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Top picks in Washington

Bookstores

Getting lost in the aisles of a bookstore is the only way to quiet a busy mind. It is about the smell of paper and the promise of a new story.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Hardcovers Romance Bookstore image 1
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Cozy bookstore shines with romance books and intimate reading nooks. Soft pink accents create a warm vibe that invites browsing. Unique extras like blind date books and tea tastings make visits special.

Romance books dominate the shelves with a great selection including signed and special editions. The store feels welcoming and accepting, hosting events that match the interests of its readers.

People are saying

"The bookstore staff are so friendly and helpful."

"I found so many romance books, from cozy to super spicy."

"It's a cute and cozy place to spend hours."

Good to know

1

They host author signings and book release events regularly.

2

Mini romance conventions are held where attendees can meet authors.

3

Expect a friendly atmosphere with knowledgeable staff.

02
Grit City Books image 1
Book store

Cozy bookstore with wide aisles and a warm atmosphere welcomes all identities. Friendly staff create an inclusive vibe that feels personal and inviting. Unique items like Dungeons and Dragons accessories add charm beyond books.

A warm welcoming bookstore with friendly staff that embraces all identities. It offers a personal, inclusive vibe unlike mainstream bookstores.

People are saying

"The bookstore staff here are amazing and kind."

"It's so kid friendly, they even host drag story time."

"It's a safe space that celebrates queer culture and authors."

Good to know

1

Grit City Books hosts inclusive events for all ages, including Drag Story Time.

2

The bookstore regularly organizes author readings and community engagement events.

3

Expect a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.

03
page & pine bookshop image 1

Cozy bookstore offers a calm vibe and a great selection of popular books. Kids enjoy a charming area that sparks imagination. A large table supports community gatherings for readers and events.

Cozy and welcoming atmosphere creates a calm and modern vibe. The bookstore offers a great selection of popular books across various genres and features a cute kids section.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an amazing selection of books and cute merchandise."

"It's a truly magical kids' area where imaginations can run wild."

"It's such a cozy, welcoming vibe in here."

Good to know

1

They host community events like author signings, book clubs, and story time.

2

Expect a variety of bookish events planned for the future.

3

The shop has a great selection of books across all genres.

04
A Good Book _ A General Bookstore image 1

Cozy bookstore with creaky floors and brick walls offers a warm, whimsical vibe. Shelves hold a diverse selection of new and used books, including hidden gems. A kids loft area creates a fun space for young readers.

Cozy atmosphere with a wide variety of books, including both used and new titles. Offers a diverse selection featuring hidden gems and old favorites despite its smaller size.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an amazing selection of new and used books."

"The kids loft upstairs has a great selection of books."

"This cozy Reading Spot has a wonderful, warm atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The bookstore has a great variety of new and used books.

2

The store has a great used book program that includes trading and selling.

3

The shop has a fantastic selection of new and used books.

05
Beguiled Books image 1
Book store

Cozy bookstore shines with romance-themed decor and a loft space for lounging. Friendly vibe embraces LGBTQIA+ representation and surprises with a blind date with a book wall. Beautiful building invites all ages to relax and explore.

Offers a great selection of romance books in a cute, cozy setting with places to sit and read. The building itself is beautiful, enhancing the overall experience.

People are saying

"The bookstore staff are so kind and genuinely passionate."

"It's a rom-com fantasy come to life, perfect for date spots."

"I loved that it's thoughtfully curated with a focus on local small businesses."

Good to know

1

The store hosts events to connect book lovers and support small, womxn-owned businesses.

2

Visit during the Pioneer Square Art Walk on the first Thursday for extended hours.

3

They offer blind dates with books, providing a fun surprise for readers.

06
Charlie’s Queer Books image 1

Bright pink and purple decor creates a cozy atmosphere filled with queer comfort. Children's nook and upstairs reading room host community events and book clubs. Space champions diverse voices with a curated selection of queer literature.

Bright and welcoming, this bookstore offers a carefully curated selection of queer literature. Its pink and purple decor creates a cozy, boutique vibe with incredible books and gifts.

People are saying

"I found a fantastic selection of LGBTQIA+ books for all ages."

"I thought the bathroom was adorable and gorgeous."

"This bookstore has an amazing, well-curated collection of queer books."

Good to know

1

Charlie’s Queer Books regularly hosts art and writing workshops, book clubs, and author talks.

2

The bookstore offers a variety of community events, including comedy shows and craft circles.

3

Silent book clubs happen regularly, providing a unique social experience.

07
Eagle Harbor Book Co image 1

Cozy bookstore with wood floors and comfy sofas invites long visits. Staff offer knowledgeable help across a wide selection of fiction, nonfiction, and rare books. Unique local gifts add charm to this welcoming, easy-to-navigate space.

