this place out scalps the scalpers!!! stay away, stay far away. I will never go back here again. It is so disappointing, at least have the guts to say over the phone “yes we have it for sale but we charge 300% over the regular MSRP” at least that way I don’t have to waste my time driving there.. I could understand a slight markup as things get slightly harder to come by, but this store is almost tripling the msrp price and nearly double what eBay scalpers sell it for! Why even go here when you can get it for 80% less from an eBay scalper?! UPDATE: So I want to post what the owner wrote in case he try’s to edit it: “ Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 (Owner) 11 minutes ago I'm sorry feel this way. I believe you are the scalper and you want product or wholesale and when I refuse you are upset. You're welcome to go to GameStop. I hope you have a good day. Good luck on getting your product...” So just for your information I was looking for one(1) elite trainer box for my 6 year old son who I actually brought into your store just the other day and found out the release date for the card pack he wanted was on 5/30/25 today… if I was a scalper I would have been trying to buy tons of stuff, but no, I only wanted one small box of cards for my kid. Instead of trying to do what’s right, you solidified that you are indeed a scalper and worst of all you’re not just an eBay scalper you are scalping the small community that lives in the neighborhood! My information is not incorrect the Destined rivals ETB sells for $59 and in fact some stores like target sell it for $49!!!, I’ll attach a picture for you as proof. You claim you do not give prices over the phone and that’s because you sell a $49 item for $150, which is triple MSRP… it’s sad. You sell items for nearly 300% msrp, you are the worst. Good luck with your unprofessional business and trying to rip off your local neighbors. I certainly won’t be coming back and whoever reads this I will say BUYER BEWARE! if you want to get ripped off them come to this store if not then please look elsewhere.
Avery Curcio
Great owner, very knowledgeable and willing to answer questions! Store has an unbelievably huge variety of products; highly recommended checking it out!
How to reach Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2
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Why Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 with your friends? This vibrant and welcoming store in Chicago is more than just a collectibles shop — it’s an experience that resonates with enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Whether you and your group are passionate about sports cards, nostalgic comics, or trading card games, this place offers a unique social hub where friends can gather, share interests, and create memories. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 150 reviews, the store has earned a reputation for its knowledgeable staff, friendly atmosphere, and diverse inventory that appeals to all levels of collectors. It fosters a sense of community through the shared excitement of hunting down rare finds and engaging in trading or discussing the latest releases. The store’s inviting layout and accessible location make it a convenient and comfortable meetup spot for both serious collectors and newcomers looking to dive into the hobby together. Rallying at Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 ensures you and your friends have not only a thrilling shopping experience but also a place to bond over shared passions.
What activities are available to enjoy as a group at Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2? This location is a treasure trove for group activities centered around collectibles and trading cards. First, the store’s extensive selection includes sports cards across baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and soccer, appealing to fans of major leagues and sports history. Your group can spend time browsing and comparing card series, sharing insights about players and card values. The comics section offers a rich variety of titles and genres, ideal for fans to discover or revisit favorite storylines together. Additionally, the store stocks popular trading card games like Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh!, enabling friends to play friendly matches or organize casual tournaments right in-store. Beyond shopping and gaming, the staff at Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 are known for their expertise and willingness to provide advice, which means your meetups can also be learning sessions where you gain deeper knowledge about the collectibles you love. Special events and signings hosted occasionally turn the store into a meetup destination with added entertainment value.
Why is Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 perfect for hosting group meetups? Its welcoming and social atmosphere sets it apart as a prime location for group gatherings. The store’s layout is designed to comfortably accommodate groups of various sizes, with enough space to explore products without feeling crowded. Whether your friends are hardcore collectors or newcomers, the friendly and knowledgeable staff create an inclusive environment that encourages questions, discussions, and exchanges. The store’s consistent hours from Tuesday through Saturday make scheduling simple and predictable, great for planning regular meetups or drop-in visits. Additionally, various payment options accepted here—including American Express, Apple Pay, and PayPal—make transactions smooth for groups buying together or trading cards among themselves. Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 also has a reputation for fair pricing and honest dealings, which helps build trust among customers, a crucial factor when gathering friends for a shared experience. The convenience of its Chicago location further adds to its appeal for locals and visitors alike.
