The 16 Best Bookstores in Houston

Barnes & Noble

As the fourth-largest city in the US, Houston offers a vast variety of bookstores that cater to every bibliophile's needs. Whether you seek mainstream bestsellers, obscure titles, or niche literary interests, Houston's bookstores are ready to welcome you.

Looking for the best bookstore to visit in Houston may not be an easy task considering the numerous options available. This page is dedicated to giving an overview of the 16 Best Bookstores in Houston. It allows users to compare and navigate through the choices better.

  • Variety of Books: The range of books each bookstore offers. Some focus on new releases, bestsellers, while others specialize in used or rare books.
  • Bookstore Location: Which neighborhoods have the largest clusters of top-rated stores.
  • Atmosphere: The ambiance, uniqueness, and comfort of each bookstore.
  • Extra Services: Amenities like cafes, reading spots, author signings, and events.
  • Customer Experience: Overall customer service, including friendly staff and helpful recommendations.

Keep reading to find out more about each store's unique character, offerings, and why they're considered the best in Houston.

1. Barnes & Noble

4.7/5 (Más de 2142 reseñas)
2030 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019, United States
Book store

Información y Opiniones

Barnes & Noble is a renowned bookstore located in Houston, Texas, that has gained a reputation for its exceptional services and amenities. With a remarkable ranking of 4.7 and over 2000 reviews, it is a favorite destination for book enthusiasts and gift shoppers.

  • Customers praise the wide selection of books and gifts available for all ages, making it an ideal place to find the perfect present for loved ones.
  • The cozy atmosphere and comfortable seating arrangements on the second floor provide visitors with a relaxing space to explore new books or take a break while reading.
  • Many visitors highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff who offer great suggestions and assistance, ensuring a pleasant and inspiring shopping experience.
  • The bookstore also receives accolades for hosting engaging author events, book clubs, and community gatherings, making it a hub for literary enthusiasts to connect and engage with their favorite authors.

2. Barnes & Noble

4.6/5 (Más de 1907 reseñas)
5303 Farm to Market 1960 Rd W, Houston, TX 77069, United States
Book store

Información y Opiniones

Barnes & Noble is a renowned book store located in Houston, Texas. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 1907 customer reviews, it is clear why this bookstore stands out among its competitors.

  • Customers appreciate the vast selection of books and magazines available, making it easy to find exactly what they are looking for.
  • The friendly and professional staff create a welcoming environment for visitors, offering assistance when needed and enhancing the overall shopping experience.
  • The cleanliness and organization of the store contribute to a pleasant browsing experience, allowing customers to explore the shelves with ease.
  • The presence of a Starbucks in-store adds an extra touch, providing a cozy spot to relax and enjoy a hot beverage while diving into a new book.

Whether you are a dedicated bookworm or just looking for a new read, Barnes & Noble is the perfect destination to indulge in a world of stories and knowledge.

Kaboom Books

+1 713-869-7600

    3. Kaboom Books

    4.8/5 (Más de 572 reseñas)
    3116 Houston Ave #6736, Houston, TX 77009, United States
    Used book store

    Información y Opiniones

    Kaboom Books is a quaint used book store located in the heart of Houston. With a ranking of 4.8 and 572 reviews, customers can't help but praise this hidden gem. Some of the notable comments from visitors include:

    • This is what a bookstore should be! Floor to ceiling books with a bunch of rooms that smell like old books, with nice owners, good stories. My daughter got to pet the super sweet shop dog.
    • Great place with a great story behind it. A selection of books that ranks with the greatest book stores in the world. Truly a blessed place with a rich history.
    • A gem of a bookstore. The ambiance is so welcoming, and the selection and organization make for a superb experience. Vast fiction and non-fiction sections, full of rewarding surprises.
    • I'm allergic to cats but will take an antihistamine to come browse books and pet Oliver in whatever nook he's taking up. Literal magic. Come for the books, stay for the whimsical (but organized) layout and knowledgeable staff and friendly animals and cozy atmosphere.

    Customers have praised the cozy atmosphere, vast book selection, knowledgeable staff, and friendly animals at Kaboom Books. If you're a book lover looking for a unique bookstore experience, make sure to visit Kaboom Books in Houston.

    Murder By The Book

    +1 713-524-8597

      4. Murder By The Book

      4.8/5 (Más de 390 reseñas)
      2342 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
      Book store

      Información y Opiniones

      Murder By The Book is a captivating bookstore located in Houston, offering a wide selection of new and used books. The bookstore's theme focuses on mystery, crime, and espionage titles, making it a must-visit for fans of these genres.

