Boston, Massachusetts

The Brattle Book Shop in Boston, Massachusetts stands as an iconic literary haven with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1825.

Location Added By:

@mitchellmoorecreative (Instagram)

About This Location

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, the Brattle Book Shop stands as an iconic literary haven with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1825. This cherished establishment has not only captivated bibliophiles but has also earned a place of distinction among photographers for its timeless charm and unique character.

The Brattle Book Shop's journey began nearly two centuries ago when it was established by George Ticknor, a Harvard University student. Initially, it operated as a small and modest book stall on Cornhill Street, catering to the intellectual tastes of the local elite. Over the years, the shop changed hands and locations, eventually finding its permanent home on West Street in 1867. Since then, it has continued to evolve while remaining true to its core mission of providing a treasure trove of literary gems to its patrons.

It has been owned and operated by the Gloss Family since they acquired the shop in 1949. They have grown the store and stock 250,000+ items at any given time. They pride themselves on being one of the largest antiquarian book shops in the country.

What truly sets the Brattle Book Shop apart is its open-air book sale lot, a literary oasis tucked away in the heart of downtown Boston. Here, book lovers can peruse an extensive collection of used and rare books, spanning various genres and eras. The shop's outdoor shelves and antique book carts, brimming with literary delights, have become an iconic sight that beckons both avid readers and passersby.

Photographers have been drawn to the Brattle Book Shop for its picturesque charm. The open-air book sale lot, surrounded by old-world architecture and lush greenery, provides a captivating backdrop for capturing moments frozen in time. Whether it's the books themselves, the antique bookshelves, or the tranquil ambiance of the shop's surroundings, there's no shortage of subjects to inspire photographers' creativity.

When visiting the Brattle Book Shop, parking options are readily available. While the shop itself doesn't have its own parking lot, the Lafayette Garage, located at One Avenue de Lafayette, is a recommended parking facility conveniently situated nearby. Visitors can take advantage of a special discount offered by the shop: when making a purchase, employees can stamp your Lafayette Garage ticket, providing a $2 per hour discount for the first two hours of parking. In addition to the Lafayette Garage, there is also some street parking available in the vicinity, allowing visitors to explore the shop and its surrounding neighborhood at their leisure.

In essence, the Brattle Book Shop in Boston, Massachusetts, is not just a purveyor of rare and used books; it's a testament to the enduring love of literature and the preservation of literary history. With its rich history, photogenic appeal, and convenient parking options, it remains a beloved destination for book enthusiasts and photographers alike, inviting all to immerse themselves in a world of literary treasures and timeless charm.

Location Features

No items found.

Locations

Address:
9 West Street, Boston, Massachusetts

GPS Coordinates:
42.354657, -71.062001
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
Click here for parking directions
Parking Notes:
The book store does not have a parking lot of its own. The recommended parking garage for Brattle Book Shop is the Lafayette Garage on One Avenue de Lafayette. If you purchase something at the book shop, employees can stamp your Lafayette Garage ticket for a discount – the book shop stamp gives visitors a $2 per hour discount for the first two hours. Additionally, there is some street parking nearby.

Reviews

Have you visited this location before? Let us know what you thought! (Feature coming soon!)