How to Visit Powell’s City of Books in Portland: The Ultimate Guide

Powell’s City of Books in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a bookstore—it’s a cultural landmark, a literary pilgrimage site, and one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. Spanning an entire city block and housing over one million new and used books across nine color-coded rooms, Powell’s offers an immersive experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a first-time visitor to Portland, or a bibliophile planning a dedicated book-themed itinerary, knowing how to visit Powell’s City of Books is essential to making the most of your journey.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to visiting Powell’s—from planning your trip to navigating its labyrinthine aisles, discovering hidden gems, and maximizing your time in this literary wonderland. We’ll cover practical logistics, insider tips, recommended tools, real visitor experiences, and answers to frequently asked questions—all designed to help you explore Powell’s with confidence and joy.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit Around Store Hours

Before you set foot in Powell’s City of Books, confirm the current operating hours. The store is open daily, but hours vary slightly by season and holiday. Typically, Powell’s opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., depending on the day of the week. Sunday hours are usually shorter, closing at 8:00 p.m.

Always verify the latest schedule on the official Powell’s website before departure. Arriving early—especially on weekends or during literary festivals—ensures you have ample time to explore without crowds. The store tends to be busiest between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so consider visiting right at opening or after 6:00 p.m. for a quieter experience.

2. Determine Your Transportation Method

Located in downtown Portland at 1005 W Burnside Street, Powell’s is easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation.

By Car: Parking near Powell’s can be challenging during peak hours. The store is surrounded by public parking garages, including the Powell’s Parking Garage (directly behind the store on 10th Avenue), the Portland Parking Garage on SW 10th and Oak, and metered street parking on Burnside and surrounding blocks. Rates vary from $1.50 to $3.50 per hour, with validation available for up to four hours when you spend $20 or more in-store.

By Public Transit: Powell’s is a short walk from several TriMet bus lines and the MAX Light Rail. The closest MAX stations are the PSU South/6th & Salmon stop (Green and Yellow Lines) and the PSU Urban Center/Southwest 5th & Jackson stop (Blue and Red Lines). Both are approximately a five-minute walk from the store’s main entrance. Bus lines 10, 12, 19, 20, and 44 all stop within two blocks of Powell’s.

By Bike: Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S., and Powell’s supports sustainable travel. Free bike racks are located on the Burnside Street side of the building, and the store participates in the city’s bike-share program. If you’re biking in from further away, consider using the Springwater Corridor or the Willamette River Trail, both scenic routes that lead directly to downtown.

On Foot: If you’re staying in downtown Portland, Powell’s is a walkable destination from many hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The Pearl District, Old Town Chinatown, and the Portland Art Museum are all within a 15-minute walk.

3. Prepare for the Scale of the Store

With over 68,000 square feet of retail space and more than 3,500 shelves, Powell’s can be overwhelming on first visit. The store is organized into nine color-coded rooms, each dedicated to a major genre:

• Red Room: Fiction, including classics, contemporary, and international literature
• Orange Room: Mystery, thriller, horror, and suspense
• Yellow Room: Science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction
• Green Room: Nonfiction, including history, politics, science, and philosophy
• Blue Room: Art, architecture, photography, and design
• Purple Room: Children’s and young adult books
• Teal Room: Music, film, performing arts, and pop culture
• Gray Room: Academic, textbooks, and reference materials
• White Room: Rare, collectible, and out-of-print books

Each room is further subdivided by subject and author. The store’s layout is intentionally non-linear, encouraging exploration. Bring comfortable walking shoes—expect to cover a mile or more during a typical visit.

4. Use the Interactive Floor Map

Upon entering, locate the large, digital floor map near the main entrance. This interactive kiosk allows you to search for specific titles, authors, or subjects and displays the exact shelf location in color-coded rooms. You can also scan a QR code to access the map on your smartphone.

Alternatively, pick up a free printed map from the information desk near the front. The map includes special sections such as “Staff Picks,” “New Arrivals,” and “Bestsellers,” helping you prioritize your time.

