Immerse yourself in Orlando’s local culture by exploring these independent bookstores.
If you’re a reader — or simply an explorer with a taste for finding local haunts — your vacation isn’t fully booked without visiting some of Orlando’s extraordinary independent bookstores. Chat with locals, explore authentic neighborhoods and support the community, all while discovering novel products, experiences and events unique to the Orlando locale.
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Writer’s Block Bookstore
Included in the top five finalists for Publisher Weekly’s 2024 Bookstore of the Year and Southern Living’s list of top bookstores to visit in Florida, this little store has made big waves. Along with espresso and an inviting atmosphere, Writer’s Block offers exciting events, from book clubs to family story times to author appearances, which sometimes include nationally recognized authors.
You’ll find the original Winter Park location along the brick, tree-shaded street of Park Avenue, across from Central Park and alongside boutiques and restaurants. Afterward, treat your-shelf to a coffee and a bite to eat: Barnie’s Coffee & Tea Co. is only a short walk away. Winter Park is about 25 minutes north of our entertainment districts.
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Park
Closer to Winter Garden? You’re in luck — Writer’s Block Bookstore now has a second, equally charming location along Plant Street, west of downtown Orlando and north of Walt Disney World® Resort.
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Garden
Authentic Books
At the intersection of reading and self-care is Authentic Books, which creates an immersive reading experience by incorporating all five senses. Choose one of three highly anticipated books, then pick a candle, drink/snack, self-care item and Spotify playlist — all of which are customized to the book you chose.
In May 2024, Authentic Books expanded from the digital to the physical world and opened an in-person bookstore in Orlando. The shop works the same as the website — grab a tote bag or box, pick a book, and then choose three more items. They also host an assortment of fun-themed workshops and events.
This elegant, unique bookstore is in Orlando’s Ivanhoe Village Main Street district near downtown. If you get hungry, you can pop over to the White Wolf Cafe, a gourmet bistro nearby.
Discover: Things to Do in Ivanhoe Village
Spiral Circle Bookstore & More
Spiral Circle Bookstore & More is a metaphysical bookstore, standing out with its distinctive services: intuitive readings, crystals, tarot cards, alternative remedies — you name it. If you’re a spiritual booklover, you don’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind bookstore, which is part of downtown Orlando’s Thornton Park District.
Discover: Things to Do in Thornton Park
Before you leave the area, book it to the drinks offered at Qreate Coffee Studio, or discover the culinary and nightlife scenes in Thornton Park and neighboring downtown Main Street districts. From pho food to year-round Halloween-themed bars, this area has all kinds of treats and adventures.
Discover: Things to Do in Orlando Neighborhoods
Spellbound Bookstore
Looking for something farther north? Turn the page to Spellbound Bookstore; the friendly, enchanting atmosphere will draw you right in. If you’re bringing kids, there’s even a cozy corner just for children and tweens. This store offers frequent events and has a wide selection of new, surplus, and used books, as well as exceptional gifts.
Spellbound Bookstore is off First Street in downtown Sanford, about 35 minutes north of our entertainment districts. It’s situated near The Alley, a live music venue, as well as a variety of authentic restaurants and shops.
Maya Books & Music
In the same activity-filled downtown Sanford, just a short walk from Spellbound Bookstore, is Maya Books & Music. This is a captivating, 2-story used bookstore brimming with goodies: books, DVDs, CDs, vinyl records, antiques. The list could go on and on.
The vintage, eclectic store is addicting — with the number of treasures inside, you could end up wandering the shelves for hours. In fact, that’s the best way to do it.
White Rose Books & More
White Rose Books & More was founded in 2023 by two former school librarians who are passionate about intellectual freedom and supporting local schools. This shop is a community superstar — while still providing fun and unique products (seriously, they sell fruit loop candles).
Located in historic downtown Kissimmee near Walt Disney World, White Rose Books & More is nestled in with a collection of family-owned boutiques and restaurants, including the 1881 Restaurant & Bar. You’re bound to be enchanted by this bookstore and its surrounding area. Downtown Kissimmee also boasts a SunRail station, making it a breeze to get here from downtown Orlando, Winter Park and other points north.
Discover: Orlando SunRail Trips
Want to explore more local culture in Orlando? Check out these intimate live music venues.
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