Powell's City of Books

Powell's City of Books Review

The largest independent bookstore in the world, with more than 1.5 million new and used books, Powell's is a Portland landmark that can easily consume several hours. It's so big it has its own map, and rooms are color-coded according to the types of books, so you can find your way out again. Be sure to espy the pillar bearing signatures of prominent sci-fi authors who have passed through the store—the scrawls are protected by a jagged length of Plexiglas. At the very least, stop into Powell's for a peek or grab a cup of coffee at the adjoining branch of World Cup Coffee.