Offers a broad selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children's books alongside rare books and local gifts. Staff are knowledgeable and helpful in finding reads or gifts.

People are saying

"I found the bookstore's selection of books to be fantastic."

"I found a great selection of local books and other items here."

"It's a lovely, cozy bookstore to browse."

Good to know

1

The bookstore has a great selection of books across many genres.

2

Online ordering and pickup options are available for convenience.

3

Expect to find a variety of books by local authors, including Indigenous writers.

08
Mercer Street Books image 1
Used book store

Tall wooden shelves and lush plants create a cozy library vibe perfect for slow browsing. Impeccable curation offers classic and sci-fi gems without clutter. Prices stay fair, making it a calm, indie bookstore experience.

Offers an impeccable curation of used books with a great selection that feels low key and indie. The space allows for easy browsing without the typical clutter of used bookstores.

People are saying

"I found this bookstore's selection to be amazing and well-curated."

"It's a lovely, calm, and peaceful place to browse."

"The bookshelves here are so well-organized, it's easy to find books."

Good to know

1

Mercer Street Books has a wide selection of used books across various genres.

2

They offer competitive prices for both cash and in-store credit.

3

Expect a well-organized layout that makes finding books easy.

09
Island Books image 1
Book store

Cozy aisles and reading nooks invite visitors to linger in a women-owned bookstore with a hard-to-find book selection. A kids' playhouse and local artist gifts add charm, making it a true community gem.

A cozy, independent bookstore with a wonderful selection of hard-to-find books creates a welcoming vibe. This women-owned local shop feels like a community gem with a quaint, adorable atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bookstore is a charming, cozy gem with a great kids' section."

"It's so kid friendly with a great playhouse and story time."

"I found free parking available nearby."

Good to know

1

Story time for toddlers happens every Saturday at 10am.

2

The bookstore hosts book release parties with trivia and activities.

3

Parking is available for free at the bookstore.

10
Page 2 Books image 1
Book store

Cozy bookstore shines with wide selection and bright natural light. Children's section is well organized by age and interest. Friendly staff offer excellent recommendations while free coffee and cookies create a welcoming vibe.

Small, cozy space with a wide selection of books, especially strong in middle grade and children's titles. Friendly staff provide excellent recommendations making it feel like a community bookstore.

People are saying

"This bookstore feels so cozy and welcoming, like a warm hug."

"It's a great place with a solid, varied selection for kids."

"This Local Spot has a great selection of new and used books."

Good to know

1

Page 2 Books hosts author events to support local authors and readers.

2

They have a well-organized children's section with books and games for various age ranges.

3

The bookstore offers flexible shopping options, including in-store and online orders.

11
Ballast Book Company image 1

Small bookstore boasts floor-to-ceiling books and bright, colorful decor that welcomes kids and adults alike. Strong LGBTQ+ selection shines alongside local authors, creating a queer-friendly and indie vibe. Unique gifts add charm to this learning space.

Shelves reach from floor to ceiling with a wide range of books and charming knick knacks. The LGBTQ+ book selection for adults and kids stands out, making it a queer-friendly spot with a unique indie vibe.

People are saying

"I found this local spot to have an amazing selection of books."

"It's a cozy, well-curated shop full of treasures."

"I found it to be my favorite local bookstore."

Good to know

1

The store features a strong selection of LGBTQ+ literature for all ages.

2

Kate, the owner, can special order books not found on the shelves.

3

The bookstore hosts various community book clubs throughout the month.

12
BookTree Kirkland image 1

Cozy bookstore offers a wide selection of new and used books across genres. Warm atmosphere features large armchairs for peaceful reading. Huge kids section in its own room adds a family-friendly touch.

Offers a wide selection of new releases and gently used books across every genre. The space feels warm and cozy with a peaceful reading atmosphere and an inviting owner.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an awesome selection of new and used books."

"It's really Kid Friendly with a huge kids section in the back."

"This local spot has a warm, cozy ambiance perfect for reading."

Good to know

1

The bookstore hosts a book club every second Tuesday at 6:30 PM.

2

Poetry readings and workshops are regularly scheduled for community engagement.

3

The children's section features a large inventory of new and gently used books.

13
Wanderlust Book Lounge image 1

Small bookstore offers a warm atmosphere with curated books on social justice and diverse voices. Cozy chairs invite quiet reading, while a self-serve coffee bar adds comfort. Strong support for local artisans enriches the community feel.

Warm and welcoming atmosphere with a thoughtfully curated collection of books. Strong focus on women and POC authors and support for local artisans through locally made items.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a wonderful variety and great selection of books."

"It's a super cozy bookshop with a warm environment."

"The staff at this Local Spot are so friendly and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Monthly book clubs are held at the bookstore, open to all interested participants.

2

The events calendar includes author readings and kids' story time sessions.

3

The bookstore supports local artisans by offering a range of locally made items.

