Second tattoo completed tonight by Khalid. It's very sentimental and he did an amazing job! He took the time to talk to me about the design, size, and colors to make sure it would be something I was happy with. Fantastic artist and shop. Very clean. Khalid is a very thoughtful artist and owner. Always a great experience. The staff are wonderful af! :) Read Less

I absolutely loved my first time experience! I had called earlier I’m the day and spoke with Dakota, who was extremely friendly and explained that I should come in just to check them out before making any decisions...so I felt NO pressure! I decided that since it was my birthday, I would just go check them out and I was NOT disappointed! Walking into the shop, my first impression was “WOW! This place is clean!” My next thought, after browsing the massive amount of amazing art all around me was “These artists are SO talented” I stood at the counter and found Dakota behind the desk drawing, he immediately noticed me and asked if he could help at all. I told him that I had previously spoke to him and he was associated excited and said “I was really hoping you’d come in today!” I literally felt like I had known him forever and felt so comfortable. Khalid was SUPER friendly and made me laugh! All in all, I personally couldn’t of asked for a better first time! I WILL be going back to Area 51 forever! THANK YOU FOR BEING INCREDIBLE! Read Less

Received my first tattoo here from Desirea. She couldn't have been more friendly and genuine. Being that I wanted a script tattoo, they provided me ahead of time with a website that would allow me to type in what word(s) I wanted and view it in various fonts. This was extremely helpful! Everyone there is happy you're there. I never felt anything other than welcomed. They care about what they do and the quality of their work. Desirea explained everything so thoroughly and I felt like they truly cared about not only my satisfaction but my safety with the after care. She insisted I not hesitate to email her directly or call the shop with any follow up questions. Really remarkable!Thanks guys! What a great experience! Read Less

Amazing shop, great artists, & great people. Area 51 is really anything you could ask of a tattoo shop. They're clean, they're professional, they take the time to really make sure your tattoo makes you happy. As well as, they're such talented artists & amazing people. Would recommend this shop over any other in the state. Read Less

Workers are rude af here. I came in with my family members handwriting I wanted tattooed on me. They said they were booked for that day, okay no big deal. They asked for my number and name and they even photo copied my card I had. I NEVER heard back from them. I called and they said they would get back to me. Never did, I ended up getting it somewhere else a month later.  waste of time tbh. Read Less

Desirea was outstanding! My daughter has had many tatoos done by both Khalid & Desirea. This was the 2nd one I have gotten and it has been about 11 years since the last one. She was very professional, explaining the entire process and it turned out better than I could have imagined! I would definitely recommend Desirea to everyone and hope to be back for another. Read Less

The Artistry by Khalid at Area 51 is Stellar! I had no Idea how my tattoo cover up would end up looking. Let me say that it not only hid the unwanted work, but blew me away with it's perfection. For those who are on the fence as to whether or not to attempt a cover up, this is the place to go. Great Artists who know their trade and execute their work Beautifully. P. Ruiz Woodstock Read Less

Area 51 Tattoo is very clean & everyone is so friendly & caring. I have been going there for 15 years. Desi does all my tattoos. I wouldn't go any place else. Khalid is the owner of Area 51. Love it there! Read Less

I got my first tattoo on Friday, and it was an amazing experience! I put off getting a tattoo for awhile because other shops I'd visited were dimly lit and had condescending, standoffish staff members. Area 51 was the exact opposite: the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, the shop was well lit, and they even had Parks and Rec playing on the TV! It was just such a welcoming environment. Khalid, who did my tattoo, was kind and understanding. I felt validated in my decisions about my tattoo, and it turned out amazingly! I absolutely love it. I've been recommending Area 51 to all my friends, and it's definitely where I will go for future tattoos as well! Read Less

My wife and I have been to Area 51 Tattoo four times between the two of us. Each visit has been consistently excellent from the initial consultation, to the follow-up confirmation of appointment, and most importantly with the tattoo itself. The staff is friendly, fun, and professional. There's a reason they win the Best of the Fox year after year! Read Less

