When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Powell's City of Books
Why Powell's City of Books is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Powell's City of Books is a unique and vibrant bookstore located in Portland, Oregon, renowned as the world's largest independent bookstore. Spanning an entire city block, it houses more than one million new and used books, creating a vast literary landscape that appeals to all kinds of readers. The store's eclectic mix combines new and used, hardcover and paperback volumes all shelved together, fostering an inviting atmosphere where book lovers can explore a diverse collection. Powell's is not only a bookstore but also a cultural landmark reflecting Portland’s spirit, featuring dedicated sections like an expansive anime and manga collection, as well as housewares, games, and greeting cards. Open every day of the year, it offers a reliable gathering spot for friends and family to meet, browse, and share their passion for books. The knowledgeable and friendly staff contribute to the warm, welcoming vibe, making it easy for visitors to find their next great read or gift. The store's history, rooted in family legacy and a commitment to connecting writers with readers, adds to its charm and significance as a community hub.
Here's what people think of Powell's City of Books
As of recent, Powell's City of Books holds a 4.9-star rating based on 36318 reviews.
Customer reviews of Powell's City of Books overwhelmingly highlight the store's impressive size, extensive selection of books across all genres, and the knowledgeable staff who provide excellent service. Many reviewers express awe at its scale, noting that the store occupies an entire city block and is so large that visitors should allocate several hours to fully explore its four floors. Positive reviews emphasize the store's warm atmosphere and diversity, with special mentions of the manga and anime sections, which are larger than many specialized shops. The family-friendly environment and the staff's friendliness are also praised consistently. On the downside, some users mention that prices tend to be higher compared to online competitors like Amazon, reflecting the challenges independent bookstores face in price competition. Additionally, a few visitors note the lack of seating as a minor inconvenience since customers are encouraged to browse but not sit and read. Despite these points, the consensus remains strongly positive, celebrating Powell's as a must-visit cultural destination with unparalleled book offerings and unmatched charm. This blend of history, scale, and customer service secures Powell's reputation as a beloved bookstore and community cornerstone in Portland and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Natasha Lunin
A Portland Treasure! Powell’s is hands down the best bookstore I’ve ever visited. You can easily spend hours getting lost in the color-coded rooms, browsing everything from rare first editions to the latest bestsellers. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to give recommendations. I also love the mix of new and used books shelved together—it feels like a true celebration of reading. Whether you’re a casual reader or a literary nerd, Powell’s is a must-visit. Bonus points for the in-store café and all the unique local gifts and journals. 10/10 experience every time.
Megan Bass
The staff is all extremely friendly and helpful. The Cafe is a great vibe and has some interesting pastries. Also, the layout of the various floors is so fun and makes it really easy to find what you are looking for. I will be back many times I'm sure.
Susan Ding
Contrary to online ebooks, this place provides old time bookstore atmosphere: Bookshelves, wooden floors, corner coffee seats and gift shops. As it became popular tourist attraction, expect crowds. The Rare Book Room carried books or maps with limited editions, historical features or special memories, worth taking time.
Andrea F
Well, I was here once before and didn't know there was a rare book room, so this time I prepared. This is the biggest and most amazing bookstore I've ever seen, and I think (like one other reviewer) this may be my annual pilgrimage. There are sections of everything you can fathom, and subsections of everything else known to man. If there is an art book or an obscure text or some hobby you've been dying to try, you'll find it. The staff are really nice, helpful, and welcoming. It is VAST inside. Impossible to explore, honestly. Very much my happy place. Also the rare book librarian (not sure what to call her, but it feels like a library)... She's a gem. Always nice to see people who respect and love their job. This place is a haven for knowledge.
Tasha Spaniel
I could have EASILY spent all day in here. It's like a city for books. Everything is well laid out! I recommend going early, I felt a little claustrophobic with the amount of people around me.
