
The Strand Bookstore
NYC's iconic '18 miles of books' across four floors. Discover new, used, rare editions, and literary gifts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

The Strand Bookstore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's iconic '18 miles of books' across four floors. Discover new, used, rare editions, and literary gifts.
"A beloved bookstore, a cultural landmark, and a paradise for book lovers."

🎯 Get Lost in the Stacks
Embrace the '18 miles of books' and wander freely. You never know what literary gems you'll discover!
☕ New Cafe Spots
Check out the new locations with cafes for a perfect reading and coffee break.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rare Book Room
Top Floor
Discover unique, antique, and signed editions. A treasure trove for collectors and history buffs.

Four Floors of Literary Bliss
Main Store
Wander through '18 miles of books' covering every genre imaginable. Get lost in the stacks!

New Cafe Locations
Lincoln Center & Upper West Side
Enjoy coffee and pastries while browsing. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon of reading and sipping.

Bookish Gifts & Stationery
Main Store & Souvenir Area
Find unique bookmarks, tote bags, and NYC-themed souvenirs alongside your literary finds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Miles of Books
Selling Books: Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get Lost in the Stacks
Embrace the '18 miles of books' and wander freely. You never know what literary gems you'll discover!
☕ New Cafe Spots
Check out the new locations with cafes for a perfect reading and coffee break.
🧐 Rare Book Room Access
Plan your visit for the Rare Book Room's specific hours to see unique and antique editions.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Don't miss the fun NYC merchandise and bookish gifts, including iconic tote bags.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Lost in the Stacks
Embrace the '18 miles of books' and wander freely. You never know what literary gems you'll discover!
☕ New Cafe Spots
Check out the new locations with cafes for a perfect reading and coffee break.
🧐 Rare Book Room Access
Plan your visit for the Rare Book Room's specific hours to see unique and antique editions.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Don't miss the fun NYC merchandise and bookish gifts, including iconic tote bags.
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring all floors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Strand Bookstore is a beloved New York City institution, celebrated as a paradise for book lovers with an unparalleled selection of new, used, and rare books across four floors. Visitors rave about the vibrant atmosphere, helpful staff, and the sheer joy of discovery, making it a must-visit cultural landmark. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for crowds and the less-than-lucrative book-selling process.
"I love a good bookstore. The second floor with the children’s area and the art books was my personal favorite. They have really awesome blind date with a book covers for young adults and kids fiction. Two wonderful employees helped me pick out a couple of my 9 and 12 year old. The rare book room was very neat but the female employee up there on Thursday was pretty rude when I asked for assistance. Despite that they still get 5 stars because all the other employees were lovely and the store was great."
Ricki Gibson
"A true NYC gem and absolute must-visit for book lovers. The Strand Book Store is a landmark bookstore that never disappoints — shelves upon shelves of titles to explore, including fantastic discounted finds that are still incredibly high-quality. Beyond the books, you'll discover unique cards, artistic gifts, and quirky treasures that make wandering the store such a treat. Whether you're hunting for a specific read or just browsing for inspiration, it’s easy to lose track of time in the best way. Definitely worth a stop every time I’m in the area!"
Stephanie
"Popular bookstore with several locations throughout the city. Lots of tourists and regular students picking up books. There’s a special Rare Book Room at the top floor open during special hours to see rare and unique books with histories themselves. This location is well stocked from books to souvenirs and stationery. Clear signage everywhere you go but staff are helpful too if you’re looking for something specific."
Kevin Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main Strand Bookstore is located at 828 Broadway. It's easily accessible via subway lines like the N, R, W to 8th St-NYU, or the 6 to Astor Place. Several bus routes also stop nearby. The newer cafe locations are at Lincoln Center (2020 Broadway) and the Upper West Side.
Yes, The Strand has an accessible elevator that allows visitors to reach all floors, making it a great option for everyone.
For the main store, the N, R, W trains to 8th St-NYU station or the 6 train to Astor Place are most convenient. These lines put you within a short walk of the bookstore.
Street parking in this area of Manhattan can be very challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a rideshare service to reach The Strand.
Absolutely. Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly on Broadway near the main entrance, offering a convenient way to arrive, especially if you're coming from further afield.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to The Strand Bookstore is free. You can wander through the aisles and browse to your heart's content without needing a ticket.
