This Unique Bookstore In Michigan Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published March 04, 2024
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Are you looking for an activity you can do regardless of the weather? Try visiting the John K. King Used & Rare Bookstore. This sprawling mecca for readers is easily the best bookstore in Detroit and arguably in the running for best in the state. Whether it’s too hot or too cold outside, nothing beats escaping into another world with a good book, and this beloved local spot is the perfect place to find your next favorite.
Owner and bibliophile John K. King debuted his first store in Dearborn in 1965. He'd been collecting antiques and books since high school, meaning he'd already amassed a large and varied collection. As his inventory continued to swell, King was obligated to move from location to location, eventually landing in his present-day spot at an abandoned glove factory in 1983.
Though no one knows for sure, it's estimated that King houses over one million books in this four-story reader's refuge. If this number is correct, it would make King's one of the largest booksellers in the country, rivaling other big names in the business like Powell's in Portland, Oregon.
Guests can spend hours pouring through the bookstore's immense collection, where it's easy to get lost among the maze of shelves. Thankfully, King's staff are known for being friendly and helpful, so don't hesitate to enlist their expertise if you need suggestions or directions.
But if you forget to look out the windows, I understand. For bibliophiles, the sheer number of reads constitutes endless opportunities to peer into other worlds. I recommend storing your phone at King's door and immersing yourself in this unique experience without thinking about time.
Whether you're an avid reader or just looking for something to do year-round in Michigan, visit John K. King Used & Rare Books. This local institution has one of the best collections in the state, and there's nowhere better to get lost for a day.
Are you looking for an activity you can enjoy, rain or shine? Check out John K. King Used & Rare Books. Its incredible collection makes it the best bookstore in Detroit, offering over one million books for visitors to peruse. Let your curiosity lead the way, and head to this Michigan institution. If you’re visiting from out of town, King’s deserves a spot on your itinerary,
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