How to reach Powell's City of Books
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Why Powell's City of Books may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Powell's City of Books is not just a bookstore; it is an iconic cultural destination and an immersive literary experience that makes it an ideal place to gather with friends or family. Imagine stepping into the largest independent bookstore in the world, occupying an entire city block in downtown Portland’s Pearl District. With over a million new, used, and rare books spread across four expansive floors, Powell’s invites exploration, discovery, and shared enthusiasm for reading. Meeting here offers a rare chance to dive into endless shelves together, browse through thousands of genres, and exchange recommendations in real time. Beyond just browsing books, Powell’s is a vibrant community hub where visitors soak in the unique ambiance created by its architectural scale, color-coded rooms, and cozy reading nooks. The joy of losing yourselves in stories combined with the thrill of finding unexpected gems makes it a memorable outing. Whether you are book lovers or casual readers, Powell’s fosters connections not only between people but also between readers and the written word, creating meaningful moments worth sharing with friends and family.
What activities are available at Powell’s City of Books for a group meetup?
Powell’s City of Books offers a myriad of activities that make it a perfect venue for group meetups. First, groups can explore its massive inventory, including more than 3,500 subject sections arranged in ten color-coded rooms, ranging from fiction to rare out-of-print volumes. This layout makes it easy for friends to split up according to interests and then share discoveries. For those fascinated by collectible books, the Rare Book Room houses autographed first editions and other treasured volumes, a true eye-opener for bibliophiles. Groups can also attend live author readings and events held regularly in the Basil Hallward Gallery located in the Pearl Room, providing cultural and intellectual nourishment on top of literary finds. Powell’s also features the Guilder Café, a cozy coffee shop on site that serves as a social space where groups can discuss their finds over beverages and snacks, adding a social and relaxing dimension to the visit. Beyond shopping and events, Powell’s offers organized store tours tailored for groups, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the bookstore’s history, layout, and unique quirks, enriching the collective experience.
Why is Powell’s City of Books the perfect setting for both casual and planned meetups?
Powell’s City of Books strikes a rare balance between a spontaneous wander and a planned activity, making it perfect for meetups of all kinds. The store’s sheer size—covering an entire city block with 68,000 square feet of book-filled space—means that groups can move freely without feeling crowded, letting each person explore at their own pace or regroup periodically to share insights. Its color-coded rooms and clear layout help visitors navigate efficiently, reducing the chance of anyone feeling lost or overwhelmed. This spaciousness is coupled with welcoming amenities such as multiple entrances with convenient pickup options, daily opening hours from 10 am to 9 pm, and the on-site Guilder Café that invites groups to relax and prolong their visit. The bookstore also embraces an open-door policy, remaining open every day of the year, so finding a time that works for everyone is easier. Moreover, Powell’s rich history and reputation as a literary landmark instill a sense of occasion in meeting here, adding depth to what might otherwise be a typical gathering spot. Whether you want an afternoon of casual book browsing or a culturally rich outing planned around an author event or tour, Powell’s adapts seamlessly.
How can groups engage with the unique cultural and artistic features of Powell’s?
Powell’s City of Books is a vibrant cultural hub that extends well beyond traditional bookselling, making it an exciting destination for groups interested in arts and community. One of the highlights is the Basil Hallward Gallery, a dedicated space upstairs in the Pearl Room, which hosts dozens of author readings, artist talks, and intellectual discussions monthly. Attending one of these events can transform a meetup into an inspiring, shared intellectual experience that sparks discussion and connection. The store’s architecture itself tells stories; many visitors marvel at the transformation of the former car dealership building into this literary palace, with subtle traces of its automotive past visible for keen-eyed guests. Outside the flagship entrance, the iconic "Pillar of Books" sculpture stands as a monumental tribute to classic literature, offering a unique photo opportunity for groups to capture memories. Given Powell's third-generation family-owned roots that emphasize community and connection, groups often forge a special bond here, feeling part of an ongoing literary tradition and cultural dialogue. This makes Powell’s not just a place to buy books, but a meaningful place to gather and engage collectively with the arts and ideas.
What makes Powell’s welcoming and accessible for different group types and interests?