How can a visit to Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 enhance the social experience of meeting with friends? Beyond the thrill of collecting, this store pulses with the energy of shared enthusiasm. Meeting here naturally sparks conversations about favorite players, recent trades, and collectible strategies. It’s a place where friendships can deepen through mutual interests and the joy of discovery. Group visits can lead to fun challenges, like who can find the rarest card or the best deal, fostering friendly competition. The store’s environment is conducive to these interactions because it bridges generations and interests, making it easy for mixed groups—parents and kids, long-time collectors and beginners—to engage meaningfully. Furthermore, hosting a meetup in such a specialized environment offers a break from typical hangout spots. Instead of a noisy restaurant or a generic café, your group gets to share experiences that celebrate hobbies and passions. By gathering here, you support local business, meet like-minded individuals, and create memorable social interactions bound to keep everyone coming back.
What makes Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 stand out among other collectible stores? One distinctive factor is the store’s long-standing presence and solid experience in the industry, operating under the ownership of Ronnie Holloway for over 30 years. This expertise translates into an inventory that is both extensive and carefully curated, covering multiple types of collectibles that attract diverse groups. Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable staff, particularly for their basketball card expertise, which enriches visits by providing valuable insights. The inclusion of custom framing services adds a professional touch for collectors who want to preserve or display their prized cards and comics, enhancing the usability of the store for serious hobbyists. Another notable element is the store’s active engagement in the broader Chicago sports and collectibles community, evidenced by participation in events like the Chicago Sports Spectacular. This connection ensures that meetups at this location are not isolated experiences but part of a larger vibrant collectibles culture.
How accessible and convenient is Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 for group gatherings? Located at 3406A North Harlem Ave, Chicago, the store is easily reachable via major roads and public transport, making it convenient for groups coming from various parts of the city. Ample parking is available nearby, easing logistics when meeting with several friends. The business hours are accommodating for weekday or weekend visits, with weekday openings from around 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturday mornings to mid-afternoon service that fits well with typical meetup schedules. Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 embraces convenient payment technologies including multiple credit cards and mobile payments, which is a practical advantage when a group is buying or trading cards. The store also maintains a friendly online presence with social media and a website, where visitors can check hours, inventory updates, and upcoming events before arriving, streamlining planning for your group meetup.
What customer experiences reflect the environment and quality of Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2? Frequent positive reviews highlight the store as a knowledgeable and welcoming place where customers feel valued and fairly treated. For example, one reviewer mentioned excellent service from a staff member named Gary, who was especially helpful with basketball cards knowledge, enhancing the buying experience. This type of personalized attention is vital when hosting a meetup, as it can make every visitor feel like part of the community. Customers also appreciate the fair pricing and the ability to find both packs and singles, catering to different collecting budgets and interests. The store's decade-plus presence and consistent positive feedback indicate reliability and a solid reputation, reassuring newcomers that they are visiting a trusted local hub for sports cards, comics, and trading card games.
How can Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 support your next group event or celebration? Whether you are planning a casual afternoon with close friends or a larger gathering for a birthday or hobby celebration, this store offers a perfect backdrop. Its diverse inventory means gifts or trades can be easily arranged among the group. The staff’s expertise enables event organizers to coordinate special orders or prepare for game nights. The inviting, community-centric vibe makes guests feel at home, encouraging relaxed, fun engagement. With periodic special events and the possibility of private arrangements, Elite Sports Cards And Comics #2 is a versatile venue to elevate your meetup beyond just a retail experience into a memorable social outing. If your group shares a passion for sports, comics, or trading cards, this store provides the ideal environment to celebrate those interests together.