Quimby's Bookstore NYC
A whimsical haven for independent zines, art, and unique finds, featuring a beloved shop cat and a vibrant community spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Quimby's Bookstore NYC
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical haven for independent zines, art, and unique finds, featuring a beloved shop cat and a vibrant community spirit.
"My Zine DREAM bookshop! A radical and revolutionary storytelling shop complete with zines, cassettes, books, magazines, tarot, buttons, and Knick knacks!"
🎯 Explore the Zines!
Dive deep into the extensive zine collection; it's the heart of Quimby's unique offerings.
🐾 Say Hi to Gracie
Don't miss the chance to meet Gracie, the charming shop cat! She's a local celebrity.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Zine Collection
Discover a radical and revolutionary collection of independently published zines, art, and literature. A true haven for underground art lovers.
Gracie the Shop Cat
Say hello to Gracie, the friendly and beloved shop cat who adds a unique charm and cozy atmosphere to your visit.
Unique Knick-Knacks & Art
Wander through shelves filled with eclectic trinkets, buttons, cassettes, and art created by the community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Indie Spirit
Meet Gracie, the Shop Cat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Zines!
Dive deep into the extensive zine collection; it's the heart of Quimby's unique offerings.
🐾 Say Hi to Gracie
Don't miss the chance to meet Gracie, the charming shop cat! She's a local celebrity. +1
📸 Capture the Charm
The bookstore's eclectic decor and unique items make for fantastic photo opportunities.
📅 Book Tarot Readings
Consider booking a tarot reading in advance for an evening experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Zines!
Dive deep into the extensive zine collection; it's the heart of Quimby's unique offerings.
🐾 Say Hi to Gracie
Don't miss the chance to meet Gracie, the charming shop cat! She's a local celebrity. +1
📸 Capture the Charm
The bookstore's eclectic decor and unique items make for fantastic photo opportunities.
📅 Book Tarot Readings
Consider booking a tarot reading in advance for an evening experience.
👃 Be Mindful of Scents
Some visitors note a strong cat smell; if sensitive, be prepared.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Quimby's Bookstore NYC is celebrated as a unique and magical haven for independent art and literature, particularly its extensive zine collection. Visitors adore the eclectic atmosphere, the charming shop cat Gracie, and the sense of community. Some note a strong animal scent, which can be a minor drawback for sensitive individuals.
"My Zine DREAM bookshop! A radical and revolutionary storytelling shop complete with zines, cassettes, books, magazines, tarot, buttons, and Knick knacks! The zine collection is nothing short of expansive and impressive. A haven for those that love indie/local/underground art. There’s even a shop cat that brings joy and cozy to this little corner of the world. LGBTQ folks- this is our spot!! What a Joy to have interacted with one of the tarot readers/shop staff. Such a highlight of my trip to New York!! 📚🪩🏁🏳️🌈"
Tori Westenberg
"Super eclectic, inviting, and fun! I stumbled upon this bookstore on a hot summer day and enjoyed wandering, taking pictures, reading, and saying hello to Gracie the shop cat. Very serene, relaxing environment and kind business owner."
Anonymous Reviews
"Like If a treehouse turned into a dreamy store pulling stars from the sky, weaving art from clouds, pressed flowers, and glittery aquarium soil, selling trinkets, ephemera, & zines made by the community"
Jessie Deardorff
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Quimby's Bookstore NYC is located at 536 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn. The easiest way to get there is via the subway. The L train to the Bedford Avenue station is a short walk away. +1
Yes, Quimby's is very accessible by public transport. The L train at Bedford Avenue is nearby, and several bus routes also serve the Williamsburg area.
Street parking in Williamsburg can be challenging. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Quimby's.
Quimby's Bookstore NYC is located in the vibrant Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. +1
Yes, Quimby's is located on Metropolitan Avenue, a well-known street in Williamsburg, and is often mentioned as being next door to Desert Island Comics.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Quimby's Bookstore NYC. You can browse freely during their operating hours. +1
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. They are typically open daily.
