Portland's legendary literary labyrinth awaits with over a million books across nine color-coded rooms since 1971
Since opening its doors in 1971, Powell's City of Books has transformed a former car dealership into a 68,000-square-foot literary wonderland that draws book lovers from around the globe. This family-owned independent bookstore occupies an entire city block in downtown Portland, where nine color-coded rooms house over a million new and used titles. The distinctive map and floor plan that greets every visitor reflects the deliberate, maze-like design that encourages discovery and serendipity. Unlike sterile chain stores, Powell's creates an atmosphere of intellectual adventure, where rare first editions sit alongside well-loved paperbacks, and every shelf tells a different story. The worn wooden floors, handwritten staff recommendations, and the gentle hum of readers browsing create an irreplaceable sense of place. Coffee from the on-site World Cup Coffee & Tea fuels extended explorations, while the Rare Book Room offers carefully curated treasures for serious collectors. Powell's remains fiercely independent and community-focused, hosting hundreds of author events annually and maintaining deep local roots that have made it a beloved Portland institution for over fifty years.
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Powell's occupies an entire city block at 1005 W Burnside St, spanning 68,000 square feet with over one million new and used books across nine color-coded rooms. Visitors often describe it as a maze that rewards exploration.
Not at all. Many visitors come without a specific book in mind and discover treasures they never knew existed. The color-coded rooms and staff recommendations make browsing an adventure in itself.
Street parking is available around the store, and several paid parking garages operate within a few blocks. The location is also easily accessible by public transit and bike.
World Cup Coffee & Tea is located inside Powell's, and drinks purchased there may be enjoyed while browsing. Outside food and beverages are not permitted to protect the books.
Yes, Powell's hosts hundreds of author events each year. Check our website or visit the store to see upcoming readings and signings with local and national writers.
As the world's largest independent bookstore, we combine new and used books in one space, maintain a family-owned independent spirit, and create a community gathering place that has defined Portland's literary culture for over 50 years.
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