Parnassus Books: Nashville’s Charming Indie Bookstore
Last updated: 5/18/24
Parnassus Books is an independent bookstore in Nashville located in the Greenhills neighborhood. Opened by author Ann Patchett and her business partner Karen Hayes in 2011, the store is a hub for literary activity in Nashville.
Parnassus Books was one of the first bookstores in Nashville I ever visited (even before we moved to Nashville). The store has one of the largest selections of new books you’ll find in the city, and walking in to see the massive walls of books is pretty impressive.
There are sections of books for basically every interest. The children’s section is particularly fun. There’s an entrance through a half-size door for children to use. Thankfully for adults, you can also just walk around to the other side of the wall to enter as well. There’s plenty of room to push a stroller through as well. It should come as no surprise that my baby and I have made several trips to Parnassus in the past year.
One of the best parts of the store is the section with a regional and local focus. And, Parnassus definitely contributes to the literary community in Nashville. There are constantly events going on, from book club meets to visits from guest authors. I believe there is a weekly storytime for children as well.
Another unique part of Parnassus Books is the canine members of the staff. Several furry friends spend their time in the back of the shop and make welcomed appearances on the store floor.
The only part of Parnassus Books I don’t enjoy is the parking lot. The parking lot has plenty of spots, but somehow it’s still always slightly annoying to navigate. The situation is a shopping center problem rather than a specific Parnassus problem though. Once you are parked though, you might as well walk over to Fox’s Donut Den as well. Getting both books and a donut in one outing is worth being somewhat confused on which direction the flow of traffic should go in the parking lot.
For book lovers, Parnassus Books should be on your list whether you’re a local or a visitor. It’s a charming and welcoming space for anyone who enjoys reading.
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Parnassus Books is located at 3900 Hillsboro Pike #14, Nashville, TN 37215. See the Parnassus Books website for opening hours and more information.
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