Elliott Bay Bookstore is the best bookstore in Seattle, and one of the top 5 bookstores I've seen anywhere. Located in Pioneer Square, the big old brick building has creaky wooden floors, a cozy coffee shop downstairs, and a thoughtful selection of books that makes browsing there a delightful, all-afternoon affair. The outdoor book section (up in a loft) and the staff picks are especially impressive, as is the selection of national and local magazines. Used books are available as well as new ones, and there are often treasures to be found in the discount section, in another loft. The atmosphere is comfortable and invites browsing and reading, and there are author readings several times a week.
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