What do you like to read? These favorite bookstores in Maryland have you covered.
As the colder months settle in, we can't think of anything better than cuddling up with a good book. While ordering books online has never been easier, it doesn't provide the same satisfaction as visiting a local bookstore. Thankfully, Maryland is chock-full of them! In addition to being booksellers, many of them offer creative spaces for the community like book clubs and writing workshops. The next time you need a new read, head over to any of these five Maryland bookstores.
Kensington Row Bookshop
ADDRESS: 3786 Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
We love independent bookstores, and Kensington Row Bookshop epitomizes what's so great about them. Their two-story shop contains a variety of used books, vintage newspapers, and much like an antique store, anything "unusual." They host events like poetry readings and philosophy clubs, as well as carry foreign-language books in their French and Catalan libraries. Just be sure to watch out for the "book elves" who notoriously mess with store staff and guests! (seriously, ask them). You can find their hours on their website.
Old Fox Books & Coffeehouse
ADDRESS: 35 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401
This quaint little shop feels more like someone's cozy living room than a bookstore. Located near the Naval Academy, they offer a curated selection of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry for all ages. Sink into one of their comfy chairs for an afternoon and grab some freshly-brewed Ceremony Coffee from the adjoining cafe. For little ones, storytime is held every first Friday of the month with none other than Frolic the Fox! Find their hours here.
Atomic Books
Address: 3620 Falls Road, Baltimore, MD 21211
Easily Baltimore's best-known bookstore, the Hampden neighborhood mainstay offers "Literary Finds for Mutated Minds." Browse new releases from indie presses and major publishers alike, along with their massive array of comics. Did we mention they have a bar? The Eightbar Lounge is located in the back of the store, so grab a beer after you finish shopping! (you can even get cracking on a book). Business hours, inventory, and more can be found on their website.
Second Story Books
ADDRESS: 12160 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 20852
Second Story Books is a true bibliophile's paradise. They rank among the biggest used bookstores around the world and sell rare, hard-to-find items. Their Rockville Warehouse store boasts half a million books of all genres, so it's safe to say that whatever you're looking for is probably available. In addition to books, they also carry vintage art prints and vinyl records. D.C. residents can swing by their Dupont Circle location, and both spots are accessible by the Metro Red Line. Interested in selling? Take a look at their website for more details.
Wonder Book & Video
ADDRESS: 1306 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21703
This Baltimore-Washington metro-area chain specializes in used and overstock books—over four million books are in circulation between their three locations! Along with books, they also sell DVDs, CDs, and video games. Their selection of rare items makes them a destination for collectors; book lovers can spend an entire afternoon (or day) browsing endless shelves of books. They also offer a "Book By The Foot" service that assembles the perfect book bundles. Find out more here.
**All photos courtesy of stores' Facebook pages
Which bookstores do you like to visit? Did we miss any? Let's hear your favorites in the comments!
