Explore Books and Coffee

A great space with lots of books and crannies to explore. Excellent selection of books along with a spectacular coffee shop offering juices and treats. Quiet like a library, great to decompress and a nice outdoor deck with quaint views.

Amazing quaint bookstore in Aspen. One of the few places left in town that seems like it wasn’t built/designed to bilk tourists of their money, instead it’s to provide for the community. Great selection of books, I always spend more than I intend when I walk in. They also host great events with local and national talent!

If you know me you know the two things I love most are books and coffee! This wonderful shop had both! My cappuccino was perfectly made, the barista recommended adding cinnamon and it was perfect! The shop was cozy and was very organized. I didn’t leave empty handed and bought The Berry Pickers! It was a hard choice because they had so many options. I would recommend this shop for anyone who loves cozy vibes and good books!

Full disclosure: I'm an independent bookstore enthusiast. That revealed, this is one of the best–the best?–independent bookstores in existence. The atmosphere is cozy, inviting, full of good recommendations and selections. You can grab a coffee upstairs, settle into a chair with a stack of possibility, and while away an entire afternoon. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and it's run by a nonprofit, so your dollars spent do extra good work. Plus, it's in Aspen. How can you go wrong? Go to Explore, spend some money, support your own curiosity and good things.

I am visiting from NJ and saw this on our walk one evening. I decided to pay them a visit the next day. Alone- no kids or husband so I can really enjoy it. I’m glad I did. It’s such a cute bookstore. I love the way they organize their books and how each room has a space to cozy up and read. When I went upstairs (yes there’s an upstairs) I walked into a Bistro Cafe 🥰. I fell in love. I didn’t want to leave. I texted my husband to go back to our hotel since I’ll be taking my time and walking back. 🤣 he did. He knows I love bookstores. I don’t know if I met the owner or not but all three staff members I spoke to were kind, hospitable and warm. From one small business to another, I wish you guys the very best. Remain humble, loving, and kind and you will always bloom. 💗