Powell’s City of Books

Overview

Powell’s City of Books is the world's largest independent bookstore, spanning an entire city block and housing nearly a million new and used books. It's a must-visit for book lovers and a unique cultural landmark in Portland.

It's the largest independent bookstore in the world, offering a vast collection of books and a unique cultural experience.

Independent New & Used

Location

Address

1005 W Burnside St., Portland, Oregon

Neighborhood: Pearl District

Coordinates

45.517300, -122.680500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• New book releases
• Author signings

summer

hot

• Extended hours
• Outdoor seating

autumn

cool

• Fall book releases
• Cozy reading areas

winter

cold

• Holiday books
• Gift sections

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

No need to book ahead
Bring ID for age-restricted books
Check weather for outdoor events

What to Bring

essential

ID book list tickets for events

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low

• No major health warnings

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $10

coffee $5

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• Not necessary unless attending an event
• Official website for events
• Varies by event
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Powell's Books App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Book search, Event calendar, Store map

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Portland International Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$30 20 min

public_transport

$3 40 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

metro

$2.50 10 min

bus

$2.50 15 min

taxi

$10 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and unique book collection

Historical Significance: A beloved Portland institution since 1971

Insider Tips

Free Wi-Fi
Best coffee at the in-store cafe

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee
• Ask staff for book recommendations

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot of the iconic storefront

#booklovers #powellsbooks

Photography Rules

allowed areas All areas except designated no-photo zones

prohibited areas Private events

flash photography allowed in most areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Portland Art Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Washington Park

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Park

Reviews

4.7

Based on 1,500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit the rare book room"
"Check out the staff picks"
"Enjoy a coffee while browsing"

Contact Information

+1 503-228-4651

info@powells.com

www.powells.com

Social Media

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