Powell's Bookstore Portland

by Julie C.
(Seattle, Washington)

My favorite Oregon activity is the amazing Powell’s Bookstore in downtown Portland. Nestled among the trendy cafes and bars there is a hidden treasure that one can miss on a first trip to Portland. However, if you’ve ever wanted to get lost in a bookstore this is the place. Bigger and better than a Borders or a Barnes & Noble, this is the place to find just anything! It is by far the largest used book store (well there are new books too but it is mostly used books) that I have ever been inside in my life.

There are four floors crammed with the most obscure books that ever existed. There is also a café, perfect for picking up a coffee and donut to try while you browse. The paperback selection is excellent and very affordable. During my last trip, summer of 2009, I also found a large comics section, plenty of horror, new age and other subjects that are sometimes hard to find. While the outside of the bookstore may look small and modest, once you are inside you realize that it truly is a warehouse of books and one of the largest independent bookstores in the world.

If you are looking for a great way to spend an afternoon when you are in Portland, Oregon then I heartily suggest stopping by Powell’s Bookstore for a good visit.