A look at some of the best vintage and quirky bookstores you could stumble upon across the United States and Canada.
Introduction
First off let me state I am not objecting to the large stores like Barnes and Noble or Indigo and am blessed to still have a large B&N nearby. Those stores are great for getting new releases, loading up on periodicals for my next flight (airports for some reason never have the ones I want), and sitting in the coffee shop within while my daughter reads in the kids area. I love spending time in these places as well, especially since I don't want to see ours fade from existence like so many others.
But as someone who adores the charm of old, worn books with dog-eared pages, lists of previous owners scrawled on the first page and handwritten notes in the margins, I’m always on the lookout for independent bookstores during my travels. There’s something magical about these places—each one filled with unique finds and stories waiting to be rediscovered.
What doesn't seem to be unique is they all have that wonderful bibliosmia that is ever present. Never heard of it? Don't worry, I only heard the term a year ago. It means the smell of old books that are in a slow stage of decay (chemical breakdown of compounds within the paper) and that will one day disintegrate as all are destined to do.
It is funny. My recent post about the best records stores was covered on the music industry podcast Your Morning Coffee (episode #215) and in their discussion they noted that they loved finding old book stores as well as old record stores. As it happened that topic was the blog (this one) I was already working on having been inspired by the one I wrote on records. Indeed, I have often found that the two are found in the same locations as many bookstores carry records and vice versa.
That being said, here’s a list of 16 of the best bookstores across North America (in no particular order) that specialize in old, used, and vintage books, as well as a carefully curated selection of new releases. The ones I have chosen here are typically well known but are still an experience worth indulging in.
Updated October 2024: I've removed Daedalus books as it has sadly closed. I've also added several book stores in an addendum based on suggestions from our readers. Thanks to all!
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Founded: 1927
Description: One of the most iconic bookstores in North America, The Strand boasts “18 miles of books,” offering a vast selection of used, rare, and new titles. Their Rare Book Room is a must-visit for collectors seeking first editions and signed copies. The store is a labyrinth of literary treasures, and you could spend hours getting lost in its towering shelves. This was hands down my wife's favorite shop in New York and we'd visit it nearly every weekend when we lived there. Every visit back to NYC since moving away entails a trip back in to the Strand. I still have a tote bag from almost a decade ago from there that is still holding up well!
History: The Strand was founded by Benjamin Bass in the famous Fourth Avenue book district, once known as “Book Row.” Of the 48 bookstores that once occupied this street, The Strand is the last one standing. Now located on 12th Street and Broadway, it remains a beloved New York institution.
Trivia: The Strand’s Rare Book Room hosts readings and signings by literary legends, including Patti Smith, David Sedaris, and Joan Didion.
Founded: 1971
Description: Powell’s is a legendary stop for book lovers, being the largest independent bookstore in the world. The store spans an entire city block and carries both new and used books in every genre imaginable. Their rare book room is a haven for collectors, housing rare volumes and out-of-print titles in an inviting, quiet space.
History: Powell’s was founded by Walter Powell and his son Michael in a former car dealership. It quickly became a cultural hub in Portland, expanding to its current, massive location.
Trivia: Powell’s hosts thousands of events each year, and notable authors like Ursula K. Le Guin and Anthony Bourdain were said to be frequent visitors.
Founded: 1965
Description: John K. King’s is a book lover’s dream, with over a million books spread across multiple floors in a former glove factory. The sheer volume of used, rare, and out-of-print titles here is mind-boggling, and the thrill of the hunt makes it a destination in itself.
History: John K. King began selling books from his car while still in school. His bookstore, located in a former glove factory, is now one of the largest independent bookstores in the U.S. with over one million books in stock.
Trivia: King has acquired notable collections over the years, including books once owned by Ernest Hemingway’s family.
Founded: 2002
Description: Bison Books is known for its carefully curated collection of rare and used books, with an emphasis on Canadiana, literature, and the arts. The store has a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and its collection of antiquarian books is a hidden gem for collectors visiting the Canadian prairies.
History: Bison Books is nestled in the heart of downtown Winnipeg. The store is located just off of Portage Avenue which most Canadians will have heard of from the song Prairie Town by Randy Bachman - the lyrics are "Portage and Main, 50 below", referring to the brutal winters that Winnipeg can get. If you find yourself there during winter you can get a book at Bison and then step next door for a hot bowl of soup while you read!
Trivia: The store has hosted author events with acclaimed Canadian writers, including Guy Vanderhaeghe and Miriam Toews.
Founded: 1963
Description: Housed in a beautiful heritage building in Victoria, Munro’s Books has been a beloved independent bookstore since 1963. While they carry an excellent selection of new releases, their well-curated section of used and vintage books is a delight for those looking for something with a bit of history.
History: Munro’s was co-founded by Canadian author Alice Munro and her then-husband Jim Munro. Located in a historic bank building, the store’s grand architecture and well-curated selection of books have made it a cultural institution in Victoria.
Trivia: Alice Munro, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2013, often visited the store, and it remains a pilgrimage site for fans of her work.
