The New York Literary Day Trip Leads to 7 Incredible Bookstores and Libraries

To find the best bookstores and libraries in a state, you might have to drive a good distance unless, of course, you live in the largest city in the United States. Then it's entirely possible to put together an incredible New York literary road trip without even leaving Manhattan. And that's exactly what we did, spotlighting seven of the city's best spots for bibliophiles. This literary road trip itinerary covers about four miles, from upper Midtown to the East Village, and has a little something for everyone - massive bookstores, historic libraries, and even a little taste of Japan. You can drive it, use public transport, or even walk it, but no matter how you explore the city's best bookstores and libraries, you're bound to find something you'll want to read again and again.

New York's Best Literary Road Trip

With seven stops over around 50 blocks in Manhattan, this is an ideal all-day adventure. Of course, depending on how much you find to explore at each spot, you might want to budget even longer.

1. Argosy Book Store

Likely the tallest bookstore in Manhattan, Argosy Book Store has a whopping six floors to explore. This family-owned gem is found in a converted townhouse and is known not just for its massive collection of books but also for its unique and historic items, including celebrity autographs and vintage maps. This is a frequent celebrity haunt, and the old-fashioned bookstore feels like a movie set, complete with a lot of hidden enclaves to sit and read.

2. Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

Quite possibly the most famous library in the world, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is the flagship location of the New York Public Library. While it's only one of many branches in the city, this one is an architectural marvel. The library has dozens of rooms, including rare book reading spots, but it also doubles as a mini-museum. There are rotating exhibits about the history of the city, as well as permanent exhibitions, including the original stuffed toys that inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh franchise.

3. Kinokuniya New York

One of my favorite spots in the city, Kinokuniya New York is the state's largest Japanese bookstore, a spectacular temple of translated books, Japanese literature, and a staggering collection of manga both popular and rare. It's a great place to spend a few hours, especially since this location has an upstairs cafe, Cafe Zaiya, offering Japanese snacks and even hot food.

4. Rizzoli Bookstore

Hidden in the Flatiron District, Rizzoli is a true gem known for its elegant atmosphere and eclectic selection. Founded in 1964, this independent bookstore has a great selection of New York-themed books you can't find anywhere else, as well as the city's best selection of art, fashion, and photography books put out by the in-house publisher.

5. Strand Book Store

Home to more than 2.5 million books, The Strand is one of the most iconic bookstores in the world. This sprawling, multi-floor institution is a few blocks from Union Square and is the kind of place you can get lost in. There are dozens of sections to explore, with a staggering selection of new and used books. There's even a program called "Books by the Foot" that will provide aesthetic books for your bookcase. And it's only feet from your next stop...

6. Forbidden Planet

For comic book fans, Forbidden Planet is the city's closest thing to heaven. While Midtown Comics may be the favored choice for Wednesday Warriors looking for the latest release, this institution is acclaimed for its wide selection of independent and older comics, as well as a fantastic assortment of collectibles. It moved to a larger location about a decade ago, and every inch of it is worth exploring.

7. Book Club Bar

Located in the East Village, Book Club Bar is the best of three worlds. It's a small independent bookstore, a coffee shop, and a boutique cocktail bar serving a selection of beers, wines, and specialty cocktails themed to books. It feels like a little slice of paradise for book lovers, who can now read and drink the night away.

What are your favorite bookstores and libraries in New York? Share this article with a friend and create your own New York literary road trip! If you're beat after a late night at the Book Club Bar, consider checking into The Standard East Village, which is only a short walk from the bar and gets rave reviews.