Powell’s City of Books excels in providing a welcoming, accessible environment for groups of varying sizes and diverse interests. Its inventory spans more than 1,000,000 books covering a vast array of genres, topics, and levels—from casual readers and children’s books to specialized academic and rare volumes—ensuring there is truly something for everyone in your party. The store’s multi-level layout is designed with many cozy nooks where smaller groups can pause, chat, or read quietly, creating personal spaces within the grand scale. Accessibility is also key: Powell’s has several entrances, clear signage, and staff known for their friendliness and deep knowledge, willing to assist with recommendations or locating hard-to-find titles. For groups planning ahead, store tours provide an organized way to engage with the space and history. The Guilder Café onsite offers an inviting spot to sit and socialize, meeting the needs of groups that want both activity and downtime. Powell’s quiet yet lively atmosphere frequently attracts diverse audiences—from students and tourists to local literary clubs—making it a truly inclusive gathering place.
How does the location and neighborhood enhance the meetup experience at Powell’s?
Situated in Portland’s trendy Pearl District, Powell’s City of Books benefits greatly from its vibrant, walkable neighborhood environment, which complements and expands the meetup experience. The Pearl District is known for its art galleries, eateries, boutiques, and stunning urban scenery, allowing groups to extend their outing before or after visiting Powell’s. After browsing books for hours, meetups can explore nearby cafés, restaurants, or public spaces, turning a single bookstore visit into a full-day social and cultural excursion. The urban setting offers excellent public transit, parking options, and easy pedestrian access, making it convenient for groups coming from different parts of the city or beyond. Additionally, the district’s blend of historic architecture and modern development mirrors Powell’s ethos of blending past and present, enhancing the sense of place. The area’s lively atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, contributing to a dynamic, enriching backdrop for your Meetup. The proximity to other attractions means groups have the flexibility to customize their outing with complementary activities, from dining to art walks, all within a compact, friendly neighborhood.
What special services does Powell’s offer to maximize group enjoyment and convenience?
Powell's City of Books provides several special services designed to maximize group enjoyment and convenience during meetups. One notable service is free store pickup available at multiple entrances, allowing groups to shop without carrying heavy books as they explore other parts of the neighborhood. The bookstore maintains extensive open hours, from 10 am to 9 pm daily (with exceptions for certain rooms like the Rare Book Room), providing flexibility to fit different schedules. For groups seeking a guided experience, Powell’s offers organized store tours that reveal the history, layout, and hidden gems of the store—ideal for first-time visitors or book clubs looking for deeper engagement. The Guilder Café offers a welcoming space to rest, refresh, and discuss favorite finds, while the knowledgeable staff provide personalized assistance to help groups quickly locate specific interests or discover new authors. Powell’s friendly, community-focused atmosphere encourages interaction, and their frequent events help groups anchor meetups around live experiences like author talks or book signings. Together, these services enrich the visit and make organizing a group outing stress-free and enjoyable.
How does Powell’s City of Books foster lasting memories and connections for meetups?
Powell’s City of Books creates lasting memories and meaningful connections for groups through its unparalleled combination of scale, community, and cultural vitality. Meeting with friends among endless shelves of stories offers a unique bonding experience rooted in shared discovery and mutual curiosity. The bookstore’s vibrant atmosphere, punctuated by literary events, thoughtful design, and cozy corners, invites conversations that deepen relationships beyond the usual social settings. The tangible joy of finding perfect books, rare editions, or unexpected treasures together becomes an enduring story in itself. Additionally, Powell’s long history as a family-owned Portland institution imbues visits with a sense of belonging and continuity, connecting visitors across generations. Many groups return year after year, cementing Powell’s as a favorite meet-up spot that combines intellectual stimulation with casual social fun. Whether gathering for a planned cultural outing or an impromptu adventure, Powell’s City of Books delivers an experience that lingers in memory and strengthens friendships.
At over 30000 glowing reviews and a near-perfect 4.9-star rating, Powell's City of Books stands as a testament to its beloved status and unmatched appeal as a gathering destination. Its enormous book collection, rich programming, inviting spaces, and unique cultural character make it the premier choice for hosting a memorable meetup with friends or family.