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The Last Bookshop

4.7
·267 reviews·, Ireland

An iconic LA landmark, this multi-level bookstore is a wonderland of used books, art installations, and creative displays.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
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The Last Bookshop - Image 1

The Last Bookshop

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic LA landmark, this multi-level bookstore is a wonderland of used books, art installations, and creative displays.

4.7
(267 reviews)

"It's a place where you can get lost for hours, discovering hidden gems and experiencing the magic of literature."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Magic

Don't miss the photo ops! The book tunnels and unique displays are perfect for your feed. :camerawithflash:

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This place is huge! You could easily spend hours exploring every corner. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Book Tunnels

The Famous Book Tunnels

Main Spring Street Location

Wander through mesmerizing tunnels and arches crafted entirely from books. A truly iconic photo opportunity!

TikTok
The Art Gallery & Vinyl Collection

The Art Gallery & Vinyl Collection

Main Spring Street Location

Discover unique art installations and a vast selection of vinyl records, adding another layer to this creative space.

TikTok
The Hidden Cafe & Courtyard

The Hidden Cafe & Courtyard

Main Spring Street Location

Unwind with a coffee in the charming back courtyard, surrounded by art and a relaxed vibe.

Reddit
The Curated Second Location

The Curated Second Location

Second Location (S Spring St)

Experience a calmer, more curated selection of books and home decor in a beautifully designed space.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Eclectic Charm

Prepare for a unique experience! The Last Bookstore is more than just shelves of books; it's an art installation, a vintage treasure trove, and a vibrant community hub. Allow ample time to explore its nooks and crannies, from the famous book tunnels to the hidden art galleries and cafe. TikTok

Navigate the Bookish Labyrinth

With two distinct locations, plan your visit accordingly. The main Spring Street location is a sprawling, multi-level wonderland, while the second location offers a more curated, serene atmosphere. Both are free to enter, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious explorers and book lovers alike. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the last bookstore 📚 located in DTLA!! it was such a cool store. beautiful displays, abundance of books, and lots of things to check out. they had a little thrift store, art displays, a cafe, and also smalller shops. #thelastbookstore #losangeles #lathingstodo #dtla #downtownlosangeles
@joyces.world
4.5K likes • 32.9K views

📸 Capture the Magic

Don't miss the photo ops! The book tunnels and unique displays are perfect for your feed. TikTok :camerawithflash:

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This place is huge! You could easily spend hours exploring every corner. TikTok+1 :clock1:

A hidden Gem for Book Lovers : The Last Bookstore 📍 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013 : #travelbucketlist #traveltiktok #travel #destination #losangeles #thelastbookstore
@connietsng
717 likes • 29.6K views
The Last Book Store second location has a completely different vibe… calm, curated, & shared with a home decor showroom. Thousands of books, beautiful furniture, and quiet corners to browse? Obsessed! #TheLastBookstore #BookShopping #BookstoreTour #BookTok #bookstore #IndieBookstore
@massireads
777 likes • 9.2K views

☕️ Discover the Hidden Cafe

The cafe in the back offers a cozy escape and a chance to enjoy the unique ambiance. Reddit :coffee:

📚 Explore Both Locations

Each location has a distinct vibe; visit both for the full Last Bookstore experience. TikTok :books:

📍the last bookstore in LA is a great place to go with friends or with a date for free! cute photo ops and art exhibits to look at as well! #thingstodoinla #la #ucla #student #minivlog #free #freethingstodoinla #thelastbookstore #thelastbookstorela #artexhibit
@sunnyytiny
3K likes • 110.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Magic

Don't miss the photo ops! The book tunnels and unique displays are perfect for your feed. TikTok :camerawithflash:

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This place is huge! You could easily spend hours exploring every corner. TikTok+1 :clock1:

☕️ Discover the Hidden Cafe

The cafe in the back offers a cozy escape and a chance to enjoy the unique ambiance. Reddit :coffee:

📚 Explore Both Locations

Each location has a distinct vibe; visit both for the full Last Bookstore experience. TikTok :books:

✨ Free Entry & Art

Enjoy the incredible atmosphere and art exhibits without spending a dime! TikTok :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(267 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about The Last Bookstore's unique atmosphere, vast selection of books, and creative art installations. Many highlight the iconic book tunnels and the charming hidden cafe as must-see features. While the sheer size and variety are a major draw, some find the organization can be a bit chaotic, and parking in the area can be challenging.