5. Explore the Staff Picks and Curated Sections

One of Powell’s greatest strengths is its knowledgeable staff. Look for the “Staff Picks” displays in each room—these are hand-selected recommendations from employees who are passionate readers and often authors themselves. These sections are invaluable for discovering hidden gems beyond mainstream bestsellers.

Don’t miss the “Books We Love” table near the entrance of the Red Room, featuring staff favorites across genres. There are also rotating themed displays such as “Books Set in Portland,” “Climate Fiction,” and “Queer Voices in Literature.” These curated selections reflect the store’s deep engagement with literary culture.

6. Visit the Rare and Collectible Books Room (White Room)

The White Room is a treasure trove for collectors and history buffs. Here you’ll find first editions, signed copies, limited runs, and antiquarian books dating back centuries. Items range from $20 paperbacks to $20,000 first editions of classic works.

Ask for assistance from the rare books specialists—they can help authenticate editions, explain provenance, and advise on preservation. Even if you’re not purchasing, the White Room is worth a slow, contemplative walk-through. The room is climate-controlled and features glass cases displaying historically significant titles like early printings of “The Canterbury Tales,” original Audubon bird folios, and signed Hemingway manuscripts.

7. Check Out the Powell’s Book Café

Located on the second floor of the building, the Powell’s Book Café is a quiet oasis for readers. The café serves locally roasted coffee, espresso drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and vegan options. The space features cozy armchairs, reading lamps, and a curated selection of new releases available for purchase alongside your meal.

Many visitors spend hours here, reading in silence while sipping a latte. It’s an ideal spot to take a break, journal, or simply reflect on your discoveries in the store.

8. Attend an Author Event or Reading

Powell’s hosts over 200 author events annually, featuring both emerging and established writers across genres. Events range from intimate readings to large-scale book launches and panel discussions.

Check the events calendar on the Powell’s website before your visit. Many events are free and open to the public, though some require RSVP. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arrive 30–45 minutes early for popular events. Events typically occur in the evening or on weekends, and the store often livestreams select readings for remote audiences.

9. Shop with Purpose: Support Independent Bookselling

Powell’s is a privately owned, family-run business since 1971. Unlike chain retailers, profits stay in Portland and support local jobs, community literacy programs, and independent publishing. When you shop here, you’re not just buying a book—you’re investing in literary culture.

Consider purchasing books directly from Powell’s rather than online, even if prices are slightly higher. Many titles are priced to reflect their condition, rarity, or collectibility, and the store offers generous trade-in values for used books.

10. Learn About the Book Trade-In Program

Powell’s operates one of the most generous used book buyback programs in the country. You can bring in bags of used books—regardless of condition—and receive store credit or cash. Staff evaluate books on the spot, offering fair prices based on demand, edition, and physical state.

Bring books in good condition for the best returns: no water damage, missing pages, or excessive highlighting. Popular genres include fiction, cookbooks, travel guides, and academic texts. The trade-in counter is located near the back of the Red Room.

Use your store credit to buy books you’ve been meaning to read—this circular model is part of what makes Powell’s sustainable and community-centered.

Best Practices

1. Set a Time Limit (But Be Flexible)

It’s tempting to plan for “just an hour,” but Powell’s is a place where time dissolves. Even experienced visitors often spend 3–5 hours inside. Set a loose goal—say, “I’ll spend two hours exploring” —but allow yourself to get lost. The joy of Powell’s lies in serendipity.

2. Bring a Reusable Bag or Backpack

With so many potential purchases, carrying books can become unwieldy. Bring a sturdy tote or backpack. The store sells reusable canvas bags with its iconic logo, but bringing your own reduces waste and keeps your hands free.

3. Use the “Save for Later” Feature

Not every book you find will fit into your budget or reading schedule. Use the in-store “Save for Later” system: ask a staff member to tag a book with a sticky note and hold it for you for up to 48 hours. This is especially helpful during busy shopping days or if you’re traveling and want to return later.

4. Don’t Judge Books by Their Covers—Or Their Condition

Powell’s carries books in all conditions: pristine, well-loved, and everything in between. A worn paperback may contain marginalia from a previous owner, adding character and context. A slightly damaged dust jacket doesn’t diminish the value of the text inside. Embrace the tactile experience of used books—they carry stories beyond the printed word.