      Customers have praised the store for its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and unique organization of books by region. Here are some key points from their reviews:

      • A friendly and engaging staff eager to recommend books
      • A great selection of mystery novels with diverse options
      • A charming layout and decor that enhances the shopping experience
      • An inviting atmosphere that makes visitors want to come back

      If you're in Houston and looking for an independent bookstore that specializes in mystery, Murder By The Book should be at the top of your list.

      Half Price Books

      +1 281-558-4968

        5. Half Price Books

        4.5/5 (Más de 1846 reseñas)
        10915 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77042, United States
        Book store

        Información y Opiniones

        Half Price Books is a renowned book store located in Houston, TX, that offers a vast collection of books at unbeatable prices. Customers are delighted with the well-organized genres that make it easy to find what they are looking for. The store is also praised for its massive selection, ranging from novels to antiques to textbooks, along with a cool assortment of stationary, games, and puzzles. One satisfied customer mentioned finding brand new books for only $2 and $3, which were priced much higher at other stores.

        • Customers appreciate the incredible selection of books at unbeatable prices.
        • The store is well-organized by genres, making it easy to navigate.
        • The massive collection includes novels, antiques, textbooks, stationary, games, and puzzles.
        • Customers enjoy the friendly and helpful staff members who contribute to a comfortable shopping experience.

        6. Blue Willow Bookshop

        4.8/5 (Más de 312 reseñas)
        14532 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079, United States
        Book store

        Información y Opiniones

        Blue Willow Bookshop is a beloved bookstore located in Houston, TX. Customers rave about the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the cozy atmosphere, and the wide selection of books and bookish gifts. The shop offers various amenities like Wi-Fi, and it is wheelchair-accessible for added convenience.

        • This place feels like stepping into a new world, with amazing books and excellent customer service.
        • Customers appreciate the diverse book selection, helpful staff, and cute bookish gifts available.
        • Some reviewers mention the need for better book organization and highlight instances of unprofessional behavior among staff members.
        • Customers also love the events hosted by the shop, the beautiful gift wrapping services, and the discounts available for teachers and frequent buyers.

        If you're a bookworm looking for a special place to explore, Blue Willow Bookshop is definitely worth a visit!

        7. Brazos Bookstore

        4.7/5 (Más de 468 reseñas)
        2421 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
        Book store

        Información y Opiniones

        Brazos Bookstore is a charming book store located in Houston, TX. They offer a variety of services such as in-store shopping, in-store pick-up, and Kerbside pickup to make shopping convenient for all customers. The bookstore is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space environment, making it an inclusive place for all book lovers.

        Customers have shared their positive experiences at Brazos Bookstore:

        • One customer loved the diverse selection of books, friendly staff, and cute bookshop dog.
        • Another customer praised the bookstore's ambiance, staff recommendations, and overall experience.
        • A customer shared constructive feedback about their experience with book signings, suggesting improvements to enhance customer satisfaction.
        • Another customer enjoyed the variety of science fiction books, friendly staff, and plans to make future trips despite the distance from their home.

        Visit Brazos Bookstore for a cozy and welcoming book shopping experience!

        8. Kindred Stories

        4.9/5 (Más de 111 reseñas)
        2304 Stuart St, Houston, TX 77004, United States
        Book store

        Información y Opiniones

        Kindred Stories is a charming bookstore located in Houston, TX. The cozy atmosphere welcomes book lovers of all ages and genres. They offer a great selection of books by BIPOC authors from around the world, ensuring a diverse and inclusive reading experience.

        Customer reviews rave about the warm and inviting energy of the store, the helpful and attentive staff, and the carefully curated collection of titles. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

        • The energy of the store is welcoming and comfortable.
        • Great selection of books by BIPOC authors.
        • Cozy and well-organized space with a variety of reading-related paraphernalia.
        • Warm and helpful staff that create a joyful and inclusive environment.

        Visiting Kindred Stories is not just a shopping experience; it's a chance to immerse yourself in a community-focused space that celebrates diversity and the love of reading. Whether you're looking for a new favorite book or a unique literary gift, this bookstore is sure to leave a lasting impression.

        Houston BookWarehouse

        +1 281-815-5151
        Web no disponible

          9. Houston BookWarehouse

          4.8/5 (Más de 163 reseñas)
          17939 Kieth Harrow Blvd Suite 202, Houston, TX 77084, United States
          Book store

          Información y Opiniones

          Houston BookWarehouse is a beloved bookstore located in Houston, TX. Customers praise this establishment for its vast selection of books, affordable prices, and wonderful customer service. The store offers a wide variety of genres, from adult to children's books, including bilingual options, making it a favorite spot for all book lovers.

