When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Backstory Books & Yarn
Why Backstory Books & Yarn is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Backstory Books & Yarn in Portland, Oregon, is a delightful neighborhood shop that combines a passion for reading with the cozy craft of knitting and fiber arts. Located at 3129 SE Hawthorne Blvd, this store boasts a unique blend of new and used books alongside an eclectic selection of yarn, both new and upcycled. The shop is renowned for its specialization in African-American literature, nautical themes, and fiber arts books, appealing to both avid readers and crafters alike. Open Wednesday through Monday from noon to 6pm, Backstory offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends who share interests in diverse literary genres and creative hobbies. The store also encourages community engagement by buying and trading books and yarn, fostering a sustainable and dynamic collection. Its inviting vibe, combined with carefully curated items, makes it an ideal spot not only for browsing but also for inspiration and social connection among local enthusiasts in Portland.
Here's what people think of Backstory Books & Yarn
As of recent, Backstory Books & Yarn holds a 4.9-star rating based on 125 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Backstory Books & Yarn for its warm, community-oriented atmosphere and the quality selection of books and yarn. Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who enhance the shopping experience through personal recommendations and attentive service. Positive feedback often mentions the shop's well-curated inventory, particularly the specialized focus on African-American and nautical titles as well as fiber arts, which sets it apart from typical bookstores. The yarn section also receives commendations for its range of new and upcycled yarns, appealing both to casual knitters and dedicated fiber artists. On the other hand, some negative reviews have pointed out that the store’s operating hours are somewhat limited, which can make planning visits challenging for some customers. A few have noted that the space, while cozy, can feel a bit cramped when busy. Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews affirm Backstory Books & Yarn as a treasured and high-quality independent bookstore and yarn shop in Portland, recognized for its welcoming environment and distinctive offerings. Customers generally leave with a sense of satisfaction and look forward to returning or recommending it to friends interested in books and crafts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jen Lz
Yarn and books?! I'm in heaven! I can't speak to the other genres but they had lots of pattern and craft books. As for yarn, you may not find enough of one color to make that sweater, but you will definitely find a handful to make a unique shawl/hat/scarf/etc.
Kate
Such a great selection of books and yarn! It’s a bit cramped but there’s a lot of goodness packed in this small space. Very knowledgeable and spunky service.
Savannah
Delighted to find this enchanting bookstore and yarn haven. Backstory is in a beautiful whimsy building with wall to wall books covering a large variety of genres. You can find everything from cookbooks to creepy fiction. They also carry a lot of classic children's books. There is yarn in every color of the rainbow. I even got a chance to check out a vintage sewing machine. Backstory is a wonderful place to explore used books and get craft inspiration. Put it on your "must go" list if you love the smell of old books and enjoy touching different yarn textures. It was a lovely place to spend a quiet Sunday afternoon.
Jennifer Adler
This is such a unique bookstore! The owners were so friendly and loved talking and geeking out over books with me! They had so many great popular used copies as well as some unique finds and vintage and special editions. The owner showed us a book she has from 1603 - it was fascinating! Also, she got an arc copy of a pop up book that was missing colors - so fun! We will definitely be back again! :)
Roxane Auer
This is my bookstore. The owner loves books, so the selection is wonderful. I have found fun, but also amazing, life-changing works here. The owner is also kind, and knowledgeable, and fun to talk to, and often at the store. They buy books as well, they have some new stuff. Just an all-around great business, part of our lives and I feel happy every time I walk in the door.
How to reach Backstory Books & Yarn
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Why Backstory Books & Yarn may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Backstory Books & Yarn with your friends?
If you are looking for a truly unique and cozy spot to gather with friends or family, Backstory Books & Yarn in Portland offers an inviting atmosphere that perfectly blends the love of literature and the tactile joy of fiber arts. With a near-perfect rating of 4.9 based on 125 reviews, this small but enchanting neighborhood shop has earned a special place in the hearts of community members as a creative and warm meeting place. Whether your group shares a passion for reading, knitting, crocheting, or simply browsing exceptional books and yarn, Backstory Books & Yarn provides a rare combination of cultural richness and hands-on artistry. Its quaint setting along Hawthorne Boulevard invites leisurely visits where you can explore thoughtfully curated African-American, nautical, and fiber arts books alongside a wide selection of new, used, and upcycled yarns. This dual-purpose space is far more than a typical bookstore or craft store—it’s where stories and craftsmanship intertwine, making it ideal for cozy, creative gatherings that spark conversation and connection. For book lovers and yarn enthusiasts alike, Backstory offers a welcoming retreat that feels like a shared secret waiting to be explored with your closest companions.
What activities can you enjoy at Backstory Books & Yarn?
Backstory Books & Yarn features a delightful blend of activities suitable for groups looking to spend quality time together. The heart of the experience lies in browsing their diverse collection of books, which emphasizes niche subjects like African-American literature, nautical themes, and fiber arts. This specialized focus makes it a treasure trove for readers wanting to discover new titles that aren't typically found in mainstream bookstores. Beyond books, visitors can explore an impressive inventory of yarn, including new, used, and upcycled fibers, along with needles and other knitting or crocheting accessories. This range attracts both seasoned fiber artists and curious beginners eager to try their hand at crafting together.
Groups can enjoy a relaxed pace as they explore their interests side-by-side, exchanging recommendations and inspiration. Because the shop is woman-owned and prides itself on community connection, it fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity and encouragement that encourages collaboration. In addition to shopping, Backstory Books & Yarn often serves as a venue for fiber arts meetups, book clubs, and workshops, giving groups opportunities to engage more deeply in shared skills and creative pursuits. The boutique’s design—set in a charming house-like space—invites you to linger, making it easy to plan extended gatherings focused on creative exploration and social interaction. With hands-on activities and a treasure chest of stories, this store caters to groups looking for meaningful engagement and unique discoveries.
