When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Half Price Books
Why Half Price Books is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Half Price Books is a well-established and cherished bookstore chain that has been fostering communities of readers and learners since its founding in 1972. With 121 stores across 19 states, primarily strong in Texas, this family-owned business has grown from a simple laundromat bookstore into the nation's third-largest bookstore chain. The stores offer a wide selection of new and used books for adults and children, including a unique inventory of remaindered new books that publishers cannot sell through traditional channels. The atmosphere at Half Price Books encourages a sense of discovery and shared passion for literature, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends who appreciate books and culture. Beyond books, many locations feature records and a variety of media, creating a welcoming environment for diverse tastes and interests. Staff members are known to be knowledgeable and passionate, enhancing the social experience of browsing and uncovering treasures together. Half Price Books also has a strong commitment to community, philanthropy, and environmental causes, regularly donating millions of books to schools and nonprofits. The combination of abundant, affordable reading materials, warm store environments, and a loyal staff make it a great meeting spot for friends who want to connect over shared literary interests and support a company with deep roots in literacy and community engagement.
Here's what people think of Half Price Books
As of recent, Half Price Books holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2205 reviews.
Customer reviews of Half Price Books reflect an overwhelmingly positive experience, with the business holding a strong 4.7-star rating based on over 2200 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the wide and varied selection of books at affordable prices, highlighting the store as a treasure trove for both casual readers and serious collectors. Positive reviews often mention the helpful and friendly staff who create a welcoming atmosphere and assist customers in finding hidden gems. The store layout and ambiance are also appreciated for being conducive to leisurely browsing and social interaction. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in inventory across different store locations and limited availability of certain sought-after titles. A few customers mention that some stores could benefit from improved organization or tidiness. Despite these minor criticisms, the general consensus remains highly favorable, reflecting Half Price Books' success in balancing affordability, variety, and customer service. Overall, the reviews underscore the store's reputation as a beloved community hub where book lovers gather, shop, and engage, reinforcing its status as a trustworthy and enjoyable place to meet up with friends and indulge in a shared passion for reading.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cassie Cook
Greatest bookstore ever. All staff are wonderful and willing to help in any way. Sappho and I had a wonderful time browsing while my books were being priced.
Steve Takata
I love half price books and come here regularly. This one and the one on Lamar and 2222 are my favorites. The staff are helpful, well first, and nice. There’s so few bookstores around anymore and the ones that stock new books carry such a small selection that it is way more interesting to go to used bookstores. Their books are reasonable to be priced and if you have books to get rid of, they will go through them while you wait. They don’t pay a ton for their books, but it’s an easy way to offload access books that you don’t need anymore. They also carry DVDs, CDs, vinyl, and audiobooks. They used to be open till 10, since the pandemic they’ve only been open till eight. I wish they would lengthen their hours again
Hon Lam
Super friendly staff, always active and willing to help you find your next read. Very organized shelves with lots of selections from New York Times best sellers to your favorite young adult fiction. I went there during the day and the store was well organized with a steady trickle of people going in and out. I think the best time to drop off books for sale will be in the mornings. Lots of parking spots available and I hope people will go and show support on weekends. They even use reusable bags at the store, all about the environmentally friendly things.
Samwise Gamgee
A lovely location with a great selection, so there's a little bit of something for everyone! They also have a few tables and some chairs around the store so people can sit, and there is a little water dispenser to keep you cool in the summer heat. The staff members are also friendly and can give great recommendations. I love HPB and can never seem to leave the store empty handed!
K. L.
We frequently come here. The kids section is great and our son can sit at the little tables and read his selections while we explore the shop. The vinyl section ain’t bad either.
How to reach Half Price Books
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Why Half Price Books may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Half Price Books with your friends?
Half Price Books is not just a bookstore; it’s a vibrant community hub where friends and family can gather, explore, and connect over a shared love of reading, culture, and discovery. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 2,200 reviews, this business has earned its reputation as a welcoming and engaging spot, ideal for group meetups. Whether you and your friends are avid bookworms, curious collectors, or simply looking for a cozy place to hang out, Half Price Books offers a unique atmosphere that fosters conversation and exploration. Imagine wandering through aisles of gently used books, vinyl records, and quirky collectibles, sharing recommendations and stories along the way. The store encourages a relaxed pace and serendipitous finds, making it a perfect place for friends to reconnect away from the bustle of everyday life. Beyond shopping, the inviting ambiance invites groups to linger, browse at leisure, and discover treasures that ignite joy and intellectual curiosity. Rallying here means immersing yourselves in an environment that celebrates imagination, learning, and community — an ideal backdrop for strengthening bonds.
