Vroman's Bookstore

Book store · Downtown

Vroman's Bookstore

Book store · Downtown

3

695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101

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Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
Vroman's Bookstore by null
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Highlights

Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena is a charming literary haven filled with an exceptional selection of books, gifts, and an inviting café, perfect for bookworms and casual readers alike.  

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695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Get directions

vromansbookstore.com
@vromansbookstore

$$

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695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Get directions

+1 626 449 5320
vromansbookstore.com
@vromansbookstore
𝕏
@vromans

$$

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Feb 19, 2025

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@onthegrid

"It's hard to find a bookstore these days- let alone a good one. Vroman's is a good one. Before you even walk through the door, you are faced with magazine wall stretching out and wrapping around walls to your left and right. Newspapers, independent magazines and the standards- its all here. Inside, two floors of books are waiting for you. People stand, perusing pages in every aisle. On every shelf is a thoughtful suggestion from a Vroman's staffer. There is even a Pasadena section if you are interested in learning more about the area." - OSSO

On the Grid : Vroman's Bookstore
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@afar

"Historic Vroman's Bookstore The historic Vroman’s Bookstore opened in 1894 and is still a favorite with the locals. Beyond their large selection of books, they still have an old-school newsstand, an excellent café, and a gift shoppe with home décor, locally made cards, and literary trinkets. The list of events they host includes lives music, book clubs, classes, story time for kids, and lots of guest lectures and book signings. My favorite thing about Vroman’s is how knowledgeable the staff is; hand-written employee reviews are shelved with the books, and they’re also happy to provide recommendations. Whether you’re shopping or looking for a place to get a snack and relax, Vroman’s is the place to be."

Wood grain pattern
L.A. Day Trip: Pasadena
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@onthegrid

"Vroman's Bookstore, Pasadena. It's hard to find a bookstore these days- let alone a good one. Vroman's is a good one. Before you even walk through the door, you are faced with magazine wall stretching out and wrapping around walls to your left and right. Newspapers, independent magazines and the standards- its all here. Inside, two floors of books are waiting for you. People stand, perusing pages in every aisle. On every shelf is a thoughtful suggestion from a Vroman's staffer. There is even a Pasadena section if you are interested in learning more about the area."

Los Angeles
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Jenny Garcia

Google
Can’t believe I’ve lived in Pasadena for two years and only just visited Vroman’s Bookstore on Colorado Boulevard! This place is so much more than just a bookstore—it has an incredible selection of books, a fantastic variety of retail items, and even a bar serving spirits and beer alongside a cozy coffee shop. Beyond the books, the merchandise selection is impressive. From cozy slippers and beautiful stationery to unique home goods and thoughtful gifts, there’s truly something for everyone. I was even able to find vegan incense! The layout is well-organized with great signage, making it easy to browse and discover new finds. Although they didn’t have the book I was looking for in stock, ordering it was a breeze, and I can pick it up in about a week. This is definitely a must-visit spot for book lovers, shoppers, and anyone looking for a unique experience. I’ll be back for sure!

Michael DiGregorio

Google
I went to Vroman’s to pick up a signed copy of Maria Bamford and her husband Scott’s new book. I was sad that I couldn’t attend the event but they saved me a copy since I had bought a ticket. The bookstore was spacious and the staff was super friendly. I am obsessed tmwith the selection of gifts including cat themed items and the Playmobile selection. I’d definitely go back now it’s on my radar.

sasao Rdz

Google
Great book store. Lots of different options, topics and more. They don’t just sell books but they have pens, a whole kids section either interactive materials, and some other interesting things. Great coffee shop right there. Great location and easy to find what you want.

emily ito

Google
Vromans is a great bookstore and it's fun to browse. They have gifts and different departments like children's, gardening, art etc. I attended a booking signing event which was very enjoyable. The author, Jesse Katz wrote "Rent Collectors". Jesse was a very engaging speaker. His book is a very good read!

