The Book Trader Philadelphia
Bookstore heaven
Jeff from Philadelphia
One of my favorite things to do while shopping is to wander through a bookstore. Even better is if that store sells used books. Finding that hidden gem at a great price is as good as it gets.
Philadelphia has a large selection of bookstores, but my favorite is the Book Trader, located near 2nd and Market Street, not far from Independence Hall. The Book Trader has been open since 1975 and was originally located on South Street but moved to their current location in 2004. The shop is crammed with books and is spread out over two stories, with each type of book found in a particular section. In it, you will find anything from classic novels to current non-fiction. And for those of you that enjoy the old-school way of enjoying film and music, they also carry CDs, DVDs, and LPs.
If while in town you have a book you are done reading, take it to the Book Trader. They would be happy to trade if for store credit, giving you a new read for the flight home.
Philadelphia Spotter Jeff
About this spot
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Two Persons Coffee
Excellent coffee zen space
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Merchant Exchange
Greek Revival architecture in Old City
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Sally
Friendly, local, tasty food!
"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Chris Jazz Cafe
Live jazz and Southern cuisine
"Chris Jazz Cafe" in Philadelphia has been keeping the jazz flames alive in Center City for over 30 years. A night here is an absolute event...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Herman’s Coffee
Coffee and more
"Herman’s Coffee" is in a former auto repair and car wash garage in Philadelphia. It's much more than just a coffee shop with espresso & yummy pastries...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Rosenbach Museum
For literature lovers
The "Rosenbach Museum" in Philadelphia will almost make you expect the residents to saunter out in Victorian garb! A must for literature lovers...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
St. Marks Episcopal Church
Center city oasis
"St. Marks Episcopal Church" in Philadelphia is just beautiful. Even though I'm not religious, I have enjoyed many free classical music concerts here...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Function Coffee Labs
Pastry bliss
When I tasted one of "Function Coffee Labs" buttery flaky sourdough-based croissants in Philadelphia, I knew I'd found pastry bliss...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Sassafras Bar
My favorite bar to meet friends
Considered the Grand Dame of neighborhood bars, "Sassafras Bar" in Philadelphia is dark and cozy, with a beautiful vintage wooden bar... A local favorite!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Dizengoff
Satisfy your hummus craving
"Dizengoff" in Philadelphia makes just amazing hummus made by Star Chef Michael Solomonov. The best part is the warm pita bread...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Good Buy Supply
Eco supplies
"Good Buy Supply" is Philadelphia’s first retail shop dedicated to low-waste and plastic-free alternatives for everyday life. These products are addictive!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Philly Knits Yarn Bombers
Knitted street art
"Philly Knits Yarn Bombers" in Philadelphia make a lot of knit-bombs around the city. I'm sure they'll make your day like they do mine!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Philadelphia
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