If you're looking for a talented, friendly, and customer first place to get your tattoo work done this is the place to go! I have had work done at other places but I will not go anywhere else after the experience I had here. Read Less

I came in to get my daith pierced to hopefully relieve my migraines and TJ was super cool and chill which made me more comfortable! Would highly recommend this shop and I'll definitely be coming back! Thanks for a great experience! Read Less

I don't typically do reviews but I feel compelled to now. I was looking for a very personal piercing (VCH) and I researched all I could. I am one who will make the final decision based on how my gut responds to the person. That said, TJ made me feel very comfortable. He answered my questions and was very patient with me. In my opinion he went above and beyond what he's "supposed" to do and I got the feeling he truly enjoys what he does. Piercings and tattoos are an art form and "serving" customers can also be a talent. TJ is exceptional in both and I will definitely recommend him to everyone I know. Read Less

Shout out to TJ for the beautiful flat and helix piercings today! Nice, clean shop. Great, friendly staff. Very professional. Thanks to Desirea for taking the time with me to go over my future tattoo! Can't wait to see what we come up with!! Read Less

I drove to Illinois from Virginia with 2 friends who swore by this shop. After speaking to Khalid and seeing the shop in person I totally understand why. Their shop is gorgeous and super clean. All the staff is amazingly friendly and helpful. I had a lower arm piece done by Taylor. It came out outstanding. He was very personable, extremely artistic and I couldn't have asked for a better outcome. I also had my ears re-pierced by TJ and they are great, awesome jeweler, great service. This place is top notch. We ended up being there all day due to the size of my other fiends tattoos and I saw a lot of people go in and out and the customer service and quality of the work never changed. I'm coming back in May to get more work done! Give this shop a try, you won't regret it. Read Less

Hands down, best experiences - ever! I have been going to Area 51 for the past 7 years and I would never go anywhere else. I trust Khalid completely with my ideas, artwork, and body. Khalid & his staff are very welcoming, friendly, and warm. You don't get the rude or I'm too cool vibe at all from anyone on his staff. They take their time with each and every customer so you walk out 100% satisfied with exactly what you want. I have visited many other tattoo shops with friends and family waiting for them to get work done and it is a constant reminder - Area 51 Tattoo in Crystal Lake is the ONLY place to go. If you are a tattoo newbie or tattoo collector, I whole heartedly recommend Area 51; you won't be disappointed. *Bonus: They guarantee their work for life! Touch ups are free if it fades ... unless you're silly and don't follow their after care instructions. They can tell if you don't follow them. They are easy - just do it. Read Less

Hands down, best experiences - ever! I have been going to Area 51 for the past 7 years and I would never go anywhere else. I trust Khalid completely with my ideas, artwork, and body. Khalid & his staff are very welcoming, friendly, and warm. You don't get the rude or I'm too cool vibe at all from anyone on his staff. They take their time with each and every customer so you walk out 100% satisfied with exactly what you want.I have visited many other tattoo shops with friends and family waiting for them to get work done and it is a constant reminder - Area 51 Tattoo in Crystal Lake is the ONLY place to go. If you are a tattoo newbie or tattoo collector, I whole heartedly recommend Area 51; you won't be disappointed. *Bonus: They guarantee their work for life! Touch ups are free if it fades ... unless you're silly and don't follow their after care instructions. They can tell if you don't follow them. They are easy - just do it. Read Less

Love Area 51!!!! Very professional & clean!!! TAYLOR ROCKS!!! Can't wait to go back!  Make sure you book early!  Very popular place!!! Customer service is excellent!  Very welcoming!  A really great group of people! Read Less

I have had a few tattoos done by Khalid and the experience at A51 is second to none. An ultra clean and friendly atmosphere, huge talents in the booths, and just an overall sense of professionalism is what keeps me coming back. Ultra accessible and Ive even taken the Metra in from Chicago and walked there in a few minutes.  Area 51 Tattoo is most definitely worth checking out. Read Less

