Portland is a city of readers and has the largest bookstore in the nation to prove it. Powell's City of Books, which is made even larger by the fact that it has a number of smaller stores.
1005 West Burnside Street
Portland Oregon
503.228.4651
Map & Directions:
With more than a million books in a store covering several levels in a building filling an entire city block, Powell's is the largest bookstore in the country. Powell's has become an attraction in its own right and really does deserve a visit. The store is a maze, so make sure you pick up a map as you enter. The sections are color coded, and there are plenty of signs to direct you. The staff is extremely helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable in case you have questions or need to ask directions.
You'll find both used and new books and a separate rare book room, which carries many out of print books. They also have a large selection of foreign books in other languages besides English. Powell's also has an excellent children's section as well as a selection of cards, blank journals, travel books and cook books. Another big draw at Powells is their literary readings, which are very popular.
Powell's Cafe is a great place to get a snack and a beverage of coffee or tea while you browse through your potential purchases. It's also a great place to people watch all of the interesting people. Powell's is open every day of the year and is usually busy. Below are list of their other sites:
Powell's Book Store
Portland International Airport
Powell’s Book Store
Beaverton
8725 Southwest Cascade
Beaverton Oregon
Powell's Technical Bookstore
33 NW Park
Portland Oregon
Powell's Books for Cooks and Gardeners
3747 Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard
Portland Oregon
This store is devoted to cooking and gardening books, they also have a selection of tools, toys, and crafted items. It's a great place to track down a gift for anyone. The store is smaller and easier to use. They also offer weekly readings by writers & poets.