What activities make Half Price Books perfect for a group meetup?
At Half Price Books, the primary activity is exploring an extensive and diverse collection of books, from bestsellers and classics to rare finds and local authors. This diversity caters to every taste, ensuring that everyone in your group can find something that captures their interest. Browsing together sparks lively discussions and debates, giving friends a chance to share favorite authors, genres, or new discoveries. Additionally, many locations feature sections beyond books, including vinyl records, DVDs, board games, and unique collectibles, providing varied points of engagement that can entertain different age groups and interests. Some stores host reading groups, author signings, and community events, offering dynamic ways for groups to enrich their experience with cultural and literary programming. The relaxed, unhurried environment, combined with knowledgeable and friendly staff, makes it easy to spend quality time together, whether diving into specific topics or just enjoying the ambiance. With space to sit and chat, and often a nearby café or public seating, Half Price Books supports gatherings that blend browsing, socializing, and relaxing into a fulfilling group outing.
How does Half Price Books cater to different interests in a group?
One of the strongest appeals of Half Price Books is its wide-ranging inventory that appeals to diverse interests, making it a natural spot for mixed groups of friends or family. Literature lovers can get lost in extensive fiction and non-fiction collections, while pop culture fans might gravitate toward graphic novels, comics, or film-related books. Music aficionados will enjoy exploring the vinyl record collections, which often include rare and vintage albums. For gamers or puzzle enthusiasts, many stores stock puzzles, board games, and card games that provide interactive fun during or after the shopping experience. Beyond tangible goods, Half Price Books frequently supports environmental and literacy initiatives, cultivating a sense of purpose that resonates with socially conscious groups. Whether your group shares a single passion or boasts a variety of hobbies, the store’s thoughtfully curated selection ensures that everyone finds something meaningful and enjoyable. This inclusivity encourages exploration and conversation, making your meetup both educational and entertaining.
Why is the atmosphere at Half Price Books ideal for social interactions?
The ambiance at Half Price Books is carefully cultivated to be warm, inviting, and conducive to lingering conversations. The layout typically features cozy nooks and open spaces where groups can congregate without distraction or pressure to rush. Warm lighting, comfortable shelves, and a tactile environment full of colorful covers and intriguing titles create a sensory experience that encourages staying longer and engaging with one another. Many customers appreciate the quiet murmur of fellow book lovers, punctuated by the occasional enthusiastic recommendation or laughter, which fosters a friendly, low-key social scene. Unlike many busy commercial venues, Half Price Books feels like a community living room—a place where conversations flow naturally and curiosity is shared in a spirit of camaraderie. This atmosphere is perfect for friends who want to catch up, share insights, or simply enjoy each other’s company surrounded by books and culture.
What additional benefits make Half Price Books a standout meetup location?
Beyond its rich collection and welcoming vibe, Half Price Books offers tangible benefits that make group outings rewarding. It offers exceptional value with its deeply discounted prices on used books and media, appealing for budget-conscious groups looking to expand personal libraries without overspending. The stores are family-friendly, often providing materials for all ages, from children’s books to young adult and adult genres, making it easier to plan inclusive gatherings. Its commitment to sustainability, through recycling and reselling books and media, aligns with eco-friendly values, which can be a meaningful factor for groups prioritizing green choices. Additionally, many locations participate in community events and support literacy initiatives, presenting opportunities for your group to engage beyond shopping by attending readings, signings, or volunteer activities. The combination of affordability, inclusiveness, social responsibility, and a culturally rich environment sets Half Price Books apart as a meetup spot that nourishes minds and relationships alike.
How can groups maximize their meetup experience at Half Price Books?
To fully enjoy a meetup at Half Price Books, it helps to plan activities that highlight the store’s strengths as a cultural and social hub. Start by setting a casual challenge, such as each person finding a favorite book or item to share and discuss, which encourages interaction and discovery. Consider coordinating your visit with scheduled in-store events like book clubs or author talks, which add a dynamic and educational element to the outing. Allocate time to explore specialized sections relevant to your group’s interests—music, film, or games—to diversify the experience and keep enthusiasm high. Bringing along a notebook or device to jot down interesting titles or recommendations can extend the value well beyond the day by sparking further reading or discussions afterwards. Lastly, complement your visit with a meal or coffee nearby to extend the social time and reflect on the day’s finds and conversations. Approaching the Half Price Books meetup with these strategies ensures an engaging, memorable, and rewarding group experience.