The only thing I love more than a good book is... the search for a good book! There's something truly magical about browsing the aisles and seeing what I can find that feels like a real-life treasure hunt. Let's stay with this metaphor: a good bookstore or library is worth its weight in gold! Go out in search of bibliophilic booty with this Wisconsin literary road trip that will take you across the state to some of its biggest cities and most charming small towns, each with a hidden trove of books. Some of these are the biggest and most famous bookstores in the state, while others are the definition of hidden gems. The only thing that's for sure is that you're guaranteed to come home with more books than you have space on your shelves!

Wisconsin is a fairly large state, so this literary road trip itinerary will take just under nine hours of driving to see all the bookstores and libraries across the state. That makes it ideal for a weekend adventure - giving you all the time you need to spend hours browsing the aisles!

1. Blue House Books (Kenosha)

Kenosha's best boutique bookstore started its life as a pop-up, but established a full brick-and-mortar location in 2020. Blue House Books sells a lot of popular books as well as lesser-known and frequently challenged "banned books". It's become quite the community hub, hosting frequent signings and events featuring writers.

2. Boswell Book Company (Milwaukee)

This old-school Milwaukee gem is particularly beloved among book fans because it still does things the way they remember - collating their own best-sellers list rather than relying on outside sources, and running a trade-in business where used book sellers can get store credit. Boswell Book Company is a great place to meet authors, or just to spend the whole day browsing for rare and offbeat books.

3. Lion's Mouth Books and More (Green Bay)

There's nothing I love more than a good bookstore cafe, and the one at Lion's Mouth features a diverse menu of caffeinated drinks - perfect to enjoy a book by. This is one of Wisconsin's newest bookstores, and has quickly put itself on the map thanks to an aggressive schedule of events including author signing and local book clubs for all interests.

4. Town of Wabeno Public Library (Wabeno)

The library in Wabeno is far from the largest or most modern in the state - but that's why it's worth the drive from anywhere in the Badger State. This unincorporated community is perfectly historic, and its only library is actually located in an authentic Northwoods log cabin. It's the only library of its kind in Wisconsin, and this small book have is on the National Registry of Historic Places.

5. Janke Book Store (Wausau)

Speaking of historic, Janke Book Store is actually the oldest bookstore in Wisconsin! Found in Wausau, it's been part of the local environment since 1874, it carries a very large selection of local history books and hosts regular events catering to those with an interest in Wisconsin history. The place has a great rustic vibe and still pays tribute to the atmosphere that owner Carl Janke wanted to create.

6. Driftless Books and Music (Viroqua)

It wouldn't be a bookstore road trip without a stop at one truly massive book warehouse, and Driftless Books and Music certainly qualifies. The largest bookstore in Wisconsin, it holds over 500,000 books along with a live music venue and a host of great reading nooks inside this former tobacco warehouse. It's the kind of place where you can easily spend all day browsing and still want to come back tomorrow. The bookstore is only open seasonally, so check the schedule before you head outl.

What are your favorite bookstores in Wisconsin? Ask a friend and put together your own Wisconsin literary road trip! Your end point on this road trip is pretty close to Wisconsin Dells, so if you're looking for a unique place to stay in the area, we highly recommend the Ringling House Bed and Breakfast - a truly one-of-a-kind inn with a circus theme.