14
mam's books image 1
Book store

Cozy space feels like a living room with a curated selection of Asian American books. Snacks and drinks add to the welcoming atmosphere. Polaroids and knickknacks create a vibrant, friendly vibe that invites discovery.

A curated selection of books stands out here, with many titles not found in other stores. The place feels like a community heartbeat, offering a unique and magical discovery every visit.

People are saying

"This bookstore feels like a warm, friendly community gathering."

"This place is a welcoming community space for identity and heritage."

"It felt like someone's living room, super cozy and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Mam's Bookstore hosts community events that celebrate Asian culture and stories.

2

They organize movie screenings and launch parties for community gatherings.

3

The bookstore offers events specifically for kids, fostering a love of reading.

15
Third Place Books image 1

Huge bookstore offers a great selection and wonderful staff in a cozy, welcoming space. Live music and a large stage create a lively atmosphere. Food court and seating areas make it a perfect spot for community gatherings.

A huge bookstore with a great selection and wonderful staff always ready to help. It serves as a community space and feels lively and magical.

People are saying

"I found a great selection of new and used books at this local spot."

"It's a chill, cozy community space perfect for working or hanging out."

"I found this bookstore to be really great."

Good to know

1

Third Place Books hosts frequent author events and book signings.

2

The bookstore features a large selection of new and used books.

3

Expect a vibrant community space with a food court and local vendors.

16
The Couth Buzzard - Books & Community image 1

Small bookstore blends used books with a lively cafe and live music to spark community spirit. Intimate space favors social seating over quiet reading, making it a true neighborhood hub for locals to connect and enjoy art.

A soulful used bookstore with a well-stocked selection creates a strong community vibe. The attached cafe and seating area make it a neighborhood hub for book lovers.

People are saying

"It's a cozy community hangout cafe with a great book selection."

"I enjoyed the live music performances here."

"I found the bookstore's collection to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Open mic night occurs every Wednesday, showcasing local talent.

2

Happy hour features live music and drink specials on select evenings.

3

Pay-what-you-want coffee is available, promoting community support.

17
Arundel Books image 1
Book store

Classic Beaux Arts architecture creates a cozy atmosphere filled with tall bookshelves and local art. Unique book selection blends old and new titles, making it a passion-driven bookstore. Visitors enjoy a welcoming space that feels intimate and refined.

Offers a soothing environment for staying and contemplating with a unique selection of old and new titles. Independent and passion-driven, it stands out as a cool little bookstore with a kind vibe.

People are saying

"This bookstore is gorgeous, like stepping into Beauty and the Beast."

"The staff here are super friendly and gave excellent suggestions."

"It's a really cool bookstore with a unique history."

Good to know

1

They have a rare books section with very old collectible books.

2

There is no bathroom available at the bookstore.

3

The prices are reasonable for most books.

18
Queen Anne Book Company image 1

Cozy bookstore shines with warm vibe and friendly booksellers who know their picks. Bright space invites quiet browsing. Kids find joy in a large children's section filled with picture books and readers.

Warm, welcoming vibe with a big selection of books. Amazing booksellers offer great recommendations and remember faces. The fiction collection stands out in this cozy, neighborhood bookstore.

People are saying

"It's a cozy and delightful bookstore."

"The staff here are so friendly and always have unique recommendations."

"The bookstore staff are so friendly and helpful with recommendations."

Good to know

1

They offer a rewards program for frequent buyers.

2

The bookstore runs a lovely book club for community engagement.

3

Free arc books are sometimes given away for special events.

19
Phinney Books image 1
Book store

Cozy neighborhood bookstore shines with a well curated collection for all ages. Kids section welcomes little siblings without fuss. Quiet, inviting space encourages browsing diverse authors and unique stationery.

Small and locally owned, this bookstore offers a well curated collection. The kids section makes it easy to visit with little siblings without causing a disturbance.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a surprisingly well-stocked and curated selection."

"It's a charming local spot with a great book selection."

"I loved the kid friendly book selection for young adults."

Good to know

1

Parking on the street can be difficult near the bookstore.

2

The store has a well-curated collection for both adults and children.

3

They offer a selection of unique cards and stationery.

20
Three Trees Books image 1

Small shop offers a cozy space with natural light and carefully curated books. Friendly atmosphere invites all ages to browse and enjoy thoughtful selection. Chairs near the front create a warm, inviting spot for reading.

Small and cozy space with a thoughtful selection of books, journals, and cards. The interior feels warm and inviting, creating a friendly atmosphere for all ages.

People are saying

"I found this bookstore to be cute, cozy, and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available right in downtown Burien.

2

The online ordering system is user-friendly and efficient.

3

The bookstore has a curated selection of books for all ages.

