The Bookstores of the Delaware River Towns

The streets of the River Towns along the Delaware are filled with artisanal shopping, amazing eateries, and antiques. They are also home to several awesome bookstores.

Growing up, bookstores were one of my favorite destinations (along with Blockbuster but we all know how that worked out). I know we now have cheaper and easier options like using a Kindle, Ipad, or smartphone. However, there is something about the smell of ink on paper and a feeling of nostalgia that holding and reading a book provides- so, chances are I will never make the digital switch.

Lucky for me there is no shortage of vastly unique bookshops throughout the River Towns.

Doylestown

The Doylestown Bookshop – The Doylestown Bookshop is one of the largest on our list. Their spacious bookstore offers a great selection that includes new releases and classics for all ages. They also have a great little coffee station and a wide selection of interesting gifts.

Booktenders’ Secret Garden Children’s Bookstore and Gallery – Owner Ellen Mager has operated the Booktenders’ Secret Garden Children’s Bookstore since 1983. She is known for having a knack for picking the perfect read for each child. It is also the oldest “Children Only” bookstore in the Tri-State area.

Central Books – Central Books on West State Street, is one of my favorite used bookstores in the area. They have a vast inventory of books of all genres. Seriously, stop by this gem and spend some time perusing an old favorite or a new read.

Flemington

Act 2 Books – Act 2 Books has a fantastic offering of relevant local publishings in addition to an amazing selection of used and rare books. They are also incredibly helpful in finding out of publish prints throughout their network.

Twice Told Tales / The Moonstone Mystery Book Store – This shop consists of side by side independent bookstores under the same ownership. They frequently host author readings and book launch parties.

Comic Fusion – Located in the Historic Turntable Junction area of Flemington, Comic Fusion has a wide inventory of comic books and graphic novels as well as collectibles and other memorabilia. They have almost nightly meetups throughout the week for a various array of different interests.

Frenchtown

The Book Garden – This is another personal favorite on the list. The Book Garden, on Bridge Street has an interesting feel, as you are basically walking into a home that has been laid out a book store. Don’t worry- it just adds to the charm in my opinion. They have an eclectic mix and host events weekly.

Lambertville

Panoply Books – Panoply Books has a mixture or rare publishings, records and other diverse merchandise. A visit is always interesting as you never know what you will end up flipping through. This is a great spot to visit even if it is just out of curiosity.

New Hope

Farley’s Bookshop – One of the best known on our list, Farley’s Bookshop has been in business since 1967. This book store has a wide selection and often organizes events featuring local writers. A must visit when spending visiting Main Street in New Hope.

Phantasm Comics – Also located on Main Street, Phantasm Comics boasts an enormous collection of comic books and graphic novels. Their constantly revolving inventory of memorabilia and collectibles is always fun to check out.

The book stores throughout the Delaware River Towns add a certain charm and appeal to the already beautiful area. The next time you find yourself in the area make sure to stop by and support them.