          • Customers appreciate the affordable prices and high-quality books available, with some books priced at $5 or less.
          • The owner's wonderful attitude and helpful nature create a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere for customers.
          • The store's diverse selection of books, including bilingual children's books in English and Spanish, has attracted visitors from near and far.
          • The organized layout of the store by genre and author's name makes it easy for customers to find specific books or explore new titles.

          With a stellar rating of 4.8 stars and glowing reviews from satisfied customers, Houston BookWarehouse is a must-visit destination for book enthusiasts looking for a unique and charming bookstore experience.

          Becker's Books

          +1 713-957-8088

            10. Becker's Books

            4.7/5 (Más de 191 reseñas)
            7405 Westview Dr, Houston, TX 77055, United States
            Used book store

            Información y Opiniones

            Becker's Books is a hidden gem in Houston for book lovers. With a vast collection of used books ranging from modern to hard-to-find antiques, this used book store offers a unique shopping experience. Customers have described it as a "magical store" with rooms full of shelves overflowing with books, almost like a Tardis of books.

            • The owner is friendly and proud of the store.
            • The books are organized by genre, creating a wonderful chaos.
            • Visitors can easily spend hours browsing through the maze of shelves.

            With a ranking of 4.7, Becker's Books is highly recommended by customers who appreciate the wide variety of books available. Whether you're searching for a literary treasure or just want to get lost in a book lovers' dream, this bookstore is a must-visit spot in Houston.

            Basket Books and Art

            +1 281-846-6017

              11. Basket Books and Art

              4.9/5 (Más de 38 reseñas)
              115 Hyde Park Blvd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
              Book store

              Información y Opiniones

              Basket Books and Art is a charming bookstore located in Houston, TX, offering a wide range of books on design, photography, graphic novels, art, classics, and more. The store is known for its thoughtfully curated selection and friendly service, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

              • A little hidden gem of a bookstore with a variety of books on design and art.
              • One of the best bookshops in Htown with a wide and modern selection.
              • Small but beautiful space with a thoughtful book and gift selection.
              • Cute, modern bookshop with unique and classic books.

              With a ranking of 4.9, based on 38 reviews, customers have praised the store for its exceptional collection, community-minded owners, and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors have highlighted the vast selection of books, the cozy ambiance, and the helpful staff that make every visit a delightful experience. Whether you are looking for a new literary adventure or a special gift, Basket Books and Art is the perfect place to explore and discover something extraordinary.

              Books Abound

              +1 281-807-5505
              Web no disponible

                12. Books Abound

                4.8/5 (Más de 60 reseñas)
                11600 Jones Rd # 111, Houston, TX 77070, United States
                Used book store

                Información y Opiniones

                Books Abound is a charming used book store located in Houston, Texas. This small business offers a unique selection of oldie but goodie novels, giving customers the chance to explore quality readings. One distinctive feature of Books Abound is the presence of a dog on-site, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for book lovers.

                Customer reviews highlight several key points about their experience at Books Abound:

                • A mom and pop store with a unique selection of books and a friendly dog on the premises. It's a cash-only establishment, so come prepared.
                • Wonderful owners and staff, great prices, offers trade-ins, and store credit. A hidden gem in a charming bookstore.
                • Family-owned with kind and helpful staff, perfect for finding specific books you're looking for.
                • Cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a friendly dog mascot, a great place to find paperbacks despite the cash-only policy.

                Visit Books Abound for a delightful book-browsing experience and immerse yourself in a world of literary wonders.

                Quarter Price Books

                +1 713-520-5009
                Web no disponible

                  13. Quarter Price Books

                  4.4/5 (Más de 374 reseñas)
                  3820 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77098, United States
                  Book store

                  Información y Opiniones

                  Quarter Price Books is a unique gem nestled in Houston, offering an eclectic selection and a neighborly feeling that is rare to find in bookstores. Larry and Mike, the owners, are known for their knowledgeable expertise in their stock, making customers feel right at home. Visitors can expect to find a vast selection of books across different genres, including rare 1st editions that are hard to come by elsewhere. Despite occasional security measures, the store is a haven for book lovers looking to unearth hidden treasures. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

                  • A must-visit for book lovers in Houston, offering a welcoming and authentic bookstore experience.
                  • A phenomenal selection of unique books, including rare 1st editions and out-of-print titles.
                  • Knowledgeable and friendly owners who are passionate about their craft and offer helpful recommendations.
                  • A perfect spot for browsing and discovering new reads, with hidden gems waiting to be found.
                  Menil Collection Bookstore

                  +1 713-535-3180

                    14. Menil Collection Bookstore

                    4.6/5 (Más de 42 reseñas)
                    1520 Sul Ross St, Houston, TX 77006, United States
                    Book store

                    Información y Opiniones

                    Menil Collection Bookstore is a quaint book store located in Houston, TX, offering a unique selection of art and history books, making it a must-visit for those interested in creative and artistic subjects. In addition, they have a children's section, perfect for introducing young minds to the world of art and culture.

