The Best Independent Bookstores In Las Vegas

The words ‘books’ and ‘Las Vegas’ don’t usually find themselves near each other, unless it’s referring to Hunter S. Thompson’s pinnacle work Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. However, you can find a flourishing literary community in the city if you know where to look. The city under rated arts and cultural scene is on the rise, and we bring you a list of bookstores in Las Vegas that every bibliophile should visit.

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Cat’s Curiosities

For those with a taste for anything antique, Cat’s Curiosities is the place to go. Located in the Charleston Antique Mall north of the Las Vegas Strip, the little vintage shop specializes in antiques of all kinds, including books, clothing, and vinyl records. Its book selection is limited compared to the inventory of clothing and accessories, but it’s likely you will find something interesting inside this little shop.

Anyone on the lookout for stationery, paper products, figurines, or Asian-themed gifts will find what they need at the Great Wall Bookstore which is located in the heart of Chinatown, minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip. Open since 1995, Great Wall Books also sells CDs, books, DVDs and Hello Kitty merchandise. The store sells items in English and Chinese, with a heavier emphasis on the Chinese-language products.

Alternate Reality Comics

Alternate Reality Comics is the place to go for comic books of all kinds. Located in a shopping center next to the University of Nevada Las Vegas, this comic shop has thrived for over 20 years. Their inventory includes a wide array of comics and graphic novels, including toys. The staff at Alternate Reality are friendly and try to get to know every customer, whether it’s their first visit or they’re a regular. Its proximity to the Strip and its relaxed, fun atmosphere make Alternate Reality Comics a must-see on any comic fan’s to-do list.

Writer’s Block

Writer’s Block is one of the newest additions to the Las Vegas literary scene. Down the street from Downtown Container Park, the little bookshop shines among the casinos, law offices and convenience stores in the area. Offerings include classics, contemporary fiction, children’s books and non-fiction. A print lab in front of the shop gives staff the means to hand-print stationery and books, giving the place a unique, old-school charm. In addition to selling books, Writer’s Block hosts events and writing classes in the rear studio. Events include book signings, poetry readings and live entertainment.

Bauman Rare Books

It might be hard to believe there’s a bookstore on the Las Vegas Strip, but it’s true. Bauman Rare Books isn’t a mom-and-pop store like some of the other establishments on this list; Bauman deals primarily in rare and first editions. Located in the Grand Canal Shoppes inside the Venetian, Bauman offers its guests an experience unlike anything else in Las Vegas. The wood paneling and light fixtures give the shop an retro vibe, in a direct contrast to the constant buzz and glow of the hotel in which it resides. Bauman is worth visiting even if you don’t actually buy anything; prices for their inventory can range from $2,000 to $25,000 dollars depending on the item.

Psychic Eye

Those with an interest in the paranormal and the occult will want to visit Psychic Eye. Besides its tomes on voodoo, Santeria, herbology, and witchcraft, the store also sells related supplies such as candles and tarot cards. Psychic Eye also offers services like as tarot card readings and past-life regressions. With a location inside McCarran Airport, Psychic Eye is convenient for those who want a heads-up on how their trip to Las Vegas will go.

Dragon Castle Books

Comic lovers, Game of Thrones fans and Whovians will find something to love at Dragon Castle Books. The family-owned and operated store has been open for three years and sells books of all genres, but specializes in science fiction and graphic novels. Customers can swap and sell books at Dragon Castle as well; this practice makes the selection for purchase especially diverse. The current inventory includes everything from gun manuals to 1950s paperbacks.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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