The Coolest Bookstores in the US: A Guide to Unique Reading Experiences

Book lovers, unite! If you’re someone who enjoys the smell of printed paper and the feel of a brand new book in your hands, you’re in luck. The United States is home to some of the coolest and most unique bookstores in the world. From massive book collections to outdoor bookshops, the options are endless. In this article, we’ll be highlighting eleven of the coolest bookstores in the US.

1. McNally Jackson Books
Located in the bustling city of New York, McNally Jackson Books offers an impressive collection of books and magazines arranged by nation. Apart from their fascinating book selection, the store boasts a café and an Espresso Book Machine, which prints library-quality paperbacks within minutes.

2. The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore, located in Los Angeles, started in the owner’s loft as an online store. Today, it has evolved into a massive “cathedral of books” spanning almost 20,000 square feet.

3. The Montague Bookmill
If you’re into interesting architecture, then the Montague Bookmill in Massachusetts will pique your interest. The bookstore is housed in a gristmill built-in 1842, and you can enjoy coffee or beer while watching a nearby waterfall. The store’s catchphrase, “Books you don’t need in a place you can’t find,” makes for a unique adventure.

4. Quimby’s Bookstore
Quimby’s Bookstore located in Chicago offers a unique twist on bookstores. You won’t find the latest bestseller list here, but instead, a wide selection of unusual publications, including zines, underground comics, and small press releases.

5. Square Books
Square Books located on the town square in Oxford, MS, is a small, quaint shop that has been around since the early ’70s. The store expanded and opened two other locations on the square, including Square Books Jr., which specializes in children’s books.

6. Powell’s Books
Considered as the world’s largest bookstore, Powell’s Books in Portland, OR, is definitely a place to check out. The store sells both new and used books, including contemporary and strange ones. The store’s strong online presence ensures you can shop at Powell’s no matter where in the world you are.

7. Bart’s Books
Located in Ojai, California, Bart’s Books is an outdoor bookstore built when the owner realized he had too many books in his house. He built a bookcase and encouraged people to stop, look, and leave money in coffee cans on the shelves.

8. Rizzoli Bookstore
Rizzoli Bookstore in New York City takes up six stories of a townhouse and has been called the “most beautiful bookstore in New York.” The store has vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, and a Diocletian window that lets in loads of natural light, allowing for the books’ natural beauty to be on display.

9. Magers & Quinn
Magers & Quinn, located in Minneapolis, started as a small bookstore with designs on tables instead of shelves. It has now become the largest bookstore in the city, with current and rare books at discounted prices.

10. Maple Street Book Shop
Maple Street Book Shop in New Orleans has been around since the ’60s and is still going strong. The store started with “five rooms of paperbacks” and expanded after the owners started special ordering books for customers and allowing visitors to hang out on the side porch.

11. Blue Bicycle Books
Blue Bicycle Books in Charleston, SC, houses over 50,000 volumes, including ones about the city’s history, science, philosophy, and literary fiction. An extra cool thing about this store is that they host a creative writing camp for kids every summer.

In conclusion, bookstores in the US offer unique and diverse experiences for book lovers of all kinds. From the world’s largest bookstore to outdoor bookstores, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a road trip or visiting a new city, make sure to stop by one of these coolest bookstores in the US.