Literary Lovers: The 5 Best Independent Bookstores in Seattle Hosting ‘Blind Date with a Book’ Events

The indie bookstores in Seattle have found success with their Blind Date with a Book events – wrapped books of any genre to browse by chance. Top 5: Elliott Bay Book Co (Capitol Hill) sets mystery/ fantasy blind dates with 150k+ books; Queen Anne Book Co sets genre-wrapped blinds with events; Secret Garden Books (Ballard) sets kids/adults blinds; Open Books (Pioneer Square) sets poetry blinds; Paper Boat Booksellers (West Seattle) sets blind to community. In February 2026, there are wraps with the theme of Valentine’s (10-25). Homey cafes, author events add to the visits; serve locals through indie maps.

Wrapped Genre Surprises

Elliott Bay’s blind dates in fiction, YA, sci-fi—staff picks tease tropes sans spoilers for pure discovery joy.

Children’s Book Blind Dates

Secret Garden crafts kid-friendly wraps; Queen Anne adds gifts, fostering family literary adventures.

Poetry Mystery Wraps

Open Books’ poetry blind dates unearth rare gems; cozy couches invite lingering reads.

Community Event Picks

Paper Boat’s book clubs pair blind dates; Third Place Books’ locations host group unwraps.