Vroman's Bookstore

Book store · Downtown

Vroman's Bookstore

Book store · Downtown

3

695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101

Photos

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

Highlights

Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena is a sprawling indie gem blending an extensive book selection, cozy café, wine bar, and thoughtful gift shop—perfect for leisurely browsing.  

Placeholder
Placeholder

695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Get directions

vromansbookstore.com
@vromansbookstore

$$

Information

Static Map

695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101 Get directions

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

$$

Features

payment credit card
Tap to pay

Last updated

Jul 5, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@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
View Postcard for Vroman's Bookstore
@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
View Postcard for Vroman's Bookstore
@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
View Postcard for Vroman's Bookstore

Tamera Frederick

Google
Great bookstore! There are two levels with all of your typical book sections. There is also a wine bar inside and a coffee shop attached. There is a fun game section divided up into different ages for younger kids or family fun. There is also a great stationary area with all kinds of different calligraphy, inks and pens. Upstairs, there is an area with greeting cards as well. There are a lot of cool gifts scattered throughout the stacks of books. If you are in the area, it is definitely a fun bookshop to check out.

Alejandro Foucault Monterrey

Google
Good library right on Colorado. Reminds me a lot of a bigger Barnes & Noble. Workers weren't too friendly, but to be fair, I did come here before going to the gym, and my attire showed it, lol. There's no Spanish books section like in most Barnes & Noble (or at least I wasn't able to find it). There is also a kiosk with magazines right on the right side entrance of it.

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!

Cryschelle Jeffery

Google
It's easy to see why Vroman's is a Pasadena institution - they have a great selection of books and stationary. The whole place feels classy and elevated just like you would expect from a 130 year old bookstore and all of the employees were very friendly and knowledgeable. They also had most of the authors I went looking for and several nice special editions. A bit expensive overall but a really lovely place to peruse and discover new stories.

Richard Hawkins

Google
Vroman’s is pure soul food for anyone who still believes in real bookstores. This place isn’t just about buying a book — it’s about getting lost in aisles that actually feel like they care about what they’re selling. Staff is sharp, passionate, and actually loves books — you can feel it. The selection is deep: everything from hard-to-find poetry collections to new releases to badass little journals and weird gifts you didn’t know you needed. Upstairs café vibe is chill too — perfect for flipping through a fresh find over a coffee. Easily one of the last great independent bookstores standing tall. Five stars without even thinking twice.

Ali Davis

Google
I adore Vroman's. It's a thoughtfully curated, wonderful independent bookstore. It's not to be missed if you love books. Great section for kids, great mysteries and nonfiction. I always find something fascinating. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. You can tell they hire voracious readers. Get a book and take it to one of the gazillion places for lunch nearby.

D K

Google
Huge book store with dedicated parking for patrons. It was crowded but that's a good thing. There's also a very well appointed pen shop inside with a huge selection of fountain pens and inks, which was a nice surprise

Erica Fung

Google
This is one of my favorite place to walk around in Pasadena. I am nerdy and love books. It is difficult to find a bookstore these days, and I would like to support local business. This store has 2 levels. It has a variety of books. They also sell stuffed animal and toys in the children section. There were sections that has staff recommended book and the reason why they recommended it. I saw posters that this store hosts book signing events from time to time. Price is decent, and I will continue to support local business. This book store is closed to a lot of local restaurant, and it would be a perfect place to walk around after your meal!

G G.

Yelp
There is something special about walking into Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena. The moment the door closes behind you, you are greeted by the comforting smell of books. It is that familiar blend of old and new pages, a quiet scent that instantly makes you feel at ease. It brings a sense of calm and curiosity all at once. Vroman's is not just a place to buy books. It is where you go when you want to explore something deeper. If you are looking for a beautiful writing instrument, you will find it here. If you need to pick out a meaningful gift, this is the perfect place. If you are simply looking for space to wander and discover something unexpected, this store welcomes that. And if you want to dive into a complex topic like the history of religion or philosophy, you will find the resources to guide you. Or maybe you want to get lost in a work of fiction and be transported to another world. You will find that too. The environment is calm and inviting. You can take your time. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to help when you ask but happy to let you browse quietly. The layout encourages discovery without ever feeling crowded or chaotic. Vroman's is a place that reminds you why bookstores are still important. It is more than a store. It is a space for thought, inspiration, and connection.

