"Powell’s City of Books downtown may get the spotlight, and all the tourists, but don’t sleep on the independent bookseller’s Hawthorne location. It’s much bigger than it looks from the storefront, with over 200,000 new and used books, plus games and gifts. Handwritten staff recommendations dot the shelves, great for finding a new favorite author or two. And a book store wouldn’t be complete without a coffee corner, a little reading space." - Kevin M. Fitzgerald
"A large independent bookstore in Portland that maintains a longstanding position against censoring titles: it will keep the books in inventory for customers to decide but has no plans to promote the works." - Daniela Galarza
Anthony Bourdain’s Books Are Selling Out and Topping Charts | Eater
"The Portland bookstore sold out of copies on its sales floor amid the posthumous surge in interest for Kitchen Confidential, though staff said additional stock would be brought in from the warehouse." - Daniela Galarza
"One of the largest independent bookstores in the world where visitors can easily spend a whole day (or more) browsing the expansive selection across many genres." - Trav
I visited on a recent trip to Portland. It’s awesome. Can’t say enough a good about it. I took my granddaughter. She had a ball.
Laine
Google
Perfect pit stop at PDX to browse and pick up a book before flying off for a vacation! Already looking forward to reading my new book on Kaua’i.
T N
Google
Considering the location, it still feels like a Powell's. But doesn't have that many used books
A. Kristine
Google
Great selection of books for such a small location, there's also a kiosk for travelers past security with a more limited selection. The staff is very helpful, each knowledgeable in their own area, they're not pushy and love to hear about your latest great read. They also have a good amount of kids books and an assortment of toys, gifts, and puppets. It's like the sample size of the larger store downtown, Powell's City of Books.
Magnus Rashid
Google
My girlfriend and I spent a few days eating and drinking our way through Portland and without a doubt my favourite time was spent in Powell's. Its selection of new and used books is utterly impressive, it out compete Indigo, yet offers the homey feel of your neighbourhood bookstore. The staff are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. There are a lot of little additions like "staff picks" that include little write ups that really add to the whole experience. I spent close to 3 hours here and could have stayed another 3. If you have that book that you've been looking for, but just can't seem to find I would make a wager that Powell's will have it. GO VISIT YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT!
David Dixon
Google
This is a fantastic place to stop and pick up a book or two before your trip. Downside, it is behind security. However, this only applies if you were picking someone up from the airport or dropping them off, and there are the Nike or Columbia stores you can entertain yourself in while you wait.
Selection is very good for an airport book store, and you are supporting a local shop. You can feel good all around as you purchase your guilty pleasure magazine.
Katherine Shields
Google
The Portland airport restricts pricing to normal everyday pricing. You can have a very enjoyable stroll through a premier bookstore with lots of cool nick-nacks and know if you're getting souvenirs between flights, you're still getting a good price and they carry really eclectic interesting things. Be prepared for Sasquatch and unicorns!
Blair Ellsworth
Google
A welcome stop while traveling, either on the way out, or just before heading home. While it isn't Powell's flagship store, it does have its own quirky charm, and they do a good job providing a variety of books in a small space.
If you can't make it to any other Powell's store while in Portland, this will do in a pinch.