Powell's City of Books - a red car driving down a street next to a tall building
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Powell's City of Books

4.9
·36k reviews·Portland, United States

The world's largest independent bookstore, a sprawling literary labyrinth with over a million new and used books.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing space

CrowdLow
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Powell's City of Books - a red car driving down a street next to a tall building

Powell's City of Books

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more browsing space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The world's largest independent bookstore, a sprawling literary labyrinth with over a million new and used books.

4.9
(36k reviews)

"It is the biggest and most amazing bookstore I've ever seen, and I think this may be my annual pilgrimage."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Grab a Map!

This place is HUGE! A map is essential for navigating the color-coded rooms and floors.

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full day of browsing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rare Book Room

The Rare Book Room

Third Floor

Discover limited editions, historical gems, and unique treasures. A must-see for serious collectors and history buffs.

Color-Coded Rooms

Color-Coded Rooms

All Floors

Navigate this book lover's paradise by color-coded rooms, each dedicated to specific genres. Find your next read with ease!

The Cafe

The Cafe

Ground Floor

Fuel your book browsing with coffee and pastries. Some spots even have outlets for a cozy work session.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Maze

Powell's City of Books is famously vast, occupying an entire city block! Don't expect to see it all in one go. Grab a map upon arrival to navigate the color-coded rooms and floors. It's easy to get lost, but that's part of the fun!

Store Credit for Used Books

Thinking of selling your pre-loved books? Powell's offers store credit, not cash, for used books. Consider this if you plan on buying more treasures during your visit!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more browsing space
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Local vibe, less touristy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Shelving. Sisyphean, but make it romantic. #powells #powellsbooks #wesanderson #fyp #bookstore #BookTok #books #pdx #portland
@powellsbooks
44.9K likes • 249.6K views

🗺️ Grab a Map!

This place is HUGE! A map is essential for navigating the color-coded rooms and floors. TikTokInstagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full day of browsing. Reddit

Powell’s Books, worth the hype? #portland #book #reading #travel #peace #city #greenscreen
@tourguidejavi
20.6K likes • 118K views
Powells City of Books has long owned a spot on my short list of stores to visit during my travels. I finally made it during my week in Portland for @hellotravelcon. There’s something absolutely magical about @powellsbooks 📚 The historic independent bookstore is absolutely massive. If you’ve never heard of it, here are some fun facts about the bookstore: - Powell’s covers an entire city block...
heykevinpayne
25 likes • 1.1K views

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! You could easily spend hours (or a whole day!) getting lost in the stacks. Instagram

📚 Used Books = Store Credit

Selling used books earns you store credit, not cash. Perfect if you plan to buy more! Reddit

Check out Powell's City of Books with me 😊 📍Portland, OR Which room would you head to first? I headed to the Blue room for the romance 😍
adventureswithstephers
28 likes • 823 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Grab a Map!

This place is HUGE! A map is essential for navigating the color-coded rooms and floors. TikTokInstagram

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Comfortable footwear is a must for a full day of browsing. Reddit

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! You could easily spend hours (or a whole day!) getting lost in the stacks. Instagram

📚 Used Books = Store Credit

Selling used books earns you store credit, not cash. Perfect if you plan to buy more! Reddit

☕ Cafe Break

Take a break at the cafe for coffee and snacks. Some spots have outlets for working. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(36k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about Powell's City of Books, calling it a 'mecca' and a 'happy place' for book lovers. The sheer size, incredible selection of new and used books, and the friendly, helpful staff are major highlights. While the crowds can be significant, most find the experience well worth it, praising the unique atmosphere and the joy of discovery.

"The staff is all extremely friendly and helpful. The Cafe is a great vibe and has some interesting pastries. Also, the layout of the various floors is so fun and makes it really easy to find what you are looking for. I will be back many times I'm sure."

Megan Bass

"Contrary to online ebooks, this place provides old time bookstore atmosphere: Bookshelves, wooden floors, corner coffee seats and gift shops. As it became popular tourist attraction, expect crowds. The Rare Book Room carried books or maps with limited editions, historical features or special memories, worth taking time."

