Vroman's is the place we come to browse before a movie at the Landmark theater next door. Today I…read morehad fun taking pictures of a comical kitchen towel, a wooden plaque, and a clever bookend. It was packed with happy shoppers. They must change the window displays every month or two because they're always different: folktales, everything to do with cooking, and a best dressed section. Worth checking out! Highly recommend!

I visited Vroman's Bookstore during a girls trip to Pasadena, and it turned out to be such a fun…read moresurprise. We initially expected a typical bookstore, but it's so much more than that. As one of the oldest independent bookstores in California, it has a really special charm. Inside, there's a wine bar, a coffee shop, and even a cute gift shop upstairs, which makes it easy to spend a lot of time browsing and relaxing. While I was there, I got to listen to an author present her book and answer questions, which added such a unique and memorable touch to the visit. The store was busy, and you could really feel how much people enjoyed being there. The layout is well organized, making it easy to find books by genre. Upstairs, there's a spacious children's section, which is great for families. I also loved the section featuring Orson Welles books and posters. It was a really cool and unexpected addition. Overall, Vroman's is more than just a bookstore as it's an experience. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!

A gem! So happy we…read morestumbled upon Book Alley after brunch. It looks small from the street view, but it's a whole treat as soon as you step in. Upon entering you see a cool collection of records and CDs. They also have a wonderful selection of books and friendly staff. I could spend forever getting lost in this place.

Book Alley is a cool place to browse if you love books and records. They have a great mix of new…read moreand used books, and it's the kind of bookstore where you can easily lose track of time wandering the shelves. The staff on the floor are engaging and genuinely helpful when you're searching for a particular find. That said, my experience selling books was disappointing. The process felt impersonal, and the seller/owner was not particularly engaging. One example: I brought in a brand-new book that originally cost $40 and was offered only a $1 store credit. I understand used bookstores have to make a profit, but the experience left me feeling like my books would have been better off in a friend's library. Great place to browse and buy, but I would lower expectations if you're planning to sell.

Walking into this place feels like stepping into another universe -- one made entirely of stories,…read morehistory, and quiet magic. The moment you walk through the door, you're surrounded by towering shelves and beautiful, chaotic stacks of books that feel lovingly curated rather than cluttered. It's the kind of space where time slows down and you forget about your phone because you're too busy discovering something unexpected. Every corner feels alive. The warm lighting, the golden walls, the endless spines of books -- it's cozy, nostalgic, and deeply comforting. You don't just shop here; you explore. And the owner? Truly an angel. Kind, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable. You can feel how much heart and soul they've poured into this space. They don't just sell books -- they share stories, recommendations, and genuine warmth. The customer service alone makes you want to come back again and again. If you love books, hidden gems, or places with real character, this is one of those rare magical spots that reminds you why independent shops matter. I'll be thinking about this place for a long time.

There is no other bookstore quite like Century Books, the owners Judith and Steve are some of the…read moremost wholesome people I have been fortunate to meet. Me and my partner love to visit & chat with them about books, plays, and other things while looking around and they are so accommodating, it almost feels like we are their guests in their home. More than reasonable prices and have plenty to choose from.

Lots of books. A few records. Friendly service. Things are kinda in disarray but that adds…read morecharacter to the store. Decently priced. The guy at his desk is friendly. And they do take credit cards!

What a great introduction to Pasadena. First time in town, I stumbled across this store. Love the…read morewhole vibe of the store. The selection is great and found some rarities from the few sections I was able to look through. It's refreshing to find used bookstores like this. Wish I had more time to look through. I will be coming back. The shop owner is very friendly as well!

I LOVE this store! It has a variety of used and new books set around the store in a beautiful…read moretwisting maze style. The store is covered with beautiful greenery and plants. There's also options to buy awesome shirts, vinyls, and even the plants! They have a vast selection of classics, modern fiction, fantasy and sci, and thrillers. They lack a little in the horror and romance section in my opinion but it was really fun looking around at everything they had to offer. This was such an amazing gem!

I stopped by here after breakfast on a Sunday. It was not planned but what caught my eye was the…read moreentrance that had vines covering the ceiling and walkway. It almost looks like a tree. There is a mix of used books and I ended up accidentally finding a star wars book for my godson. It was only 6 bucks and he loved it. It is so tranquil in here and there have merch in the front by the register. The people who work here are so friendly and willing to help you find various items.