Jason Belack

Google
Everything my little bookworm heart desires. Excellent selection, great atmosphere, and how surprised was I to find a section solely for pens and stationery- and I don’t mean your usual Barnes & Noble claptrap; they have an excellent selection of fountain pens and inks, and some great journals and notebooks. If you’re in the area, definitely make time to stop in and spend a few hours.

Sam K

Google
Amazing bookstore with great collections of books, stationary , magazine and they even have cafe and bars. Make sure you check them out if you are in Pasadena.

Edgar Lim

Google
Vroman’s in Pasadena is an absolute gem for book lovers! The selection here is incredible, with something for everyone—from the latest bestsellers to hard-to-find indie titles. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to offer great recommendations. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it easy to lose yourself in the aisles for hours. They also host amazing events with authors, which adds a special touch to the whole experience. I love supporting this independent bookstore and always leave with a smile and a new favorite book. Highly recommend to anyone in the area!

Alicia Romero

Google
Vroman's Bookstore is a neighborhood gem. It's been around forever and offers extensive collections of every genre imaginable. With two stories, it has ample space to offer almost the entire second floor for children's books and educational toys. The downstairs floor offers a lovely coffee bar where small bites are also available. All in all it offers the perfect old-school Bookstore feel with a lovely scent of books and coffee that can't be beat. Don't wait to long to visit as the store is for sale. The owner is retiring. Hopefully the new owner(s) appreciate and decide to keep it as close to what it currently is. Check out their events section online as they have various book signings. We went to George Lopez's book signing. He's a lovely man!

Terry K.

Yelp
OK I admit!!! I went to Vroman's Bookstore for a booksigning (Mark Harmon aka Gibbs on NCIS) and what a bookstore Vorman's is. Here is my story Booksigning first: 1- welll organized 2- offered photo ops 3- timely 4- very polite and helpful staff About Vroman's Bookstore 1-Independently owned and operated 2- large (2 floors) 3- coffee and wine bar on the 1st floor 4- clean, neat and organized They have a spot for kiddie books where authors go to read to the children. Aisles are wide enough so you can browse in comfort They are not overly priced as they could be. They have special order options available. Would I go back there? Most certainly! #flyforfun #flyrforbooks #flyforVroman

Nance C.

Yelp
Wow! My first time here! This place is huge! Vroman's may be the last bookstore standing in 2024. lol. Two stories with lots of books. Even has a Will Call counter! Nicely decorated for Christmas. Come and shop here! Don't let this place go down the same road as Borders and Barnes and Nobles! There is a huge gold balloon in front after door that says 130! The store has been here since 1898! Wow ! 130 years!!

Mimi R.

Yelp
Iconic bookstore. It's huge inside with multiple levels. Not just books here but cute gifts and cards too. I came to pick up a book I had already purchased and needed to pick up. Went upstairs to will call for an easy and fast pick up. I got lucky with street parking on a busy weekend but there is a lot out back where you can park as well!

Katherine S.

Yelp
What a gem in old town Pasadena! You don't realize how big it is until after you walk in and there's a second floor! Very large selection of books and they have a ton of options for gifts and decorations. There's an information desk toward the back of the store if you need help finding something. The second floor is mostly dedicated to children's books and toys (but I did find super cute earrings for adults too - see picture)! The ambience is just perfect and there's also a coffee shop and a magazine stand! Definitely come and check it out!

Lori R.

Yelp
This might be my favorite old bookstore yet! I love a good independently owned bookstore and this historic one is amazing! Four of us of varying ages absolutely loved spending time here on our recent visit to Pasadena. It was within walking distance of our hotel and the selection was outstanding. There was no way we were leaving without a new book for each of us. Note: plenty of other types of gifts available there as well. I would be there all the time if I lived nearby.

Lisa V.

Yelp
This is a Pasadena must visit! If you enjoy books, book paraphernalia, quirky saying on kitchen oven mitts this is the place! There are books for everyone, in every genre for all ages! Every time we go we always find books we didn't know we needed but have to have! This is a great place to wander and peruse and find wonderful stuff! The whole place is curated well so we have not had to ask where to find items, but the employees at the check out counter are very nice and efficient. Don't forget to check out the wide selection of discounted books as well!

