Hi everyone! New York City is filled with amazing bookstores, and as an avid reader I’m always on the hunt for new books. Bookstores are some of my favorite places to visit, and I’ve loved finding the best ones in NYC. Keep reading this guide to discover 5 amazing bookstores in NYC – you won’t be disappointed!
Note: Due to the on-going Covid-19 pandemic, many NYC bookstores are temporarily closed. Once everyday life returns to normal, and these shops re-open, I will be sure to visit them and to update this list!
Strand
Strand is famous in NYC, and for good reason – these bookstores are amazing! They have two locations, one in Union Square and the other on the Upper West Side. I’ve visited both and highly recommend you do as well! In addition to having an amazing selection of books, I also love that they sell used books and “proofs” at discounted prices! If you’re visiting NYC, Strand is definitely worth a visit.
Shakespeare & Co
Shakespeare & Co has two locations in NYC, one on the Upper East Side and one on the Upper West Side. Both are fantastic! They also have in-store cafes, which I absolutely love. In addition to having a great selection of books, you can also print your own book at Shakespeare & Co. I haven’t seen this kind of printing service at any other bookstores, so it’s definitely a unique option.
Book Club
Located in the East Village, this quaint and cozy bookstore also serves as a cafe and bar! What’s better than sipping tea (or wine!) while reading a good book? This bookstore is definitely a fantastic place to visit day or night!
Mysterious Bookshop
Mysterious Bookshop, located in Tribeca, is a bookstore that is entirely dedicated mysteries! I love reading mysteries, especially Agatha Christie mysteries, so this bookstore is perfect for me. It has a cozy, *mysterious* library feel to it, and it’s definitely a lovely place to browse thousands and thousands of mysteries. They also have a bargain book cart, and I found a book for just $2.
The Corner Bookstore
Located on the Upper East Side you’ll find The Corner Bookstore. This small, charming bookstore has a wonderful selection of books and a welcoming atmosphere! I’ve found so many great books at The Corner Bookstore, and I always enjoy browsing their shelves.
Thanks so much for reading my recommendations for 5 amazing bookstores in NYC! Each bookstore on the list is unique, and they all have a wonderful selection of books to choose from. Let me know your favorite bookstores in the comments, and I’ll be sure to check them out! As always, if you enjoyed this post please save and share with others!
These bookstores are great! I take covid times as an opportunity to catch up on reading books, and this has become my favourite part of the day. I can’t wait for the bookstores to reopen!
These places look amazing…when there’s refreshments it definitely makes it nicer! Wow the idea of printing your own book in the store is pretty awesome!
These book shops are adorable! I love how unique each one is – no experience is the same! Love the vibe of the Strand!
Love these recommendations! last time I was in NYC I spent nearly an entire afternoon exploring Strand. Can’t wait to get back to NYC for more bookstore hopping.
I always love visiting cute bookstores. During my trip to New York City, I only visited the Strand. I loved it. I am saving this article for the future. I can’t wait to go back to NYC.
Thank you so much for sharing these suggestions! I’ve lived in NYC all of my life and have yet to visit any of these bookstores. I’ll be checking out Strand and Shakespeare & Co for sure!
I love how traditional some of these look! Such a shame I didn’t know about them before I visited NYC, I would have added at least one to my list.
While Amazon is convenient, there’s nothing like visiting a quaint and charming local book shop! I love the recommendations you’ve put together!
Great post! I love finding new bookstores! I’ll definitely be checking some of these out! 🙂
What a neat article! I would love to visit all of these bookstores in NYC!
I never knew there was a Shakespeare & Co. in NY!!!😍😍
You need to watch the recent documentary “The Booksellers.” It’s on Prime and some of these stores are in it!