                    The bookstore has received glowing reviews from customers, with some key points being:

                    • Quiet free museum with permanent and rotating collections
                    • Unique selection of art and history books
                    • Friendly and helpful staff always ready with a smile
                    • Perfect companion to the museum offering a calming ambiance

                    With a ranking of 4.6, the Menil Collection Bookstore continues to attract art enthusiasts and book lovers alike. So whether you're looking to expand your knowledge or simply explore the world of art through literature, this bookstore has something special to offer.

                    Greatwall Books

                    +1 832-571-6626
                    Web no disponible

                      15. Greatwall Books

                      4.0/5 (Más de 7 reseñas)
                      9888 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036, United States
                      Book store

                      Información y Opiniones

                      Greatwall Books is a charming book store located in Houston, Texas, offering a diverse selection of Chinese culture books, translations, cookbooks, poetry, mythology, and calligraphy materials. Customers have praised the store for its impressive collection, friendly staff, and unique offerings.

                      • Cute little book store with many chinese translations, cook books, poetry, mythology and calligraphy materials.
                      • Don't even have bibles. 1 star
                      • An impressive selection of Chinese culture books.!
                      • Chinese book store, I like it

                      Visit Greatwall Books for a cultural and literary experience like no other!

                      Winseng Books & Gifts

                      +1 713-271-8186
                      Web no disponible

                        16. Winseng Books & Gifts

                        3.7/5 (Más de 29 reseñas)
                        9160A Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036, United States
                        Book store

                        Información y Opiniones

                        Winseng Books & Gifts is a well-known bookstore located in Houston, TX. They offer a variety of products such as gadgets, CDs, magazines, and books from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Customers can find traditional gifts like red envelopes and Chinese greeting cards all year round.

                        • Customers appreciate the wide selection of products from different Asian countries.
                        • Many reviewers mention the store's calm and friendly service, especially towards families with children.
                        • Some customers highlight the unique items available, such as Chinese herbs, 3D posters, and fabric kites.

                        Map of Bookstores in Houston

                        Houston, a city renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, hosts an impressive array of bookstores. These intellectual havens scatter across the city from downtown to the suburbs, catering to every reading enthusiast. Whether you're seeking the newest bestseller or a rare antique volume, you'll find what you need. The following map will guide you to every bookstore in Houston.

                        Best Known Bookstores in Houston

                        There are a number of renowned bookstores in Houston that bibliophiles will certainly appreciate. Brazos Bookstore, located in 2421 Bissonnet Street, has been Houston’s premier literary venue since 1974. Another one to check out is Kaboom Books, a used bookstore with a vast range of genres, located in the Woodland Heights neighborhood.

                        For those interested in art books, graphic novels, monographs, and children's books, the Menil Collection Bookstore is a must-visit — it implies a small museum catering to the Menil’s art collection. Lastly, Murder By The Book is a specialty bookstore for mystery and crime novels, situated at 2342 Bissonnet St.

                        Hours of Operation

                        Many bookstores in Houston operate seven days a week. Generally, they open between 10 AM and 11 AM and close between 6 PM and 8 PM. However, it is always advisable to check the store's working hours in advance as they can vary.

                        For instance, Brazos Bookstore operates from 12 PM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday and from 12 PM to 4 PM on Sundays. Kaboom Books has slightly longer hours, opening at 11 AM and closing at 6 PM, seven days a week.

                        Frequently Organized Events

                        Many Houston bookstores host lively events year-round. Brazos Bookstore frequently holds book signings, readings, and other interactive events with authors. Similarly, Murder By The Book hosts numerous in-person and virtual events featuring mystery and crime writers.

                        Bookstores like Kaboom Books and Menil Collection Bookstore have been known to host community events, author readings and signings, and other themed events and meet-ups, thus providing a vibrant cultural hub for book lovers in the community.

                        Children-Friendly Bookstores

                        Several bookstores in Houston are also designed to cater to young readers. Brazos Bookstore boasts an outstanding children’s section with regular storytime events. The Blue Willow Bookshop is another great option with a vast variety of children's books, toys, and games.

                        Once Upon A Time is a bookstore completely dedicated to children and young adult books, offering a cozy, inviting atmosphere for young book lovers. Another great option is Half Price Books which, in addition to its extensive selection, offers discounted prices making it a budget-friendly choice.

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