Spiritual Bookstores You Must Visit
Posted by Onassis Krown on
The Best Spiritual Bookstores to Visit in the U.S.
There’s something sacred about stepping into a bookstore—especially one with a spiritual focus. The aroma of incense, the quiet creak of wood floors, the feel of time slowing as your fingers graze the spines of books on ancient wisdom, healing crystals, and soul journeys. In an era of digital everything, spiritual bookstores remain sanctuaries—places of stillness, wonder, and community. Whether you're a seasoned seeker, a curious newcomer, or just someone who appreciates the soulful energy of these spaces, here are the best spiritual bookstores across the U.S. that deserve a spot on your journey.
1. East West Bookshop – Seattle, Washington
A Northwest icon for spiritual seekers.
East West Bookshop has long been a cornerstone of Seattle’s spiritual community. Founded by members of the Ananda Sangha (a spiritual movement based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda), this bookstore offers not only a vast collection of metaphysical and spiritual books but also meditation tools, crystals, tarot decks, and locally crafted gifts.
The vibe here is warm and welcoming, and the staff are genuinely knowledgeable. Regular events like author talks, yoga classes, and intuitive readings make it more than just a store—it’s a hub of enlightenment in the Pacific Northwest.
What makes it special: Its deep roots in the teachings of Yogananda, coupled with its open-minded embrace of various spiritual paths.
2. Banyen Books & Sound – Vancouver, Canada (Honorable Mention)
While not in the U.S., Banyen deserves mention due to its legendary status just over the border. This shop has an enormous selection of books on everything from Buddhism to Earth-based spirituality, as well as music, meditation tools, and natural wellness products.
Why mention it: Many U.S. spiritual pilgrims make their way to Banyen when visiting the Pacific Northwest. It's worth the detour.
3. Mirabai Bookstore – Woodstock, New York
The spirit of Woodstock lives on here.
Located in the legendary town of Woodstock, Mirabai Bookstore is a cozy, magical place that has become a destination for spiritual seekers visiting upstate New York. The store radiates peaceful energy and features books on yoga, Buddhism, goddess traditions, shamanism, and mindfulness.
Its collection of incense, singing bowls, oracle cards, and sacred jewelry is beautifully curated. Mirabai also regularly hosts events with spiritual authors, teachers, and healers.
What makes it special: The aura of Woodstock adds a historic charm, and the store's aesthetic is delightfully enchanting—like a spiritual cottage tucked in the woods.
4. Namaste Bookshop – New York City, New York
Spirituality in the heart of the city that never sleeps.
Namaste Bookshop is an oasis amid the rush of Manhattan. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted with the scent of incense and the soothing sounds of soft chants or ambient music. This multi-level shop offers a strong selection of books on Eastern and Western traditions alike—think everything from Reiki and astrology to Gnostic Christianity and indigenous wisdom.
Their crystals, essential oils, and tarot decks are also well-stocked and attractively displayed. Namaste Bookshop is a must-visit for any spiritual explorer navigating NYC.
What makes it special: Its central location makes it a powerful refuge in the midst of urban energy. The store also offers in-store readings and classes.
5. Mystic Journey Bookstore – Santa Monica, California
A west coast wonder that fuses spirituality with luxury.
Mystic Journey Bookstore is unlike any other. Spacious, sunlit, and exquisitely designed, it feels like a modern temple of consciousness. The bookstore focuses heavily on new thought, consciousness expansion, and contemporary metaphysical teachings.
What sets it apart is the attached Mystic Journey Crystal Gallery—a jaw-dropping exhibit of large, museum-quality crystals and stones. They also host book signings, sound baths, breathwork sessions, and guided meditations.
What makes it special: The aesthetic. Mystic Journey manages to feel both deeply spiritual and visually stunning—Instagram-worthy but authentically soul-centered.
6. The Bodhi Tree Bookstore – Los Angeles, California (Legacy Mention)
Though its original physical location closed, the Bodhi Tree deserves a legacy mention as one of the most iconic spiritual bookstores in American history. Founded in 1970, it introduced countless Angelenos to spiritual literature, Eastern philosophies, and metaphysical teachings.
Today, it lives on as Bodhi Tree Online, continuing its mission virtually. But longtime spiritual seekers still speak of the magic that lived between its walls.
7. The Open Mind Center – Roswell, Georgia
A holistic haven in the Southeast.
Blending a bookstore, healing center, and classroom space, The Open Mind Center offers spiritual resources for the Atlanta-area community. Their book selection focuses on chakras, intuitive development, holistic healing, and spiritual psychology. They also have a great selection of teas, candles, and wellness tools.
Classes include meditation, Reiki, yoga, and intuitive training, and practitioners offer services like energy healing, life coaching, and psychic readings.
What makes it special: The warm Southern hospitality, the inclusive community vibe, and a wide range of services make it a one-stop shop for mind-body-spirit wellness.
8. Isis Books & Gifts – Denver, Colorado
A sanctuary for the mystically minded.
