The best book, hobby & craft shops in Kent

“Collins Books is the local rabbit hole for out-of-print, scholarly finds across anthropology, archaeology, ethnomusicology, and all those gloriously niche sciences you forgot you loved.”

From the Renton newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Homeschool Refresh is a curriculum-focused bookstore where you can actually flip through materials before committing, shop the full inventory online when life’s chaotic, and even consign last year’s picks so your shelves (and budget) stay fresh.”

From the Federal Way newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Fantagraphics Bookstore And Gallery is the spot for graphic novels that actually surprise you, from current releases to out-of-print treasures, plus a legit art gallery and event space.”

From the Seattle newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Page Turner Books is the Kent spot for sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and mystery, with thousands of used paperbacks including out-of-print gems plus a delightfully weird esoterica and tarot corner. Bonus, their in-house Nightmare On Meeker Street horror book club has an August pick worth diving into this week.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Third Place Books is the rare spot where browsing new and used shelves actually feels relaxing... then you look up and there’s an author event and on-site dining right there. Perfect for spontaneous hangs, low-key dates, or refueling your TBR without trekking far from home.”

From the Seattle newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Paper Boat Booksellers is that cozy indie spot where staff tuck honest "what we're reading" notes between shelves, so you discover new releases alongside trusty classics. They build sections based on what readers ask for, host community events, and generally make book browsing feel like catching up with good neighbors.”

From the Kent newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Wizard's Keep Games is the local hangout for open play and a stacked weekly calendar, from MTG Commander and Canadian Highlander to Marvel Crisis Protocol, Mordheim, Union Arena, and Thursday board game nights. Plus MTG and Pokémon singles when your deck needs a glow up.”

From the Renton newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Whether you're wrangling new classes, reclaiming your desk, or just chasing that perfect pen, University Book Store has the goods.”

From the Seattle newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Clearing out that extra gear or hunting for something with history, Re-Animated Music buys, sells, and trades new, used, and vintage musical equipment. Perfect for turning closet clutter into something you actually want or finally grabbing that piece your band needs. Worth the quick hop from Edmonds.”

From the Edmonds newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Ugly Baby turns bath time into art time with its original Shower Art, waterproof pieces that suction right onto your tile, plus a rainbow of DIY kits from cross-stitch to eco resin. Book a class or dream up a custom piece for that inside joke only your group chat understands.”

From the Seattle newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Family-owned shop since 1931 offering instruments for sale or rent, plus music lessons, and repairs.”

“Whether your bandmate keeps hinting about intonation, Dusty Strings Music Store & School packs guitars, harps, mandolins, ukes, and hammered dulcimers, plus a repair shop, rentals, used and vintage finds, and in-person or online lessons. Make this the week you trade, tune, or learn something new.”

From the Port Angeles newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“American Music has been Seattle’s music shop since 1973, with a curated spread of guitars, keyboards, synths, pro audio, amps and drum kits. Swing by for new or pre-owned gear, expert repairs, and clutch rentals when a last‑minute session or gig pops up.”

From the Seattle newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Whether your craft stash needs a refresh or your kiddo needs a creative outlet, Seattle ReCreative is a nonprofit creative reuse store and art center with pre-loved supplies plus classes and camps that turn would-be waste into inspiration. Drop in, browse, and leave buzzing with project ideas.”

From the Seattle newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.”

“Thunder Road Guitars is the Pacific Northwest source for premium new, vintage, used, and rare instruments, plus a wall of amps and effects that make weeknight jams more interesting. Swing by the Seattle showroom this week to trade in the closet queen or test-drive something inspiring... real people, real service.”

From the Seattle newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Family owned since 1996 in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, Emerald City Guitars specializes in used and vintage guitars and amps, plus effects, repairs, appraisals, guitar identification, and options to sell your instrument when you’re ready to shuffle the lineup.”

From the Seattle newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”