When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Broadway Books
Why Broadway Books is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Broadway Books is a cherished independent bookstore located at 1714 NE Broadway in the vibrant Irvington neighborhood of Portland, Oregon. Established in 1992, this bookstore has become a beloved local institution known for its diverse and thoughtfully curated selection of books across genres including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children’s literature. Owned and operated by Sally McPherson and Kim Bissell, Broadway Books provides a warm and welcoming space where book lovers can discover new reads and engage with a passionate staff eager to offer knowledgeable recommendations. The store’s location amid a lively neighborhood filled with excellent restaurants, bakeries, boutiques, and pubs makes it a perfect destination to meet up with friends and enjoy a day of browsing and socializing. With free parking available nearby and accessible Tri-Met bus routes, it is easy to reach. Broadway Books also hosts events such as weekend readings and book signings, often featuring local authors, which enrich the community experience and foster connections among readers and writers alike. This combination of a curated literary selection, welcoming atmosphere, and community engagement makes Broadway Books a standout place to gather, explore, and enjoy the written word.
Here's what people think of Broadway Books
As of recent, Broadway Books holds a 4.8-star rating based on 229 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Broadway Books for its friendly, knowledgeable staff who treat customers like friends, making each visit a personalized and enjoyable experience. Visitors appreciate the store’s well-chosen book collection that strikes a pleasing balance between popular titles and more esoteric works, encouraging exploration beyond mainstream offerings. Positive reviews highlight the store’s intimate and inviting environment and its regular events, such as author readings and signings, which enhance its role as a cultural hub. The bookstore’s owners are noted for their hands-on involvement and dedication, contributing to the welcoming community feel. On the other hand, some reviewers mention the store’s small size compared to larger competitors like Powell’s, which may limit the quantity of inventory, though not the quality or range of selections. Additionally, a few customers point out that because it is a small independent bookstore, new releases or very popular titles may occasionally be out of stock. Nevertheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many customers describing Broadway Books as their favorite bookstore in Portland due to its charm, community focus, and excellent customer service. The bookshop successfully balances being a neighborhood gem with offering a thoughtfully curated literary experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Glen Morris
Cute bookstore with lots of options!
Shane Stricker
A cozy little bookstore going for quality over quantity. A lovely place to spend a rainy afternoon. The employees are helpful and very knowledgeable.
hayashi wilder
One of my favorite indie bookstores! The atmosphere is very light and refreshing and their literary fiction collection is diverse and contemporary.
Gibson Washout
Omg I love this place . They made my day . Nice staff and great selection. Feels good
Arti Asbury
Beautiful store with all-new books! They have an awesome cookbook selection, lots of vegan cookbooks.
How to reach Broadway Books
None
Website: None
Why Broadway Books may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Broadway Books with your friends? If you are looking for a unique and enriching venue to gather with friends or family, Broadway Books offers an inviting and inspiring atmosphere that goes beyond the usual meetup spot. With a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 200 reviews, it is clear that visitors value the experience here highly. This bookstore is not just a place to buy books; it is a vibrant community hub where people share a love of literature, culture, and engaging activities. Friends can bond over discovering new books, diving into genres, and sharing recommendations in a warm and cozy environment. The ambiance encourages thoughtful conversations and relaxed browsing, making it an ideal place to connect intellectually and socially. Whether you want to spend hours exploring shelves of diverse titles or attend one of their lively events, Broadway Books facilitates meaningful interactions that deepen friendships and spark new ideas. In short, it is an ideal rallying point for anyone who values connection, culture, and a shared literary passion.
What types of activities can you enjoy at Broadway Books that make it great for group meetups? Beyond its extensive and carefully curated collection of books, Broadway Books provides a range of activities that make it perfect for groups. For starters, the bookstore frequently hosts author readings and book signings where you and your friends can meet writers, listen to stories, and engage in Q&A sessions. These events create memorable shared experiences and provide great conversation starters. Additionally, Broadway Books often organizes themed book clubs and discussion groups which offer a structured yet informal setting to explore literature collectively. These group activities encourage participation and are perfect for friends who want to deepen their understanding of certain genres or topics. The store’s welcoming layout and cozy seating areas also make it easy for groups to gather and share their own book recommendations or simply enjoy each other’s company surrounded by shelves of inspiring reads.
Why is Broadway Books the perfect spot for hosting diverse types of group meetups? Part of what makes Broadway Books stand out is its welcoming atmosphere and the flexibility it offers for a variety of gatherings. Whether your group is made up of avid readers, casual browsers, or family members of different ages, the bookstore caters to all. It is spacious enough to accommodate groups without feeling cramped, yet intimate enough to encourage meaningful interaction. The staff is known to be friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to help visitors find exactly what they’re looking for or provide recommendations tailored to the group's interests. This personal touch enhances the experience and makes group members feel valued. Moreover, Broadway Books often features unique merchandise beyond books, such as literary-themed gifts, stationery, and puzzles, which add an element of discovery and fun for everyone attending. Having a place where everyone can explore their interests side by side is a key reason this bookstore is a treasured meetup location.
How does the environment at Broadway Books enhance social interaction and group bonding? The physical setting and vibe at Broadway Books provide a welcoming and stimulating environment for groups to interact and bond. The shelves are arranged to encourage browsing with friends side-by-side, sparking spontaneous discussions about new finds or shared favorites. Soft lighting, comfortable seating nooks, and quiet corners allow people to read and relax together without distractions. When groups attend special events such as readings or workshops, the shared experience of listening and participating generates a strong sense of camaraderie. The bookstore also attracts a diverse crowd, bringing together people from different backgrounds who share a love of books and ideas. This diversity enriches conversations and broadens perspectives, making meetups here intellectually and socially rewarding. Being surrounded by books and literary culture naturally encourages dialogue and connection that lasts well beyond the visit.
What are additional reasons that make Broadway Books a top-rated venue for meetups? The consistently high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 200 reviews reflects not only the great selection of books but also the exceptional customer service and community focus. Visitors often praise the staff’s helpfulness and the store’s clean, well-organized layout, which makes it easy to browse with friends. Its central location on Broadway adds convenience and appeal, making it an accessible destination for locals and tourists alike. The bookstore also embraces inclusivity with materials that span genres, languages, and themes, ensuring every group member finds something of interest. Finally, the warmth and charm of Broadway Books provide an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Whether it is the perfect backdrop for a casual catch-up or a lively cultural event, this venue flawlessly balances commerce with community, making it the ideal choice for your next group outing.