Keep Portland Literate: Visiting Powell’s Books
The World’s Largest Independent Book Store sounds like a treasure trove of stories and knowledge. Powell’s Books is in downtown Portland, Oregon, and spans an entire city block in the Pearl District. This legendary bookstore is the world’s largest independent new and used bookstore. With over a million books across multiple floors and color-coded rooms, it’s easy to lose yourself in its endless shelves for hours.
It’s the kind of store where you restrain yourself and set a spending limit.
When we visited Portland, Powell’s was my number one choice of stops and things to see. We got there about 10 minutes before they opened on a Saturday morning. Brisk air and buzzing chatter filled the street. We were by no means the first people to wait patiently for the doors to open. I got the sense that this was a common occurrence, a mass of people waiting to find their next adventure in the pages of a book.
Walking into Powell’s Books
When the doors opened, everyone immediately pilled into the large front room where all the local books about the area and bookish souvenirs are housed.
Walking in felt like stepping into a literary wonderland. The scent of paper and ink filled the air, and every turn lead to a discovery—a quirky staff recommendation or an out-of-print gem you never expected to find.
Powell’s is huge, and it’s easy to get lost. If I was going to find what I came for, or at least the sections that interest me, I would need some help. Thankfully, they have maps of the store, and the color-coded rooms help navigate the massive building.
I was immediately drawn to one of my favorite authors, Frederick Backman. I was able to snag several gently used copies for my growing collection at home. My husband is more interested in history and travel than fiction. That is where I found him, nestled amongst the presidential history books.
A fantastic Rare Book Room also showcases beautiful and collectible editions.
Beyond books, the store hosts author events and writing workshops and has a cozy café where you can grab a coffee and dive into your latest find. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot to escape the rain (a frequent occurrence in Portland) and enjoy the written word.
Whether you’re a dedicated bibliophile or just browsing, Powell’s Books is an unforgettable experience. It’s not just a bookstore—it’s a cultural institution, a destination where stories come to life, and a reminder of the magic of getting lost in a good book.
