Updated: July 12, 2024

Best Bookstores & Reading Spots in Colorado Springs

Get lost in a good book in the Pikes Peak Region.

Calling all bookworms! Whether you brought a book (or five) with you on vacation or call the Pikes Peak Region home, we’ve got suggestions for the next time you crack open a good book.

Pick out your next read at Poor Richard's

First step: Acquiring a good book.

Poor Richard's: This new and used independent bookstore is a local favorite that has been open since 1975. What started as just a bookstore has blossomed into a downtown Colorado Springs staple including a restaurant, cafe and wine bar and toy store.

Pikes Peak Library District: FREE access to thousands of books, movies, video games and resources?! El Paso County residents are eligible to apply for a free library card here. The PPLD also offers countless free programs including book clubs, gardening classes, storytime for the kids and so much more. Library cardholders also have access to the Pikes Peak Culture Pass, which allows you to explore museums and attractions around the region at no cost.

Hooked on Books: This new and used bookstore specializes in local history, local authors, rare and out-of-print books. With a selection of new releases sprinkled among the vintage used one, here you’ll find something for every kind of reader.

White woman sits on the sand in front of a lake reading a book

Take in the views at South Catamount Reservoir

Your first quest is complete. What you do next is up to you!

Maybe the idea of enjoying a book in the shadow of Pikes Peak is too great to pass up. Maybe you need some Vitamin D after a long week of work. Here are some of our best suggestions for outdoor reading spots around the region.

North Slope Recreation Area: Found along the Pikes Peak Highway, the North Slope sits at over 9,200 feet in elevation. With three reservoirs, hiking and biking trails and picnic areas, the area lends itself well to adventure and relaxation alike. This area is open seasonally and requires a timed entry permit to drive up Pikes Peak Highway.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park: Tucked away among 1.5-billion-year-old rock formations, this park is a hidden gem in the Pikes Peak Region. Explore the miles of hiking trails, picnic areas and waterfalls.

Two men (one black, one hispanic) sit cross legged on a picnic blanket, both laughing.

Bring a book and some snacks to Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods: Perhaps Colorado Springs' most iconic landmark, Garden of the Gods also makes a great place to enjoy your next read. Garden of the Gods is completely free to explore and contains 21 miles of hiking trails to explore. Whether you hike out to your reading spot or settle down along the paved walkway, you’re sure to find stunning views.

If the indoors are more your speed, we’ve got you covered there too.

Sacred Ground Cafe´: Nestled in Cheyenne Mountain Canyon, Sacred Ground Cafe´ is a quiet neighborhood gathering spot. It’s the perfect place to refuel post-hike with locally sourced food and drinks.

The Exchange on Tejon: Located on the southern end of Downtown Colorado Springs, The Exchange offers breakfast, brunch, lunch and drinks. Their upper level is available for reservation and they offer indoor and outdoor seating all year round. The Exchange frequently showcases live music, making it the perfect backdrop for your next good read.

A latte sits on a table next to a newspaper and scattered coffee beans.

Catch up on current events at Mission Coffee Roasters

Mission Coffee Roasters: This quiet space is on the Northern end of Colorado Springs. Mission Coffee thrives as a family-owned business and sells its coffee around the Pikes Peak Region and beyond. They offer tables and meeting spaces of various sizes for everything from solitary reading sessions to book club meetings.

Loyal Coffee: Right around the corner from The Exchange, Loyal Coffee is a barista-owned and operated coffee shop. With a quieter atmosphere and peaceful vibes, Loyal makes for the perfect place to spend some alone time with your favorite characters.

Author

Sheridan Powell

Communications Specialist | Visit Colorado Springs

A Midwesterner at heart, Sheridan moved to COS following college graduation. Her Strategic Communications degree from Mizzou equipped her for the unique space that is tourism marketing. You can find her most often at Poor Richard’s Bookstore, and she’s most likely to talk your ear off about all-things Taylor Swift. Ask her about taking steps to become more accessible and inclusive!

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