Sofia Isabella F.

Yelp
This is genuinely one of my all time favorite businesses in the entire world. Hands down. I have spent far too many hours and dollars at this store - all of which spent proudly and happily. This store has some of the most welcoming, amiable, and thoughtful employees. I first went during the pandemic, and it absolutely saved me. The kindness I felt here was such a needed boost! The building itself is marvelous and lends itself to getting blissfully lost in a world of literature and bookish fun. The selection of works is unmatched. I have discovered so many gems (books, stationary, decor, etc.) over the years! Their after-Christmas Day sale and annual tent sale are utter treasure troves!! You must visit this incredible small business. You will not regret it, but your wallet might...

Ren N.

Yelp
Amazing bookstore that definitely rivals barnsansnoble in size, gifts and foodstuffs. First walk in you got either the coffee shop or the wine bar, can't go wrong with either of these. Need to use the restroom? Proceed to the second floor. Bargain books? Right outside the coffee shop. Magazines? They're actually outside the building like one of those olden days. Subjective views of some of the best sellers are there on little notecards to give you an idea what these books are about. Truly an enjoyable place to kill time and buy stuff :)

Lissa L.

Yelp
This isn't just a bookstore. It's a great place to decompress. In a world dominated by Amazon, it's refreshing to see and feel physical books on a shelf and chat with staff as you browse. Stuff there isn't cheap but it isn't too wild either. I always can find the perfect item for the random occasion I need to pick up a gift for a loved one. They have so many cute, quirky things.

Kerry S.

Yelp
Walking into the children's portion of Vroman's is overwhelming in the best way! The selection, organization, and service finding specific titles is all there!! It did this school teacher's heart good to see both the classics and new children's literature offerings on full display.

Vince P.

Yelp
Vroman's is an awesome local bookstore that has been a staple in the community for a long time! It is pretty similar to a Barnes & Nobles but more localized and independent. Street parking is available all throughout the neighborhood. Once you walk in, you'll be surprised by how massive this store is. There are 2 stories with so many nooks and corners filled with books and items for sale. They have everything for adults, teens, and children! All the staff are very friendly and accommodating here. It definitely took me pretty long to peruse around the entire store and look at all the different goodies they have. They even have a local coffee shop called Tepito that's connected to the store as well. Stop by here and you won't leave empty handed!

Josephine C.

Yelp
On a Sunday in late July, my sister and I went To Vroman's Bookstore to look at the clearance stuff. I haven't in a bookstore in years. The bookstore looked the same as I remember. They displayed lots of cute stuff and pens or gift ideas. The book selection is wide in variety. The clearance was held on the 2nd floor and sectioned off. There were various decorations and books on clearance. Lots of kids books on 2nd floor and various topics on 1st floor. The aisles are clean and wide. They also have a coffee shop and wine bar too. We need to Keep supporting this bookstore.

Rose L.

Yelp
A wonderful experience! I called before going just to make sure I am allowed to bring my dog. Dogs are allowed as long as they are well behaved and leashed! We stopped by and spent almost 2 hours just browsing the books and store; we also met some of the friendly staff and guests at the bookstore. I will definitely have to go back again.

Shorty G.

Yelp
My first time heading there and it was amazing! It had many history books I wanted to read. Staff was super friendly, welcoming, and nice. I would be happy to go back to keep supporting them.

Oscar A.

Yelp
Order a book for pickup online. Got there no on knew where the book was nor were they interested in finding it for me. Told me to cancel my order downstairs and look for the book and make an in store purchase. Called left a Vm to see about these lack of customer service and they said sorry to hear about it. Ok? I guess this is why people turn to buying books online. Thanks for nothing Vroman's.

Freddy D.

Yelp
After a nice lunch on lake we strolled over to Vroman's Bookstore for a nice oat milk latte. Service was excellent at the coffee bar. This store is a treasure Aside for their coffee bar there is also a wine bar. Then, we have a great selection of reading material and what an array of well priced, well thought out gift items! It's pretty hard to visit there without buying something. The place is two floors, so give yourself ample time to peruse all their fine offerings!