Susan Ding

"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

What People Like

Massive selection
Friendly staff
Used book prices

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Powell's City of Books is located at 1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses and the MAX light rail. Many visitors find it convenient to walk or bike if staying downtown. Parking can be challenging in the area, so public transit is often recommended. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options near Powell's City of Books. However, parking can be expensive and competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider using a parking app to find available spots and compare rates. Instagram

Absolutely! Powell's City of Books is well-served by Portland's public transportation system. Several bus lines stop nearby, and the MAX light rail's Pearl District station is a short walk away. Check TriMet's website for routes and schedules. TikTok

Yes, Powell's City of Books is located in downtown Portland and is easily walkable from many hotels and attractions. It's a pleasant stroll through the city, allowing you to see more of Portland along the way. TikTok

From Portland International Airport (PDX), the most convenient way to reach Powell's City of Books is by taking the MAX Red Line light rail directly to the city center. The journey takes about 40 minutes and drops you within walking distance of the bookstore. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to enter Powell's City of Books. It's a free public space for browsing and enjoying books. TikTok

Powell's City of Books generally operates from 10 AM to 9 PM daily, but hours can vary slightly by season or for special events. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. TikTok

Yes, Powell's City of Books has a robust online store where you can purchase new and used books. They offer shipping worldwide, making their vast collection accessible to book lovers everywhere. Reddit

Powell's offers a generous 30-day return policy for most new and used books, provided they are in saleable condition. You can return items purchased online or in-store. Reddit

Powell's City of Books frequently hosts author readings, book signings, and other literary events. Check their events calendar on their website to see what's happening during your visit. TikTok

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

Powell's City of Books is the world's largest independent bookstore, occupying an entire city block and spanning multiple floors. It houses over a million new and used books, making it a truly massive literary destination. TikTokInstagram+1

The bookstore is organized into color-coded rooms, each dedicated to a specific genre or subject. There are multiple floors, and a map is highly recommended to navigate the vast collection effectively. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Powell's has a dedicated children's section with a wide variety of books for all ages. The sheer scale and wonder of the bookstore can also be an exciting experience for younger visitors. TikTok

Powell's buys used books for store credit. They are selective about what they purchase, often preferring recent nonfiction and popular fiction. It's best to check their website for their current buying guidelines. Reddit

The Rare Book Room, located on the third floor, contains collectible, out-of-print, and signed editions. It's a treasure trove for bibliophiles seeking unique and valuable books. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, Powell's City of Books has a cafe on the ground floor, offering coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. It's a great spot to relax and refuel during your book browsing. Reddit

While you can purchase food and drinks from the cafe, it's generally expected that you consume them in the designated cafe area. Bringing outside food or drinks into the main bookstore areas is usually discouraged. Reddit

Yes, the cafe at Powell's City of Books typically offers Wi-Fi, and some seating areas have electrical outlets, making it a popular spot for those who want to work or study. Reddit

The area surrounding Powell's City of Books in downtown Portland is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and food carts offering a wide variety of cuisines to suit any taste. Reddit

The cafe at Powell's offers a selection of coffee drinks, teas, and a variety of pastries and baked goods. They also sometimes have light sandwiches or snacks available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Powell's City of Books for personal use. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of other shoppers and avoid blocking aisles or disturbing staff. TikTok

The sheer scale of the bookshelves, the colorful room signage, and the cozy reading nooks offer many photogenic opportunities. The Rare Book Room can also be visually stunning, though you may need to ask permission for photos there. TikTokInstagram

Weekday mornings or early afternoons tend to be less crowded, offering better opportunities for unobstructed photos. Golden hour light can also create a warm atmosphere if you're visiting later in the day. TikTok

While personal photography is usually fine, professional photoshoots or commercial photography may require prior permission from the bookstore management. Always be considerate of others. TikTok

Visitors often capture wide shots of the towering bookshelves, close-ups of interesting book covers, and candid shots of people browsing. The unique atmosphere and sheer volume of books make for very 'bookish' photos. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Powell's City of Books is a fantastic destination for families. The Children's Department is a vibrant and engaging space, packed with books for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The sheer size of the bookstore can be an adventure in itself for kids, making it feel like a treasure hunt. Encourage them to explore the color-coded rooms and find their favorite genres. TikTok

Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The cafe offers a good spot for a snack break, and the general atmosphere is welcoming to families. While it can get busy, visiting during weekday mornings can offer a more relaxed experience for families looking to avoid peak crowds.

