When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
BookPeople
Why BookPeople is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BookPeople, located in downtown Austin, Texas, is a beloved independent bookstore that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1970. Renowned for its vast selection of books ranging from popular titles to works by independent and upcoming authors, it offers a haven for book lovers looking to discover new stories and ideas. The store features two expansive floors filled with books, quirky local gifts, and a small café, making it an ideal spot for spending an afternoon with friends. This bookstore is not only a shopping destination but a cultural hub offering frequent author signings, book club meetings for diverse genres, and special programs targeting young readers, such as the Texas Teen Book Festival. Visitors appreciate the warm and knowledgeable staff, the lively literary events, and the welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxed browsing and reading. BookPeople’s extended hours—from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving—make it convenient for locals and tourists alike to enjoy its offerings. Whether stopping in for a coffee while exploring the shelves or attending an author talk, visitors find BookPeople a unique and treasured spot to connect over books and ideas.
Here's what people think of BookPeople
As of recent, BookPeople holds a 4.8-star rating based on 4039 reviews.
Reviews of BookPeople consistently highlight its strong reputation as a top-tier independent bookstore with a near-perfect rating of 4.8 out of 5 from more than 4,000 reviews. Users praise the bookstore for its extensive and thoughtfully curated book selection, including a wide variety of genres and titles by independent authors. The friendly and helpful staff receive frequent commendations, creating a welcoming environment. Customers enjoy the cozy café where they can sip coffee while leafing through new finds, though some note the lack of free Wi-Fi. The bookstore’s vibrant calendar of events, including author signings and book clubs, garners positive feedback from the community who value the literary culture BookPeople fosters. On the downside, a few reviews mention that the store can feel a bit overwhelming due to its size and volume of books, and some visitors express a desire for more seating or space to read within the store. Overall, the positive reviews far outweigh the negatives, reflecting BookPeople’s status as a cherished institution in Austin’s cultural and literary landscape, making it a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about books and community engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Loren G
Love Book People, an Austin treasure! They also have a great website where it is super easy to order online & pick-up in store. The friendliest staff, coffee bar, cool cards & gifts, perfect location and convenient parking. Highest recommendation.
Jen G
This place was truly a book lovers cave! It has so many personalized decorations that you don’t really find in Barnes & Noble. It just so happens that I was going in on Jane Austen Day, so there was a lot of peeps, dressed for the occasion. I was able to find this great book!
Abigail Silva
The Book People is a magical place, filled with books and a thousand other interesting things you can buy. The variety of books is truly impressive. The staff is incredibly friendly, always smiling and ready to help. It’s a bookstore that makes you feel welcome the moment you walk in. They offer activities for the whole family from storytelling sessions to book presentations. I absolutely love this bookstore!
Steve Takata
Book people is another Austin original store, although it never expanded to additional locations. It has been here forever, and even when there were Barnes & Noble and Borders all over, this was still the best in town. They have events for kids, book signings with prominent authors, including people like Dan Rather, and Bill Clinton. There’s a small coffee shop inside, and a huge kid section. Like all bookstores, of course they have gifts and cards. Their magazine section, which used to be huge and fantastic, *Now has only an empty shelf, which is very sad.
Melodie Roschman
If I lived here this store would have been my whole personality as a teenager. So, so many books, creatively displayed alongside an impressive collection of interesting and thematically relevant Knick knacks. Plus: clean bathrooms, a cafe, and apparently frequent author events. This bookstore feels like the kind of mysterious store full of secrets that characters always visit in fantasy novels.
How to reach BookPeople
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Website: None
Why BookPeople may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at BookPeople with your friends?
BookPeople, nestled in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, stands as the largest independent bookstore in the entire state. With a remarkable rating of 4.8 from over 4,000 reviews, it is much more than just a bookstore—it's a cultural and community hub that beckons groups of friends and families alike. Rallying here promises an enriching experience: you’ll find yourself immersed in aisles brimming with diverse book selections ranging from bestsellers to hidden gems. The charm of the space, combined with its history dating back to 1970, creates a welcoming atmosphere where people connect through shared interests and literary discovery. The store’s commitment to local culture and its role as a longstanding Austin institution further amplify its appeal as a meetup spot. Whether you are passionate readers, creative minds, or simply seeking a cozy, inspiring place to hang out, BookPeople offers a unique setting that sparks conversation, learning, and meaningful interaction. This makes it an ideal destination for groups wanting to enjoy time together while being surrounded by stories and ideas that ignite the imagination.
What activities can groups enjoy at BookPeople?
BookPeople offers a wide range of activities that are perfect for groups looking to spend quality time together. First and foremost, the extensive collection of books allows visitors to explore countless genres and topics, making it an ideal destination for discussions and discovery. Groups can enjoy browsing new releases, bestselling titles, and local authors’ works, which encourages shared recommendations and lively debates. Beyond book browsing, the store frequently hosts author events, book signings, and readings, giving groups the chance to engage with writers and enrich their literary experiences firsthand. These events often foster a vibrant community atmosphere where attendees can open dialogues about books and ideas. Additionally, BookPeople offers curated gift items and literary-themed merchandise, which adds an extra layer of fun for groups aiming to pick up unique souvenirs. The welcoming environment, combined with knowledgeable staff eager to assist, ensures that everyone’s visit is personalized and memorable, making it a perfect meeting point for friends or family.
