A Guide to New York City’s Best Bookstores
On a crowded day in New York City, there’s nothing more enchanting than discovering a hidden gem of a bookstore. The city offers an array of book havens where literature lovers can lose themselves among the pages, while enjoying the ambiance of beautifully curated spaces that offer both solace and inspiration. Whether you’re planning a staycation or visiting for a weekend getaway, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring New York City’s most captivating bookstores.
Argosy Book Store
Nestled in Midtown, Argosy Book Store is a treasure trove of rare and out-of-print books. Spread across six floors, the store has been family-owned since 1925 and offers an impressive collection alongside antique maps. The nostalgic atmosphere, characterized by old wooden desks and green lamps, transports you back in time, making it a perfect spot for book enthusiasts.
Book Club Bar
Located in the East Village, Book Club Bar is as intriguing as its name suggests. It combines literary charm with a full bar where patrons enjoy books alongside cocktails and lively discussions. This unique establishment invites book lovers to not only discover new favorites but also engage with fellow enthusiasts over drinks.
The Ripped Bodice
For romance novel aficionados, The Riped Bodice in Park Slope offers a sanctuary devoted entirely to the genre. Founded by sisters Leah and Bea Koch, it is adorned with romantic decor and features giftable items from independent, woman-owned businesses.
Kinokuniya New York
A haven for fashion and art book lovers, Kinokuniya New York in Midtown provides a wide range of specialty books. The Japanese bookstore spans three floors, offering manga, Japanese magazines, and an array of Japanese literature not readily available elsewhere. Visitors can also enjoy bubble tea and snacks at the top-floor café.
Bluestockings
In the Lower East Side, Bluestockings offers more than just books; it’s a hub for activism and feminist discourse. As a collectively owned bookstore since 1999, it holds events focused on societal change while featuring an eclectic selection of literature.
The Corner Bookstore
A charming bookshop in Midtown, The Corner Bookstore has been a staple for Carnegie Hill residents since 1978. With shelves full of diverse titles from history and biography to poetry and art books, the brownstone store exudes an old New York charm.
Albertine Books
Located uptown, Albertine Books boasts interiors designed by French designer Jacques Garcia. The bookstore offers a vast collection of French-language books and hosts top-tier literary events with authors and scholars, supported by the French embassy.
192 Books
In Chelsea, 192 Books, founded by Paula Cooper and Henry Holt editor Jack Macrae, features a curated selection of art tomes, illustrated children’s books, and more. The stunning glass windows allow for an artsy people-watching experience as you browse.
Dashwood Books
Hidden away on Bond Street, Dashwood Books is a photographer’s paradise offering rare photo books. Fashion designers like Simone Rocha frequent this subterranean store for inspiration among its bargain bins and exclusive collections.
Strand Bookstore
A New York City icon, Strand Bookstore near Union Square offers a peaceful respite on its third floor where rare books are displayed. The store spans multiple floors filled with classics, used books, and out-of-print titles.
Assouline
Inside the Plaza Hotel lies the understated Assouline bookstore, offering limited edition prints alongside vast coffee table books on topics like Ibiza and Dior. The view of the hotel lobby from its balcony is a perfect photo opportunity.
McNally Jackson
Situated in Nolita, McNally Jackson combines a large bookstore with an in-house café. It offers a broad selection of novels and indie fashion magazines across its spacious 6,000-square-foot floor.
Books Are Magic
In Cobble Hill, Books Are Magic is a neighborhood gem founded by author Emma Straub. The store hosts nightly events and readings, serving as the community’s literary heart.
Sweet Pickle Books
Located in the Lower East Side, Sweet Pickle Books offers an eclectic mix of affordable used books and quirky branded merchandise. It’s a novelty bookshop where treasures await within its shoebox-sized space.
The Mysterious Bookshop
For mystery lovers, The Mysterious Bookshop in Tribeca is the destination. This bookstore specializes in crime and mystery books, featuring rare editions and signed copies from renowned authors.
Rizzoli
Rustic elegance defines Rizzoli’s Flatiron district shop, where New York-themed books are prominently displayed. The space is adorned with art, fashion, photography, and interiors tomes on its grand wooden shelves.
Left Bank Books
Inspired by Greenwich Village’s history, Left Bank Books offers vintage, rare, and used books focused on art, culture, and criticism. With an ever-changing collection, it provides a classic New York bookshop experience.
Final Thoughts
Each of these bookstores brings something unique to the table—a testament to New York City’s vibrant literary scene. Whether you seek rare editions, themed decor, or community events, there’s a bookstore for every preference. So grab your favorite iced coffee and let these havens inspire your next literary adventure.