Boston's Best Bookstore

We’re lucky in Boston's to have such great independent bookstores. Here are are five of the best bookstores in Boston.

1. Brattle Book Shop

Established in 1825, Brattle Book Shop is one of America's oldest and largest used bookstores. Located at 9 West Street, it offers three floors of books, including a rare and antiquarian section. The outdoor sale lot is a distinctive feature, allowing visitors to browse discounted books in an open-air setting.

2. Beacon Hill Books & Café

Situated at 71 Charles Street, Beacon Hill Books & Café provides a curated selection of books in a warm atmosphere. The multi-level space includes cozy reading nooks and a café offering tea, wine, and small bites, making it an ideal spot to relax with a book.

3. Trident Booksellers & Café

Located at 338 Newbury Street, Trident Booksellers & Café has been a staple in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood since 1984. It combines a bookstore with a full-service café, offering a diverse selection of books and a menu that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Regular events, such as trivia nights and author readings, add to its vibrant community atmosphere.

4. Commonwealth Books

Found at 9 Spring Lane, Commonwealth Books is a unique and intimate used bookstore that is a must-visit for all book and history lovers. Along with its expansive book collection, the bookstore also offers a large selection of antique prints and maps. This is definitely the go-to shop for rare finds and literary treasures.

5. Frugal Bookstore

Located at 57 Warren Street in Roxbury, Frugal Bookstore is Boston's only Black-owned bookstore. This community-focused shop is driven by a passion to promote literacy among children, teens, and adults. They feature new books across various genres, with a focus on works by and about people of color.

Each of these bookstores offers a unique experience, reflecting the rich literary culture of Boston. Whether you're searching for a rare find, a cozy reading spot, or engaging literary events, these establishments provide something for every book lover.