15 Best Bookstores in Denver
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Denver is a haven for bibliophiles, with a great selection of bookstores that cater to every literary taste. Whether you’re a fan of cozy independent shops or prefer the bustling atmosphere of larger bookstores, Denver’s book scene has something for everyone.
From historic neighborhood shops to small family-run collections, Denver’s bookstores are scattered throughout the city, each offering its own unique charm and selection of books. We’ve checked all the small spots tucked away in quaint corners and found the best bookshops in Denver.
Whether you’re seeking a rare first edition, the latest bestseller, or simply looking to browse and discover something new, Denver’s bookstores have you covered. So grab your reading list and prepare for a trip through the best bookstores in Denver.
Tattered Cover Book Store
Tattered Cover is a Denver favorite for used and new books. Starting as a small location in 1971, its popularity as an independent bookstore has led to 7 locations around Denver. Our personal favorite one to go to is the one in McGregor Square!
They now host hundreds of authors, illustrators, events, and book fairs every year. Their great selection and knowledgeable staff will supply you with everything you need for your next reading adventure.
West Side Books
Located in the Highlands neighborhood, West Side is a historic bookstore offering a diverse selection of new, used, rare, and collectible books.
For those unable to visit in person, they also have an online store and a great recommendation list along with curated staff picks, so book lovers can still explore their collection from afar.
Fahrenheit’s Books
Nestled in South Broadway, Fahrenheit’s used bookstore offers a vast selection ranging from sci-fi to philosophy to vintage paperbacks.
Their shelves are overflowing with interesting finds, each visit is an adventure as you’ll never know what you might uncover while browsing!
Capitol Hill Books
For four decades, this beloved second-hand bookstore has been part of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, serving as a community-focused space. Offering both sales and trades, Capitol Hill Books has an extensive collection of thousands of titles, including rare and limited editions.
In addition, they extend a special 10% discount to teachers purchasing books for classroom use, standing behind their commitment to education and community support.
Kilgore Books & Comics
Kilgore is a place for comic enthusiasts and book readers alike, with an awesome collection of comics and used books for every taste. Specializing in indie titles, sci-fi, and fantasy, their shelves are a treasure trove of unique finds.
They also host a variety of events for comic book nerds to come together. Kilgore’s also has an online and a selection of digital comics.
Black & Read
For more than three decades, Black & Read’s quirky bookstore has been helping people find the perfect book, record, or board game. This massive indie store also buys and trades whatever it sells.
Their huge selection ranged from sci-fi to non-fiction, and with prices as low as $0.25 for a book, nothing is stopping you from filling your to-read list.
The Hermitage Antiquarian Bookshop
From new releases to vintage books, including first editions and Victorian yellowbacks, Hermitage has been a fixture in the North Cherry Creek community for half a century.
As one of Denver’s oldest independent bookstores, they pride themselves on offering a curated collection of high-quality, rare, collectible, and antiquarian books.
Whether you’re on the hunt for fiction or nonfiction, their extensive selection is sure to hold a hidden treasure for every book lover.
Dream Books Co.
Found in NE Park Hill, Dream Books Co. has an impressive collection of 100,000 books. In their store alone, they have 10,000 books priced below $5.
But there’s more to this bookstore than just great deals—they’ve also made a significant impact on their community by redistributing over 2,759,000 books in total.
Through partnerships with local libraries and community programs, they actively recycle books, ensuring that literature continues to enrich the lives of readers throughout the area.
Printed Page Bookshop
Tucked away in a little Victorian house in South Broadway’s Antique Row, Printed Page is a charming used bookstore that serves as a cozy gathering spot for book lovers to connect and share their passion for literature.
Whether you’re perusing the shelves or looking for discussions about your favorite reads, this welcoming space offers the perfect setting to “talk book.”
Browse the comfortable Victorian house to discover your next read or get a recommendation from their knowledgeable staff. Plus, if you’re looking to part ways with some of your own books, they buy them back.
Denver Book Rack
Ranked as one of the top bookstores on the Front Range by 5280, Denver Book Rack offers a wide range of books that are constantly being updated and refreshed. From sci-fi to children’s literature, their extensive collection caters to readers of all ages and interests.
What sets them apart is their dedicated and knowledgeable staff, who are always on hand to assist you in finding the perfect book. Whether you’re searching for a new favorite or looking to trade in your old reads, The Book Rack is a go-to destination.
Gallagher Books & Antiques
Step into the past at this specialized antiquarian bookstore nestled in the heart of the Antique Row on South Broadway. With a collection of books spanning art, photography, history, and classics, this hidden gem caters to enthusiasts seeking rare treasures.
With a keen focus on hard-to-find editions, artistic marvels, and timeless library antiques, every visit is a journey back in time.
Second Star to the Right
At this children’s and young adult bookstore, you’ll find a wide range of books, from the latest releases to beloved classics from your childhood. But it’s not just books; there are also toys and knick-knacks to keep the kids entertained.
Catering to kids and parents alike, they have a great collection of books in their adult and parenting section and a selection of Spanish literature. The store also hosts events for both children and adults, including lively book clubs and bustling book fairs.
Edgewater Books
In the bustling Edgewater public market, you’ll find this charming family-run used bookstore. Situated among boutiques, plant shops, and a dining hall, it offers a diverse array of books to explore.
From mysteries to histories and children’s tales to adult reads, there’s something for every reader to discover within its welcoming shelves.
2nd & Charles
This chain store is more than just books. While they have a great selection of new and used books, including rare and collectible titles, they also have vinyl, manga, toys, and games.
You’ll find everything from classics to graphic novels and even a section for Booktok favorites.
Mutiny Comics
This South Broadway comic book shop is home to a huge variety of comics and graphic novels. You’ll find everything from back issues to new and old comics and new material coming in weekly.
More than just their great selection, Mutiny Comics also buys and trades comics. Stop by to check out their hordes, grab a coffee in their cafe, and talk shop with the knowledgeable staff. They even have a comic subscription service!
Denver is home to an array of amazing independent bookstores for readers to explore and enjoy. From charming independent shops to popular chains, each bookstore adds its own unique flavor to the city’s book culture.
Whether you’re in search of a rare find or simply looking to get lost in the aisles, Denver’s bookstores are sure to satisfy every book lover’s craving for literary adventure. So, grab your favorite novel and dive into the world of Denver’s best bookstores—you never know what treasures you might discover!
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