When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Up Up Books
Why Up Up Books is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Up Up Books is a charming independent bookstore located just a short drive from Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Since its soft opening in March 2023, the store has quickly established itself as a welcoming community space where book lovers can gather, discover meaningful books, and participate in workshops. Owner Michelle Gutman combines her passion for literature and community support by offering a workshop space in the back of the store that is free for the community to use for various educational and support events. The bookstore features a unique selection of books that act like an "apothecary," targeting themes and issues important to visitors, especially those seeking personal growth and healing. Beyond its curated book offerings, Up Up Books is known for hosting events such as book clubs and socially conscious workshops, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. This combination of thoughtful book curation and community engagement makes Up Up Books an ideal meeting spot for friends, book enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning and connection.
Here's what people think of Up Up Books
As of recent, Up Up Books holds a 4.8-star rating based on 19 reviews.
According to community feedback and reviews, Up Up Books has earned a strong 4.8 rating from 19 reviewers, reflecting a highly positive reception. Reviewers frequently highlight the store's welcoming vibe and the owner Michelle Gutman's genuine enthusiasm for books and community work. Many patrons appreciate the free workshop space, which is seen as a valuable resource for local educational and support activities. The selection of books, described as carefully curated with meaningful themes, has also been praised for addressing important social and personal topics. Furthermore, events such as book clubs and activism-related workshops contribute to the bookstore's positive reputation as a community hub. On the critical side, some reviews note that as a relatively small and young establishment, the inventory can be limited compared to larger bookstores, and parking may sometimes be a challenge given the urban location. A few customers have suggested expanding hours or event variety to reach a broader audience. Overall, reviews conclude that Up Up Books offers a distinctive and heartfelt experience that goes beyond just selling books, fostering community connection and learning in Portland's literary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anna von See
Super cute bookstore! Very well stocked on unique items and literature, also the biggest poetry section I‘ve ever seen and the children’s books section is to die for! So cute!
Pizzeria La Sorrentina
Love this indie & all around cool bookstore that provides many opportunities for writers, readers & community members to come together & express themselves freely. Plus, I bought a candle here once & it was the best smelling & longest lasting candle ever! I was shocked!
mei
I love this bookstore! Great and very thoughtfully curated selection on the shelves, and the owner is super sweet and willing to order books for you that might not currently be on the shelves. I love picking out books to gift others here, and also browse the used books to pick up for myself. The owner is always happy to offer recommendations and insights when I'm in need of them. Highly recommend!
Unsolicited Press
As a small press, we having nothing but adoration for Up Up Books. The store is in the perfect location and hosts the best events. We recommend this shop to every reader we know.
Alex
One of the most marvelous little businesses in Portland! Such living potency practically vibrating off the densely stocked shelves. Conscious, colorful, creative. Chock full of local writers. Woman run with love. And the books are damn beautiful, even just to look at, let alone crack open. Treat yourself, and your friends.
How to reach Up Up Books
None
Website: None
Why Up Up Books may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Up Up Books offers more than just a simple meetup; it promises an enriching experience woven around community, culture, and shared passions. Located in Portland’s vibrant Buckman neighborhood, this bookstore is not just a retail space but a community hub that celebrates diverse stories and voices often overlooked by mainstream outlets. Whether you’re book lovers, social activists, or simply people looking for a cozy and meaningful space to spend time together, Up Up Books creates an inviting atmosphere that feels like a second home. The store’s commitment to social concerns and small press publishers ensures that conversations sparked here are both inspiring and soulful. Meeting here means immersing yourselves in a place where the environment nurtures thoughtful dialogue and collective learning. This combination of accessibility, a unique collection, and a community-oriented mission makes Up Up Books an ideal rally point for meaningful social gatherings with your friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy together at Up Up Books?
Up Up Books is designed to offer much more than just books on shelves; it functions as a dynamic community workshop space where activities and gatherings thrive. Visitors can join various scheduled events like book clubs, author readings, discussion panels, and workshops that focus on social issues and literary diversity. This makes the bookstore a perfect setting for group meetups where participants can learn together, debate ideas, and connect over shared interests. For those who appreciate quieter moments, the shop is an inviting place to browse an eclectic selection of titles focusing on small presses and less commonly heard narratives, providing a fresh perspective on contemporary and historical human experiences. The presence of community-led initiatives and workshops means that your group can participate in meaningful projects or conversations, fostering a deeper bond. Holding your event here also supports the store’s mission to be a “free space for community,” encouraging inclusivity and dialogue within a welcoming and relaxed setting.
How does Up Up Books accommodate group dynamics?
Up Up Books understands the needs of groups looking for a comfortable and engaging environment to connect. The physical layout of the bookstore and workshop area is arranged to encourage interaction without sacrificing intimacy or focus. Groups can easily organize book clubs or discussion circles where everyone can share their thoughts in an inclusive environment. The store’s proximity to Portland’s historic Revolution Hall adds another cultural dimension, making it easy to combine your visit with other local experiences if you wish to extend your gathering. The staff is known to be friendly and supportive, often helping to tailor events or suggest titles that suit the interests of your group, ensuring a personalized and memorable visit. Plus, being embedded in a diverse community means your meetup feels part of a larger meaningful social fabric; this vibrancy enriches any gathering, making it both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Why is Up Up Books the perfect spot for a socially conscious crowd?