5. Respect the Quiet Atmosphere

Powell’s is not a noisy retail space. While conversation is allowed, loud phone calls, music, or disruptive behavior are discouraged. The store maintains a hushed, contemplative ambiance to honor the sanctity of reading. Use headphones if listening to audio, and keep voices low.

6. Visit the Powell’s Online Marketplace

After your visit, continue your Powell’s experience online. The store’s website hosts over 4 million titles from its inventory, many of which are exclusive to the physical location. You can search for books you saw in-store and have them shipped anywhere in the world. Online orders are fulfilled from the same warehouse as in-store stock, ensuring consistency.

7. Explore the Neighborhood

Powell’s is situated in the heart of Portland’s literary and cultural district. After your visit, consider walking to nearby attractions:

• Portland Art Museum: Just two blocks away, featuring Pacific Northwest art and global exhibitions
• Old Town Chinatown: Historic district with Asian-inspired architecture and restaurants
• Portland Saturday Market: Open weekends, offering handmade crafts and local food
• Skidmore Fountain and the Historic District: A scenic 10-minute stroll

8. Bring a Notebook or Journal

Many visitors keep a reading log or journal during their visit. Note down titles you discover, authors you want to follow, or quotes you find inspiring. This transforms your visit from a passive experience into an active literary journey.

9. Follow Powell’s on Social Media

Powell’s maintains an active presence on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, sharing daily book recommendations, behind-the-scenes staff picks, and upcoming events. Following them gives you real-time updates and inspiration for your next visit.

10. Return Often

Inventory at Powell’s changes daily. New shipments arrive, used books are added, and seasonal displays rotate. Even if you’ve visited once, returning within a few months will reveal entirely new discoveries. Many locals treat Powell’s like a second home, visiting weekly.

Tools and Resources

1. Powell’s Official Website: www.powells.com

The website is your primary resource for hours, events, online ordering, and store maps. It also features a searchable database of over 4 million titles, customer reviews, and curated reading lists.

2. Powell’s Mobile App

Available for iOS and Android, the Powell’s app allows you to:

• Search inventory in real time
• Receive push notifications about new arrivals and events
• Access digital coupons and loyalty rewards
• Save books to your wishlist
• Scan barcodes in-store to check prices and availability

The app syncs with your in-store account, so your saved books and preferences follow you across platforms.

3. Google Maps and Street View

Use Google Street View to virtually tour the exterior and entrance of Powell’s before you arrive. This helps orient you to the building’s layout and nearby landmarks. The store’s distinctive red awning and large windows are unmistakable.

4. Bookfinder.com

If you’re searching for a specific out-of-print or rare title, Bookfinder.com aggregates listings from Powell’s and over 100 other independent booksellers worldwide. Use it to compare prices and availability before you visit.

5. Goodreads

Join the Powell’s City of Books group on Goodreads to connect with other readers, share your finds, and get recommendations based on your reading history. The group hosts monthly reading challenges and virtual book clubs.

6. Portland Visitor Guide (City of Portland Official Site)

The city’s tourism portal offers curated itineraries that include Powell’s as a top attraction. Look for “Literary Portland” or “Book Lover’s Itinerary” for suggestions on pairing your visit with other literary sites like the Oregon Historical Society’s book exhibits or the Portland Public Library’s special collections.

7. Local Literary Podcasts

Listen to podcasts like “The Portland Book Review” or “Read Oregon” before your trip. These feature interviews with local authors, Powell’s staff picks, and deep dives into Pacific Northwest literature—adding context and excitement to your visit.

8. Library of Congress Catalog

If you’re researching a specific edition or verifying bibliographic details, the Library of Congress online catalog is a reliable tool. It helps identify first editions, print runs, and publication history—useful when navigating the White Room.

9. Local Book Blogs and Influencers

Follow Portland-based book bloggers such as “The Bookish Portlander” or “Reads in the Rain” for personal reviews and tips on navigating Powell’s. These voices often highlight lesser-known sections and seasonal displays not listed on official guides.