Sofia D.

Yelp
Located in Old Town Pasadena and lined with shopping streets, this bookstore has an unassuming fa?ade, but when you walk in, you realize there's more to it than meets the eye. Vroman's Bookstore 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Vroman's Bookstore is a bookstore that specializes in humanities and social sciences, with fewer natural sciences, but from the decorations and items for sale, it has a strong artistic atmosphere, with a lot of Christmas items on sale, and a lot of nice books? , scented candles, etc.~ The whole bookstore has two floors, with two cash registers at the front and back ～ There is a large children's book section on the second floor, so you can bring your little ones along to enjoy their own space while roaming the world of books! There's a cafe on the first floor with a classic vintage American style, and there's often a line of people~ Bought two books to go home happy and moderately priced!

Jenny R.

Yelp
Love this place! Bookstores are far and few now a days! Need to keep this place open for people like me who refuses to use kindles and love a turning the pages of a book

Joi R.

Yelp
Vroman's is a book lovers paradise! I could easily spend hours browsing the isles of endless books. The problem is that could also easily leave with hundreds of dollars worth of books. I was here recently on a first time visit and was so impressed with the wide selection of books, not to mention all of the other cool items they sell. I found the staff and customers to be friendly. You will also find Tepito coffee located inside the bookstore and you have to stop there as well. Sadly, Vroman's is too far for me to visit as often as I'd like, but I certainly will return.

Lianne K.

Yelp
Billing themselves as "Southern California's Oldest and Largest Independent Bookstore", Vroman's in Pasadena is definitely worth a visit when in the area. When we recently were nearby for the Chalk Festival, we recommended Vroman's to our daughter and son-in-law. I recalled it being close to the Convention Center, but as we walked, and walked, it turned out not to be so close after all! Still, we made the trek, with Sweet Granddaughter riding in her stroller. Ah, the life! Once we arrived, I suspect my face was red from the walk, and the warm afternoon temperatures. Before entering the store, I hid out at Tepito's coffee bar next door for a cold drink and got ready to explore the bookstore. Since I wanted to catch up with the family, I headed upstairs to the kids' section, which I'd not visited before. It's really extensive, and holds not only lots of books, but also toys, games, and packaged gifts, like play kitchens (!) and other build-it-at-home items. Of course, SG wanted to take home almost everything she saw. Her mom did well to narrow it down to a small set of Berenstain Bears books! SG was holding up pretty well at being behaved with all that temptation around her, so they went to pay before she lost it. As such, I didn't really get a chance to explore on my own. I remember from a previous visit that they had a lot of gift items for adults, in addition to books. Some other time I'll have to shop when there is more leisure time to explore. This time around, I had more of a sense of comparison to Powell's Books in Portland, Oregon, a famous indy bookstore. Vroman's is quite extensive and there's a lot to see! It sems to be clean, well-stocked, and ready to help you spend your money.

Jessica H.

Yelp
The selection at this bookstore is mind-blowing. Multiple floors of books, magazine, and even homewares. I enjoyed browsing. The staff was friendly and helpful. For an independent bookstore this place rivals big chain stores in every way!

Julie C.

Yelp
I buy everything in the store, as well as books. I also enjoyed looking at what the store says the best sellers. I especially go to the store at Christmas time. We're almost everything.

Nevin A.

Yelp
It is such an elegant two story bookstore in Pasadena. It is also one of the oldest and largest bookstores was founded by Adam Clark Vroman in 1894. There are a wide selection of popular book genres. In addition too book accessories, greeting cards, fantastic home decor, elegant kitchen gadgets and utensils, bed  and bath section, funny socks, cute accessories for women, puzzles and fancy pens which I loved and more...... You can spend hours in Vromans and trust me, you will enjoy every moment you spent there. They have also nice café, it is called Tepito Coffee and a cool wine bar. The employees are very knowledgeable and attentive. There is parking lot behind Vroman's across from Target. So if you don't find in Vroman's , you can park at target. It is an excellent place to buy grear books, or gifts and to relax with a cup of your favorite drink at the end of your visit

B D.

