The 16 Best Bookstores in Houston

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
- 2. Barnes & Noble
- 3. Kaboom Books
- 4. Murder By The Book
- 5. Half Price Books
- 6. Blue Willow Bookshop
- 7. Brazos Bookstore
- 8. Kindred Stories
- 9. Houston BookWarehouse
- 10. Becker's Books
- 11. Basket Books and Art
- 12. Books Abound
- 13. Quarter Price Books
- 14. Menil Collection Bookstore
- 15. Greatwall Books
- 16. Winseng Books & Gifts

1. Barnes & Noble
Información y Opiniones
- 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
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

3. Kaboom Books
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

4. Murder By The Book
Información y Opiniones
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.

5. Half Price Books
Información y Opiniones
- 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
Información y Opiniones
- 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
Información y Opiniones
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
Información y Opiniones
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.

9. Houston BookWarehouse
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

10. Becker's Books
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

11. Basket Books and Art
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

12. Books Abound
Información y Opiniones
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.

13. Quarter Price Books
Información y Opiniones
- 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.

14. Menil Collection Bookstore
Información y Opiniones
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.

15. Greatwall Books
Información y Opiniones
- 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!

16. Winseng Books & Gifts
Información y Opiniones
- 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.
Related Services