The Strand typically opens around 9:30 AM and closes at 10 PM daily. However, hours can vary slightly, especially for the Rare Book Room or during holidays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Rare Book Room has specific operating hours, often shorter than the main store. It's advisable to check The Strand's website for the exact times before your visit if you're interested in seeing these unique collections.
There is no admission fee to enter the new cafe locations at Lincoln Center or the Upper West Side. You can browse the books and purchase coffee and pastries as you wish.
While The Strand doesn't typically offer reservations for general browsing, you can inquire about specific titles or special orders with their staff. For rare books, it's best to visit in person.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Strand is famously massive, claiming '18 miles of books' spread across four floors. It's one of the largest independent bookstores in the world.
You can find virtually any book imaginable: new releases, used books, rare editions, out-of-print titles, academic texts, and bestsellers across all genres. They also have a significant collection of art and coffee table books.
The store is well-organized by genre and subject, with clear signage. Staff are also very helpful if you're looking for something specific. Many visitors enjoy the serendipitous discovery of new titles.
The atmosphere is vibrant and bustling, a true haven for book lovers. It's a place where you can easily spend hours exploring, with a palpable sense of literary history and community.
Beyond the general floors, The Strand features a dedicated Rare Book Room, a large selection of used books, and a popular souvenir area with NYC-themed merchandise and bookish gifts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Strand has recently opened new locations that feature cafes. The Lincoln Center and Upper West Side branches offer coffee by Brooklyn Roasting Company and pastries from local bakeries.
You can enjoy coffee and pastries at the dedicated cafe areas within the new Lincoln Center and Upper West Side locations. Food and drinks are generally not permitted in the main book browsing areas of the original store.
The cafes offer a selection of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries from popular local vendors. It's a great spot to relax with a beverage and a treat while surrounded by books.
The main Strand location is in the vibrant Union Square/East Village area, which is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. You'll find plenty of choices within a few blocks.
It's best to consume your own food and drinks outside the bookstore to maintain the condition of the books. The cafes provide a designated space for enjoying refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside The Strand, especially for personal use. Many visitors love capturing the iconic shelves and unique finds.
While personal photography is welcome, professional photoshoots or commercial filming usually require prior permission. Be mindful of other shoppers and avoid blocking aisles.
The towering shelves, the Rare Book Room, the iconic exterior signage, and the cozy cafe areas in the newer locations are all popular spots for photos.
Photography in the Rare Book Room might be restricted to protect the delicate and valuable items. It's best to ask a staff member before taking pictures in this specific area.
Visitors often capture wide shots of the endless bookshelves, close-ups of interesting book covers, selfies with their finds, and shots of the unique NYC merchandise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds. The new cafe locations at Lincoln Center and the Upper West Side also offer a relaxed environment where kids can enjoy a treat while parents browse. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover!
📚 Budget Travelers
While selling books to The Strand might not yield high profits, the joy of discovering affordable reads is immense. Look for discounted sections and be prepared to spend time sifting through the vast inventory – the savings can be substantial. The free entry also makes it an excellent, low-cost activity in NYC.
🎁 Gift Shoppers
For the truly special occasion, the Rare Book Room offers one-of-a-kind antique and signed editions that make for unforgettable presents. The new cafe locations also provide a pleasant atmosphere to pick up a gift and a coffee, making your shopping experience more enjoyable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strand's Literary Legacy
The store has weathered economic downturns and the rise of online retail, becoming a symbol of the enduring appeal of physical books. It's not just a place to buy books; it's a cultural landmark, a place where generations have discovered new worlds and revisited old favorites. The atmosphere is a unique blend of bustling energy and quiet contemplation, inviting visitors to get lost in its literary labyrinth.
Navigating the Four Floors
Key areas include the extensive fiction and non-fiction sections, a dedicated children's area, and the highly sought-after Rare Book Room on the top floor. This room houses antique, signed, and collectible editions, offering a glimpse into literary history. Don't forget the souvenir section, which is packed with iconic Strand tote bags, NYC-themed gifts, and unique stationery items, making it a great spot for finding mementos.
The Strand's Evolving Presence
This expansion reflects The Strand's commitment to adapting to modern consumer habits while staying true to its core mission of promoting reading and literature. The cafes provide a cozy ambiance, perfect for settling in with a newly purchased book or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a literary haven. These new spots are quickly becoming popular destinations for both locals and tourists seeking a unique New York City experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit