If you ever find yourself in Richland, you might not expect to stumble upon such a fun and eclectic bookstore scene, but trust me, it’s worth the trip. Whether you’re hunting for your next fantasy obsession, digging through rare finds, or just vibing with a quirky, nostalgic atmosphere, these two bookstores offer completely different (but equally memorable) experiences.
Even better? You can easily turn this into a full day (or weekend) adventure by pairing your bookstore stops with a wine tasting getaway in Walla Walla. It’s just an hour away and known for its incredible wineries and scenic views. It’s the perfect blend of cozy and classy: books and wine.
Adventure Bookstore
📍 1391 George Washington Way
advunderground.com
Adventure Bookstore is not just a bookstore, it’s an experience. This is the kind of place where you can stay for hours. Alongside shelves packed with fiction, nonfiction, manga, and comics, you’ll also find an unexpected mix of toys, games, models, and even records and CDs.
It feels less like a traditional bookstore and more like a pop culture hub. Whether you’re a reader, a collector, or just someone who loves browsing through interesting finds, there’s something here to catch your eye. It’s the perfect stop if you enjoy variety and a little bit of everything all in one place.
Xenophile Bibliopole
📍 2240 Robertson Drive
xenophilebooks.com
Xenophile Bibliopole is a completely different vibe. This used bookstore feels like stepping into a hidden literary treasure trove. It’s packed with both fiction and nonfiction, with a strong emphasis on older and harder-to-find books. There’s even a rare book room, which adds a layer of excitement for anyone who loves the thrill of discovering something truly unique.
The shop leans heavily into science fiction, with some fantasy and horror sprinkled throughout, plus a solid mystery section. You’ll also find quirky extras like figurines, old movie posters, and a small selection of records. If you’re into the paranormal, this place especially delivers.
One thing to note: some of the pricing can run a bit high, even for well-known authors or signed copies, so it’s not always the best spot for a bargain. But for the atmosphere alone, and the chance to browse something truly different, it’s absolutely worth a visit. There’s also a resident cat, which honestly makes the whole experience even better.
Plan your trip
Both bookstores are located in Richland, but they are not walkable from each other, so you’ll want to plan for transportation between stops.
If you’re planning to visit both in one day, driving is your best bet. From there, you can easily extend your trip with a scenic drive to Walla Walla for a wine tasting experience. Many wineries are spread out, so having a car—or booking a local wine tour—is the easiest way to explore everything the region has to offer.
Final Thoughts
From the playful, all-in-one experience of Adventure Bookstore to the cozy, mysterious charm of Xenophile Bibliopole, Richland proves that even smaller cities can have seriously memorable bookstore stops. Pair that with a relaxing wine tasting trip in Walla Walla, and you’ve got the perfect itinerary for a book lover’s getaway.
If you’re building your reading list from discoveries like these, don’t forget to support indie bookstores through Bookshop.org—your next great read (and your next favorite destination) might be just a click away.
Check out my other bookstore reviews, to bring your book experience beyond the shelf.
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