There are few better ways to enjoy your vacation than heading down to the beach and getting lost in a great read. So it’s a good thing St. Petersburg is a bibliophile's paradise, brimming with great places to pick up a copy of that page-turner you’ve been itching to dig into. So if you’re looking to pick up a classic favorite, blockbuster best seller or breezy beach read, we’ve got some great suggestions for where to sho[. Read on to check out our picks for the best St. Petersburg bookstores.
Tombolo Books
Tombolo is a fairly recent entry onto the St. Petersburg bookseller scene, but it’s really made a mark. The store first operated as a Tampa Bay pop-up before a successful crowdfunding campaign allowed them to open a brick and mortar location in 2019. Inside, you’ll find a curated collection of titles across multiple genres, including cookbooks, non-fiction, and work from local authors. There’s even a cozy kids’ corner for younger readers.
2153 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
Wilson’s Book World
Wilson’s has been a stalwart on the metro’s bookstore scene since 1971. In that time, this family-owned and operated treasure trove has supplied the area’s contant readers with a steady stream of volumes of every variety. The store’s current selection represents a deep cache of eclectic editions, from renowned classics of literature to the latest contemporary comics — more than a quarter-million individual books to choose from!
535 16th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Zbookz Bookstore
A true readers’ bookseller, Zbookz is the place to go for hard-to-find titles and out-of-print editions. Expect an inviting atmosphere with shelf after shelf of fantastic finds, all just waiting to be discovered. The owner Jim is revered locally for his exhaustive knowledge of modern publishing, and his ability to get his hands on nearly anything his customers might be looking for. So stop by, have a seat by the fire, and dive in.
7901 46th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Wings Metaphysical Gifts and Books
Devotées of all things spiritual will find much to love at this North East Park-area book emporium. Here’s where to find volumes covering all aspects of the paranormal, mysterious and mystical — including light work, alternate worlds, and the secrets of the mind. Additionally, the gifts section is a paragon of accoutrements intended to aid those who seek unknown realms, including crystals, tarot, jewelry, incense, sage and more.
4500 4th Street N, St. Petersburg, FL 33703
Cultured Books
With a focus on world cultures, black voices and kids’ books, Cultured Books serves a rich niche in St. Petersburg. In addition to offering titles and products that seek to elevate traditionally underserved groups, the store’s founders are also incredibly active in the community — supporting literacy programs, youth groups, art and music, and other valuable public outreach. Stop in to Cultured to get uplifted, inspired and informed.
833 22nd St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
Feed Your Imagination Comics
There’s no denying that superhero stories have taken pop culture by storm. And even though hardly a month goes by without some large-scale derring-do hitting the screen at the cineplex, it all starts on the page. Want to get back to the root of it all? FYI is the place to pick up the latest monthly titles, graphic novels, collections and more. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the selection of toys, collectibles and other memorabilia.
7215 Central Ave, Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
