Posted in Iowa November 05, 2020 by

Find More Than 50,000 Rare, Antiquated and Vintage Books at The Haunted Bookshop, the Largest Discount Bookstore in Iowa

Iowa book lovers rejoice! A local gem in Iowa City definitely has something for everyone- as long as everyone has a love for puzzles, toys, and old-school books.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Sitting on Gilbert Street in the Northside District is a gorgeous old house, built in 1847.
The Haunted Bookshop of Iowa City/Facebook
This property has always been known as The Wentz House, and it's had several owners over the years.
However, in 2013, it was purchased by a local legend - a bookstore known as The Haunted Bookshop.
The Haunted Bookshop of Iowa City/Facebook
Established in 1978, The Haunted Bookshop (probably) isn't actually haunted- it's just named after a book of the same name by author Christopher Morely.
It's awesome enough that they currently have over 50,000 books in 80 different sections, but it's also worth mentioning that the Haunted Bookshop has its own tour guides wandering the premises- a group of friendly felines.
The Haunted Bookshop of Iowa City/Facebook
The cats watch carefully as one browses the endless shelves, piles, and bins of books and puzzles.
Whether you're into old books or unopened puzzles, one will find something interesting here each time they visit.
The Haunted Bookshop of Iowa City/Facebook
Carrying over 300 new puzzles, the store usually buys books from local donors, however, there's an interesting catch: they don't buy new books. They deal exclusively in used, rare, and out-of-print titles that would otherwise be hard to find.
If tabletop gaming is your thing, The Haunted Bookstore has got your back!
The Haunted Bookshop of Iowa City/Facebook
Take your pick of a broad selection of adventurous tabletop and RPG games. This shop is a place where one's imagination can run wild.
The aisles of books seem absolutely endless, winding on forever with more choices than one could ever make in a lifetime.
The Haunted Bookshop
The Haunted Bookshop hosts events locally and also offers a literary "matchmaking" service- building custom book bundles for customers who describe their interests.
The bookshop also carries new toys, appealing to every age group.
The Haunted Bookshop
Thanks to the overwhelming number of things to browse through, visitors will find something to fall in love with each and every time they visit this historic building filled roof to floor with books and goodies.

If you’d like to take the virtual tour offered by The Haunted Bookshop, you can do so here. If you’d like to support this fantastic piece of Iowa history, you can check out their extensive inventory here.

Have you ever been to this Iowa landmark? Was it totally awesome? Let us know in the comments!

Address: 219 N Gilbert St, Iowa City, IA 52245, USA