Yes, Quimby's offers tarot readings, often in the evenings. It's advisable to book your reading in advance, especially on weekends.
There is no entrance fee to visit Quimby's Bookstore NYC. It's a welcoming space for browsing and discovering unique books and zines.
Quimby's often hosts events and has a vibrant community. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about readings, workshops, or special appearances.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
Quimby's specializes in independently published zines, DIY comics, experimental literature, and unique art books. They focus on titles you won't find everywhere. +1
Absolutely! With its eclectic collection of zines, art, buttons, and knick-knacks, Quimby's is a fantastic place to find unique and thoughtful gifts.
The atmosphere is described as cozy, whimsical, eclectic, inviting, and serene. It's a place with a lot of character and charm, perfect for browsing.
Yes, Quimby's has a beloved resident cat named Gracie who is a highlight for many visitors and adds to the cozy ambiance. +1
Many visitors take photos inside Quimby's to capture its unique charm and eclectic displays. Be respectful of other shoppers and the space.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Quimby's is highly photogenic due to its incredibly eclectic and visually rich displays of zines, art, and unique items.
The shelves packed with colorful zines, the unique knick-knacks, and any corner with Gracie the cat are prime photo opportunities. +1
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be mindful of other customers and avoid intrusive photography.
It's generally best to avoid flash photography in bookstores to not disturb the atmosphere or other patrons.
Photography here captures a whimsical, fairycore, indie, and deeply personal aesthetic, reflecting the unique nature of the store. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the store's focus is on independent and sometimes niche content, so it might be best suited for families with children who appreciate unconventional art and storytelling. The eclectic nature of the merchandise means there are always interesting things to look at, making it a fun place to wander.
🎨 Art Lovers & Creatives
Beyond zines, the eclectic selection of art prints, buttons, and unique knick-knacks offers further opportunities to find one-of-a-kind pieces. The store's own printing services, Quimby's Ink, also highlight their deep connection to the creative process, making it a place that truly understands and supports artists.
📚 Bookworms Seeking the Unique
The expansive zine collection is a major draw, offering a raw and unfiltered look into diverse voices. Beyond zines, you'll find a thoughtfully curated selection of books that align with the store's ethos of supporting underground and unconventional creators. It's an ideal spot for those who love the thrill of discovering hidden literary gems.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The World of Zines at Quimby's
This dedication to independent publishing makes Quimby's a crucial spot for zine artists and enthusiasts. It's a place where creators can share their work directly with an appreciative audience, fostering a vibrant underground art scene. Visitors often rave about the sheer volume and quality of the zines available, making it a treasure trove for those seeking unique perspectives and raw creativity.
Beyond traditional zines, Quimby's also offers a range of related items like cassettes, buttons, and small art prints, further solidifying its commitment to independent and DIY culture. The store even offers publication design and printing services through Quimby's Ink, showcasing their deep involvement in the zine-making process.
Gracie: The Beloved Bookstore Cat
Her presence adds a unique charm that sets Quimby's apart from other bookstores. For many, meeting Gracie is a highlight of their visit, contributing to the overall feeling of a special, community-oriented space. If you're a cat lover, you're in for a treat!
However, it's worth noting that while Gracie is a joy for most, visitors with severe animal allergies might want to be aware of her presence. One reviewer mentioned being sensitive to animal smells, so this is a practical consideration for some.
Beyond Books: Tarot and More
In addition to tarot, Quimby's is stocked with a variety of eclectic knick-knacks, art prints, buttons, and even cassettes. This curated selection reflects the store's commitment to supporting independent artists and creators across various mediums. It's a place where you can find unexpected treasures that speak to a distinct, underground aesthetic.
The store's dedication to fostering a creative community is further evidenced by services like Quimby's Ink, which offers publication design, risograph printing, and binding for zines and art books. This integrated approach highlights Quimby's role not just as a retailer, but as a hub for independent art and publishing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit