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The 5 Best Bookstores in Portland Book Lovers Can’t Resist
Portland isn’t just a city for coffee and donuts; it’s also a paradise for book nerds who love stepping into a bookstore. It’s filled with indie and iconic bookshops that your social media friends would get jealous of when they see your snaps.
Aside from that, there are also great finds, like a title you’ve never heard of. On my first visit, I told myself I’d just browse one or two shops. The ending? I left with a tote bag so heavy I had to carry it like a newborn baby. No regrets, though!
If you’re a fellow book lover, here are some of the best bookstores in Portland where I buy valuable books that I love flipping through!
| How much does buying a book in a bookstore cost in Portland? Buying a book in a bookstore in Portland typically costs between $10 and $35 or even higher, depending on the type of book (new, used, etc.), the author, and the publisher. |
1. Third Eye Books & Gifts
Address: 2518 SE 33rd Ave
Phone: +1 503 688 7008
Business hours:
- Mon-Fri: 10 AM – 6 PM
Third Eye Books & Gifts’ service is impressive, both personal and online. That alone earns it a solid spot on this list.
A perfect example of their excellent customer service is their acceptance of custom orders. When they didn’t have the books I wanted in stock, they ordered them in, and I had the books in my hands within a few days.
Another thing I admire is the store itself. It’s very easy to navigate, so you can find what you’re looking for in no time.
For books, they have a great selection of African-centered books. It’s a brilliant place to discover powerful, uplifting stories from black voices that don’t always get the spotlight they deserve.
I’m just disappointed that they’re shut at weekends. It’s a bit of a shame, really, as that’s when a lot of people finally have the time to wander in. Hopefully, they’ll think about opening up because it’s the kind of place more people should stumble across.
It did not disappoint!
“I saw this place recommended by the Traveling While Black TikTok before visiting from Seattle. It did not disappoint! Lots of great Black-centered books for kids, teens, and adults. My boyfriend bought an adorable book for his niece. He also bought two books to read himself. He only got into reading over the past couple years and was an audiobook guy. He loved the store so much and got some great recommendations from Charles. I bought a memoir adapted for young adults that I’m excited to read. Charles also gave us a great recommendation for Caesar salad that actually was really delicious. So kind! I will definitely come back to visit.”
-Shannah Tan, Google Review
I was so impressed
“I found this place on tik tok and decided to stop in during my weekend trip to Portland. I was so impressed by the large selection of books available by black authors. I was also able to chat quite a bit with the owner, Charles. He was great to chat with and I could tell that he’s very passionate about literature, life and black culture. I ended up purchasing two books that I’m super excited to read. Next time that I’m in the area, I will definitely be back!”
-Sarah A., Google Review
2. Powell’s City of Books
Address: 1005 W Burnside St
Phone: +1 800 878 7323
Business hours:
- Mon-Sun: 10 AM – 9 PM
Powell’s City of Books is the bookstore that you wouldn’t want to miss out on when they’re in Oregon. It’s the largest indie bookstore not just in Portland, but in the whole world!
On my first visit, I was floored by just how much they have. Here, you have thousands to choose from in any genre, thanks to the over half a million books they have.
The real gem inside the bookstore, though, is the rare book room. It’s packed with an incredible range of books that you’ll have a hard time finding elsewhere. The selection has books that go from as far back as the 1600s.
That said, due to the number of visitors every day, finding a vacant parking spot can be challenging. It doesn’t help that the store is located in a highly populated area, so even street parking is usually taken.
This place is a haven for knowledge
“Well, I was here once before and didn’t know there was a rare book room, so this time I prepared. This is the biggest and most amazing bookstore I’ve ever seen, and I think (like one other reviewer) this may be my annual pilgrimage. There are sections of everything you can fathom, and subsections of everything else known to man. If there is an art book or an obscure text or some hobby you’ve been dying to try, you’ll find it. The staff are really nice, helpful, and welcoming. It is VAST inside. Impossible to explore, honestly. Very much my happy place. Also the rare book librarian (not sure what to call her, but it feels like a library)… She’s a gem. Always nice to see people who respect and love their job. This place is a haven for knowledge.”
-Andrea F, Google Review
The most amazing bookstore
“Here from Alaska for convention and made a trip of 45 min to get to the most amazing bookstore. I was able to get three excellent hardback like new used books for 39 dollars total. I love that they have used books mixed in with the new, so you’re likely to find a good condition book for less! Follow me for reviews from around the world.”
-Christopher Sahlstrom, Google Review
3. Annie Bloom’s Books
Address: 7834 SW Capitol Hwy
Phone: +1 503 246 0053
Business hours:
- Sun: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Mon-Fri: 9 AM – 9 PM
- Sat: 9 AM – 7 PM
Annie Bloom’s Books has that laid-back, relaxing atmosphere that I really love. The vibe will make you want to stay at their store for a long period, browsing what they have.
I highly recommend this store for those who want to read books written by local authors in Portland. They house a great selection of signed books. You can also request that your book be signed if you bought one without a signature.
Aside from books from local authors, they also have a range of children’s books. So, if you’re a tourist and want to have something for your little nephews and nieces when you get back home, give this store a visit.
But what I love most about Annie Bloom’s Books, though, is their bargain prices. Nothing beats that rush of finding a brand new book at a discounted price, especially when you’ve been meaning to buy it but haven’t because of budget constraints.