Yelp
i honestly don't really enjoy going places, the whole drama of getting ready and getting in the car, ect. ect. but this is a place i genuinely look forward to leaving my house for. much love to a pasadena classic!

Beverly S.

Yelp
Love this bookstore. We can spend hours here & keep finding great things to read & do. Do not miss Vroman's!

Vontavia H.

Yelp
The cutest bookstore! We parked on the street, but street parking is first come, first served. This bookshop is massive, yet so quaint and homey feeling. It has several floors and so many books!

Joan A.

Yelp
I ordered a book and it was there when I went to pick it up. Everyone was polite and helpful as I had to go to 3 different places to check out. That is because I did not know that where the saved the book was not the cash register area. Also, when I went to pick it up, the employees were talking, but as soon as I walked up to the counter, they stopped talking and acknowledge me. I felt really good about that.

Richard A.

Yelp
I preordered two books months ago that were due to come out today. I was in town so I thought I'd go in and get them without yet receiving notice from them. I went to the desk and was told that there's a delay in shipping and to wait for a call from them. Driving home I got a call that the books were ready for pick up. What happened to the delay in shipping????? I guess I was just lied to.

Ben M.

Yelp
Went to Vroman's recently amid the holiday gift-buying crowds (to be expected). The employees in the aisles and at the information desk were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in regards to the locations of book sections within the store, I believe the employees that helped guide me were Fiona, Eve, and Guy (sorry if I misremembered any of the names!). I really appreciated the time they took to assist me and help manuever through the store during a very busy and hectic time, I'm sure. I will continue to go to Vroman's as much as I can for my book purchasing needs with employees like them to availible assist customers well and whenever possible

Anna S.

Yelp
Can you believe this place has been open since 1894...? I don't need more magic & history than that. Located on Colorado Blvd in the heart of Pasadena, this huge 2-story bookstore is unique and a wonderful place to get lost in. With recommendations on every shelf and a wide selection of books, I mean lots of books...Vroman's is much more than a bookstore. You never know what you will find there, but I promise it will be good. It might just be the perfect card for an occasion or a book you forgot that you wanted to read. Their gift selection is always beautiful and interesting. You can find puzzles, toys, holiday decorations, bags, socks, coffee mugs, stationery pens, I mean you name it. All very aesthetically arranged and decorated. And last but not least they have a wine bar... the "1894" (which I'm planing on writing a separate review for) its beautiful! One of my favorite things to do is to buy a book & read it while enjoying a nice glass of wine. Sip, sip! Oh! And I almost forgot...they recently opened a coffee shop called "Tepito Coffee" which I will definitely try next time. Anyways, I hope you enjoy Vroman's as much as I do. Happiest 2023.

Ali K.

Yelp
The best place for a date, the best place to have a girl's night cocktail at the bar, the best place to wander solo for hours, the best place, period. I love Vromans so so much and hope the next owners preserve the magic of this place!

Jennifer W.

Yelp
1/7/23 Founded in 1894 by Adam Vroman, this independent bookstore is one of the largest & oldest (if not The Oldest) of the bookstores in all of Southern California. We came upon it because hubby is looking for ink for his dip pens (all of his nibs). Specifically for Iron Gall ink. I walk in & I was in awe, all geeked out lol but hubby went straight to the guys at the prn & stationary department & inquired. Sadly, they do not carry Iron Gall ink. So the young man directed us to Blick which is about 4 city blocks (15 minute walk) away. Hubby insisted we walk on over on this fine, sunny but chilly day in Old Town Pasadena....all because he didn't want to give up his parking spot (knowing parking will be a headache when we're headed). So we set out to Blick.... Will need to explore this place later when we're not on a hunt

Joan C.

Yelp
Fantastic independent bookstore. Great selection and knowledgeable staff. In addition to the impressive collection of hardback and paperback books, Vroman's also offers an array of interesting gift items.

Joseph A.

