NYC for Book Lovers– A Bibliophile’s Guide to the Big Apple Tasmiah Rashid August 9, 2017 Destinations, Interests, New York This post was last updated October 13, 2023. New York City is for lovers…book lovers that is! This bustling metropolis is, was, and perhaps forever will be the home of many literary maestros and the setting of man masterpieces. With the sheer number of authors, poets, and story backdrops New York City has influenced and inspired, it’s no secret why this city is the destination for literature junkies of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for a wordsmith-driven pub crawl or you want to take a stroll through Central Park and soak in the statues of famed literati, check out our book lover’s guide to New York City. The Plaza Hotel The Plaza, New York City This posh and ritzy establishment has F. Scott Fitzgerald written all over it. The Plaza Hotel isn’t just the spot where Fitzgerald himself, along with his free-spirited wife, Zelda, frolicked through the fountain out front. It’s also a frequent setting within Fitzgerald’s most famous novel The Great Gatsby. It’s here where the book’s protagonist, rags-to-riches Jay Gatsby, spent much of his time trying to cement his social status and be a part of the 1920s most affluent and influential social circle. Edgar Allan Poe Cottage Poe Cottage, The Bronx Nestled in the heart of the Bronx stands a modest wooden farmhouse, a testament to the life of the legendary Edgar Allan Poe. This historic dwelling, where the acclaimed poet resided during the poignant last three years of his life from 1846 to 1849, dates back to 1812 and is fondly recognized as Poe Cottage. Amid its quaint and rustic ambience, Poe found solace and inspiration, crafting some of his most celebrated masterpieces. It was within these walls that he brought to life enduring classics like “The Cask of Amontillado”, “The Bells”, and the hauntingly beautiful “Annabel Lee”. The Algonquin Hotel Algonquin Hotel by Wally Gobetz licensed under CC BY-ND 4.0 Have you ever heard of The New Yorker magazine? (Insert eye roll and “duh” here.) Well, it was in the Algonquin, a 115-year-old boutique hotel, where the famous magazine gained the initial support and popularity that eventually led it to become a household name today. From 1919 to 1929, renowned poet Dorothy Parker held her famous Round Tables, named after those in the court of King Arthur. Regulars such as playwright George S. Kaufman, novelist Edna Ferber, writer Alexander Woolcott, and even Harpo Marx, as well as many other journalists, authors, publicists, and actors would gather to exchange ideas and witty banter over lunch. Minetta Tavern Minetta Tavern by Allision Meier licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Deed The Minetta Tavern was one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite watering holes. Located in Greenwich Village, this place was quite the hotspot for many famous writers and poets after opening its doors in 1937. The restaurant received its names from the paved-over and once flourishing Minetta Brook, which ran from Union Square to the Hudson River. If that doesn’t make you want to visit, maybe knowing that Ezra Pound, Eugene O’Neill, E.E. Cummings, Dylan Thomas, and Joe Gould are just a few of the other perennial patrons of this quaint tavern will convince you. White Horse Tavern [Above image “White Horse Tavern” by Eden, Janine and Jim on Flickr – licensed under CC by 2.0 Deed]Famed poet Dylan Thomas spent much of the last 18 months of his life at the White Horse Tavern in Greenwich Village. Legend has it that Thomas literally drank himself to death here, as just a few days before his passing he left this place with roughly 18 whiskeys in his system. The White Horse Tavern was also the birthplace of The Village Voice, a sadly now defunct NYC culture paper, and was a beloved meeting place for other famous authors such as Jack Kerouac, Hunter S. Thompson, and Edith Wharton. Central Park [Above image “Central Park Carousel” by slgckgc via Flickr – licensed under CC by 2.0]This is a slightly different scene from the mini pub crawl we’ve just been on, but if you’re looking for a literary fix while also catching a breeze and serene views, Central Park is your go-to spot. There are two particular places on the premises that have immense literary significance. First is the carousel. In J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, there’s only one place where the novel’s protagonist, Holden, declares himself to be truly happy. That place is this carousel. Holden takes his sister Phoebe here at the end of the book. Then there’s the famed Literary Walk, known for its iconic line of statues commemorating renowned writers. It’s a veritable haven for literature enthusiasts. Amidst elm trees, visitors encounter tributes to William Shakespeare, Scottish poet Robert Burns, Scottish novelist Sir Walter Scott, and more, embodying the park’s blend of nature’s tranquility with the rich tapestry of literary history. Morgan Library Ceiling at the Morgan Library The Morgan Library, once the private domain of the esteemed financier John Pierpont Morgan, is a cornerstone of New York City‘s literary and artistic heritage. Nestled in Midtown Manhattan, this Italian Renaissance-inspired marvel not only served