A Local’s Guide to the Best Bookstores near Fort Worth

by

best bookshops book stores fort worth tx

There’s nothing like a local, independent bookstore. Whether a shop also hosts poetry events or doubles as a cafe, independent bookstores are pillars of the community.

Fort Worth has a few great bookshops, and you’ll also find large, niche bookshops in artsy Denton and upsized Dallas. Whether you’re hoping to find a new book and enjoy a drink with a friend or enjoy patio weather in the midst of a Texas “winter”, each of these bookstore provides a unique experience and a chance to connect to fellow readers.

Map of the Best Bookstores around Fort Worth

Best patio and tea selection— Leaves Book and Tea Shop

Pre-pandemic, Leaves Book and Tea Shop hosted poetry open mic events, which was one of my favorite things about going to Leaves. Currently, the shop offers virtual read-alouds and author panels, and ample patio seating for anyone hoping to catch up with a friend, sip some tea, and find a new read.

Given its central location, Leaves often partners with other local businesses for local events such as LitGoggle (a branch of Fort Worth’s annual ArtsGoggle) and the seasonal Merry on Main Street.

Storytime included — Monkey and Dog Books

Monkey & Dog Books started as a children’s bookshop, named after the owner’s kid’s two favorite stuffed animals. They’ve since expanded and moved locations, now centrally located in Fort Worth’s Cultural District and within walking distance to FW’s art museums.

The shop hosts book clubs for various age groups and genres and storytime for the kids every Tuesday and Friday at 10:30 AM. Stop in to find your new favorite read!

The best FW bookstore for literary events — The Dock Bookshop

The Dock Bookshop opened in 2008 and regularly hosts readings, events, and screenings. The bookshop is significant as one of the largest African American-owned independent bookstores in Texas and boasts a 4,000-square feet selection.

Whether you’re looking for non-fiction, fiction, or hoping to catch your favorite author on their book tour, your best bet in FW is The Dock Bookshop.

The best place to find used books — Half Price Books, Hulen

While not an independent bookstore, Half Price Books is the best place around to find your new favorite used book. Like a lot of bookstores, many of the employees are readers themselves and available to help you find what you’re looking for.

While FW has several HPB locations, Hulen is a little bit more central and IMO provides the best selection besides HPB’s Flagship Dallas location.

Best shop for scents — Patchouli Joe’s (Denton)

Patchouli Joe’s tagline is, “expand your mind, indulge your senses”, an apt description since they also sell candles, artwork, and have a fun, quirky vibe. You’ll find a solid selection of books and a central location right off of The Square.

With regular events such as CripPoetIX, children’s storytime, and author visits, Patchouli Joe’s is the best of Denton’s quirky, artsy, welcoming atmosphere.

The best bookstore to spend an afternoon in — Recycled Books (Denton)

Recycled Books is the kind of bookstore you can spend hours and hours in. Spread out across three floors and boasting half a million books, there’s no better place to find a new, used book if you’re around Denton’s Downtown Square. You’ll find a carefully organized section for every book you can imagine, including a Hot Ballooning section and a Circus/Carnival section.

Bonus: if you’re looking to find a Vinyl for you or a friend, Recycled Books also has a solid Record selection!

Deep Ellum’s Hidden Gem — Deep Vellum (Dallas)

Deep Vellum is an independent publisher that began in 2013, opening up its indie bookstore in Deep Ellum in 2015. Carrying both the books they’ve published and a curated selection, it’s a cute shop with a little bit of everything.

With both in-person and online literary events, there’s something for everyone.

  • Address: 3000 Commerce St. Dallas, TX 75226
  • Website: Deep Vellum

The best bookstore for a cocktail — The Wild Detectives (Dallas)

If you’re looking for a bookstore bar venue in Oak Cliff, look no further. With fun and unique literature infused cocktails, poetry, author, and musical events, and a curated book selection, The Wild Detectives is fun for bookworms. Our introvert selves might even stay for the event.