Want a lesson in Chicago culture and history? Stop by this independent niche publishing house filled with books about everything Chicago. Since opening its doors in 1994, Lake Claremont has published 24 titles, including “Chicago Haunts: Ghostlore of the Windy City,” “The Chicago River: A Natural and Unnatural History” and “A Cook’s Guide to Chicago.” Browse creative and colorful covers or skim through books replete with little-known facts about Chicago. Anticipate a warm welcome and plenty of conversation to boot.

Centerstage Reviewer: Shelly Burton