Founded: Business est. 1934, moved to Book Barn in 1946
What Makes It Special: Housed in a historic five-story stone barn built in 1822, Baldwin’s Book Barn is a treasure trove of used, rare, and antique books. The rustic charm of the barn, with its wooden beams, stone walls, and cozy fireplaces, makes browsing an unforgettable experience. You can wander through room after room filled with over 300,000 volumes, including rare first editions, signed books, and out-of-print titles.
Trivia: Baldwin’s Book Barn is one of the most unique bookstores in America, often described as a literary labyrinth. It has attracted collectors and famous authors alike, and it’s not uncommon for visitors to find handwritten notes left by previous owners tucked inside the pages of its books.
Founded: 1973
Description: This iconic Seattle bookstore combines the best of both worlds: a wide selection of new titles and a cozy space with hidden treasures in the form of used and rare books. Located in Capitol Hill, Elliott Bay is known for its extensive collection and its commitment to fostering a literary community with events and author readings.
History: Founded by Walter Carr, Elliott Bay Book Company was initially located in Pioneer Square before moving to its current location in Capitol Hill. It is one of the most iconic indie bookstores on the West Coast, known for its community engagement and literary events.
Trivia: Many famous authors, including Margaret Atwood and Sherman Alexie, have read or signed books at Elliott Bay.
Founded: 2005
Description: More than just a bookstore, The Last Bookstore is an experience. Housed in an old bank building, it’s a maze of books, art installations, and curiosities. They have a wide range of used and rare books, along with new titles. Their upstairs labyrinth of dollar books is a thrill to explore, and their collection of rare books is worth a visit for serious collectors.
History: Initially an online bookstore, The Last Bookstore grew into a large physical store in an old bank building in downtown L.A. Its quirky design and vast selection have made it a destination for book lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
Trivia: The bookstore features an art installation of a book tunnel, frequently photographed for its Instagram-worthy aesthetic.
Founded: 1977
Description: Located in the historic German Village neighborhood, The Book Loft offers 32 rooms packed with books, making it a labyrinth of literary discovery. While they carry some new books, much of the fun comes from wandering through their stacks of used and vintage books, always finding something unexpected around the next corner.
History: Set in a pre-Civil War era building, the maze-like layout and old-fashioned charm make this shop a hidden treasure in Columbus.
Trivia: Visitors often compare the store’s design to Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley because of its narrow passages and magical feel.
Founded: 2006
Description: For fans of the unusual, The Monkey’s Paw is a treasure trove. Specializing in rare, strange, and out-of-print books, this quirky bookstore is known for its antique book vending machine, the "Biblio-Mat." You never know what oddity you might come across, and that's part of the charm.
History: Named after the classic horror short story by W.W. Jacobs, The Monkey’s Paw is a quirky, niche bookstore specializing in odd, rare, and out-of-print books.
Trivia: The Biblio-Mat, a vending machine that dispenses random, vintage books for a small fee, is a highlight of any trip to this store. I got a 1908 copy of 20000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne as my surprise book. Love it!
Founded: 1825
Description: The oldest entry on this list, Brattle Book Shop is actually one of America’s oldest and most famous bookstores. Located in a three-story building in the heart of Downtown Boston, they carry a stock of over 250,000 books, maps, prints, postcards and other items in all subjects. In addition to its general used and out-of-print stock, The Brattle Book Shop also maintains an inventory of first editions, collectibles and fine leather bindings in its rare book room.
History: One of the oldest antiquarian bookstores in America, Brattle Book Shop has been passed down through generations. Its outdoor book stalls are iconic and draw book hunters from all over the country.
Trivia: Authors like John Updike and Norman Mailer were regular visitors and have held readings here.
Founded: 1925
Description: Another NYC entry, Argosy Book Store specializes in rare and antique books, maps, and prints. It’s a must-visit for collectors of vintage editions and for anyone looking for a deep dive into history, science, or art through beautifully preserved volumes. Oddly enough I never made it to this one but my wife went there several times and loved it second only to the Strand.
History: A family-owned bookstore for nearly a century, Argosy specializes in rare books, maps, and prints. Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, it’s a go-to for serious collectors.
Trivia: Argosy has handled rare volumes belonging to historical figures like Abraham Lincoln and Mark Twain.
Founded: 1988
Description: Fair's Fair Books is known for its community focus and sustainability efforts, the store has a vast selection that appeals to avid readers and collectors alike. Its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to recycling books have made it a local favorite for over three decades. I have not been there for a very long time and for some reason seem to remember they had a section that had used Dungeons and Dragons modules... although I could be mixing it up with The Sentry Box (also in Calgary) too as they were, and possibly still are, the store to go to for gamers. Either way, both were awesome and were places I frequented.
History: Fair’s Fair is one of Calgary’s most beloved used bookstores, known for its wide selection of gently used books and its dedication to sustainability through book recycling. With multiple locations over the years, the shop has become a local favorite for those seeking secondhand gems and out-of-print titles.
