Search Literary Portland
This book-friendly city is home to an annual book festival and the world's largest independent bookstore.
Blame it on the rain … or maybe being home to the world’s largest independent new and used bookstore attracts both writers and readers. No matter the reason, there’s no denying that Portland loves its literature. Plan a book-lover’s holiday with these guides to the city’s literary offerings, then check out our events calendar to discover even more things to do on your next visit to Portland.
Know Before You Go
As of June 30, 2021, COVID restrictions have been lifted in Portland and the state of Oregon. While events are now allowed, some events may still be canceled, postponed or held virtually. Please check the event website for the most up-to-date information.
Bookstores and Reading Spots
Peruse thousands of titles at these local bookstores and cozy reading nooks.
Powell’s City of Books
Covering an entire city block, Powell’s has grown into a Portland landmark and the world's largest new and used bookstore — and its location is now at the heart of the city, bridging the Pearl District, downtown and the West End.
Portland Bookstores, Beyond Powell’s
Don't stop with the largest independent bookstore in the world; these seven other shops offer an abundance of literary riches.
Quiet Places Made for Reading
Pick up a winning read at one of Portland’s many independent bookstores and curl up in a cozy corner of one of these eight local coffee shops.
Lit in the Limelight
Well-crafted words on the page transformed into live literary adventures.
Live Storytelling Events in Portland
Hear true stories about love, sex, history, movies and even middle school at six regular live storytelling events in Portland.
Future Prairie: A Collective of Women and Queer Artists
Portland’s Future Prairie is a collective of women and queer artists that presents chautauqua-inspired live shows, as well as a podcast.
Tender Table
Portland’s Tender Table event series features performances and snacks by women and gender-nonbinary people of color.
Destinations for Book-Lovers
Grab your favorite book and head to these locally beloved reading spots around Portland.
Readings & Talks
Enjoy author talks and book discussions at these upcoming readings and talks in Portland.
UFO Festival
Every May, thousands of visitors flock to the city’s famous UFO Festival, featuring four days of parades, costume contests and expert speakers.
Portland Book Festival
Portland Book Festival (formerly “Wordstock”) returns every November with an impressive (and extensive) lineup of local and national authors.
TEDxPortland
TEDxPortland, the largest TEDx event in the world, celebrates its 10th anniversary. For its first time, the event heads to the Moda Center in North Portland (home of the city’s iconic NBA team, the Portland Trail Blazers). Enjoy a day of notable and inspirational speakers and peruse local food vendors and businesses at a pop-up…
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