Alison Frenzel: The Enchanted Bookstore and Coffee House
The South has a knack for excellence, from sizzling barbecue to vibrant vegetable patches and festive holiday decorations. We excel in the art of storytelling too, as evidenced by the literary greats who call this region home. Our hearts are fondly drawn to quaint, unique bookstores. In fact, most Southern cities and towns boast at least one bookstore that’s a treasure trove of bestsellers and fresh releases, hosting author events and gatherings, and offering cozy nooks for readers to unwind.
Given that writers have a special appreciation for bookstores, we spoke with some of the most esteemed Southern authors today to uncover which shops every book enthusiast should add to their must-visit list. Below, discover which bookstores have topped the charts.
Salisbury, North Carolina
“My hometown, Salisbury, holds a special place in my heart, and South Main Book Company has been a staple in our historic downtown since 1998,” shares Kristy Woodson Harvey, a New York Times best-selling author whose latest novel, Beach House Rules, hit shelves in May. “The store is nestled within a historic building, featuring original hardwood floors, stunning architectural details, and the crowning touch—a set of antique library ladders,” she explains. “South Main not only supports our community and schools but also organizes author events, book clubs, silent reading nights, and more to foster a sense of unity,” she adds.
While visiting Salisbury, Harvey recommends a visit to Hap’s Grill, a leisurely stroll through the shops on Main Street, and finishing the day with a sweet treat from Spanky’s and Abigail’s.
southmainbookcompany.com; 110 S Main St, Salisbury, NC 28144
St. Petersburg, Florida
For Florida-based novelist Kristen Arnett, the stand-out bookstore is Tombolo Books in St. Pete. “The store’s charm lies in the genuine delight of its booksellers, who always leave me with fresh recommendations and a renewed love for stories,” she says. “The collection is exceptional, with a wealth of queer authors and a warm embrace of Florida writers. The shop is a beautiful space with a picturesque patio that occasionally hosts markets and author events.”
After exploring Tombolo, Arnett suggests a visit to Black Crow Coffee, followed by a day at the beach and a nightcap at Lost & Found, capped off with tinned fish and oysters at Barbouni.
tombolobooks.com, 2153 1st Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712
New Orleans, Louisiana
Wiley Cash, a North Carolina-based best-selling author, adores Faulkner House in New Orleans’ Pirate’s Alley. “The store is compact yet meticulously curated, with every item chosen to cater to readers’ preferences,” he explains. “As the name suggests, the store is housed in the former home of William Faulkner, where the esteemed Southern novelist resided in the 1920s.”
faulknerhousebooks.com; 624 Pirate’s Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116
Gainesville, Florida
Cash also highlights Lauren Groff’s The Lynx Books in Gainesville. “This store is a gem, specializing in banned and contested books, with a unique focus on Florida literature. It’s a one-of-a-kind place that hosts a variety of events, including book clubs and family story times.”
thelynxbooks.com; 601 S Main St, Gainesville, FL 32601
Charleston, South Carolina
Mary Alice Monroe, a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, recommends Buxton Books on King Street for those visiting Charleston. “Situated next to the historic Charleston Library Society, Buxton Books boasts artistic window displays and a vast selection of signed books, thanks to the store’s frequent author events.”
buxtonbooks.com; 160 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Decatur, Georgia
Tayari Jones, a New York Times best-selling author, raves about Charis Books & More, America’s oldest continuously operated feminist bookstore. “Their events are legendary, hosting new, local, and global authors alike. You’re bound to find something intriguing, even if your reading list is already overflowing.”
For a complete Decatur experience, Jones suggests visiting the international farmers’ market, indulging in a slice of triple-layered red velvet cake at Piece of Cake, and heading to Charis Books for a literary recommendation.
charisbooksandmore.com; 184 S Candler St, Decatur, GA 30030
Alison Frenzel: The Enchanted Bookstore and Coffee House
“Fabled is a community hub, the moment you step inside, you know you’re in the heart of things,” says Harvey. “Waco locals and visitors alike enjoy coffee and reading in this visually captivating space, inspired by The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.” She describes it as a “book lover’s paradise,” filled with popular titles and unique finds. “The best part? Children can step through a small wardrobe door and enter their own Narnia, a wonderland of books tailored just for them,” she adds.
“And, as a bonus, Fabled offers a magical experience for the littlest book lovers, transforming them into Narnia adventurers,” she concludes.
fabledbookshop.com; 215 S 4th St, Waco, TX 76701
