Embarking on an Epic Cross Country Road Trip to Explore the Best Bookstores in America!
- Lo Hatt
- Jan 4
- 12 min read
Updated: Apr 15
Hit the Road for Books! The Ultimate Bookstore Road Trip!
Escape the ordinary and embark on a book lover's literary road trip! Unearth hidden gems and experience the magic of independent bookstores across the country.
The open road, the wind in your hair, and a stack of freshly acquired books in the passenger seat... does it get any better? If this sounds like your idea of heaven, buckle up for the ultimate bookstore road trip! This cross-country adventure will take us to one beloved bookstore in each state in the United States.
Get ready to browse, discover, and support these literary havens.
The idea of hitting the open road, exploring the US, and writing about amazing bookstores was exhilarating! But as we dove into planning, things quickly got overwhelming. Where to even begin? Which bookstores deserved a spot on our itinerary? And what route would make the most sense? We were drowning in possibilities.
Then, a lightbulb moment! Instead of tackling the entire country simultaneously, we focused on regional bookstore road trips. This made the whole plan feel much more manageable and allowed us to delve into specific areas and their unique literary landscapes.
Stay tuned as we share our adventures, one region at a time!
Note: We have provided a link to their websites if they have one. Check them out and support those small businesses!
Northeast/MidAtlantic Bookish Escapade
1 ) Our journey begins in the bustling metropolis of Washington DC. and this first one, we are visiting two spots.
Capital Hill Books
Capitol Hill Books has been in the used book business since 1994. You can find a wide variety of genres throughout 2 floors located in sections such as the Culture Closet, and the Mystery Room, and even find some odd books in the "Weird Section".
Our 2nd spot...
While in DC you should treat yourself to the The Folger Shakespeare Library (newly remodeled) located on Capital Hill at 201 E Capitol St SE. Home to the world's largest collection of Shakespeare manuscripts and first folios, the Folger Shakespeare Library is a must-visit for any book lover. With over 250,000 visitors annually, it's clearly a popular destination! Explore exhibitions, attend workshops, or simply relax in the beautiful gardens.
With the Quill & Crumb café and a gift shop, there's something for everyone.
Folger Shakespeare Library
Quill & Crumb Cafe located in Folger Shakespeare Library
2) Our next stop takes us to the neighboring state of Maryland.
Curious Iguana
Curious Iguana is more than just a bookstore; it's woven into the very fabric of Frederick's history. Housed in a building with a fascinating past (it even played a role in the Civil War!), it's a must-visit for history buffs and bookworms alike.
Inside, you'll find a treasure trove of reads, with something to pique every interest. From the latest bestsellers to those under-the-radar indie gems, and even a fantastic children's section, there's truly something for everyone. Local authors, take note! If you've published within the past two years, Curious Iguana might be interested in carrying your book. And if you can't find what you're looking for, just ask—they're happy to order it for you.
But what truly sets Curious Iguana apart is its commitment to community. Not only do they foster a warm and welcoming atmosphere, but they also generously donate a portion of their daily sales to local literacy nonprofits. Now, that's what I call putting your money where your books are!
3) West Chester, PA
Baldwin's Book Barn
Calling all book lovers a visit to Baldwin's Book Barn is an absolute must. Established way back in 1822, this place is a bibliophile's dream come true. Forget the name "barn"—this five-story beauty looks more like a mini-castle! Get ready to be amazed! This place is packed with over 300,000 books, including super old and rare ones, plus maps, prints, and all kinds of cool stuff you won't find anywhere else.
The atmosphere is pure magic. Think rustic charm with original stone walls, cozy wood-burning stoves, and countless nooks and crannies just begging to be explored. Every corner you turn reveals another literary treasure, from first editions to long-lost classics. It's like wandering into a Hobbit's home—every nook and cranny is overflowing with unexpected treasures, and you never know what delightful surprise you'll find around the next corner. Baldwin's Book Barn is more than just a bookstore; it's a journey through literary history. It's a place to lose yourself in the magic of books, uncover hidden gems, and connect with fellow bibliophiles. Trust me, this one should be on everyone's bookish bucket list. It's that special.
4) Next Stop: On to New Jersey
Watchung Booksellers
Okay, buckle up booklovers, because Watchung Booksellers in Montclair, New Jersey is about to blow you away! This place is more than just a bookstore—it's a total vibe. Seriously, it's so beautiful you'd think it was straight out of a movie. And get this: they have two whole locations! Their sister store, The Kids' Room, is just a few doors down, overflowing with amazing books and gifts for kids and teens.
But let's talk about the main event. Watchung Booksellers has the best staff, always ready with a smile and the perfect recommendation (which, by the way, you can also find online!). They host incredible author events and book clubs that are always packed. Trust me, the energy in this place is contagious! It might be the comfy armchairs tucked into cozy nooks, the bookish conversations buzzing around you, or the fact that they even have writers' workshops and a podcast. Whatever it is, Watchung Booksellers has that magic touch that keeps you coming back for more.
