Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Portland, Oregon, United States
1. Powell's City of Books
A vast independent bookstore with over a million titles, offering an unparalleled selection for book lovers.
- Size: Largest independent new and used bookseller in the world
- Selection: Boasts an extensive collection of literature from various genres and eras
- Events: Regular author readings, book signings, and workshops make for engaging experiences
2. The Last Bookstore
A book-lover's paradise with a labyrinthine layout and an art gallery feel.
- Layout: Unique, labyrinthine design creates an immersive experience
- Art Gallery Feel: Integration of books and contemporary art installations
- Selection: Specializes in unique, out-of-print, and collectible titles
3. Multnomah County Library - Central Library
A modern library with a stunning architecture and vast resources for readers.
- Architecture: Innovative, award-winning design by Dutch architects MVRDV
- Resources: Offers over 240,000 items including books, eBooks, audiobooks, and more
- Community Space: Serves as a community gathering space with meeting rooms, event spaces, and a rooftop garden
4. Literary Arts
A non-profit organization dedicated to supporting writers and fostering literary culture.
- Support for Writers: Provides fellowships, residencies, workshops, and manuscript consultations
- Literary Events: Organizes numerous readings, book launches, and literary festivals throughout the year
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, classes, and youth programs in creative writing
5. The Portland Building
Iconic postmodern building housing the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.
- Architecture: Stunning, colorful postmodern design by Michael Graves
- Artwork: Home to over 90 works of art, many of which depict literary themes
- Historical Significance: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
6. BridgePort BrewPub
A microbrewery with a cozy atmosphere and an attached bookstore.
- Bookstore: Features a small, curated selection of books for purchase
- Microbrewery: Known for its innovative brews and casual dining experience
- History: One of the oldest continuously operating brewpubs in America
7. The Portland Art Museum Bookstore
A museum bookstore offering a wide range of art and literature titles.
- Art Books: Offers an extensive selection of books on art, artists, and art history
- Literature Titles: Stocks a variety of literary fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels
- Museum Connection: Features books related to exhibitions on display at the Portland Art Museum
8. The Oregon Historical Society Museum Store
A museum store specializing in books on Oregon history and culture.
- Local History: Offers a wealth of information about Oregon's rich history
- Cultural Titles: Stocks books on Native American cultures, Pacific Northwest nature, and more
- Gift Items: Sells unique Oregon-themed gifts, including books
9. Broadway Books
A beloved independent bookstore with a focus on literary fiction and local authors.
- Independent Bookstore: One of Portland's most respected independent bookstores
- Literary Fiction: Has a strong focus on literary fiction and local authors
- Community Engagement: Regularly hosts events featuring local authors and book clubs
10. Powell's Books on Hawthorne
A smaller Powell's location with a more intimate atmosphere and a carefully curated selection.
- Size: Smaller, more manageable compared to the City of Books
- Selection: Curated selection offers a unique blend of new and used books
- Community Feel: Serves as a neighborhood gathering place for locals and visitors alike
11. Green Bean Books
A charming bookstore with a focus on contemporary fiction, poetry, and graphic novels.
- Contemporary Selection: Specializes in contemporary fiction, poetry, and graphic novels
- Small and Intimate: Cozy, welcoming atmosphere invites browsing and conversation
- Community Engagement: Regularly hosts events featuring local authors and book clubs
12. The Reading Frenzy
A friendly neighborhood bookstore focusing on mystery, science fiction, and fantasy genres.
- Specialized Selection: Focuses on mystery, science fiction, and fantasy titles
- Local Feel: Serves as a community hub for book lovers in Southeast Portland
- Knowledgeable Staff: Staff members are passionate about the genres and can offer recommendations
13. The Book Bin
A used bookstore with a vast selection and frequent sales.
- Vast Selection: Offers over 200,000 titles in its three locations
- Frequent Sales: Regularly holds sales on specific genres or sections of the store
- Community Engagement: Supports local schools and organizations through book donations
14. Wordstock: Portland's Annual Book Festival
An annual festival featuring author readings, workshops, and panel discussions.
- Literary Events: Brings together over 200 authors for readings, panels, and book signings
- Workshops: Offers workshops and classes on writing, publishing, and literary topics
- Community Engagement: Encourages literacy, promotes reading, and fosters literary culture in Portland
15. The Secret Society
A speakeasy bar hidden within a bookstore with live entertainment, cocktails, and literary events.
- Hidden Speakeasy: Accessible through a hidden door in the bookstore
- Live Entertainment: Offers live music, comedy shows, and literary events
- Cocktails: Creative cocktail menu with a literary twist