I've gotten both of my tattoos here! First one 3 years ago by Khalid, and today I got my second done by Nikki. If I wasn't moving out of state soon I would definitely be back again! I love both of my tattoos and would recommend this shop to anyone looking for a clean, friendly environment! So much talent here!! Read Less

Absolutely love the work Nikki did on my foot tattoo.  I'm already planning my next one. One word of advice, call to schedule an appointment as soon as you decide to get a tattoo.  They are busy because everyone knows how awesome they are there!  It's definitely worth the wait. Read Less

I walked in with a few friends to check out A51. Everyone was super friendly. My 2 friends new exactly what they want and were able to get to get in that night. I set up an appointment for a few weeks later.  I was nervous to get my piece done but Khalid put my mind at ease. Amazing artist and extremely patient. I can not wait to get my next piece here! Khalid and the staff are truly one of a kind! Read Less

I've gotten all of my tattoos done here, and I would never even think about going anywhere else. Everyone there is super friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is great. Being part of the service industry, I've really grown to appreciate the quality of a good guest experience, and Area 51 does exactly that. I had gone to a few other shops for consultations before I decided on an artist, and you could just feel the tension. It's so nice being in a place where you can tell that everyone gets along and all genuinely enjoy what they do. Kam is always super nice and accommodating. Not only are the tattoos absolutely amazing, but being in such a welcoming environment makes the whole experience fun. I've gotten work done by Khalid and Desirea, and I sent my boyfriend in for a piece by Taylor. We both love our tattoos, and they all healed perfectly. We also got Hustle Butter there, and that stuff is awesome. It's definitely worth it if you're planning on getting large tattoos - it made the healing process so much easier for me. I moved pretty far since I got my last tattoo, but I'm more than willing to make the drive back to see them. It's worth every penny. I can't wait until I can make it back for another piece! I can't really say enough about this shop, but the point is it's an awesome place and I wouldn't trust anyone else with my tattoos. There's a reason they've won Best Tattoo Shop in McHenry County for the last 4 years in a row! Read Less

Love it here.  It was my first choice as a tattoo shop.  I looked around for a long time, looking at portfolios from different tattoo shops but unfortunately never really found a shop as consistent with quality as from Area 51.  I first emailed the shop a few years ago and I remember Khalid responding to me and gave me some pointers on finding a shop for my first tattoo.  I was impressed because he was more interested in that instead of selling me.A year ago I got my first tattoo from Desi and was so happy at how comfortable everyone helped me feel.  Desi is a great artist just like everyone else there and she really takes her time to make sure you get what you want.Unfortunately I moved to Indiana and for my birthday my boyfriend wanted buy my next tattoo (great guy right?!) I emailed her and somehow she managed to get me in while I was visiting only for a week.  I really appreciate that.  Thank you so much guys for being #1 in my book. :) Read Less

I have 7 tattoos done by the artists at Area 51 and I love everyone of them!!  The studio is very clean and the artist are very knowledgable, friendly and professional.  They take their time with each client to make sure you are 100% satisfied.  This is the place to go if you are looking to get some new ink! Read Less

My SO and I went in to get a small symbol put on our ring fingers, and before I could even explain what we wanted the woman working there rudely cut me off and told me that they don't do hand tattoos on anyone unless the person walking in has more tattoos than THEY do (in a very snotty voice), and then proceeded to lecture me on the negative social stigma of hand tattoos. I am a 39 year old corporate professional making a very good living, I'm pretty sure I can handle my own image decisions. Now, if she would have expressed concern over the difficulty of healing a hand tattoo, or how the quality may not be up to par because of the nature of the skin on hands, or even how it would fade more quickly because of how often hands are used and washed and exposed to sun, that would have been understandable. What I did not need is a snotty attitude and big brother lecture.Since 20 of the reviews on here are from the same week in 2008, I'm assuming all of those are fake, or friends trying to up the rating. This place was not impressive, don't waste your time. Read Less

