This 36-Room Antique Mall In Illinois Is Full Of All Kinds Of Treasure
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published July 13, 2018
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
There’s a two-story Victorian Home nestled in one of Illinois’ best shopping districts that is home to a huge antique mall you must visit. Take a trip around the world in gifts and home decor at this 36-room paradise of vintage goods.
You could easily spend an entire afternoon bumming around this big old house. Check it out:
Since 1922, this vintage and huge antique mall has been at the center of Geneva's shopping district, which is one of the most unique in the Midwest.
There are 36 rooms for guests to explore, and each will take you to a different part of the world. You'll find apparel, home decor, gourmet food, and so much more.
The name of this huge antique mall is derived from its history. Edmund and Kate Raftery, the owners of this beautiful Italianate Victorian residence, had friends who moved to China and then sent back all sorts of interesting goods that many were intrigued by. As word got out, more friends started sending them items from around the world.
The Atrium Cafe is part of the tradition. Many who traveled to the antique mall came from far away, so lunch was prepared for the shoppers by Mrs. Raftery. Today, guests can enjoy lunch items like sandwiches, salads, frittatas, and wraps, as well as a slew of different pies.
Make it a truly vintage experience with a traditional English Afternoon Tea. This three-course experience includes scones, sandwiches, and other breads, and it takes place on Sundays from 2-4 p.m. Seats must be reserved in advance for $12.95 per person.
Visitors enjoy shopping for jewelry, toys, holiday items, stationary, shoes, pottery, and so much more here. Forget going around the world in 80 days when you can shop it in one.
The Little Traveler is open daily. Monday through Friday hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. while Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