Rocky B.

Yelp
Why? Why can't there be a bookstore like this on the other side of the hill?! This place is a book lovers dream and also a wine lovers since I visited the bar while there. But first let's talk about the books and store. I mention store because they have everything from decor and fashion accessories to stationery and pens. It's seriously amazing and huge! You could spend hours just looking around. Now let's talk about the bar area. We went on a Saturday afternoon and managed to get to the cafe right at opening so there were plenty of tables. Service was fantastic. Fast and friendly. We ordered a couple of drinks and nuts as well as chips. Everything was made fresh and honestly so good. Left with a book and a yummy tummy. This was the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Erica F.

Yelp
This is one of my favorite place to walk around in Pasadena. I am nerdy and love books. It is difficult to find a bookstore these days, and I would like to support local business. This store has 2 levels. It has a variety of books. They also sell stuffed animal and toys in the children section. There were sections that has staff recommended book and the reason why they recommended it. I saw posters that this store hosts book signing events from time to time. Price is decent, and I will continue to support local business. This book store is closed to a lot of local restaurant, and it would be a perfect place to walk around after your meal!

Alejandro F.

Yelp
Good library right on Colorado. Reminds me a lot of a bigger Barnes & Noble. Workers weren't too friendly, but to be fair, I did come here before going to the gym, and my attire showed it, lol. There's no Spanish books section like in most Barnes & Noble (or at least I wasn't able to find it). There is also a kiosk with magazines right on the right side entrance of it.

Elizabeth R.

Yelp
So glad a friend told me about Vroman's Bookstore! The bookstore is a large with a huge selection of books!! There is an upstairs area with lots of kid books and a section that has all the items you need for a perfect gift. You can also grab a drink at Vroman's. I highly recommend this bookstore if you're in the Pasadena area. Staff were all very friendly. They do have an area where they host events as well!

Susan B.

Yelp
One of the very best independent bookstores in existence. Came here over the weekend and found some very difficult to locate titles and was quite impressed with the depth and breadth of their fiction section. Everyone that works here is extremely knowledgeable and helpful too. Please patronize our independent booksellers, it is more important now than it has ever been.

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

Chloe S.

Yelp
I put a book on hold and came in to pick it up and was met by the rudest woman, who offered no valuable assistance, only passive aggressive rude comments through a fake smile on her face. Was excited to support a small bookstore but definitely will not be returning.

Ernanda B.

Yelp
Annabelle with all the little women flare was absolutely beautiful and lovely. She even offered me ice cream at her event party!! What a good soul thank u

Jeffrey S.

Yelp
Vroman's is the epitome of what a large independent book store should be.  It's 2 floors of books of all types of genres, with a cafe and wine bar sprinkled in.  And don't forget the newsstand right on the Colorado Blvd entrance that sells magazine and newspapers!  This is a place where you can get lost in (which I did on my first visit), with its seemingly endless inventory of books, games and other merch.  On the second floor, there's a large area for author signing, along with a board with the upcoming events. There were several staff milling about, stocking shelves and assisting customers.  One staff helped me find the section on chess and other games.  Eventually, I bought one book, while my wife bought a cool t-shirt.   If I have any complaint, is that the private parking lot behind the store was overly full.  This is also shared by the neighboring Total Wine, but I suspect many of the patrons are just parking here to avoid the paid lots.

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!!

Thuy Dan T.

