BLACK FRIDAY: Save up to $1,322 on our trips! Limited spots. Book Now.

Denver, the creative capital of Colorado is scattered with independent bookstores catering for cultural crowds, inquisitive students, casual readers and hardcore literature lovers. Read ahead for our guide to the best bookshops in Denver, as we explore the shops offering the best page-turners and warmest atmospheres in the city.

Books I

The Tattered Cover

The Tattered Cover is an iconic, highly-praised bookshop chain of the city, boasting four popular locations in the area. The store sells mainly new titles, but book aficionados can find some new releases here along with a variety of genres and a large collection of writers. A café here serves fresh bagels and sweet treats along with Tattered Cover Blend coffee and freshly brewed tea from Vail Mountain Roasters. The large seating area with comfy chairs creates a great space in which to recline and relax with a good read.
Address and Telephone: The Tattered Cover, 1628 16th St Denver, CO 80202 303-436-1070

The interior of the large selection of the Tattered Cover’s bookstore, complete with comfy sofas I

BookBar

The concept of mixing a bookstore with wine just might be genius, and is an idea Book Bar executes very successfully. This is an independent bookstore, located in the Tennyson Street art district, offering avid readers a wine bar and culinary treats to accompany their novels. It’s a top spot in which to sip on a glass of wine whilst enjoying a bestseller, and a great place to meet with friends for a group book discussion. Literary events are often hosted here, and there is a children’s room, middle grade area and young adult section to cater for the specific needs of individuals. Customers can also find daily happy hours, such as the Monday-Friday $2 off all wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres deal from 4pm-6pm.
Addres and Telephone: BookBar, 4280 Tennyson St Denver, CO 80212 720-443-2227

A panoramic view of BookBar. I

Printed Page Bookshop

The Printed Page Bookshop is a hidden gem of Denver offering a large selection of vintage books and hardbound covers. And what makes this shop standout from the crowd is the history packed within its shelves; some books and manuscripts here date back to the 16th century. First editions and literary rarities are common here too, a factor which elevates The Printed Page as the top spot in which to source limited and unique book collections in Denver. Customers can also find new titles here along with a large mystery and children’s book section, and the warm, inviting atmosphere creates the perfect setting for some leisurely browsing.
Address and Telephone: Printed Page Bookshop, 1416 S Broadway Denver, CO 80210 303-777-7653

Old leather-bound books like the rarities sold at the Printed Page bookshop I

Capitol Hill Books

Capitol Hill doesn’t fall short on service, and utilizes a large variety of used materials to create a one-of-a-kind book browsing experience. Hanging charmingly in each section here is a list of book suggestions, featuring award-winning titles and lesser-known books from every genre. Science fiction and fantasy fans will be occupied for days here, and hours can be spent diving through the piles of assorted and towering books dotted around the place, with cute little nooks inviting customers to sit and read at any time. A venue with a strong link to its city, Capitol Hill staunchly supports its community with a local author section, and the profits of its discounted books go to a selection of charity organizations across the area. The budget-friendly shop also gives a great discount for teachers.
Address and Telephone: Capitol Hill Books, 300 E Colfax Ave Denver, CO 80203 303-837-0700

City Stacks Books and Coffee

It’s hard to walk away from this venue without a handful of paperbacks, since City Stack’s book selection is large, varied and brimming with the best of fiction and non-fiction. The cozy environment here is complemented by the quaint espresso bar and coffee counter, perfect for purchasing a creamy cappuccino whilst perusing a favorite title. City Stack also sell literary themed t-shirts, totes and other gifts, and boast a fabulous kids section catering to children of all ages. With helpful and kind staff always ready with a smile to dispense their literary expertise, a visit here is well worth your time whilst in Denver.
Address and Telephone: City Stacks Books and Coffee, 1743 Wazee St Ste 100 Denver, CO 80202 303-297-1440

If you click on a link in this story, we may earn affiliate revenue. All recommendations have been independently sourced by Culture Trip.
close-ad