When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Golden Braid Books
Why Golden Braid Books is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Golden Braid Books, nestled in downtown Salt Lake City, is not just a bookstore but a vibrant sanctuary for those interested in conscious living and personal growth. Since its foundation in 1979, it has established itself as a welcoming hub where literature intersects with spirituality and wellness. The store offers a diverse collection of books including literature, poetry, children’s books, and sacred texts from various spiritual traditions, as well as a unique selection of adult coloring books and an extensive array of oracle and tarot decks. Beyond books, Golden Braid enriches the shopping experience by offering thematic nooks that combine relevant books with products such as wind chimes, meditation cushions, Buddha statues, candles, and mala beads. Notably, many products are identified as either crafted by local artists or sourced through Fair Trade, reflecting the store’s commitment to ethical and community-centered business practices. The store underwent a significant renovation investment of approximately $225,000 to update its ambiance including the installation of healthful mood lighting, enhancing the atmosphere to support well-being. Golden Braid also operates alongside the Oasis Café, providing a holistic environment for both social and spiritual gatherings, making it an ideal place to meet friends, explore meaningful books and products, and engage in a shared journey of self-discovery and conscious living.
Here's what people think of Golden Braid Books
As of recent, Golden Braid Books holds a 4.6-star rating based on 322 reviews.
Customer reviews of Golden Braid Books are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the store’s curated selection of spiritual, metaphysical, and wellness-oriented books that are difficult to find elsewhere. Many highlight the peaceful, inviting atmosphere accentuated by mood lighting, which creates a relaxing environment perfect for browsing or spending quiet time with friends. Shoppers also appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide insightful recommendations tailored to customers’ personal journeys. Positive feedback often mentions the fair trade and locally made products, along with the inclusivity and community spirit within the store, which make it more than just a retail space but a true sanctuary for conscious living. On the downside, some customers have pointed out that certain popular books can be out of stock due to the niche and specialized inventory, and a few mentioned the store’s somewhat higher price points compared to mainstream retailers, likely reflecting the quality and sourcing standards. However, these criticisms tend to be minor and do not detract much from overall satisfaction. In summary, Golden Braid Books is highly regarded as a unique, community-driven bookstore that offers both an exceptional selection and a nurturing environment, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lindsay Diamond
Our night out at Golden Braid Books was truly special - the most fun and beneficial experience I could have imagined. My mother and I attended their Psychic Fair, and we each had readings with two different professionals. Holy smokes, the words spoken to me that night were profoundly impactful! They guided me effortlessly, confidently, and joyously through the many weeks that followed. Change was revealed in my cards, but because I was ready, it made all the difference. I was incredibly grateful for that entire experience. The Golden Braid Books store itself was filled with wonderful items, many sourced from local craftspeople. It was fun to browse their unique greeting cards and I already plan to return to pick some up for specific loved ones. Their selection included handmade soap, various incense, chimes, statues, jewelry, beautiful stone specimens, and a big collection of great books, along with charms, oils, and tarot card sets. A nice restaurant was attached, offering both indoor and outdoor dining. The outdoor space was a courtyard, complete with a large fireplace, greenery, and shade. The entire establishment was very clean, and I left thoroughly impressed with Golden Braid Books.
Car Life
This is my second time here and it’s so darn cute and fun. If you’re into the woo woo or love pretty little things and books, Golden Braid Books is the perfect place! The staff is friendly and the store smells great. There’s a coffee shop that is fantastic and the bathroom is exceptionally clean. Don’t forget to pick up some handmade local incense sticks too!
nya :3
I’m so grateful for Courtney and her amazing energy. She’s incredibly supportive, and even though I’ve only been to this cafe a few times, after my first aura reading with her, I just had to come back. I even brought my friends and family! it genuinely feels like a second home. I’m beyond thankful for the deep dives they offer and support they have provided!
Rachel R
This place is beautiful and wonderful! Has a calm feeling and such lovely, helpful people working there. We have always been pleased when visiting this book store. I highly recomend
Kara West
Super cute store! Very unique items from the books, gifts, little trinkets, incense, etc… I love the vibe this place gives off! The only reason I gave three stars is the staff is not attentive at all. I browsed the store for a good 15 - 20 minutes and not one staff member acknowledged I was even there, so with out buying the things I had picked out to purchase I put them back and walked out. Personal opinion but metaphysical stores should be more personable considering the things you sell in your store… it’s a craft of vibes and energies, so when you don’t give that off to your customers then it’s not the place for me! But really is a very unique store!
How to reach Golden Braid Books
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Why Golden Braid Books may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Golden Braid Books with your friends?