10. Powell’s Loyalty Program

Sign up for free at the information desk or online. Members receive:

• 10% discount on all purchases
• Early access to author events
• Exclusive monthly newsletters with curated reading lists
• Invitations to member-only book sales

Membership is instant and requires no fee. Bring your ID to register in-store.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Jamila, a college student from Atlanta, visited Powell’s during a solo trip to Portland. She arrived at 9:00 a.m., picked up a printed map, and started in the Red Room. She spent 45 minutes browsing fiction, picking up a copy of “The Overstory” by Richard Powers after seeing it on a “Staff Picks” table. She then wandered into the Green Room, where she found a 1972 edition of “Silent Spring” in excellent condition. At lunch, she ate at the Book Café and read half of her new book. By 3:00 p.m., she had purchased five books and used her trade-in credit to offset the cost. “I didn’t know I’d fall in love with a bookstore,” she wrote in her journal. “It felt like walking through a living library.”

Example 2: The Collector

Robert, a retired librarian from Chicago, visited Powell’s to find first editions of 19th-century American poets. He spent two days in the White Room, working with a rare books specialist to authenticate a 1855 printing of Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass.” He also acquired a signed copy of Emily Dickinson’s 1924 anthology. Robert documented his finds with photos and notes, later donating the Dickinson volume to his local university library. “Powell’s doesn’t just sell books,” he said. “It preserves them.”

Example 3: The Local

Maria, a Portland resident, visits Powell’s every Saturday. She trades in books she’s finished, buys one new title, and reads in the café. She’s participated in over 20 author events and has met several writers whose books she now teaches in her community writing workshops. “It’s not a store to me,” she says. “It’s a community center for people who think words matter.”

Example 4: The International Traveler

Luca, a teacher from Italy, visited Powell’s during a month-long U.S. road trip. He used the app to search for Italian translations of American classics and found a rare 1980s edition of “On the Road” in Italian. He bought it as a gift for his students. “I’ve seen bookstores in Paris, Tokyo, and London,” he said. “But none have the soul of Powell’s.”

FAQs

Is Powell’s City of Books open every day?

Yes, Powell’s is open seven days a week. Hours vary by season, so check the official website for current times. The store is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Can I bring my dog to Powell’s?

Service animals are welcome. Pets are not permitted inside the store due to the fragility of the inventory and the comfort of other visitors.

Do I need to pay to enter Powell’s?

No. Entry to Powell’s City of Books is completely free. You can browse, read, and explore without purchasing anything.

Can I return books purchased at Powell’s?

Yes. Powell’s accepts returns within 30 days with a receipt. Used books may be returned for store credit only. Refunds are processed in the original form of payment.

Are there restrooms in the store?

Yes. Restrooms are located on the second floor near the Book Café and on the ground floor near the Blue Room.

Can I take photos inside Powell’s?

Personal, non-commercial photography is allowed. Flash photography and tripods are prohibited. Avoid photographing other customers without permission.

Does Powell’s ship internationally?

Yes. Powell’s ships to over 100 countries. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout, and customs fees are the responsibility of the recipient.

How often does the inventory change?

Books are added and removed daily. The store receives hundreds of new used books each week and rotates displays seasonally. You’ll find something new every time you visit.

Are there children’s activities at Powell’s?

Yes. The Purple Room hosts weekly story hours for young children, and the store offers seasonal book fairs and writing workshops for teens. Check the events calendar for details.

Can I volunteer at Powell’s?

Yes. Powell’s welcomes volunteers for shelving, event support, and inventory sorting. Applications are accepted online through the “Get Involved” section of the website.

Conclusion

Visiting Powell’s City of Books is not merely a logistical task—it’s an emotional, intellectual, and sensory experience. It’s where the physicality of books, the passion of readers, and the soul of a city converge. Whether you’re seeking a rare first edition, a quiet corner to read, or simply the thrill of discovery, Powell’s delivers with unmatched depth and warmth.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate its vast corridors, understand its culture, and engage with its community. But the true magic of Powell’s lies beyond the steps and tips—it’s in the quiet moment when you pull a book from a shelf you never knew existed, open it to a random page, and find a sentence that changes how you see the world.

So plan your visit. Bring curiosity. Leave space for wonder. And remember: at Powell’s, every book has a story—and so do you.