I went to Area 51 on July 15th to get my Harry Potter tattoo.I walked in not knowing if I could even get an appointment, but Nikki said she would take me right away.  I had an image I wanted to use, and Nikki graciously resized it for me a bunch of times.A lot of people say that they are perfectionists, and I rarely believe them - but Nikki WAS an absolute perfectionist.  A quality that I love in a tattoo artist.  She was more concerned than I was about my placement, and changed it many times to make sure it was JUST right.As we were tattooing (it was a short session, my tattoo is no bigger than a Post-It) I caught her up on Harry Potter lore, and she helped keep me distracted.  Nikki did an AMAZING job - my lines are clean and crisp and I hope they stay that way.  Again, she reviewed her work with a critical eye, and made sure it was flawless before letting me leave.Overall?  The shop was clean and neat.  They had a friendly vibe and I was greeted and offered help by everyone there.  I will definitely return to Area 51 and pass the word along. Read Less

My daughter & I went together to get our first tattoos.    We both wanted quotes inked on our feet. I just simply hand wrote the quote I wanted on the back of a reciept and asked that it be drafted in a fancy script.  Khalid worked his magic and gave me a draft.  I was amazed that he could free hand the words and turn them into "art'.  I have a very low-pain tolerance and was VERY nervous.  Khalid made me feel relaxed, made me laugh, and talked me through the pain.  Honestly, I was a whimp and he was so patient!  Both my daughter & I are VERY happy with our tattoos.  This is the 3rd shop I visited before deciding this was the one.  I asked several friends who had tattoos for recommendations.  However, after reading many reviews on the recommended shops and other shops within 1 hour of where I live I chose A51 as they had the best reviews.  It is clean, hip, and not a dark scary gangster looking place.  It is also located in a nice area. Read Less

Couldn't have asked for a better experience.  As a tattoo newbie I was nervous, but Khalid (shop owner) quickly earned my trust with a patient, detailed explanation of the process.  He turned my idea for a tattoo into artwork that I'm thrilled with.  The shop was really clean, and the vibe was professional but warm.  Each artist working on other clients smiled and said hi during my session.  They put me at ease, and Khalid delivered a beautiful tattoo.  I'll be back, and I will recommend Area 51 to everyone I know.  Thanks Khalid!  You are the best! Read Less

Nice place in historic downtown Crystal Lake.  I was a total tattoo "newbie" and got a little Om put on my foot to celebrate becoming a yoga teacher last summer.  All of the staff were super nice (colorful too!). We took time to agree on what I wanted, exactly what it would look like, and where it would go.  Everything was super clean & comfortable.  My tattoo artist was very patient with me as I'm a bit squeamish  about needles.  Great experience.  Highly recommended - especially for "newbies"  :) Read Less

I went in to get my second tattoo done (first time going to Area 51) on my rib cage and I was kind of nervous. My pain tolerance is high but I still was a little scared. Joe did my tattoo and he did a phenomenal job. He's nice and easy to talk to which made the whole experience even better. If you're planning on getting a tattoo, go there. Even if you have to make the trip - it's totally worth it. : ) Definitely going there for my next tattoo and I've been recommending Area 51 to ALL of my friends that are planning on getting tattoos. Read Less

Had my 6th tattoo done this past week by Khalid and can't even begin to tell you in words how fantastic of a job he did on my new tattoo and brought such true meaning to it. He had me tearing up as we discussed it and after it was done I was tearing up again. I would highly recommend anyone to go to Area 51 and get a tattoo done by Khalid..he is fantastic and the shop atmosphere and employees are great. Thank you Khalid for making my tattoo so beautiful and the meaning behind so more surreal.. Sandy Read Less

Hands down, without any question Area 51 is the place to go get your ink. The shop is very clean and comfortable. The artists, Khalid, Des, and Joe professional, know their $h!t, have great ideas and you walk away with an amazing work of art. If my mom would ever get a tat, A51 would be where I'd take her, nothing but the best for my mom! Read Less

Before going to A51 I've gone to 2 other tattoo shops. After my experiences at A51 I'll never go to another. Khalid has done an amazing job on each tattoo hes done for me. I get compliments every time somone sees my half sleeve he did for me. It is extremely clean and everyone is extremely friendly. The atmosphere is great. Anytime any one has the idea of getting ink done I tell them right away to go see the artists at A51. Read Less