Trivia: The name “Fair’s Fair” reflects the store's belief in the fair exchange of books, both for readers and the environment.
Founded: 1959
Description: Moe’s has been a beloved institution in the Bay Area since 1959, with four floors of new, used, and antiquarian books. Their eclectic selection includes everything from modern literature to philosophy, rare books, and academic texts. It’s a hub for book lovers in Berkeley, where each visit promises a new discovery.
History: Founded by Moe Moskowitz, this four-story bookstore is a Berkeley landmark. It’s known for its academic and literary selection, as well as its collection of rare and out-of-print titles.
Trivia: Moe’s has been a favorite of many visiting authors and intellectuals, including Noam Chomsky and Allen Ginsberg. Apparently, according to two readers on Facebook - Solovino and Tom, author Jonathan Lethem worked at Moe's for several years before he was published. Thanks for the interesting tidbit!
Founded: 2007
Description: Known for its selection of graphic novels, indie literature, and beautifully designed books, Librarie Drawn & Quarterly also offers a curated selection of used and vintage books. This cozy bookstore has a loyal following and regularly hosts author events and readings. I've only ever visited once but must return to take my daughter there as she is now into graphic novels (it has never been my taste really).
History: The bookstore is an extension of the renowned comic book publisher Drawn & Quarterly. It focuses on graphic novels and indie literature and has become a gathering spot for the literary community in Montreal.
Trivia: Notable graphic novelists like Chris Ware and Lynda Barry have held events at the store.
Founded: 1991
Description: This interesting bookstore in D.C.’s Capitol Hill neighborhood is packed to the rafters with used and vintage books. The layout may be chaotic, but that’s half the fun—you never know what rare treasure you might stumble upon while squeezing through the narrow aisles. The staff’s witty handwritten notes and signs only add to the charm. You can even order a mystery Grab bag for that they will send to you based solely on genre preferences and/or authors.
History: Located in a cramped, charming building near the Capitol, Capitol Hill Books is known for its towering stacks of used books and its famously quirky owner.
Trivia: Every available inch of the store is covered with books, including the bathroom, where you can find books stacked in the shower stall. I lost my wife in this store once for 2 hours one trip when my phone died. It was hilarious.
Conclusion
Each of these bookstores offers something more than just a place to buy books—they provide an experience, a journey into the past, and a chance to discover something rare and unique. Whether you’re a casual reader or a seasoned collector, these independent bookstores in North America are worth adding to your travel itinerary.
I certainly encourage exploring beyond these to find the tiny little shops tucked away into quiet alleyways and side streets. Those offer some of the best opportunities to find something truly unique, but there are so many that I have found around the world that I simply could not compile such a list, if I even remembered their names and where I found them! Just remember, even if you don't have a bookstore near you can can always find them online and have them shipped. I prefer a physical copy but there are those who love having the versatility of a Kindle so go with what works for you!
Addendum
In light of the number of comments I received on our FaceBook Page with suggestions for book stores I felt I needed to add these entries to the list in short form. I also needed to remove Daedalus books from the original post as it has unfortunately closed. I have replaced it with a Suggestion from Gary: Baldwin's Book Barn of West Chester, PA.
Rich Suggests
Founded: 1988
Description: A sprawling collection of over 500,000 used books spread across several barn-like buildings and outdoor spaces, offering a whimsical experience for book lovers.
Peter Suggests
Founded: 1997
Description: Specializing in rare and antiquarian books, Ken Sanders Rare Books is a must-visit for collectors and literary enthusiasts in the heart of Salt Lake City.
Judy Suggests
Founded: 1994
Description: One of the largest independent bookstores in the Midwest, Magers & Quinn offers an extensive collection of new, used, and rare books in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood.
Joe Suggests
Founded: 1953
Description: A historic bookstore and cultural landmark, City Lights was co-founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and became famous as a hub for the Beat Generation.
Don Suggests (2)
Founded: 1973
Description: Specializing in used and rare books, Second Story Books is a D.C. institution, known for its large inventory of rare volumes and its eclectic, ever-changing collection. It was a conglomerate of other old book stores that closed down including the famed Savile which was the original suggestion provided by Don.
Founded: 1978
Description: Known for its extensive selection of used books, media, and vinyl records (Yeah, more records!), McKay’s is a massive warehouse-style store that’s a favorite for bargain hunters in Nashville.
Fiona Suggests
Founded: 1981
Description: A beloved indie bookstore in the heart of wine country, Copperfield’s Calistoga location is one of many across Northern California, offering a mix of new, used, and local interest books. I'm not sure which location Fiona had in mind but the Calistoga location is dear to me as I remember finding a lovely copy of the Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff in there during a Napa trip one year.
Carye Suggests
Founded: 1974
Description: An Ann Arbor institution, Dawn Treader offers a vast collection of used and rare books, specializing in literary fiction, science fiction, and rare antiquarian finds.
Thanks you all for your suggestions! And a shout out goes out to Eric as well who shared the link to iheartbookstores.com wherein you can find a map to over 6000 bookstores across the United States. Thanks Eric!