A great array of secondhand books
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Bart's Books Ojai

4.8
·1k reviews·Ojai, United States

Discover a world of used books in one of the largest outdoor bookstores, nestled in charming Ojai.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
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A great array of secondhand books

Bart's Books Ojai

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a world of used books in one of the largest outdoor bookstores, nestled in charming Ojai.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"Something special about browsing books in the open air, surrounded by the charm of the space."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Check the Weather

It's an outdoor bookstore! Be prepared for sun, wind, or potential rain.

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll want to get lost in the aisles. Don't rush your book hunt!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 1,357 reviews

Type

Book Store

♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Aisles

Outdoor Aisles

Throughout the bookstore

Wander through endless shelves of used books set against a charming Ojai backdrop.

The 'Kitchen' Section

The 'Kitchen' Section

Specialized section

A cleverly curated collection of cookbooks and culinary literature.

Charming Ambiance

Charming Ambiance

Main browsing areas

Ivy-covered walls, plants, and flowers create a picturesque setting for book discovery.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Open Air

Bart's Books is an outdoor bookstore, so check the weather! While most books are covered, a sudden downpour could impact your browsing. It's a unique experience, but be prepared for sun or wind.

Bookworm's Paradise

With a vast selection of used books, Bart's Books is a treasure trove. Allow ample time to wander through the aisles and discover hidden gems. It's easy to get lost in the charm of this Ojai landmark.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Prettiest bookstore I’ve been to, Barts in Ojai, Ca.

Looks amazing! But, how do they keep the books dry in bad weather?

☀️ Check the Weather

It's an outdoor bookstore! Be prepared for sun, wind, or potential rain. Reddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll want to get lost in the aisles. Don't rush your book hunt! Reddit

reddit.com

Ojai Trip Notes

My wife and I went to Ojai back in October. I had done some searches on this group and that was helpful in making our plans. For anyone searching in the future I thought I'd jot down where we went. * Mission San Buenaventura * Not far of the exit for Ojai in Ventura.…

reddit.com

Recommendations: Ojai First-Time Visitor

Hi! I am taking my partner to Ojai this weekend. Where should I bring him? The weather report predicts rain, so we would need some indoor activities. By the way, is that tiny old movie theater on the main drag any good?

📸 Picture Perfect

The unique setup makes for beautiful photos. Capture the charm! Reddit

📚 Explore Every Nook

Books are everywhere! Don't miss the specialized sections like the 'Kitchen'. Reddit

reddit.com

visiting for the first time, where should i go!?

hey all! oakland / SF bay area gal here coming to your hood this wknd for an event. we're staying near oxnard i think. but where should i go!? what are the prettiest spots around me?? i have these on my list, are they nice?? how is ojai!? worth a trip?? list: * Point mugu…

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Check the Weather

It's an outdoor bookstore! Be prepared for sun, wind, or potential rain. Reddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

You'll want to get lost in the aisles. Don't rush your book hunt! Reddit

📸 Picture Perfect

The unique setup makes for beautiful photos. Capture the charm! Reddit

📚 Explore Every Nook

Books are everywhere! Don't miss the specialized sections like the 'Kitchen'. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Bart's Books Ojai for its incredibly unique outdoor bookstore concept, vast selection of used books, and picturesque, charming ambiance. It's a highly recommended stop for book lovers and photographers alike, offering a delightful browsing experience. Some note that the books can be a bit pricey, and the sheer volume can make intentional shopping a challenge, but the overall experience is consistently described as worth it.

"What a cool concept. Still can't believe it doesn't rain enough to ruin the books. The selection is pretty large but it's easy to find what you're looking for. Very pretty book store, too."

Steph Couvrette

"Bart’s Books is one of our favorite places to visit. There’s something special about browsing books in the open air, surrounded by the charm of the space. The books are a bit on the pricey side, but the experience is always worth it. The staff is consistently friendly and helpful, and we enjoy the sense of community here. It’s such a nice way to spend time together."

Richard Naimy

"Amazing bookstore with a super large selection. It’s almost all outdoor under coverings, and makes for beautiful photo opportunities. I will admit the large selection made it a little difficult to shop intentionally, but if you spent more time here than I did I’m sure you’d be able to find some gold. I would definitely suggest stopping by this unique place if you’re in the area :)"

mackfrack

What People Like

Unique outdoor setting
Vast book selection
Charming ambiance

What People Dislike

Books can be pricey
Large selection can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bart's Books is located in Ojai, California. If you're coming from Ventura, it's a short drive inland. Many visitors make it a stop on a larger Ojai trip. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available near the bookstore. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so be prepared for that. Reddit

Absolutely! Bart's Books is a fantastic destination for a day trip to Ojai. You can easily combine it with other Ojai attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bart's Books is free to enter and browse. You only pay for the books you decide to purchase. Reddit

Hours can vary seasonally, but they are generally open daily. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, Bart's Books is a family-friendly destination. Children and adults alike can enjoy exploring the vast selection of books. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is incredibly unique and charming. It's an open-air bookstore with books displayed on shelves along the walls, surrounded by plants and flowers. It's a very picturesque and relaxed environment. Reddit+1

The selection is extensive! It's a used bookstore with a wide variety of genres, from fiction and nonfiction to art and architectural books. Reddit

While it's a used bookstore, the large selection increases your chances. They have a dedicated 'Kitchen' section for cookbooks and culinary books, which is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

It's primarily an outdoor bookstore, with most shelves situated outside under protective coverings. This unique setup is part of its charm. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Bart's Books itself doesn't have a full restaurant, but they do have a 'Kitchen' section with cookbooks. You'll find plenty of dining options in the charming town of Ojai nearby. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to enjoy food and drinks outside the bookstore to keep the books in good condition. There are cafes and restaurants in Ojai for refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! The unique outdoor setting, ivy-covered walls, and endless bookshelves make it a photographer's dream. It's consistently mentioned as a beautiful spot. Reddit+1

Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcomed and encouraged due to the photogenic nature of the store. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers. Reddit

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