Powell's City of Books — Attraction in Portland

Powell’s City of Books is a bibliophile’s paradise and a Portland icon that lives up to its reputation as the world’s largest independent bookstore! Spanning an entire city block in the Pearl District, this 68,000-square-foot literary haven houses over 1 million new, used, rare, and out-of-print books across nine color-coded rooms and 3,500 sections. Founded in 1971 by Walter Powell, it’s a cultural hub open 365 days a year, blending the charm of a traditional bookstore with modern conveniences like an app for finding books and online shopping. Navigating the four floors is a breeze with free maps at info desks, though the maze-like layout adds to the adventure—expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring genres from fiction, sci-fi, and mysteries in the Gold and Blue Rooms to travel, history, and environmental studies in the Red Room. The Rare Book Room on the third floor is a highlight, showcasing treasures like a $25,000 Lewis and Clark journal and signed first editions by authors like Jane Goodall and Neil Gaiman, though it’s limited to 14 visitors at a time with shorter hours (10 a.m.–5 p.m.). The Guilder Café (a nod to The Princess Bride) serves excellent coffee, snacks, and pastries, perfect for a break while flipping through your finds. Staff are passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable, often leaving handwritten recommendations that make browsing even more delightful. The mix of new and used books on the same shelves is a unique touch, offering budget-friendly options alongside bestsellers, plus a stellar selection of greeting cards, games, and Portland-themed souvenirs like T-shirts and book bags. The store hosts over 500 author events annually in the Basil Hallward Gallery, with free behind-the-scenes tours every Sunday at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Accessibility is top-notch, with ADA-compliant ramps, elevators, and designated parking on NW 11th and Couch. The Pearl District location feels safe, with easy access via public transit (bus lines 14, 15, 19, 20, 54) or affordable underground parking (~$4/hr). No sales tax in Oregon means the price you see is what you pay, though new books can feel pricey for international visitors. From the arts and crafts section to the extensive travel room with National Park guides, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Powell’s is a must-visit that will leave you inspired and eager to return! 📚☕

World’s largest independent bookstore, spanning 68,000 sq. ft. with 1 million+ books.Nine color-coded rooms, 3,500 sections, four floors, and a map for navigation.Founded in 1971, located in the Pearl District at 1005 W Burnside St.Rare Book Room with collectibles (e.g., Lewis and Clark journal, signed editions).Guilder Café (10 a.m.–8 p.m.) for coffee and snacks.Over 500 author events yearly in the Basil Hallward Gallery and free Sunday tours.Mix of new and used books shelved together, budget-friendly options.Extensive genres: fiction, sci-fi, travel, history, children’s, cookbooks, etc.ADA accessibility with ramps, elevators, and designated parking.No sales tax in Oregon; souvenirs like T-shirts, bags, and stickers available.Public transit access (bus, light rail, streetcar) and parking tips (~$4/hr).Passionate staff, handwritten recommendations, and a safe, vibrant location.Positive sentiment from X posts calling it a “paradise” and...

☆ “A bibliophile’s paradise—huge selection, charming chaos, and endlessly wanderable.”

📚 • Immense and organized: Spanning an entire city block, Powell’s houses around 1 million new, used, and rare books in nine color‑coded rooms and over 3,500 sections—bringing the thrill of discovery at every turn . • Rich atmosphere & history: Since 1971, this independent bookstore blends heritage charm with a lively cultural vibe—guests love the warmth, maps, and free tours (). • Friendly staff & community energy: Staffers are usually enthusiastic and helpful, browsing can stretch for hours, and the Rare Book Room adds delightful sophistication .

⚠️ Considerations: • Overwhelming size: Browsing can be exhausting—some find it “a fun maze,” but others feel lost unless they pace themselves. • Noisy or irreverent touches: Some visitors noted strong profanity on merch and energetic vibes that may not suit those seeking quiet space . • Website hiccups: Online shopping and wishlists have occasional glitches, so some locals prefer in-store visits over web orders .

🎯 Best For: • Explorers seeking a true bookstore adventure—whether treasure hunting through used books or finding signed editions in the Rare Book Room. • Visitors who enjoy lively, social bookstore environments with literary events and café moments.

💡 Tips: • Pick up a map on entry to avoid getting lost. • Visit off‑peak to enjoy quieter browsing. • Join one of their Sunday tours to dive into the history and hidden gems.

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Powell’s City of Books is a must‑visit Portland icon—rich in character, packed with treasures, and full of delightful quirks. It’s a solid 4 stars for anyone who loves books, wandering, and bookstore culture—just be ready for sensory overload and occasional website...

You may be an avid reader, and you may not. If you do enjoy getting lost in a good book, you may prefer doing so with a digital copy within your grasp. No matter your preferences, a visit to Powell’s City of Books is something you should consider the next time that you visit Portland, Oregon.

Even if you don’t purchase a printed book because you prefer a digital copy, it’s the experience of being here that you’ll likely cherish.

This is an independent book store that fills 3 full floors, is larger than some public libraries, and offers more than 1 million print selections. With that much square footage of books to consider, the directional signage they provide is quite helpful (and reminds us a little of what is found within a metropolitan subway system).

All manner of reading material is available here, including entire collections such as the 36 volume set of “The Works of Charles Dickens.”

Not only is this a great place to shop for books, it also creates an environment that makes you want to read another good book as soon as possible.

If you do choose to visit, make sure to do at least two things:

First, visit the Rare Book Room on the top floor. You’ll need a pass to enter it, but they are readily available at the Information Booth just outside it. The offerings in this room are surprising and include such works as the 1887 publication of “Home Gymnastics, The Art of Swimming.”

Second, trace the path of the manual typewriters displayed through numerous floors and rooms within the store. Count how many you find and be sure to let us know how many that you spotted.

And that’s…Henry’s...