Yelp
I can get lost here and never get bored. Love books, love photography.. Located on two floors, Vroman's sells more than books, it's a gift shop that sells all sorts of items. I love pens and mechanical pencils and they have quite a selection to buy from. This place beats out Barnes & Noble any day except I don't recall if they sell audio books or sell music.

Quintin E.

Yelp
Dream a little dream at this over 100-year-old massive emporium of knowledge, treasures, and even treats. Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena, Los Angeles, California is a must in the San Gabriel Valley. Located on Old Historic Route 66 off Colorado Blvd between Molino and Oak Knoll Avenues next to Total Wine & More, Target, and just next door to the Landmark Playhouse Theater. There's a classic newsstand on the far east entrance which also happens to be near my favorite side with its charming cafe and fiction sections. The cafe is a great place to take a beat, enjoy some bites and even some flights (wine and beer or non-alcoholic cheer). Everyone there is very kind and personable and the vibe is very warm but relaxed with deep earthy tones. Being such a big bookstore Vroman's has two levels, accessible from stairs or elevators, and just about everything you'd hope to find or see including gifts, cooking wear (and of course cooking books), stationary, school supplies, travel (maps and guides galore) plus lots of deals. If entering from the back which is where the shared parking lot lies you get more seasonal decor and possibly a hardy hello as the main checkout area is just to the left. Kids and families can have a field day on the 2nd floor just off the elevator. as the section is huge and spacious. Vroman's has a customer service area, cards for all occasions, and a huge area for book readings which makes you really feel the welcoming enchantment of this place. Definitely the kind of place you'd want to enjoy as a highlight of the day. Nearly 128 years of bookstore bliss with many more to come. Tell and take everyone to Vroman's!

Nikki B.

Yelp
Established in 1894 Vroman's is California's oldest and largest bookstore. It's always a treat to come here. They have an excellent selection of books, audiobooks, calendars, cards, seasonal items, and gifts, especially for those who are hard to shop for. Funny socks - they got it. Something for your animal loving friend - they have that too! Everything is organized and books are sectioned off by genres, fiction, non-fiction, etc...which makes it easy to find what you are looking for. There is also a children's section with story time on Saturdays. With two floors to explore, you can spend hours here browsing then stop by the charming café for a glass of wine and some nibbles. Free parking in the lot. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.

Jessica H.

Yelp
Vroman's is a family-owned bookstore that has become a staple in Pasadena. I have fond memories of spending all my time in the kids' section upstairs, where they store the YA and children books with some board games and chairs for entertainment. As I have grown older, I have come to appreciate everything this bookstore has to offer! First off, they have an absolutely phenomenal collection of books. Everything is so well-organized, and they have every imaginable genre here for you to peruse. I personally love how they curate different books; for example, they had a Banned Books exhibit when I recently visited that was perfectly put together. A special touch in Vroman's is that there are handwritten reviews posted in every aisle for the different books there! This makes picking out books a lot easier for those who are indecisive and want to buy everything (aka me). Vroman's is the perfect place for any book lover! The staff is still so friendly and passionate about reading, and they also have little cute stationary and bags that only add to how perfect the store already is. I credit this bookstore for being the place where I first fell in love with books, and I'm sure many other people in the SGV can say the same.

K P.

Yelp
My all time favorite bookstore!! Their books and gift items are very well curated. Their focus seem be shifting to more Knick Knacks than books, but their Knick Knacks selection is excellent. This is a great place to shop for book nerds. Love the onsite coffee shop, too. The parking can be tricky, especially on weekends. Other than that, I can't complain!

Roberta L.

Yelp
Found a gift card that I had to use! I've never been to this bookstore before so I couldn't find the parking that some people mentioned. No prob, we parked in the street in front. You can prob also path in the structure for target... Anyway, great selection of books, crafts, cards, small little goodies.

Ann T.