Don’t let the name fool you—Isis Books & Gifts is a deeply respectful homage to the ancient goddess and a haven for spiritual practitioners of all kinds. Whether you're into ceremonial magic, paganism, Kabbalah, or chakra balancing, you'll find a treasure trove of books, herbs, and ritual tools here.
They also have one of the best tarot and oracle deck selections in the country. Practitioners are available on-site for readings and spiritual consultations.
What makes it special: The store’s inclusivity and depth of resources—it’s not surface-level spirituality, but a deep well for those who practice or study seriously.
9. Phoenix & Dragon Bookstore – Atlanta, Georgia
Where mysticism meets Southern charm.
Since 1987, Phoenix & Dragon has been a beloved center for metaphysical books, crystals, candles, and spiritual growth tools. More than a store, it’s a community gathering place. The space is lush with plants, full of light, and brimming with soul. A koi pond adds a peaceful energy as you browse titles on mysticism, philosophy, energy healing, and more.
Workshops, meditations, psychic fairs, and moon rituals make it a vibrant spiritual ecosystem.
What makes it special: Its longevity and evolution. It’s a true community cornerstone that has served generations of seekers in the Southeast.
10. Quest Bookshop – New York, New York
The Theosophical heart of the city.
Operated by the Theosophical Society, Quest Bookshop offers an esoteric and scholarly feel with its collection of books on spiritual philosophy, comparative religion, mysticism, and metaphysics. It’s a quiet, contemplative space ideal for deep research and personal insight.
In addition to books, it carries meditation supplies, incense, spiritual art, and a rich variety of rare titles not easily found elsewhere.
What makes it special: Its commitment to classic metaphysical texts and its connection to Theosophy gives it a unique intellectual and spiritual richness.
11. Moondancer Bookstore – Huntsville, Alabama
Small-town magic with a big heart.
Moondancer is proof that spiritual community exists everywhere—even in the most unexpected places. Tucked in the heart of Huntsville, this shop offers spiritual books, tools for rituals, locally made crafts, and an atmosphere of warmth and welcome.
Workshops and events bring in a close-knit community, and the store prides itself on being open to all paths—Pagan, Christian mystic, Buddhist, shamanic, and more.
What makes it special: Its charm, authenticity, and the way it nurtures connection in a region not always known for spiritual diversity.
12. Awakening Metaphysical Bookstore – Laguna Hills, California
A hidden gem in Orange County.
Awakening is filled with light and love. From angelic guides to ascension teachings and sound therapy, this bookstore offers both traditional spiritual titles and more fringe explorations into galactic wisdom and energy healing.
Its staff often includes intuitive counselors, and its events range from sound baths and spiritual talks to Reiki certification classes.
What makes it special: The combination of gentle aesthetics, new age optimism, and a strong sense of purpose.
13. Golden Bough – Mount Shasta, California
A mystical stop at a mystical mountain.
Mount Shasta has long been considered a spiritual vortex, and the Golden Bough bookstore reflects that energy. With books focused on Lemurian legends, sacred geometry, ascended masters, and consciousness expansion, it caters to those who are drawn to high-vibrational living and cosmic wisdom.
This bookstore is compact but powerful. You’ll find hard-to-find titles, crystal wands, singing bowls, and sacred art that reflect the mountain’s mystical legacy.
What makes it special: Its location and its alignment with the esoteric energy of Mount Shasta make this a must-stop on any spiritual pilgrimage.
14. Pilgrims Way Community Bookstore – Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
The last independent bookstore in Carmel—and deeply soulful.
Pilgrims Way is both charming and wise. Located in the serene town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this bookstore is nestled behind a secret garden where you can sit with a cup of tea, surrounded by flowers and stone Buddha statues. Inside, you’ll find books on spirituality, wellness, ecology, and personal growth.
They also sell garden sculptures, inspirational gifts, and handmade journals.
What makes it special: The secret garden alone is worth the visit. It’s a peaceful escape and a deeply spiritual experience rolled into one.
15. East West Bookshop – Mountain View, California
The Silicon Valley soul center.
Not to be confused with its Seattle sibling, the Mountain View location of East West Bookshop is a hub for the spiritually curious of Silicon Valley. Founded by Swami Kriyananda, a direct disciple of Yogananda, it brings together traditional spiritual wisdom and modern metaphysical thinking.
It hosts frequent lectures, satsangs, and community events. Its vibe is gentle and grounding, ideal for those navigating the high-tech hustle with a desire for inner peace.
What makes it special: Its alignment with the teachings of Yogananda and its deep community roots in the Bay Area.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Guide on Spiritual Bookstores
Spiritual bookstores are more than places to buy books—they are temples of thought, sanctuaries of soul-searching, and places where strangers become fellow travelers. Whether you're looking for ancient teachings, energy healing tools, or just a space to sit and breathe, these bookstores provide nourishment for the spirit.
So next time you're on the road, or just need a spiritual refresh, consider making a detour to one of these magical places. You never know what sacred insight, kindred spirit, or life-changing book awaits behind those quietly humming doors.
May your journey be guided, and your soul uplifted.
Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.
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