"One of my favourite bookshops in Dublin. Great range of history titles, and the café tucked behind it is well worth a stop."

Reni Raynova

"Lovely bookshop and hidden cafe at the back. The smell of the shop smells of old books its great :)"

Grace Aoife Campbell

"Wonderfully charming bookshop with an atmosphere that is a must for any lover or anyone who even slightly fancy books. Highly recommended - and so remember to go out to the back to see the interesting back alley with its art and cool vibe thanks to the cafe located there."

Nicolai Nygaard Petersen

What People Like

Unique atmosphere
Vast book selection
Iconic photo spots

What People Dislike

Chaotic organization
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main location is at 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, in Downtown LA. It's easily accessible by public transport, including Metro buses and the Metro B (Red) and D (Purple) Lines to Pershing Square Station. Parking is available in nearby garages, but can be pricey. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of the Spring Street location. Street parking can be difficult to find and is often metered. Consider ride-sharing services for convenience. TikTok

The two locations are a short distance apart in Downtown LA. You can walk between them (about 10-15 minutes), or take a quick ride-share. TikTok

The main Spring Street location has multiple levels, and while there are elevators, accessibility can be challenging in some areas due to the nature of the building. The second location is generally more accessible. It's advisable to call ahead if you have specific concerns. TikTok

Generally, pets are not allowed inside The Last Bookstore, except for service animals. Check their official policy for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to The Last Bookstore is completely free! You can browse to your heart's content without purchasing anything. TikTok

The main Spring Street location is typically open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM. The second location has slightly different hours, usually closing earlier. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours before your visit. TikTok

While they have a vast collection, specific book reservations might not be a standard service. It's best to visit in person to browse and purchase. If you're looking for a specific title, you might try contacting them directly. TikTok

The Last Bookstore often hosts events, author signings, and art exhibitions. Keep an eye on their social media channels and website for announcements. TikTok

As a used bookstore with a unique inventory, return policies can vary. It's advisable to inspect your purchases carefully before leaving the store and inquire about their specific policy at the time of purchase. TikTok

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

Beyond browsing an incredible selection of new and used books, you can explore art exhibits, discover vinyl records, enjoy the cafe, and take stunning photos in their unique book-themed installations. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The iconic book tunnels, the 'gallery of books,' and various art displays offer endless, highly Instagrammable moments. TikTok+1

They have an extensive collection of used books across all genres, including fiction, non-fiction, history, art, and rare finds. They also carry some new releases and a significant selection of vinyl records and comics. TikTok

No, the second location offers a different experience. It's more curated, calmer, and often shared with a home decor showroom, providing a more intimate browsing environment. TikTok

Yes, The Last Bookstore buys used books. The process and what they accept can vary, so it's best to check their website or inquire in-store for details on their buying policies. Reddit

🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a charming cafe tucked away in the back courtyard of the main Spring Street location, offering a great spot to relax and refuel. TikTokReddit

The cafe typically serves coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. It's a perfect place to take a break from browsing the extensive book collection. Reddit

Downtown Los Angeles has a vibrant food scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within walking distance of The Last Bookstore, offering diverse culinary options. TikTok

It's generally not recommended to bring outside food or drinks into the bookstore, especially in the book browsing areas. The cafe is the designated area for refreshments. TikTok

The cafe is more geared towards coffee and light snacks. For a full lunch, you'd be better off exploring the many restaurants in the surrounding Downtown LA area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic book tunnels and arches are a must-capture. Also, look for the 'gallery of books,' unique art installations, and the charming cafe courtyard. TikTok+1

Yes, photography is generally allowed, and encouraged for personal use. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking aisles. Professional photoshoots may require prior arrangement. TikTok

Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons can provide beautiful natural light filtering through the windows, creating a magical ambiance. TikTok

