Hey there, fellow bookworms! Do you love getting lost in pages of a good novel, examining dusty old tomes with curiosity, or discovering new books that catch your eye? Then this blog post is for you! Today, we’re taking a journey across the USA to visit some of the best independent bookstores scattered throughout the country. Embrace your inner literary explorer and join me on this adventure!

📍 Powell’s City of Books in Portland, Oregon

Powell’s City of Books is one of the most iconic and beloved independent bookstores in the country. Boasting over 68,000 square feet of retail space, and with over a million books lining the shelves, it’s easy to see why it’s been deemed “the largest independent bookstore in the world”. Powell’s has been serving Portland readers since 1971 and has been awarded countless accolades in the literary industry. With its unique and quirky personality, this bookstore is the perfect spot to spend hours getting lost among the stacks.

A panoramic view of an open bookstore with stacks of books on numerous shelves

đź“Ť Strand Book Store in New York City, New York

A trip to New York City wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Strand Book Store. This landmark institution has been around since 1927 and boasts an impressive 18 miles of books! Offering both rare and new titles, the Strand is a must-visit for book lovers of all ages. The store also hosts a variety of events, ranging from author talks to book clubs, so make sure to check their website before planning your visit.

A façade of a building with a red and white awning with the words, "The Strand" written across it

đź“Ť Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee

Owned by famed author Ann Patchett, Parnassus Books is a beautiful and charming indie bookstore located in the heart of Music City. With a focus on community involvement, this store has been a staple in Nashville since 2011 and has become a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Parnassus is known for its well-curated selection of books, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. Be sure to check out the store’s event calendar for author signings, book clubs, and writing workshops.

An interior photo of a well-lit and cozy bookstore with wooden bookshelves and chairs

đź“Ť Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver, Colorado

With four locations throughout Denver, Tattered Cover Book Store is a beloved indie bookstore that’s been around since 1971. Each location has its own personality, but they all offer a wide variety of books, cozy reading spots, and a welcoming environment. The store also hosts a variety of events, from book trivia to author signings, and has a robust online store for those who can’t make it in-person.

The front entrance of the bookstore with the words, "Tattered Cover Book Store" written above it

📍 Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe in Asheville, North Carolina

The charming Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe has been serving the Asheville community since 1982 and has become a well-known literary destination. The store has a distinctly local feel with a wide selection of books by Asheville-based authors and an impressive collection of rare and hard-to-find books. Beyond the books, the cafe offers a tasty menu of snacks, sandwiches, and coffee drinks.

An interior photo of a quaint bookstore with a wooden bookshelf and staircase

đź“Ť Wild Rumpus in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wild Rumpus is a quirky and fun independent children’s bookstore that is sure to delight readers of all ages. The store is housed in a charming old home and is a delightful maze of books, animals, and whimsical decorations. Named “Best Children’s Bookstore in America” by Publisher’s Weekly, Wild Rumpus is a must-visit for families, animal lovers, and anyone who appreciates a little bit of magic.

A photo of the front entrance of the store with colorful flags and a cat statue

I hope you’ve enjoyed this virtual tour of some of the best independent bookstores the USA has to offer. While there are countless other gems out there waiting to be discovered, these bookstores are a great starting point for any book lover looking to explore. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and dive into a new book at one of these fantastic stores. Happy reading!

A photo of an open book with a bookmark sticking out from between the pages