Attention bookworms, this one’s for you. The trendy Pacific Northwest city of Portland is home to a literary sanctuary that you simply have to see to believe. Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore. Open since 1971, this place is truly more like a city than a mere bookshop, as the name suggests. It has thousands of sections to browse, with titles ranging from bestsellers to rare first editions. It is a place you won’t mind getting lost in, and chances are, you will. Thankfully, each room is color coded to help you navigate the 68,000-square-foot space.
A downtown bookstore may not be the first place you think of adding to your Oregon travel bucket list. The state is famous for its stunning rugged coastline, boasting some of the best beaches in the U.S. However, you won’t regret spending a few days in Portland. The charming city offers London vibes at a lower price, and Powell’s City of Books is one of many attractions that will make your visit memorable. This world-famous bookstore is often visited by acclaimed writers, and if you time your visit right, you may be able to sit in on a live reading from your favorite author. Without further delay, let’s write the first chapter of your Portland travel diary, starting with a trip to Powell’s City of Books.
Everything to know about Portland’s must-see bookstore
Powell’s City of Books is an extraordinary attraction in the Pearl District of downtown Portland. It’s not your average storefront, and, in fact, it spans an entire city block. The building’s first life was as a used car dealership, and the bookstore maintains its original industrial feel. The store consists of three floors and 10 rooms, each with its own distinct color. Readers have their work cut out for them, as this incredible store has more than one million new and used books for sale, separated into more than 3,500 sections. No category is too obscure for Powell’s City of Books, and those with the quirkiest taste in literature are bound to find a title to suit their fancy.
On a trip to Powell’s City of Books, a visit to the one-of-a-kind Rare Book Room is a must. This room houses a huge collection of coveted rare books, such as hard-to-find titles, autographed first editions, collectible volumes, and other literary treasures. Keep your eye on the events schedule, as the bookstore often hosts famed authors, artists, and inspiring guests for in-person readings and conversations in the Basil Hallward Gallery…