What a spectacular bookstore. I never knew what it felt like to be part of the majority, and how…read morecomfortable it would be to look around and see characters like me looking back at me while browsing for books. I also love all the craft and craft adjacent things they have. I've always wanted to try cross stitch, and now I have a new sampler to try out and a sticker which is amazing.

My go-to spot for books when I'm home in 'Dena! Octavia's Bookshelf has a curated selection of…read moreBlack authors and stories, plus a free book corner and a cozy spot for reading. You can easily order books they don't have in stock. The store also has fun accessories, trinkets, and gifts--perfect for adults and kids. It's has a welcoming, community vibe. A superior alternative to Amazon and a wonderful way to support a local Black-owned business.

Walking into The Last Bookstore feels less like entering a shop and more like stepping into a…read moredifferent world. Housed inside a former bank, the space already carries this grand, historic energy that sets the tone before you even start browsing. What makes this place unforgettable is how it's designed to be explored, not rushed. There are cozy spots scattered throughout where you can sit and get lost in a book, but the real magic is upstairs. It opens into a maze of rooms, each with its own personality, filled with carefully arranged books that feel more like art than inventory. At times, it genuinely feels like you've wandered into a dream. One of the highlights is the famous tunnel of books, which adds to that surreal, almost cinematic experience. Everywhere you turn, books are used as decor in the most creative ways, and it creates this quiet moment where everything else fades out. Upstairs also holds one of my favorite parts, a row of art studios featuring work from local artists. Every piece feels intentional, unique, and thoughtfully placed. Right nearby, there's a small coffee shop surrounded by beautiful artwork, making it an easy place to pause and take it all in. This isn't a quick stop kind of place. Plan to spend a few hours here, wandering, discovering, and just enjoying the atmosphere. It's one of the most iconic bookstores I've ever been to, and it absolutely lives up to the reputation.

from my experience, the last bookstore is one of those places that, if you've seen it on instagram,…read moreyou already know the one. it's definitely more of a destination than a practical bookstore you'd go to shop at. my instagram feed has seen a few cameos from friends and strangers who've visited, and after seeing it pop up a few times, a friend and i decided to stop by a little while back. that said, i wouldn't really recommend it if you're going in search of a specific book. it's less "grab a book and go" and more "wander and hope something finds you." everything feels pretty scattered, so if you are looking for something in particular, be ready to spend a good amount of time browsing. it does get unbelievably hot inside, especially when the weekend crowds pick up for photos in the iconic book tunnels, shelves, and art installations upstairs. it's definitely a unique shop, but it really leans more "experience" than "practical bookstore." it feels a bit like a bookstore where the real plot is the decor, and the books are almost supporting characters in their own store. i did find it funny how they call out shoplifters with signs outside the entrance though. i've been once, took my photos (bc duh), checked it off the list, and happily moved on.

Alexandria Bookstore is one of those rare places that feels magical the moment you walk in. The…read moreselection is thoughtfully curated, with everything from spiritual and metaphysical books to unique gifts and meaningful finds you don't see everywhere else. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and full of character. You can take your time browsing without feeling rushed, and there's something about the energy of the space that feels grounding and inspiring at the same time. The staff is kind, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful if you're looking for something specific or just exploring. It's the kind of bookstore you leave feeling a little lighter and more connected. A true Pasadena treasure. I always find something meaningful here.

I was in the area and did a search for a metaphysical shop and Yelp pointed me to Alexandria II and…read moreit did not disappoint. I went looking for some smokey quartz and left with not only that but also several pieces of jewelry, a book, a tarot deck and a few other odds and ends. When I tell you I was like a kid in a candy store I'm not exaggerating. Service was a little off at first but in the end I was able to get help looking at some jewelry in a locked case. Will definitely be back.

Such an amazing bookstore, with great selection of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled and indie author…read moreselection. Some of the best book selection I've seen across many bookstores I've visited. Amazing resource for queer trans and neurodivergent readers. One of very few resources of this nature in the San Gabriel Valley.

This store is a nice little indie bookstore. Pleasant atmosphere in which to shop. Good selection.read more

We've visited this amazing rare book store twice and magically have walked out with an item each…read moretime. If you're an avid book collector or have a great interest in books from collection or historical perspective. This is a must go to place to browse their selection or check out their catalogue online. They have an impressive collection of first editions, signed editions and collector worthy inventory. For pieces you can also work with them to custom make book holders to protect your investment. Staff is super knowledgeable about their product in answering your questions and allowing you to view the books.

Fantastic, trustworthy. I worked with them on selling a book. They were great to work with.read more