Argosy Book Store — Attraction in New York

Walking into Argosy Book Store in New York City on a quiet humid Monday afternoon in June 2025 felt like stumbling into a time capsule—one that smells faintly of old paper and whispers the wisdom of centuries past.

The exterior alone hints at the treasures within. Ornithological prints, antique maps, and portraits adorn the entryway gallery, setting the tone for the meticulously curated literary sanctuary that follows. Once inside, the space unfolds like a story in itself—each room, each shelf a new chapter.

From $3 paperbacks at the entrance to leather-bound volumes behind glass, Argosy strikes a rare balance: it’s as welcoming to the casual browser as it is thrilling for the rare book collector. Vintage atlases, fine art prints, and philosophical first editions line the walls under warm wood paneling and soft green banker’s lamps. A life-size Pinocchio stands guard near the rare books, adding a charming quirk to the otherwise reverent hush of the space.

But the real secret? The basement.

Down a narrow staircase lies a warren of shelves labeled by genre—philosophy, drama, science fiction, French literature, biography, and more—each aisle bursting with thousands of volumes. The red-painted concrete floor, creaky stools, and hand-labeled yellow placards evoke a sense of archival adventure. It’s delightfully unpolished, almost underground in spirit, and makes you feel like you’re part of a scholarly treasure hunt.

The staff, while quietly professional, let the books do the talking. The posted hours (Monday–Friday, 11am to 6pm) might feel old-fashioned, but they suit a place so steeped in the past—open only when the city’s hustle makes room for a slower pace.

Whether you’re hunting for a first edition, marveling at early 17th-century bindings, or just savoring the feel of a real bookstore in a digital age, Argosy is a must-visit. A bibliophile’s dream, an art lover’s nook, and an explorer’s...

Went for the first time last week while in the city b/c I wanted to check it out since it was recommended on one of my weekly “NY newsletter emails” and I’m a bookstore/library fanatic! There’s a wealth of books of all topics available, mostly antiques, so I’m sure you can find collectibles! New and used, most sections are clearly labeled. Only thing I would say is that it’s easy to get lost/confused as I was trying to go up and downstairs and there’s no clear signs pointing you to it. The staff seemed busy but answered questions if I had any. Also didn’t have any prices for books, so you’re kind of going blind unless you go and ask. The only prices clearly labeled are those on discount for $3. Overall would highly recommend for those who just love a great old and used paperback for the history it holds or those very interested in antiques. I’m sure this would be heaven...

We went today after reading on the website that it had 6 floors! We went in, asked about the other floors and were told that the others floors “had lots in storage, but nothing up there for you!”. We were directed to the 5th floor, begrudgingly, and were told “there’s some books up there”. When we got there, we were greeted by a grumpy voice from the other end of the store yelled: “Are you in the right place?!” and we immediately turned around and left, fearing that we were somewhere we shouldn’t be. The other staff were rude and unhelpful. Seems like, unless you’re a college professor, a student or have the magic password, this bookstore is not for you. I ended up buying a few prints from the rack to frame for my apartment, but overall I was super anxious and did not feel at all welcome. You’re better off down the road at...