6 Must-Visit Bookstores In New York
From the works of F. Scott Fitzgerald to J.D. Salinger, New York City has been the backdrop for countless literary classics. But not only does the city that never sleeps often make an appearance in literature, it also boasts a wide variety of places you can actually buy these books in. From literary hideaways housed in century-old mansions to shops that come complete with a cafe, here are just some of New York City’s must-visit bookstores:
Strand Bookstore
Just steps from New York City’s famed Union Square, the Strand is one of New York’s most famous bookstores — and with good reason: The Strand carries over 18 miles of books ranging from new to rare titles, and everything in between. In addition to its impressive catalog, the popular bookstore also regularly holds events in its Rare Books Room. In the past writers such as Patti Smith, Tavi Gevinson, and Grace Coddington have all been hosted here.
828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Gucci Wooster Bookstore
Nestled on a side street in Manhattan’s Soho Gucci shop, the Gucci Wooster Bookstore is a must-visit for fashion and book lovers alike. It is truly an elevated literary space surrounded by deep yellow leather couches, dramatic red drapes, intricate rugs and ornate wood. The unique store, whose book selection is curated by Dashwood Books, was created in 2018 as an homage to Lower Manhattan’s vibrant and storied art scene.
375 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
McNally Jackson Bookstore
McNally Jackson Bookstore, an independent bookstore founded in 2004, is an ideal spot to come and browse after perusing Soho’s shopping district. Spanning over two levels, this bookshop carries classic favorites and hard-to-find writings alike. The best part? Its Prince Street location has an in-house cafe where visitors can enjoy English breakfast tea, fresh pastries and more, from iconic New York eateries such as Sarabeth and Balthazar.
52 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Albertine Bookstore and Reading Room
The Albertine Bookstore and Reading Room may be found in one of the most unique locations in the city — it is housed in the French Embassy’s landmarked Payne Whitney mansion on 5th Avenue, and is truly a sight to see: Countless books, in both English and French, are thoughtfully stacked on polished wooden shelves. If you look up you can even catch a glimpse of the reading room’s celestial ceiling mural. Located on the Upper East Side directly across from Central Park, Albertine is the perfect place to relax after enjoying lunch or coffee at the nearby Sant Ambroeus.
972 5th Ave, New York, NY 10075
Rizzoli Bookstore
The Rizzoli Bookstore is the elegantly designed brick and mortar location of Italian publishing company Rizzoli International Publications. Known for its large selection of fashion, art, photography, and design titles, this Flatiron bookstore is a literary treasure trove housed in the majestic St. James Building, a Gilded Age construction built over a century ago.
1133 Broadway, New York, NY 10010
Three Lives & Company
At the intersection of West 10th Street and Waverly Place lies Three Lives & Company, a cozy corner bookshop that opened its doors in 1968. A mainstay of the neighborhood since its opening, Three Lives & Company often holds readings and themed evenings to celebrate the release of new titles. If you are looking to spend the perfect evening out in the West Village, visit Three Lives and then continue on to Bobo, a French restaurant in a charming 100-year old townhouse, for a delicious meal.
154 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014
