Best Bookstores in New York City offer cozy corners, rare finds, and indie vibes. Explore NYC’s top 12 literary spots for every book lover and collector.
New York City is a haven for readers, writers, collectors, and casual browsers alike. From historic literary landmarks to trendy independent bookshops, the Big Apple has something for every kind of book lover. This guide to the best bookstores in New York City takes you on a curated tour of the city’s 12 most enchanting, inspiring, and well-stocked book havens. Whether you’re after rare first editions, quirky zines, children’s classics, or literary events, this list will point you to NYC’s finest shelves.
1. The Strand Bookstore (Manhattan)
Arguably the most iconic bookstore in the city, The Strand boasts “18 miles of books” and has been around since 1927. Located near Union Square, it attracts both locals and tourists.
- Why visit: Huge selection, rare book room, events
- Vibe: Bustling, eclectic, intellectually buzzing
- Focus keyword use: It tops nearly every list of the best bookstores in New York City for its diversity and history.
2. McNally Jackson Books (SoHo & Seaport)
A cozy, curated bookstore with a sleek café, McNally Jackson is beloved for its strong literary fiction section, author events, and stunning aesthetics.
- Highlight: Personal reading recommendations from staff
- Must-try: Their custom printing press – print your own book!
- Events: Regular talks, launches, and poetry readings
3. Books Are Magic (Brooklyn)
Owned by bestselling author Emma Straub, Books Are Magic in Cobble Hill has become a community centerpiece for readers of all ages.
- Vibe: Friendly, community-centered, Instagrammable
- Specialty: Contemporary fiction, children’s books, book clubs
- Focus keyword use: Its community-driven charm makes it one of the best bookstores in New York City for Brooklyn locals.
4. Albertine Books (Upper East Side)
Housed inside the French Embassy, Albertine is a dreamlike, two-floor bookstore specializing in French and English titles.
- Why go: Astounding celestial ceiling mural
- Books: International literature, French classics
- Tip: Attend their monthly cultural discussions
5. Housing Works Bookstore Café (SoHo)
A nonprofit bookshop staffed by volunteers, Housing Works supports people affected by HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Every dollar spent helps a cause.
- Vibe: Social mission meets literary chic
- Great for: Used books, baked goods, live readings
- Focus keyword use: For social impact and charm, this is one of the best bookstores in New York City that gives back to the community.
6. Books of Wonder (Flatiron & Upper West Side)
The go-to bookstore for children’s and YA literature, Books of Wonder also specializes in rare illustrated books and hosts author signings for kids.
- Best for: Families, educators, collectors of vintage kids’ books
- Fun find: First editions of classics like Where the Wild Things Are
- Staff picks: Perfect for finding gifts or diverse voices
7. Three Lives & Company (Greenwich Village)
A small but legendary independent bookstore, Three Lives is deeply beloved by New Yorkers for its curated titles and inviting atmosphere.
- What to expect: Intimate browsing, no clutter
- Curated shelves: Fiction, philosophy, poetry
- Focus keyword use: The Village’s literary heart, it’s a quiet contender among the best bookstores in New York City.
8. Greenlight Bookstore (Fort Greene & Prospect Lefferts Gardens)
This Brooklyn staple is modern, diverse, and deeply involved in its neighborhood. Greenlight’s selection is inclusive, engaging, and intelligent.
- Known for: Readings by local authors, diverse voices
- Kid-friendly: Weekly storytimes and activities
- Bonus: Partnership with Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)
9. Shakespeare & Co. (Upper East Side & Upper West Side)
Not affiliated with the Paris store, but just as magical, NYC’s Shakespeare & Co. locations blend traditional browsing with an Espresso Book Machine.
- Why go: Print your own book on the spot
- Atmosphere: Classy, calm, and deeply literary
- Focus keyword use: A unique experience secures its spot as one of the best bookstores in New York City for indie publishing.
10. Bluestockings Cooperative (Lower East Side)
This radical bookstore, café, and activist center is collectively owned and entirely volunteer-run. Its selection spans feminism, racial justice, and queer theory.
- Focus: Social justice, zines, community events
- What makes it special: Sliding-scale pricing and community space
- Don’t miss: DIY section and mini-zine library
11. Argosy Book Store (Midtown East)
Founded in 1925, Argosy is NYC’s oldest independent bookstore. It specializes in antique maps, rare books, and first editions.
- Vibe: Dusty, historic, sophisticated
- Perfect for: Serious collectors and literary treasure hunters
- Focus keyword use: Among the best bookstores in New York City, Argosy is a time machine for rare book lovers.
12. WORD Bookstore (Greenpoint, Brooklyn)
With a hyper-local feel and plenty of charm, WORD is small but mighty. Its shelves are filled with staff recommendations and rotating local authors.
- Why visit: Trivia nights, book clubs, great fiction
- Bonus: Nearby literary-themed coffee shops
- Special appeal: Ideal for off-the-beaten-path finds
NYC Bookstore Guide: Planning Your Visit
When to Go:
Many NYC bookstores stay open late (until 9–10 PM), especially in Manhattan. Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter for browsing.
How to Get Around:
Use the subway to hop from borough to borough. Consider grouping stores by location (e.g., Brooklyn day vs. Manhattan day).
Special Events to Watch For:
- Independent Bookstore Day in April
- Brooklyn Book Festival every fall
- Literary Pub Crawls in the Village
Bookstore Crawl Itinerary Suggestion
Day 1 – Manhattan
- Morning: The Strand
- Midday: Housing Works + lunch
- Afternoon: McNally Jackson
- Evening: Shakespeare & Co. reading
Day 2 – Brooklyn
- Morning: Books Are Magic
- Midday: WORD Bookstore + café stop
- Afternoon: Greenlight Bookstore event
Day 3 – Offbeat Finds
- Morning: Albertine Books
- Midday: Argosy Book Store
- Evening: Bluestockings open mic night
Bookstores with Cafés You’ll Love
- Housing Works: Coffee, tea, pastries
- McNally Jackson: European-style café
- Bluestockings: Vegan snacks and zines
- Books Are Magic: Partnered cafés nearby
- Greenlight: BAMcafé right next door
What to Bring
- A reusable tote bag (many stores offer branded ones!)
- A journal for notes or autographs
- A phone or camera for photos
- A wish list, because you’ll be tempted
- Comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot
Whether you’re a longtime New Yorker or just visiting for the first time, discovering the best bookstores in New York City is an unforgettable journey through stories, spaces, and neighborhoods. These literary gems reflect the city’s soul—diverse, dynamic, and deeply devoted to the written word. From the towering stacks of The Strand to the radical energy of Bluestockings, each bookstore offers its own unique magic. Happy browsing!