5) Next Stop: New York City
The Strand
No book lover's visit to NYC is complete without a stop at this legendary store. Immerse yourself in "18 miles of books." The Strand was established in 1927 on Fourth Avenue, then known as “Book Row.” Book Row spanned six city blocks and was home to forty-eight bookstores. The Strand soon became a Greenwich Village staple where writers gathered to chat, sell their books, and discover hidden gems. Today, the Strand stands as the last remnant of Book Row’s vibrant history, offering over 2.5 million used, new, and rare books.
New England Charm: Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts
6) Next Stop: Madison, Connecticut
RJ Julia Booksellers
R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison, Connecticut is the kind of bookstore you imagine when you're lost in the pages of a novel. And we love a good story behind a name – like this one! (She named it after her father's mother. Check out her "About" page on the bookstore's website for the touching story.) (Ms. Coady, maybe there's a novel in your future about a bookstore? From bar to bookstore, the name, your father's story—it all sounds like a beautiful book waiting to be written.) It's no surprise that R.J. Julia Booksellers has won many awards. You'll find every kind of book imaginable here, from the latest bestsellers to hidden gems. They've got fiction, non-fiction, kids' books, cookbooks—you name it! They host hundreds of events a year, and authors from all over visit this gem of a store. The staff is super friendly and can help you find your next favorite read, even if you don't know what you're looking for. R.J. Julia's also has tons of cool stuff going on, like book clubs and writing groups. If you're ever in Madison, you HAVE to check it out. It's seriously a book lover's dream come true!
7) Next Stop: Providence, Rhode Island
(I know, I know- it’s a bit off the beaten path to Massachusetts (you'll need to hop on I-95 North from Providence, but it's worth the detour!)
Symposium Books
Finding the perfect bookstore in Rhode Island was a bit of a challenge! Sadly, a few of the places we wanted to visit had closed down, which is a bummer. We're on a mission to find the coolest bookstores in every state and guide you on a route that makes sense. But sometimes, you stumble upon a place that's worth a little detour. This bookstore, Symposium Books, is one of them. Providence is definitely one of those places – it's a super cool city with tons to see and do, so put it on your bucket list! You could always make a stop there to explore before continuing on your journey.
Symposium Books in Providence, Rhode Island has They've got a really interesting mix of new and used books, so you can discover something new or revisit an old favorite. They don't just stick to the bestsellers; they have a wide range of genres and interests, and they also have a bunch of vinyl records, which is pretty cool. It's the kind of place where you can stumble upon something totally unexpected, and one of the reasons why we choose it. We are record collectors here, so not to make it personally…but we totally did. Books and records…SCORE! Symposium Books is all about supporting the local community. They host events, partner with local organizations, and create a space where people can connect. Basically, Symposium Books is a haven for book lovers and music lovers alike. It's a place to discover, explore, and connect with your community and who doesn’t love that? Besides the books and the records our favorite part of this bookstore is if you are a local in Providence, they offer delivery by DASH BICYCLES. COME ON! That is so cool!! ($6.99 charge)
8) Massachusetts
We may have had to go off the beaten path for our last bookstore, however, now that we are in Massachusetts, we are going to make it worth it with a couple of stops. Who would have thought that there would be so many cute independent bookstores in such a small state, the first one being only about 30 minutes from Providence?
An Unlikely Story Bookstore and Café
While we don't usually focus on children's books, it's hard to ignore the phenomenon that is "Diary of a Wimpy Kid"! This charming independent bookstore in downtown Plainville is owned by none other than Jeff Kinney himself (along with his wife, Julie). They've created a haven for book lovers of all ages, a place where you can relax with a coffee and a good book, enjoy a bite to eat, or even sip on a beer or glass of wine.
An Unlikely Story is more than just a bookstore, though. It's a community hub where you can meet incredible authors, attend book signings, and participate in all sorts of fun events. They host tons of author events, book signings, and kid-friendly activities, making it a true gathering place. If you're looking to unwind, connect with fellow bookworms, or maybe even meet your favorite author, An Unlikely Story is the place to be. ( We were doing some research on bookstores in Virginia and stumbled upon something pretty cool. Middleburg Books, a great independent shop, is only about 30 minutes away from a music store called The Shamrock. And guess what? The Shamrock is owned by Scott Kinney, Jeff Kinney's brother! He sells "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" books there and even visits schools in the area sometimes. It seems the Kinney brothers have a knack for creating spaces where people can explore their passions, whether it's through books or music. Small world, right?)
Our Massachusetts journey takes us to Boston.
Brattle Book Shop
Home of Brattle Book Shop, one of the oldest and largest used bookstores in America! With a history dating back to 1825, imagine the stories these books could tell. And the selection is incredible: over 250,000 books, maps, prints, and postcards, spread across three floors and a legendary outdoor sale lot. You could easily lose yourself for hours browsing the shelves, discovering treasures at every turn. From classic literature to quirky finds, there's something for every book lover. If you're searching for a unique bookstore experience, be sure to check out Brattle Book Shop. You won't be disappointed!
