Washington DC- A Complete Bookstore Guide (plus some extra recommendations!)
Visiting DC soon? If you are a bookish traveler like me then this list is perfect for you!
No need to search google for all the bookstores in the DC area, this list has them all! This is a guide to the over 20 indie bookstores in the DC area (including Arlington and Alexandria!). With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect bookstore for you on your next visit!
I have visited Washington DC many times over the years. Most recently I visited last November and went to eleven bookstores! I vlogged the trip and linked it here for you to watch :)
A Complete Guide to DC Bookstores
Click on the Map for my Google Map with all the bookstores (+ more) pinned!
Local Spots for New Titles
Bridge Street Books | 2814 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
A compact two story indie bookstore specializing in indie published books.
East City Bookshop | 645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE #100, Washington, DC 20003
A classic indie bookstore with a large selection of books and gifts. It seems at first to be quite small, but make sure to head downstairs for their expansive selection of books!
Politics and Prose Bookstore | Three Locations
5015 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
610 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024
1324 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
With it’s three convenient locations around the city, this is DC’s go to indie bookstore chain. You are sure to find all the classics along with new releases and everything in between.
Solid State Books | 600F H St NE, Washington, DC 20002
This black owned indie bookstores has two locations for all your general interest reading needs! I particularly appreciate all the unique events they host for the community.
Secondhand Bookstores
Capitol Hill Books | 657 C St SE, Washington, DC 20003
A cozy used bookstore that is worth the hunt. Do not come in looking for a specific book. Instead take the time to browse the shelves and you may find something you didn’t know you need!
Carpe Librum | 1350 I St NW, Washington, DC 20005
Carpe Librum can be found in downtown and is a nonprofit selling used books to benefit the local schools. The selection is all donated so it’s a bit of a gamble what you can find but the prices are insane!
Second Story Books | 2000 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036
I always plan to stop at this store since it is one of my favorites. The used books are great quality and a wide range of genres. I always seem to find something there to buy! Someday I will visit their book warehouse in Rockville which houses thousands of used books.
The Lantern Bookshop | 3241 P St NW, Washington, DC 20007
A volunteer run used bookstore run by volunteers and benefiting Bryn Mawr College students with scholarships. Make sure to browse their extensive collection for hidden gems!
Lost City Books | 2467 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Multi story indie bookstore full of a wide variety of new and used books. They are most well known for their community engagement and
One of my favorite used bookstore- Second Story Books!
A gorgeous bookstore wall found at Little District Books
Specialty Bookstores
Bold Fork Books | 3064 Mt Pleasant St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Selling books on food, travel, home goods and more. They have food focused events as well!
JF Books | 1509 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
Specializing in books of all genres from the AAPI experience, including a large selection of books in Chinese.
Little District Books | 631 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003
DC’s only queer bookstore! They recently moved to a much larger space and now sell a large variety of books by and for the LGBTQIA community.
Middle East Books and More | 1902 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
As the name suggests, they stock books of all types by Middle Eastern authors and about the Middle East in general.
Reiter’s Books | 1900 G St NW, Washington, DC 20006
The book selection is focused more on business adjacent books- engineering, science, law, and more. It also has a cafe that serves Ethiopian food which I will have to try at some point!
One More Page Books | 2200 N Westmoreland St, Arlington, VA 22213
What makes any bookstore better? Offering wine and chocolate to go with your book!
Bookstore Cafes
Busboys and Poets | Multiple Locations
This restaurant, bookstore and cultural hub has been serving its community for over 20 years and has grown to nine locations in DC and Maryland. I was impressed with the amount of allergen friendly options they have and it makes for a great choice for readers to stop!
Daydrift Books & Cafe
DC’s newest book cafe has opened in Crystal City! With a rotating menu and a variety of seating choices it’s a great spot to sip, read and work.
Kramers | 1517 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
This classic indie bookstore with a cafe serving all kinds of literary themed food and drink. Make sure to check out their afternoon tea for readers. It is $30 for a pot of tea and tower of treats and food!
The Potter’s House Café & Bookstore | 1658 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
For over 60 years this bookstore cafe has been a community hub and gathering place. It spacious interior with plenty of seating makes it a great spot to hang out. Plus the southern comfort food is so yum! Update January 2026 While they are currently closed, I am hoping that things can be worked out so they can be up and running again for the community soon.
Bookstores in Alexandria
This mural says it perfect- Alexandria truly is a perfect place for readers. The cutest multi colored buildings and cobble stones streets hold a variety of local shops. There are two independent bookstores that are must visits too!
Friends to Lovers | 301 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314
If you are a romance reader this is a must visit!
Old Town Books | 130 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314
A classic indie bookstore full of a variety of titles. It’s so bright and airy in there and the booksellers are always so kind. Don’t miss their children’s section for young readers!
The cutest mural outside Old Town Books in Alexandria!
Other Shopping
Georgetown Flea Market | 1819 35th St NW, Washington, DC 20007
A Sundays only flea market full of interesting items. Be prepared to haggle on the price if you want a good deal!
Jenni Bick Custom Journals | 1300 Connecticut Ave NW #101, Washington, DC 20036
They carry their own line of journals along with a selection of other well known collections. The perfect place to stop for some stationery!
Food to Try
The Den Coffeehouse & Wine Bar | 5015 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
While this spot is below a bookstore it’s technically its own store! Serving drinks and food in a relaxed setting. Check out their bookish events if you are in the neighborhood.
Lucky Buns | 2000 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Yummy Asian fusion spot with huge burgers and delicious cocktails!
Nando’s | Multiple Locations
A Peruvian fusion chain that is just amazing. Anytime I am in a city where I can enjoy their chicken, sides and peri-peri sauce I will do it!
Allegory | 1201 K St NW #1, Washington, DC 20005
This gorgeous literary themed bar is a must visit for readers in DC. The menu rotates frequently and always centers a different allegory. A very unique drinking experience!