Yelp
Very nice bookstore that is quite large when you enter! It's nicely lit and organized. I like the other trinkets you can buy in store like graphic tees, banadas, and cards. Great place to wander and see what catches your eye. I had a specific book I was looking for, and the staff were helpful in pointing me in the right direction of the section. When we couldn't find the book, he looked it up in the system and was able to order one for me to arrive in the store a couple days later to pick up. Was very convenient!

Alice W.

Yelp
Bookstores are my happy place and Vromans is no exception! This store literally has everything from (ofc) books, to a mini bar, stationary/pen section, gifts/home section, and author events. Whenever I come here, I take my time and can easily spend 1-2 hours here either browsing or sitting down with a book on the floor. They also have signed books so if you're into that thing, it's fun to hunt for the autograph sticker on the cover of books. The store is inviting and I wish I worked here for fun bc this place is truly magical. The parking is free. There's a bathroom on the second floor.

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!

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...

Joleen K.

Yelp
Belated review but have been here a couple of times. The closest thing to that bookstore in Seattle! Great variety of toys as well...tough parking lot.

Lynda B.

Yelp
Back entrance has one of the best ramps for any need. There's also a full staff at the back entrance and I loved that ! There's also is a great front entrance with a newsstand reminiscent of NY but way better! The selection is eclectic with categorized options that complement each area of the store. Prices reflect those set by publisher . Best book store workers in the area and staff picks are noteworthy ! Sale section has great deals! If visiting read up about the founder and take a look at the black and white pictures of Vroman he was a looker!

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.

Kenneth L.

Yelp
Fun not-so-little indie bookstore. It strangely feels like Barnes and Noble with all the random merchandise. You can't begrudge them for it because it's probably great for revenue, but it does feel a little hackneyed. Great selection of books, though! Very clear organization, and thank God, no "foreign" section with all the translated Asian texts. They were just sorted according to genre like every other text. Actually, there ARE distinct Western and Eastern philosophy sections, which was a little funny. Those terms are doing a lot of work. There's a cafe kind of in the middle of the bookstore. I didn't get anything partially because it was super busy, but it did add some bustle to your usual bookstore atmosphere.

Christa C.

Yelp
Vroman's has an excellent selection of books - with large fiction, nonfiction, and children's sections, there's truly something for everyone. I always find new gems when I'm here. There's also a large array of stationery, games, and puzzles, as well as free parking! I love Vroman's and can easily spend hours here.

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!

Zofia G.

Yelp
I respect that Vroman's is the oldest indie bookstore in California, but that doesn't excuse the way they treat people. My experience with their consignment program was disappointing. While my books were selling, the staff was unresponsive, dismissive, and unprofessional. Emails and voicemails went unanswered for months, and in-person interactions were unpleasant. Even their sister store, Book Soup, admitted they've had similar issues dealing with them. Their customer service is seriously lacking, making it difficult for indie authors to work with them. After being ignored for months, I called frustrated and used strong language. I take full responsibility for that and apologized, but instead of addressing their ongoing lack of communication, they terminated my consignment partnership entirely--a clear case of retaliation. I respect their history, but their customer service is just bad. You're paying to be part of their consignment program, but if you speak up about poor treatment, they'll drop you without accountability. Not worth the hassle and not worth the cost. Small press and indie authors pay to be associated with their consignment program. While it's nice to see your book in a store, it's not worth the cost if the sales don't justify the terrible treatment.

Kien H.

Yelp
i spend a long time here! there are many selections and then some, you'll probably find what you're looking for or come across something cool. and they have a section of local writers! friendly staff (: restroom is upstairs

April R.

Yelp
What a cool place. I live near the coast so I had never been here. I went with a friend who lives near Pasadena and was so impressed! Its huge and there is so much history. Two stories and not only books, but tons of gifts too. We enjoyed some drinks at the onsite wine bar afterwards. It was such a fun and enjoyable day!

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!

Tricia F.

