Of course, there are so many things to do in Chicago—but some things are permanent. Chicago is sprawling with tattoo shops, some of which have gained notoriety in the area. From choosing the right artist for you to planning out the design (whether it’s a flash idea or a larger piece), a lot goes into this decision. When you’re searching for the right artist to ink you up, you should consider a few things. Remember that depending on the space, some shops allow walk-ins while others require an appointment.
Luckily, the Chicago tattoo scene is filled with talented, professional artists. We’ve rounded up a few of the best tattoo shops in Chicago, so you know where to go next time you want to get inked up!
1. Deluxe Tattoo
This shop tops the list due to its numerous rave reviews and top-quality tattoos. The longstanding shop has a big roster of artists and has been around since 1997. The resident artists here know what they do, from simple designs to intricate art pieces.
📍Address: 1459 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613
2. Tatted By Syd
The generous tattoo artist designs impeccably drawn innovative and beautiful pieces, keeping the customer’s needs in mind. The artist recently announced a private studio, ‘Design by Syd, ‘ which operates out of a private studio in Humbolt Park. This tattoo experience offers a relaxed, curated experience you can’t get anywhere else.
📍Address: Private studio in Humbolt Park
3. Evergreen Studios
This women-owned, appointment-only tattoo studio operates out of Fulton Market, creating timeless custom pieces. With over seven talented artists to choose from, this inclusive and welcoming space focuses on creating absolutely show-stopping work within a kind environment.
📍Address: 167 N Racine Ave, Suite 2, Chicago, IL 60607
4. Pioneer Tattoo Studio
This beautiful rustic interior is one of the best tattoo shops in Chicago. When you’re getting something permanent, you want to feel comfortable, and this place makes you feel welcomed and ready to be inked. From Nike shoes to Greek statues, they do it all.
However, remember that Pioneer Tattoo is an appointment-based studio before just showing up. Each artist maintains their own schedule, and Pinoneer Tattoo Studio communicates through email. The availability varies based on the artist, so you should contact them directly.
📍Address: 3513 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
5. Archer Avenue Tattoo
This tattoo shop requires an appointment to get in with talented artists. Known for its stunning black and white designs, from delicate fine-line butterflies to large-scale snakes and everything in between, this space is known for its kind, involved staff.
📍Address: 4440 S Archer Ave # 1, Chicago, IL 60632
6. Cripsy Aura Fine Line Tattoos
Known for delicate fine-line designs, this artist dedicates time, energy, and passion to her practice, creating gorgeously rendered tattoos. You can get various designs, from personal pieces to flash sheets and more.
📍Address: 2642 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
7. Butterfat Studios
Esther is a highly coveted tattoo artist, operating her business in such a way that’s made her work highly sought after throughout Chicago. You can only book an appointment through her website, with each tattoo a work of art. Esther’s tattoos are always recognizable in a signature style, from realistic floral pieces to playful cat renderings.
8. Ageless Arts Tattoo
The Oak Park location is well known for its high-quality designs and features multiple artists in the shop, including a series of guest artists. They do everything from small intricate designs to piercings alongside larger pieces, which is why we think it’s one of the best tattoo shops in Chicago.
📍Address: 2407 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60623
9. Logan Square Tattoo
Since 2014, Logan Square Tattoo, located in Logan Square, has offered a bevy of artists, designs, and methods under a single location. They cover everything from single needlework to specialized requests. Walk-ins are welcome, though private appointments are recommended for Sunday and Monday timeslots.
📍Address: 2352 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
10. Chicago Ink Tattoo
Known for its wide variety of styles, this tattoo studio has operated as an efficient, professional environment offering tattoos, piercings, and microblading since 2008. Reviews note having an easy experience and creating a clean environment in which to work.
📍Address: 5415 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641