as Morgan’s residence but also as the repository for his exquisite collection. Among its treasures are illuminated manuscripts, early printed books, Old Master drawings, and letters from famed authors. J.P. Morgan’s voracious appetite for collecting led to acquisitions of invaluable items, including a Gutenberg Bible and manuscripts by Dickens and Austen. After Morgan’s passing, his son, recognizing the cultural significance of these collections, transformed the building into a public institution. Today, visitors are captivated by the towering 30-foot walls adorned with thousands of books and punctuated by world-class art, making it a mecca for both book enthusiasts and art lovers. The Strand [Above image “Strand Books” by Tyler Merbler on Flickr – licensed under CC by 2.0 Deed]Ah, the Strand, an iconic literary landmark nestled in Union Square. With its rich history tracing back to 1927, the Strand stands as a testament to New York City’s vibrant literary culture. The Strand is not just a bookstore; it’s an institution. Stretching over 18 miles, its shelves house approximately 2.5 million books, a mesmerizing mix of contemporary bestsellers, vintage treasures, and rare gems. Delve into its unique Rare Book Room, and you’ll discover centuries-old tomes and signed first editions. The bottom floor, a haven for thrifty bibliophiles, brims with bargain deals. Beyond just books, the Strand regularly hosts author events, panel discussions, and readings, making it a hub for the city’s literary community. Family-owned and staunchly independent, this Union Square mainstay, positioned at the juncture of 12th Street and Broadway, beckons every book lover with its promise of endless discoveries. The New York Public Library — Schwarzman Branch The New York Public Library — Schwarzman Branch The New York Public Library system is undeniably among the world’s elite, and the Stephen A. Schwarzman building on Fifth Avenue stands as its crown jewel. Designated as a National Historical Landmark, the building exudes grandeur, from its opulent furniture to the meticulous architectural details, making it an unmissable spot for literary enthusiasts visiting New York City. This branch proudly boasts an unparalleled collection of books for a public library. Yet, its treasures extend beyond the written word. The library safeguards rare artifacts like an original draft of the Bill of Rights and the beloved original Winnie the Pooh collection of stuffed animals that inspired A.A. Milne’s timeless tales. History buffs will be enthralled by the historical atlas that narrates over 400 years of New York’s evolution. And no visit is complete without stepping into the Rose Main Reading Room, another official landmark in itself. The building spans almost two city blocks, so make sure you set aside ample time to immerse yourself in the wonders of this monumental library. Book Club Bar Nestled in the heart of the East Village, within the eclectic Alphabet City neighborhood, lies the Book Club Bar—a charming fusion of literary haven and welcoming tavern. Drawing inspiration from classic bookshops and vintage lounges, the ambiance harks back to a bygone era, reminiscent of the salons where writers and artists would gather. Stepping inside feels akin to joining an intimate gathering, where the warm, familiar greeting seems to say, “Ah, you’re back!” The interior, mirroring a snug living room, beckons you with well-worn bookshelves and plush seating, enticing you to lose yourself in a novel while the city’s fervor fades away. Whether you’re sipping a craft beer, indulging in a freshly brewed coffee, or just basking in the sun on their vibrant patio, the Book Club Bar encapsulates the essence of community. A perfect retreat for solo readers, or a congenial spot for a group of friends—this is a literary oasis in the urban jungle. You May Also Enjoy: Dream Destinations for Lovers of Irish Literature The Drama Book Shop Photo courtesy of The Drama Book Shop Since its inception in 1917, the Drama Book Shop has held a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers, serving as a treasured hub for theater enthusiasts and professionals alike. In an era dominated by digital alternatives and corporate book giants, this shop has remained committed to its theater and film niche, providing an unmatched selection of scripts, screenplays, and related texts. However, like many iconic establishments, the Drama Book Shop has faced challenges. A combination of rising rents and external pressures led to its closure, leaving a void in the city’s cultural fabric. But in a turn of events fit for a Broadway plot, the store’s story took an uplifting twist. A consortium of investors, led by none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda—the multi-talented force behind the global sensation Hamilton—stepped in to resurrect this beloved institution. (Miranda had written much of his previous show, In the Heights, in the basement of the previous location, so the store holds a special place in his heart.) Thanks to their passion and vision, The Drama Book Shop found a new home on West 39th Street in Midtown Manhattan, just a block south of its previous location. Hey, bookworm! Know of a place we can add to the Big Apple’s literary guide? Let us know about it in the comments below!