Why is BookPeople the perfect place for group meetups?
BookPeople's ambiance and layout make it an exceptional choice for group meetups. The bookstore's spacious interior allows groups to comfortably wander through its aisles together or find quiet corners for more intimate conversations and reading sessions. The diverse setting accommodates different group dynamics—whether lively discussion or peaceful reflection is preferred. The store is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, offering flexible hours to suit various schedules. Its location in Austin’s bustling North Lamar Boulevard puts it within easy reach of numerous cafes and eateries, enabling groups to extend their meetup beyond the bookstore if they desire. Moreover, the staff’s enthusiasm for connecting readers through books adds a personal touch, making group visits feel warm and engaging. Whether your group shares a deep love for literature or simply appreciates a venue that fosters community connections, BookPeople provides an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.
How does BookPeople support community and culture for visitors?
BookPeople has a rich legacy of supporting community and cultural initiatives, which greatly enhances the experience of visiting with friends or family. Since its founding in 1970, the store has been deeply rooted in the Austin independent business scene and cultural fabric. It is a member of the Austin Independent Business Alliance and is recognized for championing local authors and regional voices, which helps visitors connect with the city’s unique literary identity. By hosting a variety of events—from readings and signings to workshops and children’s storytimes—BookPeople creates lively opportunities for community engagement and shared learning. The bookstore’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in its selections ensures that all visitors find something relatable and thought-provoking. This ongoing dedication to culture and community not only makes visiting the store an educational experience but also strengthens bonds among attendees, making meetups more meaningful and enjoyable.
What makes BookPeople a standout bookstore in Texas and beyond?
BookPeople’s reputation as a standout bookstore stems from its award-winning status, extensive book collection, and strong ties to its local community. It has been voted the best bookstore by the Austin Chronicle every year since 1995 and was named the Best Bookstore in the US by Publishers Weekly in 2005. These accolades reflect its high standard of service, quality of inventory, and community impact. The store offers an eclectic mix of titles that appeal to a wide range of readers, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, graphic novels, and children’s literature, ensuring that no visitor leaves without something intriguing. Its independent status preserves a personal, curated bookstore experience that large chains often cannot match. The thoughtful selection of gifts and local art-related products also adds to shoppers’ delight. For groups, this distinction translates to a vibrant, trustworthy place where the love of books is celebrated and shared, setting the stage for memorable social gatherings and enriching group dynamics.
How accessible and welcoming is BookPeople for all types of visitors?
BookPeople prides itself on being an accessible and inclusive space where everyone feels welcome. The store’s layout is designed to accommodate diverse groups, including families with children, book clubs, and casual friends hanging out. With regular programming for different age groups and interests, BookPeople ensures that each visitor can find an activity or book that resonates with their personal tastes and needs. The staff are known for their helpfulness and friendly demeanor, always ready to recommend books or guide visitors through the store’s expansive offerings. Accessibility features within the building accommodate people with mobility challenges, making it easier for all group members to participate fully in the experience. The store’s long hours provide flexible timing options for meetups, ensuring convenience for school groups, working professionals, and retirees alike. This thoughtful approach to service and infrastructure positions BookPeople not just as a bookstore, but a community sanctuary where everyone can gather, learn, and have fun together.
What community events and programs make visiting BookPeople a special group experience?
A key highlight of BookPeople is its vibrant calendar of community events and programs, enriching group visits with social and educational opportunities. These events often include author talks, panel discussions, book launches, poetry readings, and themed workshops, providing diverse ways for visitors to engage with literature beyond the shelves. Many events encourage audience participation, sparking lively conversations and connections that enhance the social fabric of meetups. BookPeople also hosts children’s storytimes, craft activities, and educational programs that are perfect for families visiting with younger members, making it a multi-generational hub. Seasonal events and holiday-themed gatherings create festive atmospheres, perfect for special occasions or casual celebrations with friends. Group visits during such programming allow attendees to share unique experiences that go beyond solitary reading, fostering a strong sense of community and shared pleasure in the literary arts.
Why is BookPeople a great place to support local business and culture?
Choosing BookPeople for your next group meetup not only promises a rewarding social experience but also supports a cherished local business and vibrant cultural scene. As an independent bookstore, BookPeople contributes to the local economy and helps sustain Austin’s unique cultural identity. Being a member of the Austin Independent Business Alliance, the store prioritizes relationships with local authors, artists, and publishers, directly benefiting the creative community. Shopping here means investing in a business that values quality, individuality, and cultural diversity over mass-market commercialization. This commitment extends to community outreach and advocacy efforts that protect Austin's distinctive character and lifestyle. Groups who gather at BookPeople become part of this larger mission, enjoying a meaningful activity that helps preserve the spirit of independent bookstores and local culture for future generations. This makes meetups here especially rewarding, blending social enjoyment with civic pride.