At its core, Up Up Books is a space dedicated to elevating underrepresented voices and tackling social concerns through literature and events. This foundation makes it particularly appealing to groups motivated by social awareness and activism. The bookstore’s curated collection highlights stories that challenge dominant narratives and invite reflection on societal issues, fostering empathy and critical thinking among visitors. Groups passionate about social justice, history, or cultural diversity will find plenty of material to explore together and plenty of like-minded individuals to engage with during events. Moreover, the store actively supports community events and workshops, amplifying grassroots initiatives and providing a platform for dialogue and education. Meeting here is not simply about enjoying books—it’s about participating in an ongoing conversation around equity and representation, making your gathering purpose-driven and impactful.
How can hosting your event at Up Up Books strengthen community ties?
Being a local gem in Portland’s Buckman neighborhood, Up Up Books functions as a cornerstone for community engagement. Choosing this place to host a meetup means embedding your gathering within an ecosystem that values local support and cultural enrichment. The store frequently holds public events and encourages donations to support its mission, making it a beacon of sustainability for small businesses and community efforts. By hosting your event here, your group contributes to the vitality of independent bookstores, which serve as important cultural and social hubs in urban neighborhoods. This act of support resonates beyond your immediate circle, helping to keep alive spaces that nurture intellectual growth and social connection. Thus, your meetup transcends personal enjoyment and becomes an act of community solidarity, which in turn enriches your experience by connecting you to a network of engaged and passionate individuals.
What is the ambiance like for social gatherings?
Up Up Books offers a warm and inviting ambiance that is well-suited for spending extended periods with friends or family. The store's design reflects thoughtful curation, with cozy corners and accessible shelving that welcomes exploration and conversation alike. The blend of natural light from the large windows and the vibrant energy of a community-focused space creates a relaxed yet stimulating atmosphere. Whether your group prefers animated discussions or peaceful reading sessions, the environment supports both with equal grace. This nurturing vibe encourages open expression and collaboration, making it easy for visitors to feel at home and connected. The atmosphere also fosters discovery; casual browsers can stumble upon fascinating new books that spark spontaneous conversations, turning simple meetups into memorable cultural experiences.
How accessible and convenient is Up Up Books for group meetups?
Situated just a block away from the historic Revolution Hall, Up Up Books benefits from a central and accessible location in Portland’s East Side. This convenience makes it easy for groups coming from different parts of the city to converge without hassle. The neighborhood itself is full of amenities such as cafés and restaurants, providing ample options for extending meetups into meals or coffee breaks nearby. Public transportation and parking availability contribute further to the ease of planning a group visit. The store also maintains an active online presence with a calendar of events and announcements, which helps groups coordinate their visits around special workshops, book club meetings, or launches. This accessibility ensures that organizing a meetup here is straightforward, with the real focus left on enjoying the experience and connecting with others.
How does the staff enhance the meetup experience at Up Up Books?
The knowledgeable and passionate staff at Up Up Books play an essential role in making group meetups enjoyable and enriching. Their deep understanding of the store’s selection and mission means they can offer tailored recommendations that fit the interests of your group, whether that be social issues, local publishers, or literary fiction. Staff members often facilitate or support community events and workshops, bringing a professional yet welcoming energy that encourages participation and engagement. Their friendliness fosters a sense of belonging and ease, allowing groups to relax and fully immerse themselves in the experience. By connecting visitors with authors, resources, and other community members, the staff help transform a simple bookstore visit into a collaborative cultural exchange, strengthening the bonds among friends or family gathered here.
Why is the bookstore’s commitment to social concerns important for your gathering?
Up Up Books’ dedication to social concerns does more than define its retail identity; it shapes every aspect of the visitor experience. This commitment means that when you host a meetup here, you’re in a place that prioritizes meaningful dialogue over passive consumption. The curated books, events, and workshops encourage critical exploration of societal issues such as equity, representation, and justice, adding depth to your social interaction. This focus can galvanize group discussions, inspire collective learning, and even motivate civic engagement. It sets a tone for thoughtful reflection and respect for diverse voices, making your gathering not only enjoyable but also intellectually and ethically engaging. This dimension enriches your connection as a group and ensures that time spent together here resonates far beyond the walls of the store.
How can Up Up Books support group events or workshops?
The versatility of Up Up Books as both a bookstore and a workshop space makes it an excellent venue for more structured group activities. Whether you want to hold a book club, a writing workshop, or a community discussion, the store is equipped to accommodate varied formats. Their event calendar is regularly updated, and they welcome organizers who share their mission of community advocacy. Groups can collaborate with the store to tailor events that fit their interests and sizes, with support from staff for logistics and promotion. This cooperation enhances the quality and impact of your meetup, providing professional resources and an audience that values engagement. Holding your event here also benefits from the store’s established reputation as a vibrant local hub, attracting participants who are eager to connect and contribute.
Why do people love Up Up Books based on its reviews?
Up Up Books enjoys a stellar rating of 4.8 from 19 reviews, reflecting high customer satisfaction and loyalty. Patrons consistently praise the store’s welcoming atmosphere, diverse and carefully curated book selection, and the staff’s commitment to community values. Reviewers highlight the store as a place where meaningful connections are made, and where people feel genuinely supported in their literary and social interests. The positive reviews often mention the unique local flavor of the store, appreciating how it champions lesser-heard voices and small press publishers. This enthusiastic feedback underscores why the bookstore is not just a retail space but a beloved community landmark, making it a trusted and cherished spot for group meetups that combine pleasure with purpose.