If there’s one thing I’d change, it’s that not every staff member says hello when you walk in. I just think a quick greeting would make the already relaxing atmosphere feel even better.
Definitely worth a visit!
“This adorable little bookstore is tiny but feels incredibly cozy and inviting. They have a fantastic kids’ section alongside an amazing adult collection, so there’s truly something for everyone. I always love checking out their staff picks—they never disappoint and introduce me to some great reads. What really stands out is how welcoming and safe the space feels. They make it clear that all people and bodies are embraced here, which is so refreshing. Plus, they have the cutest bookmarks and stickers to add a little extra charm. One of my favorite touches is that they’ll beautifully wrap any book you buy as a gift—it’s such a wonderful service. Honestly, it feels like a bookstore straight out of Gilmore Girls—warm, charming, and full of heart. It’s absolutely amazing and definitely worth a visit!”
-Brenna Madden, Google Review
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting
“Here is one of the steadfast local bookstores that has held strong for 30+ years. It’s a local fave, especially for Multnomah Village. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting. They pack the space with new releases, children’s books, cards and everything you’d want from a bookstore. If they don’t have it in stock, they will gladly order it for you. They also offer free gift wrapping. What’s there not to like about this place? They’re also avid contributor’s to community events.”
-Maria Thi Mai, Google Review
4. Arches Bookhouse
Address: 8900 N Wall Ave
Phone: +1 503 251 5383
Business hours:
- Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 5 PM
Arches Bookhouse’s biggest advantage over other bookstores in Portland is the owner’s extensive knowledge of the books he sells. Our conversation went far beyond the books themselves, touching on history and life in general.
If you’re into the humanities, I’d definitely recommend visiting the shop. Arches stores a great selection of books that cover philosophy, religion, and more. A lot of the books here can really challenge the way you see the world.
Apart from humanities books, the store also houses used yet still valuable books from different genres. This is a great offer for those who want to read new books but currently have a limited budget.
What’s even better is that they place a shelf outside their store where you can take old books for free! Although they don’t force people to donate, it would be great if you leave some of your old books on the shelf in exchange for the ones you’ll take.
The only drawback is that some genres, especially fiction, have a smaller selection.
Such a sweet little bookshop
“Such a sweet little bookshop. Thank you for being here 🙂 we got a few coloring books and a really cool old cookbook 🙂 we also love your kitty cat 🙂 I have to update this because about 2 hours after I brought my girlfriend to this shop, I proposed to her around the mile marker 80 going north on I5. This was the last stop we made as girlfriend/boyfriend. We have now been married for about a month and so happy. We love the coloring books we got 🙂 I just bought her a set of 100 gel ink pens so she could do them really well :)”
-Joshua Awesome, Google Review
Highly recommended
“Whoever you are reading this review, know that I charge you with a serious responsibility, to which I attach the sternest sanctions that love can bear. Do not share this bookstore with any unless you really believe that they are a person deeply committed to following love. I have in mind a person who, over and above the good works of the active life, has resolved to follow love into the inmost depths of contemplation. As for worldly gossips, flatterers, the scrupulous, talebearers, busybodies, and the hypercritical, I would just as soon they never laid eyes on this bookstore.”
-Brian Whitmer, Google Review
5. Green Bean Books
Address: 1600 NE Alberta St
Phone: +1 503 954 2354
Business hours:
- Sun-Fri: 11 AM – 5 PM
- Sat: 10 AM – 6 PM
Green Bean Books has a charm that’s hard to forget even with just one visit. It has a fairy tale feel that makes the place interesting for both children and adults.
If you’re looking for a store with a wide selection of children’s books, this is the one. Every shelf is filled with books and audiobooks for kids, covering a wide range of interests and ages.
What’s even better is that they offer a variety of graphic books that children will surely love. From picture books to graphic novels, there’s plenty here that will spark your kids’ imagination!
When I talked to parents I saw while visiting, many loved the weekly story time Green Bean organizes. The store’s patio becomes a magical place for children once a week when an author reads their own written books energetically.
The only downside is that the store gets too crowded sometimes. When it’s busy, navigating the aisles can be really hard. If you want a quieter visit, try stopping by on a weekday instead of the weekend.
You won’t be disappointed
“My 8 year old was so excited to go in here. Its a cute little independent book store with lots of great kids stuff. He went straight up to the “librarian” and asked her if they had any of his favorite books. They did have a Geronimo Stilton book and he sank into a chair in the corner to start reading it. We also found some good books for geography and other subjects for schooling. They also have some fun little trinkets and the facial hair disguise dispenser is a hilarious little add on. Stop in, you won’t be disappointed.”
-Ryan Yarzak, Google Review
I love this store
“My husband and I loved this book shop! It’s so cute and filled with great children’s books. If you’re looking for a place to grab some books for your kids, I’d definitely recommend green bean books. The shop is on the smaller side, but like I said, it’s packed with tons of books. We spent so much time in here looking for books for our kids and they loved what we got. They have a great variety and the prices are great as well! I believe they have activities for kids, some you might need to sign up for in advanced. The owner was super friendly. Overall I loved this store and we’ll definitely be back and I would definitely recommend checking this place out 👍👍👍”
-Bonnie Young, Google Review