21
Collins Books image 1
Rare book store

Normal-looking house hides rooms packed with rare & collectible books, creating a treasure-filled atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking obscure, out-of-print titles, it offers a fantastic selection that delights collectors and readers alike.

Specializes in old and rare books that are hard to find elsewhere. Offers a fantastic selection that feels like a dream for collectors and readers.

People are saying

"This bookstore is a treasure trove of unexpected and surprising books."

"I was so impressed with how fast the delivery was!"

Good to know

1

Delivery is fast, even for out-of-state orders.

2

Books are well-packaged and arrive in excellent condition.

3

Prices are unbeatable, especially during sales.

22
Twice Sold Tales image 1
Used book store

Maze-like layout and eclectic book collection create a cozy, old-school vibe. Friendly resident cats add warmth and charm. Cluttered but inviting space fosters a community feeling that makes visitors feel at home.

A small, old bookstore with a maze-like layout offers a huge selection of used books. Friendly, adorable cats roam the shelves, adding charm and warmth to the space.

People are saying

"This bookstore is teaming with adorable cats."

"It's so fun watching the resident cats wander and laze around."

"I found the space to be quiet and tranquil."

Good to know

1

The bookstore is located at The Ave and Broadway, near bus stops.

2

There is a fun challenge to follow a cat walking among the bookshelves.

3

Most of the books are first editions and unique classics.

23
Third Place Books Ravenna image 1

Cozy bookstore offers an extensive book selection and a beautiful layout that invites browsing. Connected cafe and outdoor seating provide perfect spots for reading or socializing. Quiet vibe and friendly energy make it a beloved community hub.

Cozy setup with a connected cafe creates a peaceful spot for reading. The bookstore offers a great selection of books and stays well organized, making it a true local community hub.

People are saying

"This Reading Spot feels so cozy with its warm lighting and quaint cafe."

"I loved this local bookstore and its wide array of selections."

"It's such a cozy local bookstore with a great selection."

Good to know

1

They regularly host author events and book clubs.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during community events.

3

The bookstore has a large selection of new and used books.

24
Magus Books image 1
Used book store

Find vast selection of used books with affordable prices and a unique NYRB section. Enjoy a quiet, magical atmosphere that feels like a classic cozy shop. Diverse readers come for rare titles and calm browsing.

Offers a wide selection of used books with great prices. Features a dedicated NYRB section unique among city booksellers.

People are saying

"This bookstore has an incredible, wide-ranging selection of used books."

"I loved finding random, interesting hidden gems here."

"I found great prices on used books at this Local Spot."

Good to know

1

Magus Books has a dedicated NYRB section, unique among city booksellers.

2

The store offers a shelf of discount books outside for only $1-2.

3

Expect a constantly changing selection as they regularly buy used collections.

25
Page Turner Books image 1

Quaint bookstore with a 1970s vibe offers a wild selection of sci-fi, fantasy, manga, and collectibles. Warm, inviting atmosphere makes browsing hard-to-find editions peaceful and enjoyable. Prices are fair for used, new, and collectible items.

A locally owned used bookstore with a wild selection that includes hard-to-find editions and new books. It covers all genre needs and offers fair prices.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a wild selection of books, comics, and games."

"It's cool how they have such a great selection of books and games."

"I found an eclectic mix of used books, including vintage ones."

Good to know

1

The store has a great selection of new and used books across all genres.

2

Expect a unique aroma in a small area near the middle of the store.

3

They offer a wide range of comics, manga, and graphic novels.

26
Paper Boat Booksellers image 1

Boutique bookstore shines with cozy atmosphere and hand-written staff reviews. Space feels intelligently arranged but can get crammed. Offers story time sessions and a variety of gifts alongside books.

Cozy and welcoming, this independent bookstore offers a great selection of books and gifts. Helpful staff provide excellent recommendations, and the shop hosts story time sessions for children.

People are saying

"This bookstore has a great selection of books."

"It's so Kid Friendly with story readings and a large kids section."

"It's a cozy, friendly, and welcoming place."

Good to know

1

There is a reading hour for kids every Saturday at 11am.

2

They host events like book clubs and author signings on weekends.

3

Check their calendar for community events throughout the month.

27
Book Larder image 1
Book store

Cozy bookstore offers a curated cookbook selection perfect for culinary lovers. Shelves showcase diverse cooking styles and food topics. Small collection of quality spices complements the books, creating a friendly and inviting space.

A cookbook haven filled with amazing books about food, eating, and cooking. This local bookstore feels super cute and friendly, perfect for anyone who loves culinary reads.

People are saying

"This bookstore is heaven for the bibliophile cook."

"I found this local spot to be a super cute cookbook bookstore."

"I loved coming here for cooking inspiration and author tours."

Good to know

1

Book Larder hosts author talks and cooking demonstrations regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended for popular events to ensure a spot.

3

The bookstore features a diverse selection of cookbooks for all culinary interests.

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