Independent bookstores still abound in Northern Michigan where the owners handpick book offerings and are thrilled to chat with you to make sure you find just the right selection. These bookstores remain treasured parts of our towns and villages. Be sure you stop in on your vacation!

Local Flavor bookstore | Boyne City

The store includes a large selection of books, including high quality used books. Customers can trade-in their used books for a house credit! You’ll find a large selection of Michigan-themed books, and the bookstore hosts a number of book signing and reading events.

Horizon Books | Cadillac

Horizon’s shop in downtown Cadillac has a full coffee bar, extensive periodical section, and friendly and knowledgeable staff. The bookstore is a popular meeting place for community groups like chess clubs, reading groups, and knitting circles. Call to set up a space for your group to gather!

Round Lake Book Store | Charlevoix

This adorable shop specializes in best sellers and special orders. There’s a wonderful selection of mystery books, and the friendly employees are known for their incredible service.

The Bookstore | Frankfort

A wide selection of Michigan books, work by local artists, and fun finds for kids.

Saturn Booksellers | Gaylord

A bookstore for all ages. Get a monthly book subscriptions for babies (pictures books or board books), young readers, teens, and adults. Shop the ever-changing collection of toys, games, baby items, and gifts. And of course, enjoy a wide selection of books.

The Cottage Book Shop | Glen Arbor

This bookstore is a beautiful log cabin nestled near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in downtown Glen Arbor. Be prepared to spend some time in this cozy shop.

Between the Covers | Harbor Springs

A bookstore dedicated to building community. Owner Katie Capaldi also plays an integral role in Harbor Springs Festival of the Book.

Leelanau Books | Leland

Shop and stay awhile. Coffee, indoor and outdoor seating, and endless book recommendations. There is a wonderful selection of children’s literature, classics, and local interest books along with new fiction and non-fiction.

The Island Bookstore | Mackinaw City & Mackinac Island

Two locations specializing in Mackinac Island and Northern Michigan items with a wide range of new fiction and non-fiction, children’s books, and more.

McLean & Eakin Booksellers | Petoskey

This beautiful shop is author Ann Patchett’s favorite bookstore.

Brilliant Books | Traverse City

Brilliant Books’ monthly book club is incredible. Subscriber’s receive handpicked books picked by staff based on their individual preferences. People across the nation use it.

Higher Self Bookstore | Traverse City

Higher Self offers more than just books. The store sells essential oils, tarot cards, crystals and stones, and offers services such as shamanic healing.

Horizon Books | Traverse City

Sit by the cozy fireplace with coffee and a sandwich while you enjoy your book.

Photo(s) by Connor Gray