Yelp
I can't believe I haven't been here before. The size of the children's section alone should have every parent running there for entertaining, education and overall amazing selections of children's books (well labeled too if you are perhaps looking for particular subject books like 'science' and a column of Richard Scarry books among similar titles. Helpful if you love that genre/author). The woman who worked there pulled five titles for me when I asked for a certain illustrator. They had FIVE. No other bookstores had any copies in their stores when I asked. Also, I have never encountered a bookstore that had French books - not language teaching books - reading books in French. There were only a few but I am impressed. It's rare. The wine bar, the coffee shop. The size, the way the whole bookstore is organized. Their gift and all other offerings - delightful. They have a sale section that is deeply discounted but still beautifully organized. Very deep cuts there. I was very happy to find a few to take home. Vroman's reminds me of my favorite bookstore in Colorado - The Tattered Cover. It feels like a cozy reading corner and I will be back as often as I can.

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.

Erica K.

Yelp
Love this place! Great selection of books (some of which are signed), gifts, and cards! Pre-ordering books online and picking up is pretty easy too. Everyone is very nice, and parking is super easy (and free)

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!

Christian P.

Yelp
Definitely one of the nicest bookstores I've ever been to. While each category and genre pf book is represented, there isn't a deep selection. Seems like a place you can always get the New York Times Best Sellers or Hottest releases. I was more impressed with the stationary section and gift areas. If you're looking for a gift for a book nerd, they got you covered. There was a poetry reading going on by local poets, which was neat. Parking is pretty bad, just plan for that. Kids section is great and the most organized part of the store. Looking forward to going again at some point.

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.

Adriana A.

Yelp
Could waste hours in here !! They gave everything. Books , stationary , decor. Coffee shop in the front and a wine bar inside .

Bea B.

Yelp
Super cute bookstore! And the coffee shop was also good. The workers were helpful as well but the store was prety organized so it was easy to find all my desired books.

D. R.

Yelp
Kai was amazing! He helped me with checking out the jewelry selection upstairs. I circled round and made note of what I wanted to check and he was quick to help and noting details on more elaborate pieces I had questions on materials. I left with a necklace and earring set he helped me feel comfortable selecting. Never felt rushed or like I was inconveniencing him. Price was also very affordable considering both sets are sterling silver. Highly recommend him.

Tali C.

Yelp
I am in love with this bookstore! I wish we had something like this closer to where I live. It was so great seeing so many people finding and sharing books.

C P.

Yelp
Such an iconic shop in Pasadena. Great place to browse with a variety of all kinds of things you never knew how you lived without. Also love the wine bar! Great choice for an afternoon cocktail. The bartenders and the entire store crew are top notch. Thanks for everything. Please don't leave us...

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!

Simone L.

Yelp
Gorman's is an institution - the kind of bookstore you don't just peruse, but want to spend the whole day at.

Run'o M.

Yelp
Vroman's is synonymous with ambiance. The place includes not just books, but book-themed T-shirts, and other products like teas, cups, pens, paper, and even soap. All of great quality. They also have author events - though I haven't attended any. The books themselves are very well selected, and well presented. It is a pleasure to browse through their collections. Their service is good - if they don't carry something, they can get it for you from their suppliers. Unfortunately, this place is in the process of being sold. Another one bites the dust, as we slowly transition into Bezo's classless antiseptic world for a 10% discount.

BeachMom W.

Yelp
I brought my daughter and 5 of her friends on her 13th birthday. Man I wish this store was closer! We all had such a fun time exploring the various sections. The book seller was very helpful. They seem to have as many books as larger big chain stores. Some of the books were prices a little higher, but I was happy to support such a wonderful neighborhood shop.

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.

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!

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.

Garrett R.

Yelp
Wow. Maybe my favorite store in all of LA. I reserved a book online because I was going to be in Pasadena, and had no idea it was going to be such a huge, sprawling store. Organized in such a way where around every corner is another beautifully curated section of something you had no idea you were even looking for, but there it is! Recommended this place to everyone I've talked to since then.

Barbara C.

Yelp
This is hands-down the best bookstore I've ever seen. Even better than the Strand on lower Broadway in New York. Wish I lived closer.

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