Boutique Bookstores to Visit This Holiday Season

Step out of the holiday rush and into a space where stories, images, and ideas unfold at their own pace. Boutique bookstores offer a magic all their own, inviting you into beautifully curated shelves, unexpected discoveries, and the quiet pleasure of simply taking your time. Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift or seeking an hour of calm amid the busy season, these independent stores encourage you to linger, browse, and be inspired. Here are a few of our favorites to visit this year.

Kramers

An icon in the capital, Kramers pairs a sharp, eclectic selection with its beloved café and bar. Come for the books, stay for the energy—and maybe a cocktail.

1517 Connecticut Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036

Beacon Hill Books

A jewel-box of a bookstore with a charming café tucked inside. Every detail feels intentionally designed, making it a perfect stop in historic Beacon Hill.

71 Charles Street
Boston, MA 02114

Rough Draft Bar & Books

Part bookstore, part bar, part community hub—Rough Draft is warm, spirited, and incredibly well-curated. A must-visit in the Hudson Valley.

82 John Street
Kingston, NY 12401

Annabelle’s Book Club

Founded by a teenager and devoted to young adult literature (with gems for all ages), this airy, carefully curated shop radiates creativity and heart.

12200 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604

Lilliput Books

An intimate neighborhood treasure with a strong point of view. Lilliput’s selection feels personal, discerning, and full of delightful surprises.

2150 N. Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60614

Olivia & Daisy Books

A coastal charmer known for its beautifully chosen titles and inviting atmosphere. A lovely stop for readers wandering through Carmel-by-the-Sea.

13766 Center Street
Carmel Valley, CA 93924

Daunt Books

A pilgrimage destination for book lovers. With its Edwardian architecture and globe-spanning selection, Daunt remains one of the world’s most enchanting bookstores.

83-84 Marylebone High Street
London W1U 4QW, UK

Rizzoli Bookstore

A cultural landmark with an unparalleled art, design, and photography section. If you love beautifully made books, Rizzoli is heaven.

1133 Broadway
New York, NY 10010

Rodgers Book Barn

A magical used bookstore set inside a 19th-century barn. Wandering its creaky floors and packed shelves feels like stepping into a story.

467 Rodman Road
Hillsdale, NY 12529

The Corner Bookstore

Classic, elegant, and meticulously curated. This Upper East Side institution is beloved for its sharp selection and neighborly charm.

1313 Madison Avenue
New York City, NY 10128

Athena Books

Bright, contemporary, and community-minded. Athena offers a wide-ranging selection with a warm, welcoming feel.

228 Sound Beach Avenue
Old Greenwich, CT 06870

Books Are Magic

A Brooklyn favorite known for its lively spirit, thoughtful curation, and vibrant literary community. Always worth a visit.

225 Smith Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231