Golden Braid Books is much more than just a bookstore—it’s a vibrant community hub that invites you and your friends to gather, explore, and connect in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Since its founding in 1979, Golden Braid Books has built a reputation as a cherished local treasure in Salt Lake City, known for its focus on conscious living, alternative thought, and diverse literary offerings. The space is perfect for rallying with friends because it fosters meaningful interactions over shared interests in spirituality, wellness, and personal growth. It’s not just about buying books; it’s about immersing yourselves in a cultural and intellectual experience that encourages thoughtful conversations and discovery. What makes this bookstore particularly inviting is its commitment to creating an inclusive environment through fair trade products, responsibly sourced items, and sustainable practices—values that many people hold dear today. Whether you’re all avid readers, curious explorers of metaphysical ideas, or simply looking for a cozy spot to spend quality time together, Golden Braid Books uniquely blends the experience of browsing with a thoughtful, ethical ethos that resonates deeply with today’s mindful communities.
What activities can you enjoy at Golden Braid Books that make it ideal for group meetups?
Golden Braid Books offers a wide range of activities that are perfect for groups looking to connect beyond just shopping for books. First and foremost, the store’s extensive collection focuses on metaphysical, New Age, and conscious living genres, providing endless conversation starters for groups interested in spirituality, wellness, or alternative philosophies. You can spend hours exploring their curated shelves filled with insightful books and unique products that encourage thoughtful discussions among friends. Beyond the bookstore shelves, Golden Braid often hosts workshops, author readings, and community events that can turn any meetup into an engaging group activity. These events provide spaces for collective learning and shared experiences, making the venue a dynamic place to bond over new ideas and personal growth practices. Furthermore, Golden Braid’s location includes a sister restaurant, Oasis Café, where brunch and dinner offerings complement your visit perfectly. This means your gathering can transition seamlessly from intellectual exploration inside the bookstore to a relaxed meal—complete with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—to accommodate everyone’s tastes. With its variety of activities and amenities, Golden Braid creates an immersive experience that feeds both body and mind, making it an exceptional destination for group meetups.
Why is Golden Braid Books a great place for thoughtful shopping with friends?
Shopping at Golden Braid Books is an experience steeped in intentionality and care, which makes it especially enjoyable with friends who share an appreciation for meaningful, ethically made products. The bookstore doesn’t just offer typical bestsellers; it specializes in books and goods focused on conscious living, personal transformation, and alternative spirituality, appealing to diverse interests within a group. This specialization encourages exploration and dialogue, as friends can introduce each other to new authors, ideas, or wellness practices. The product selection extends beyond books into fair trade and responsibly sourced items, reflecting a commitment to ethical consumption that many social groups find inspiring to discuss and support together. Because the store prioritizes environmentally sustainable practices, visiting here becomes a shared act of mindful consumerism, which can deepen connections around common values. Friends can take time to peruse unique gifts, spiritual tools, and artisan products, turning shopping into an enriching activity rather than a routine errand. The shop’s cozy layout, knowledgeable staff, and inviting ambiance further enhance the experience, making it a prime spot for groups to shop thoughtfully and feel good about their choices.
What makes Golden Braid Books’ atmosphere and setting perfect for social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Golden Braid Books is carefully cultivated to be inviting, peaceful, and inspiring—qualities that make it a superb venue for social gatherings. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, the store balances the energy of an independent bookstore with the warmth of a community center. The interior is designed to encourage leisurely browsing and meaningful conversations, with comfortable seating areas and well-organized shelves that foster a relaxed mood. Soft lighting, natural decor, and a sense of quiet mindfulness set the tone so that groups of friends feel at ease spending hours there. The adjoining Oasis Café extends the ambiance with its welcoming dining space, where groups can enjoy meals that cater to varied dietary preferences, turning a meetup into a full-day event. This blend of book discovery and shared meals promotes engagement on multiple levels—intellectual, emotional, and social. The store also embodies values like diversity and ethical sourcing, which resonate with many community members and create a purposeful atmosphere, encouraging guests to connect not only with each other but with a broader positive movement. In essence, Golden Braid Books offers a setting where socializing is enriched by a shared sense of purpose and well-being.
How does Golden Braid Books support community and ethical values that enhance group experiences?
Golden Braid Books stands out as a community-oriented business deeply committed to supporting social and environmental responsibility, which greatly enhances the experience of meeting there with friends and family. Since its inception, the store has prioritized diversity in its book selections and product offerings, ensuring there is something for everyone regardless of background or belief. Its ethical stance includes a pledge to fair trade and responsibly sourced merchandise, reflecting an awareness of global impacts that many modern groups appreciate. Choosing to gather here is an affirmation of these values, creating a shared context of respect and conscientious living among your group. Additionally, the bookstore regularly hosts community events—such as author talks, workshops, and wellness classes—that nurture collective learning and dialogue within the local population. These events create opportunities for groups to engage directly with inspiring ideas and creators, fostering bonds that go beyond casual meetups. By supporting Golden Braid Books, groups align themselves with a business that not only sells products but also actively champions sustainability, inclusivity, and positive community impact, making every gathering there meaningful beyond the immediate social interaction.