9) Concord New Hampshire
Gibson's Bookstore
Gibson's Bookstore in Concord, New Hampshire, is a book lover's dream come true. It's been a beloved part of the community since 1898, and the moment you step inside, you feel its history and charm. The creaky wooden floors, cozy nooks, and towering shelves create the perfect atmosphere to get lost in the world of books. But Gibson's is more than just a bookstore; it's a community hub where you can attend author events, join book clubs, and even participate in writing workshops. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, always ready with a personalized recommendation. And with a wide selection that includes everything from current bestsellers to local treasures, there's truly something for everyone. Plus, you can grab a coffee and a pastry at their cozy café while you browse. Something super cool that I hadn’t seen until doing this research is Gibson’s has teamed up with Libro.fm, which is an awesome alternative to Audible. You get an audiobook credit each month, and your purchase directly benefits Gibson's. It's a win-win for book lovers and local businesses! As of January 2025, on their site, if you use promo code SWITCH, they will give you two bonus audiobook credits at sign-up. We have quickly understood why it's a local favorite, Gibson's Bookstore is a must.
10) Portland, Maine
Print A Book Store
Print A Bookstore in Portland might just be one of our new favorites! It seems to be a hit with locals and visitors alike, and it's easy to see why. The store itself is beautiful, with a bright and airy atmosphere that makes browsing a joy. They've got a fantastic selection of books, with a focus on progressive and diverse voices, and their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate.
Here's something really cool: they offer private shopping appointments! And if you become a member, you get a $10 store credit for every $200 you spend (in-store or online). They also offer a 20% discount to educators and for bulk orders or book clubs.
But it's not just about the books. Print: A Bookstore hosts a variety of events, from author talks and book clubs to poetry slams ( Will Cooper, you there? IYKYK😉) and open mic nights. It's a vibrant hub for book lovers and creatives, a place where you can discover new authors, have great conversations, and feel like you belong.
11) Middlebury, Vermont
The Vermont Book Shop
Okay, so Vermont was a tough one! This state is packed with adorable indie bookstores, so you really can't go wrong. But I had to pick one, and I went with The Vermont Book Shop, located in Middlebury.
Now, this place has some serious history. It was apparently a favorite haunt of Robert Frost! (Yeah, THE Robert Frost.) I did have a little "huh?" moment when I saw their website mention him, considering the store opened in 1949 and, well... he wasn't exactly around then. 😅 But hey, maybe his ghost hangs out there! Who knows? 👻 (Someone explain what I am missing here, please.)
Either way, this bookstore looks super cute. You can shop in person or online, and they even have their own audiobook membership! Plus, they've got a sweet deal going on right now: use the code SWITCH when you sign up for a membership, and you'll get two bonus audiobook credits. Score!
Seriously, check out The Vermont Book Shop. It's definitely worth a visit (or an online shopping spree!).
12) Delaware
Browseabout Books
We're making a beachline for Browseabout Books, a charming bookstore just steps from the sand. This place in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware has been a local favorite for over 40 years, and it's easy to see why.
Imagine browsing for your next great read while the ocean breeze drifts through the open windows. Browseabout is more than just a pretty location. They've got a fantastic selection of books, the friendliest staff you'll ever meet, and they're always hosting fun author events. Plus, they have the cutest gifts and beachy treasures, so it's the perfect place to find a little something special for yourself (or a friend!). Trust me, you'll want to spend hours here chatting with the staff, adding to your TBR pile, and soaking up the good vibes. And the best part? Once you've found your perfect book, you can head straight to the beach and start reading! Talk about a bookworm's paradise! ☀️ 📖 🏖️
12) Middleburg, Virginia
Middleburg Books
Okay, booklovers, get ready to fall in love with Middleburg Books! This gem of a bookstore is tucked away in a charming 18th-century building in Middleburg, Virginia, and it's basically a book lover's paradise. Forget those overwhelming mega-stores; this place is all about carefully curated selections, from new releases to hidden gems for readers of all ages. But Middleburg Books is more than just bookshelves. Their expert booksellers will introduce you to your next favorite author, and their genre-based subscriptions deliver awesome new reads right to your door. They also host a variety of fun events, including book clubs, author meet-and-greets, story time, and even literary retreats. Plus, with an annual membership, you can unlock exclusive perks and discounts. With its cozy atmosphere and vibrant bookish community, Middleburg Books is the perfect place to escape, discover new reads, and reignite your passion for reading.
Stay Tuned!
Our cross-country adventure is far from over! Since we've covered New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and we ended our journey in Virginia, it makes sense to head to West Virginia next. Then journey along the Midwestern Magic: of Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. So, grab your virtual map and join the journey! What are your favorite indie bookstores in New England?
Share your recommendations in the comments below!
Comments