Sure, e-readers are practically everywhere these days, but in my opinion, nothing beats an old-fashioned brick-and-mortar bookstore to get to know a city.
In New York, the most famous independent bookstore may be The Strand. It’s a great experience just to browse through the store’s collection of used books and rare titles.
But don’t just stop there. Head over the Williamsburg Bridge to Word bookstore in Brooklyn. They’ve also got a huge selection as well as in-store events with local authors and musicians.
One of my favorite places, Books & Books in Miami has both coffee table books…and coffee. So you can visit the Lincoln Avenue store to browse books on art, design, fashion, and architecture, and then peruse them over a drink in the center of South Beach.
City Lights Books has been a San Francisco landmark since 1953. Founded by the beatnickss, the store now operates its own publishing company and non-profit too.
To find an indie book store as you travel, visit Indiebound.org, an online community that posts events, and information about independent book stores around the country.
Click here for more shopping ideas.
For more of Peter’s tips, visit our tip archives.