While personal photography is welcome, be respectful of the space and other patrons. Avoid using flash in a way that might disturb others or damage delicate items. TikTok

Absolutely not. Drones are strictly prohibited inside any indoor public space like The Last Bookstore due to safety and privacy concerns. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Last Bookstore can be a fun adventure for families! While it's a vast space, the sheer novelty of the book tunnels and creative displays can captivate children. It's a great place for kids to explore and discover new stories. The cafe offers a nice spot for a break. TikTok+1

Tips for families: Go during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. Encourage kids to look for specific types of books or characters. The art installations can also spark their imagination. Remember that it's a place filled with books, so gentle exploration is key. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The Last Bookstore is a dream for budget travelers! Entry is free, and the sheer volume of used books means you can find incredible deals. You can spend hours exploring without spending a dime, making it a perfect free activity in Los Angeles. TikTok

Tips for budget travelers: Focus on the used book sections for the best prices. The cafe is a good spot for an affordable coffee or snack, but for a full meal, explore the many budget-friendly eateries in Downtown LA. Reddit

📸 Instagrammers & Photographers

This is your paradise! The Last Bookstore is renowned for its visually stunning book tunnels, arches, and art installations. It's a prime location for unique and memorable photos. TikTok+1

Tips for photographers: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Experiment with different angles and lighting to capture the magic. The second location also offers a more minimalist aesthetic for different types of shots. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Evolution of The Last Bookstore

Founded in 2011 by Josh Spencer, The Last Bookstore quickly became a landmark in Downtown Los Angeles. It's housed in a magnificent 1914 building that was once a bank, adding a layer of historical grandeur to the experience. The store's unique approach, blending a vast collection of used books with art installations and creative displays, set it apart from traditional bookstores. TikTok

What started as a single location has expanded, with a second, more curated space opening to offer a different, yet equally enchanting, atmosphere. This evolution reflects a commitment to adapting and innovating within the book industry, creating not just a retail space, but a cultural destination. The store's name itself evokes a sense of preservation and the enduring power of books in a digital age. TikTok

The success of The Last Bookstore is a testament to its ability to create an immersive and engaging environment. It's a place where book lovers can get lost for hours, discovering hidden gems and experiencing the magic of literature in a truly unique setting. The blend of old and new, the artistic flair, and the sheer volume of books make it a must-visit for anyone in Los Angeles. TikTok+1

Navigating the Two Locations

The Last Bookstore operates two distinct locations in Downtown Los Angeles, each offering a unique flavor. The flagship store on Spring Street is the sprawling, iconic space that most visitors flock to. It's a multi-level labyrinth filled with an immense collection of used books, art installations, a vinyl record section, and the famous book tunnels. This is where you'll find the most dramatic photo opportunities and the widest variety of literary treasures. TikTok+1

The second location, also on Spring Street but a short walk away, presents a more refined and curated experience. This space often features a beautiful home decor showroom alongside a carefully selected collection of books. It's a quieter, more intimate environment, perfect for those seeking a more tranquil browsing session or looking for unique decorative items. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider which experience you're seeking. If you want the full, overwhelming, and visually stunning Last Bookstore experience, the main Spring Street location is your destination. If you prefer a more serene and curated atmosphere, the second location is a delightful alternative or addition to your visit. TikTok

The Art and Photography Appeal

The Last Bookstore is as much an art gallery as it is a bookstore. The creative displays, particularly the famous book tunnels and arches, have become iconic backdrops for photos. These installations are not just visually striking but also a testament to the imaginative spirit of the store and its patrons. TikTok+1

Visitors often spend a significant amount of time capturing these unique scenes. The 'gallery of books' and various art exhibits scattered throughout the store provide endless opportunities for creative photography. It’s a place where the architecture of the books themselves becomes art. TikTok+1

For aspiring photographers or those looking for that perfect Instagram shot, The Last Bookstore offers a wealth of possibilities. The natural light that filters into the historic building, combined with the sheer volume and arrangement of books, creates a magical atmosphere. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the space while you capture your memories. TikTok