Yelp
A must if you are in Downtown Pasadena! There's so much to look at here, whether or not you're a bibliophile. Books are sectioned off by genres, age groups, guide books, nonfiction, young adult fiction, and even a small manga section! There's also a bar inside, but it was not open when we went. Multiple cashiers throughout the first floor of the store, so that's pretty nice and convenient. There's also a section for people who love fountain pens and journaling with lots of the neat ones I see on bujo/bullet journaling Instagram. Lots of pens and ink wells. There's also a section with just miscellaneous gifts of all sorts for all occasions. souvenirs for tourists, and a greeting card area too. Stationary galore. The children's book section had a lovely mural painted in the back and is a great place to take children. They also have authors and guests speakers and a read aloud circle time area for children. Also in front there's these spinning top chairs. Really fun and kinda spooky since you feel like you can fall over but you don't! I will take anyone who's with me whenever I'm in the area.

Diane B.

Yelp
An independent bookstore with knowledgeable salespeople and a big selection. Say no more, then. I am sold. Anytime I go to Pasadena it is a must stop and browse and buy something.

Liz L.

Yelp
As we do every autumn, we headed to Vroman's to pick up some fall decor, new notecards, wrapping, and just imbibe the upscale and heady atmosphere this elegant mind emporium creates. These days, a fine independent bookstore is almost vestigial. But, here it is, in the heart of Old Town Pasadena, two stories of department after department filled with the best made items of their kind anywhere. And for over 100 years! As I mentioned in my original review, I have been coming to Vromans for four decades because the vibe is so New York meets Europe, but all California brightness and cheer as well. It didn't disappoint. There is a huge free parking lot, places to sit and enjoy the ever-perfect balmy temperatures and breezes of beautiful Pasadena, with a view of the mountains in two directions. And, as is done with each season, the owners and staff have decorated the store with enchanting objects hanging from the ceiling, on every wall and table, that just bring -- this time -- Halloween to life. This is on my list for holiday gifts as I know I can trust their uniqueness and quality. I am so happy and grateful that Vroman's is thriving. And in every direction is a first-class restaurant or coffee spot to complete the day. Don't miss a chance to visit. See my new photos.

Andrea D.

Yelp
For obvious reasons, very obsessed with this bookstore and there is truly nothing better. Multiple level store, consisting of all books, any genre, but also featuring gifts and knick knacks any book lover would love. Love their decorations for every holiday, too! Not to mention, their intimate coffee shop AND separate bar within the store. One stop shop that I could literally (and do) spend all day in.

David L.

Yelp
Really bad vibe in this place. As one of the few Black men in there at the time I could feel the weight stares and I caught a few eyes following me(from employees). The large sloppy guy at the counter on the street side even rolled his eyes at me when I placed my items on the counter to be able to go outside to pick up a magazine. Decent selection of books but I will NEVER be coming back.

Bibi M.

Yelp
An amazing place for gifts and books in the heart of Pasadena. I'm impressed with the sheer volume of stock and the lovely customer service.

Steffi N.

Yelp
LOVE THIS PLACE! So far my favorite bookstore in SoCal. Apparently it's been around since the 1894 which is awesome. It's a large bookstore with a wide selection of classics and new independent titles. There's also a large selection of knick-knacks and stationery. Super organized and well decorated inside and out. Highly suggest to pay this place a visit whenever in downtown Pasadena.

Rebecca M.

Yelp
I adore this bookstore. So clean, well-kept, and friendly service. Great selection of books and my favorite part is the well-stocked stationery! I drive out of my way just to come here. I would definitely recommend :)

Tiffany L.

Yelp
This independent bookstore is an absolute gem. Online and chain bookstores just do not offer the same experience. I love perusing the aisles looking for my next book. They offer this program that donates a portion of each purchase to charities of your choice. There is also a huge lot for 90 min parking behind the store, which makes visiting so convenient.

Wayne K.

Yelp
When I used to live in Pasadena, I would frequent Vroman's a lot, so it was nice to go back after not having been there for at least 3 years. It's the same Vroman's but now with a newer coffee shop, as well as the usual great selection of books downstairs, as well as gifts and children's toys upstairs. However, something new that I hadn't seen before was the addition of a bar where they serve alcohol. Not sure how long that has been there, but it's nice to see people hanging out there on a Wednesday night. I hope this place stays in business since it's hard to find large bookstores like this nowadays, especially in such a prime location where rent must be pretty high.