Strand Book Store (The Strand)

The Basics

A New York institution circa 1927, the Strand is located in what was known as "Book Row," named after the 40-plus bookshops that once crowded the area. The Strand is the lone survivor. Wander the store, browsing thematic sections, used, and out-of-print books, as well as a selection of vinyl, CDs, and DVDs. The staff are bibliophiles, so ask for assistance, and browse the staff-recommended tables. For hard-to-find works, visit the Rare Books Room upstairs.

Things to Know Before You Go

• As one of the top bookshops in NYC, the Strand is a pilgrimage for book-lovers.

• Browse the shop's collection of souvenirs and New York-themed merchandise.

• If you're looking for a deal, check out the discount bins outside where hundreds of books go for as little as $1.

How to Get There

Strand Book Store is located at the corner of 12th Street and Broadway in Greenwich Village and is best accessed by subway. It's a short walk from Union Square, which is a stop on several subway lines, including the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, and R. The bus is another option. The M14 runs crosstown on 14th Street, the M2 and M3 run downtown on 5th Avenue, and the M103 runs uptown, on 3rd Avenue.

When to Get There

The Strand is open daily, year-round with late evening hours, though the Rare Books room closes before the rest of the shop. The store gets busy around the holidays, so expect crowds. Call in advance to confirm store hours if you're visiting on a national holiday.

Visit the Kiosks

If you can't make it to the main Greenwich Village store, visit one of the Strand kiosks situated around New York City. There's one at Central Park another in Times Square. These mini-shops are a fun way to get a dose of literary culture on the go and pick up a few small souvenir items such as postcards or tote bags.

Ways to explore

A New York institution circa 1927, the Strand is located in what was known as "Book Row," named after the 40-plus bookshops that once crowded the area. Wander the store and browse thematic sections and out-of-print books, as well as a selection of vinyl, CDs, and DVDs. The staff are bibliophiles, so feel free to ask for assistance and browse the staff-recommended tables. For hard-to-find works, visit the Rare Books Room upstairs. If you’re looking for a deal, check out the discount bins outside, where hundreds of books are available for as low as US$1.

Accessibility

The bookstore is wheelchair accessible, with elevator access to the upper floors. Guests needing additional accessibility assistance can contact the store’s accessibility support team.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reading glasses, book wishlists, bag for toting books home

What to wear

Comfortable attire, layers, and sun protection are helpful when visiting New York, as the weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Not allowed

Food and drinks, pets

Amenities

Rare books room, café, restrooms

Address

Strand Book Store is located at the corner of 12th Street and Broadway in Greenwich Village and is best accessed by subway. There is a second location on Columbus Ave., as well as kiosks in Central Park and LaGuardia Airport.

Driving

You will find paid parking lots throughout New York’s Union Square neighborhood, though driving in the city can be challenging. Taxis and rideshare apps are a better bet if you don’t want to take public transportation.

Public transportation

It’s a short walk from Union Square, which is a stop on several subway lines, including the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, and R. The M14 bus runs crosstown on 14th Street, the M2 and M3 run downtown on 5th Avenue, and the M103 runs uptown on 3rd Avenue.

Best times to visit

The Strand is open daily, year-round. The main store has late evening hours, though the Rare Books room closes before the rest of the shop.

Best days to visit

Visiting on Monday through Thursday will provide a less crowded experience. The bookstore’s Union Square location can get quite crowded on weekends.

Best months to visit

The store gets busy around the summer and winter holidays, so expect crowds. Visiting between January and April typically provides a better experience.

Special events

The bookstore regularly hosts author events and book discussions that are open to the public.