This is the best tattoo place I have ever been to. When you walk in the first thing you notice is how clean this place is, its spotless! Then how friendly everyone is. They work with you to get you the tattoo that is perfect, but will nicely steer you away from one that is a bad idea or will not transfer from drawing to skin. When you are getting your tattoo, everyone talks to everyone, and you are the first priority. Just how confident am I in the work there. I have had 4 done , hubby has 2, daughter has 2 and my son has 1. One of mine is on my forearm of my dog, let me tell you that no matter where I am I get so many complements on it, where I got it that I carry business cards with me. All of them are incredible artists and wonderful people! Read Less

By far the best tattoo shop I've been too. I have been to other shops and not only was the tattoo better at A51 but also the experience was much more friendly. Joe has done 4 of my tattoos and they're my favorites out of the ones I have. Everything from creating the idea to having the tattoo finished was great. Read Less

Decided to get my first Tattoo after researching designs for a long time. After stopping in to Area 51, I was greeted immediately with a smile and how can we help you. I chose Desi after seeing some of her work. What a great decision on my part. Within 24 hours she had my idea drawn up and ready for me to proof. Her art work speaks for itself. I have already recommended my friends who live out of state to make the trip here to get their tattoos done here. Do yourself a favor stop in and talk to the artists, you won't be disappointed. Read Less

I've only gotten one tattoo with these guys, but I had a great experience and if I get another tattoo I will definitely go back. Khalid, Desirea (who did my tattoo), and Joe are all awesome people and extremely talented artists. I don't know a single person who has been disappointed with their work or the overall experience. In fact, I've only ever heard praise from anyone who has gone here, and I know I strongly recommend it to anyone looking to get a tattoo or piercing. In a nutshell: Awesome. Extremely awesome. Read Less

Really clean shop, calm, friendly environment. If you are going for a tattoo, you have some artist options. I got my bellybutton pierced there a year ago and they did a really good job on it. I went back to get another piercing this past weekend and called 4 days in advance. They told me to call back the night before, and when I did, they told me to call the next morning because they didn't know if they'd have time. I went in the next day and she couldn't pierce me. So if you're going for a piercing; don't count on it. There's no such thing as scheduling an appointment for a piercing there. Read Less

Area 51 was recommended to me by a friend of mine who has had work done by them. Was a bit nervous going in because it had been 5 years since my first tattoo. Walked in and all 3 of them stopped what they were doing to greet me. The first studio I've been in where I didn't feel intimidated by the environment or staff. Joe came up with a big smile and took the time to listen to the ideas I had. He took those idea's,turned them into an Amazing tattoo! While working on my tattoo he made sure I was comfortable. There was far from a dull moment in the 3 sessions it took to complete my tattoo :) Love my tattoo more and more every day. Joe also did the rework of my very first tattoo again he did a great job with the little he had to work with. Won't go to anyone else but the artists at Area 51! Read Less

I've been waiting 5 years to find someone who I would trust to put a something as permanent as tatto on my body. I needed to find someone skilled and enthusiastic about doing portraits and I found that person in Khalid. He was stoked about doing the tattoo which made getting it all the better exerience. Getting my 3 dogs on my shoulder was very personable for me and Khalid really hit it out of the park. The execution was spot on. No primadonna's here. They worked with me, laid it out great and I think it looks absolutely fabulous. Khalid, Desi and Joe rock!!! Check them out.... Read Less

i got my nose and eyebrow pierced be desi...lovin them!!!! also got my 2 tatts fixed by her. i had them done somewhere else and they were terrible. she made them worthy of neing shown off!!! love you guys Read Less

Everything you could want in a tatoo shop...talented artists, very clean, very professional, very helpful when you call with questions.  Overall, very happy I went here for my first tatoo....will definitely be going back for my 2nd one.  Desi did mine...she did an excellent job! Read Less