Why is Backstory Books & Yarn perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Backstory Books & Yarn stands out as a prime location for group meetups due to its warm, intimate environment and diverse offerings that appeal to multiple interests simultaneously. The store’s layout, situated in a cozy, cottage-like building, encourages conversation and comfortable gathering without the hustle and noise typical of larger commercial spaces. This setting lets groups spread out to browse books or yarn while still sharing a collective experience, perfect for book clubs, creative workshops, or casual hangouts.
The store’s business hours (Wednesday through Monday, 12 PM to 6 PM, closed Tuesdays) offer flexible opportunities for afternoon or early evening meetups. It accommodates contactless payments and Apple Pay, enhancing convenience for guests, and parking in the surrounding neighborhood is available, making arrival and departure easy for groups. Another valuable aspect is the knowledgeable and friendly staff led by owner Amanda Doimas, who provides expert assistance in finding books or yarn tailored to your group’s interests, fostering a personalized and inclusive shopping experience.
Moreover, the focus on specialized books and quality yarn products lends itself to discussion starters, collaborative projects, or thematic meetups, where your group can bond over both storytelling and crafting. With masks required inside, the shop also maintains a considerate environment attentive to health and safety, providing peace of mind for guests. These combined qualities make Backstory Books & Yarn a thoughtful venue where relationships can deepen through shared passion and discovery.
What makes the book and yarn selection at Backstory Books & Yarn unique?
The uniqueness of Backstory Books & Yarn lies in its carefully curated inventory that combines literary and fiber arts worlds into one experiential space. Unlike many general bookstores, Backstory emphasizes thematic collections, notably African-American authors and stories, nautical books, and a rich variety of fiber arts literature. This intentional selection creates a niche hub appealing especially to readers and crafters seeking materials that reflect diverse cultural perspectives and specialized interests.
The yarn side of the business is equally noteworthy. Alongside new yarns, Backstory offers used and upcycled fibers, supporting sustainable crafting practices and providing access to one-of-a-kind textures and colors. Such environmentally conscious options resonate with customers who value eco-friendliness alongside creative quality. The availability of needles and other tools further equips patrons to dive into projects immediately after selecting their materials.
This dual focus encourages creative exploration across disciplines, inviting visitors to intertwine the narrative structures of books with the tactile creation of fiber works. It supports community makers who might read about fiber arts techniques in-store and then experiment with the yarns on hand. For groups, this variety enriches shared experiences, where book discussions can naturally extend into crafting circles, inspiring both mental and manual creativity.
How does the atmosphere at Backstory Books & Yarn encourage community and connection?
Backstory Books & Yarn cultivates a warm, inviting atmosphere that naturally encourages connection among visitors, making it an excellent spot for community-building. The shop’s small, house-like space fosters intimacy, reducing barriers between strangers and friends as they navigate bookshelves or yarn racks. Friendly staff who know the inventory deeply contribute to this environment by facilitating conversations about literature, fiber arts, and local culture.
Visitors often describe the store as welcoming and inclusive, where the passion for books and yarn creates an immediate shared identity among patrons. In this relaxed setting, groups can easily settle in with coffee or snacks brought to nearby seating areas, exchanging stories or skills gained both from books and hands-on crafting. Mask policies add a layer of respect for guests' health concerns, further reinforcing the sense of community care.
Additionally, Backstory Books & Yarn often hosts events like book signings, knitting circles, or workshops that provide structured opportunities for people to meet and collaborate around common interests. These gatherings reinforce social bonds, turning casual visits into ongoing relationships and networks. The combination of a personal touch, diverse programming, and a strong focus on specialized books and yarn makes Backstory a true community hub, ideal for those looking to rally friends and build connections through culture and craft.
What practical benefits support group visits to Backstory Books & Yarn?
Practical considerations make Backstory Books & Yarn especially convenient for group visits. Its central Hawthorne Boulevard location in Portland ensures easy access via various transportation means, including nearby street parking. The store’s credit card and contactless payment options further speed up transactions for groups, minimizing hassle during busy meetups.
Open from Wednesday through Monday, 12 PM to 6 PM, the store allows for flexibility in scheduling daytime or early evening gatherings. While it closes on Tuesdays, the remaining days provide ample opportunities for groups with different availability to plan visits. The small size also means quieter browsing, which is conducive to group conversation compared to larger crowded retail spaces.
Additionally, as a woman-owned business, Backstory Books & Yarn offers an ethical shopping experience that many groups may appreciate, supporting local entrepreneurship and sustainability through their upcycled yarn selection. The store’s website also provides the option to book visits by appointment if desired, which can help groups coordinate more private or extended sessions.
These practical elements, combined with the warm and inspiring atmosphere, make hosting meetups at Backstory Books & Yarn both enjoyable and efficient, enhancing the overall experience and ensuring groups leave feeling enriched and connected.
In summary, Backstory Books & Yarn is an exceptional gathering place for friends and family seeking an inviting space to explore the joys of reading and fiber crafting together. Its unique blend of specialized books, sustainable yarn selections, community-oriented atmosphere, and practical conveniences create a compelling destination for meaningful meetups. Whether your group is a book club, crafting circle, or simply a collection of curious minds, this Portland gem offers a charming backdrop where stories and creativity come to life side by side.