📚 Budget Travelers

Powell's City of Books is a dream for budget-conscious book lovers. The store boasts an enormous selection of used books at significantly lower prices than new ones. This is a great way to stock up on reading material without breaking the bank. Instagram+1

Furthermore, Powell's offers store credit for used books you wish to sell. If you have books you're ready to part with, this can be a smart way to fund your next literary haul. Remember, it's store credit, not cash, so plan to spend it on more books during your visit!

🤓 Solo Explorers & Bookworms

For the solo traveler or dedicated bookworm, Powell's City of Books is paradise. You can easily spend hours, or even a full day, getting lost in the aisles without feeling rushed. The vast selection across every imaginable genre means you're bound to find something that sparks your interest, whether it's a rare find or a new bestseller. TikTokInstagram

Take advantage of the cafe to settle in with a new purchase, or find a quiet corner to browse. The Rare Book Room offers a more exclusive experience for those seeking unique literary treasures. Don't be afraid to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations – they are passionate about books and happy to help you discover your next favorite read.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Labyrinth: Powell's Unique Layout

Powell's City of Books is renowned for its sprawling, multi-level layout that feels more like a city than a store. It's organized into nine color-coded rooms spread across multiple floors, each dedicated to a specific genre or subject. From the Red Room (Mystery & Thriller) to the Green Room (Science Fiction & Fantasy) and the Blue Room (Romance), finding your niche is part of the adventure. Visitors often describe it as a maze, and for good reason! The sheer volume of books – over a million new and used volumes – means you could spend days exploring and still discover new sections. Grabbing a map upon entry is highly recommended to avoid getting completely disoriented, though many embrace the serendipity of getting lost among the shelves. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the main browsing areas, Powell's also houses specialized sections like the Rare Book Room, a haven for collectors seeking first editions, signed copies, and unique historical texts. The Children's Department is a vibrant space filled with books for all ages, and the Art and Photography sections are extensive. Even if you're not a hardcore bookworm, the atmosphere of Powell's is captivating. The worn wooden floors, the scent of old paper, and the quiet hum of fellow book lovers create a unique ambiance that has drawn visitors for decades. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the world of literature. Reddit

Many visitors find Powell's to be a 'happy place,' a sanctuary for bibliophiles. The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, always ready to offer recommendations or help you track down a specific title. The presence of a cafe on the ground floor adds to the experience, providing a cozy spot to rest, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps even start reading your latest find. It’s this combination of immense selection, unique organization, and welcoming atmosphere that makes Powell's City of Books a must-visit destination for book lovers and travelers alike. TikTokReddit

The Powell's Experience: More Than Just Books

While Powell's City of Books is undeniably a temple for book lovers, its appeal extends far beyond its vast literary collection. The store has cultivated a unique atmosphere that makes it a destination in itself. The cafe, located on the ground floor, is a popular spot for visitors to relax, grab a coffee and a pastry, and even catch up on work thanks to available outlets. It’s a perfect place to recharge before diving back into the book stacks or to simply people-watch and soak in the ambiance. Reddit

Powell's also serves as a community hub, frequently hosting author events, readings, and book signings. These events offer a chance to connect with authors and fellow readers, adding a dynamic layer to the bookstore experience. The Rare Book Room is another highlight, offering a glimpse into the world of collectible literature and providing a more curated, intimate browsing experience for those seeking something truly special. The knowledgeable staff in this section are often lauded for their passion and expertise. TikTokReddit

For those looking to bring a piece of Powell's home, the gift shop offers a variety of literary-themed merchandise, from tote bags and stationery to unique souvenirs. It’s a great place to find gifts for the book lovers in your life. The overall vibe of Powell's is one of welcoming exploration; it encourages visitors to wander, discover, and linger, making it a cherished landmark in Portland. Instagram

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