Which are the best bookstores Toronto? Books have a way of transporting us to new worlds. For those who love the written word, Toronto offers a treasure trove of bookstores. Each of the bookstores has a unique charm and personality. Whether you are exploring the aisles of the biggest bookstore in Toronto or uncovering an obscured gem in a cozy neighborhood, the city has something for every bibliophile. Let us take a literary journey through some of the best bookstores in Toronto, where stories come to life on every shelf.
Indigo Bookstore Toronto
In the heart of Yorkville, Indigo stands tall as a beacon for book lovers. As the largest bookstore in Toronto, it is more than just a place to buy books; it’s a sanctuary for readers. Imagine stepping inside and being surrounded by walls lined with books of every genre, from the latest bestsellers to timeless classics. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with cozy reading nooks where you can lose yourself in a story. Indigo is not just about books; it’s an experience. You’ll find a curated selection of gifts, stationery, and lifestyle products that make it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
- Location: 55 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M4W 1A5
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 10 AM – 9 PM, Sun 11 AM – 7 PM
Queen Books: The Heart of Leslieville
Tucked away in the vibrant Leslieville neighborhood, Queen Books feels like a community’s living room. Opened in 2017, this independent bookstore is a labor of love, shaped by the eclectic tastes of its patrons. The store’s founders envisioned a space that would be more than just a place to purchase books. It’s a gathering spot where the community comes together, and where stories and ideas are shared.
Their carefully curated selection includes contemporary fiction, non-fiction, art books, and a fantastic children’s section. Picture yourself browsing through their thoughtfully arranged shelves, where every book seems to have been chosen with care. The children’s section is particularly delightful, filled with colorful books that spark imagination and joy. It’s a place where young readers can discover the magic of stories and where parents can find the perfect book to share with their kids.
- Location: 914 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1J5
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 10 AM – 6 PM
Type Books: A Local Favorite Across the City
With three locations spread across Toronto, Type Books has become a beloved spot for the city’s literary community. Each store has its unique vibe, but they all share a commitment to offering a diverse and carefully curated selection of books. The Queen West location, with its artsy, vibrant atmosphere, is particularly popular among locals.
Specializing in non-fiction, new releases, cookbooks, and children’s literature, Type Books provides an excellent array of titles that make perfect gifts for friends and loved ones. The staff is known for their expertise and passion, often recommending hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller or a unique gift, Type Books has something for everyone.
- Location: 883 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G5
- Opening Hours: Mon-Wed 10 AM – 6 PM, Thu-Sat 10 AM- 7 PM, Sun 11 AM – 6 PM
Bakka-Phoenix Books: A Fantasy Enthusiast’s Dream
Bakka-Phoenix is more than just a bookstore; it’s a piece of Toronto’s literary history. As the oldest science fiction and fantasy specialty bookstore in the world, it has been a cornerstone of the city’s literary scene since 1972. For fans of speculative fiction, this store is a treasure trove. The shelves are filled with titles that span the full spectrum of science fiction and fantasy, from classic novels to the latest releases.
The atmosphere in Bakka-Phoenix is electric, buzzing with the excitement of discovering new worlds through the pages of a book. The store is also a hub for the local sci-fi and fantasy community, regularly hosting author events and book launches. It’s a place where fans can come together to celebrate their shared love of the genre.
- Location: 84 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G5
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11 AM – 7 PM, Sat-Sun 12 PM – 5 PM
Glad Day Bookshop: A Beacon for LGBTQ+ Literature
Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ community, Glad Day Bookshop is the world’s oldest queer bookstore. Since its founding in 1970, it has been a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape, offering a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. The store’s shelves are filled with a diverse range of books that reflect the richness of queer literature, from contemporary novels to historical accounts, poetry, and graphic novels.
Glad Day is more than just a bookstore; it’s a cultural hub. The store regularly hosts events, readings, and performances that celebrate LGBTQ+ voices and stories. It’s a place where people can come together to explore their identities, share their experiences, and find support. The sense of community here is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature.
- Location: 499 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C6
- Opening Hours: Mon- Closed, Tuesday 4 PM – 9 PM, Wed-Thu 11 AM – 7 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM – 12 AM, Sun 11 AM – 9 PM
Seekers Books: A Sanctuary for the Soul
Seekers Books is a place where the spiritual and the literary meet. Established in 1988, this independent bookstore offers a wide array of titles focused on spirituality, philosophy, and esoteric subjects. The store has a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere, making it the perfect place to explore books that nourish both the mind and the soul.
The shelves at Seekers are filled with rare and used books, many of which are difficult to find elsewhere. The store’s focus on spirituality and esoteric subjects makes it a unique destination for those interested in exploring the deeper mysteries of life. Whether you’re looking for a book on meditation, ancient philosophy, or a rare spiritual text, Seekers is the place to find it.
- Location: 509 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y2
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 12 PM – 9 PM
Balfour Books: A Hidden Gem for Second-Hand Treasures
Located on College Street, Balfour Books is an obscure gem that offers a curated selection of second-hand books. The store’s charm lies in its carefully chosen collection, which spans a wide range of genres including poetry, fiction, art, and architecture. Walking into Balfour feels like stepping into a literary treasure trove, where every book has a story waiting to be discovered.
The cozy, intimate atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for an afternoon of browsing. Whether you’re searching for a classic novel, a rare art book, or a unique gift, Balfour is sure to have something that catches your eye.
- Location: 468 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1A1
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 12 PM – 6 PM
Ben McNally Books: A Sophisticated Retreat for Book Lovers
Ben McNally Books is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful bookstores in Toronto. Located in the downtown core, this elegant store specializes in high-quality literature, with a focus on new releases, biographies, history, and poetry. The store’s sophisticated atmosphere makes it a popular destination for discerning readers.
Ben McNally’s interior is a testament to the beauty of books, with carefully arranged shelves and an inviting, cozy ambiance. The store’s knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations, making it easy to find the perfect book, whether you’re shopping for yourself or a gift.
- Location: 108 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1S4
- Opening Hours: Tue-Fri 10 AM – 5 PM, Sat-Mon Closed
The Monkey’s Paw: A Treasure Trove of the Unusual and Obscure
For those who love the strange and unusual, The Monkey’s Paw is a must-visit. This quirky bookstore specializes in rare and obscure books, with a focus on 20th-century visual culture, obsolete technologies, and peculiar topics. The store is also home to the Biblio-Mat, the world’s first randomizing vending machine for old books, which adds an element of surprise to your book-shopping experience.
Walking into The Monkey’s Paw is like stepping into a cabinet of curiosities, where every book is a potential discovery. It’s a place for readers with a taste for the unconventional, where you never know what hidden gem you might find.
- Location: 1067 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1M5
- Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 11 AM – 6 PM, Sun 12 PM – 5 PM, Mon Closed
FAQs
Ben McNally Books is often lauded as the most beautiful bookstore in Toronto, with its classic design and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Indigo in Yorkville boasts the largest collection of books in Toronto, offering a vast selection across all genres.
The regular opening times for bookstores in Toronto** can vary depending on the specific location. However, most independent bookstores in Toronto typically operate within these general hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM
Sunday: 12 PM to 5 PM or 6 PM
Notable exceptions include larger chains like Indigo, which often have extended hours, especially in downtown locations, where they may remain open until 9 PM or later during weekdays.
