The Book Thing | Exploring Baltimore with Kids
© The Book Thing
  • Please support our journalism through affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure
  • Written by our human editors, structured with the help of AI.

Review & FAQ:

It is difficult to call The Book Thing of Baltimore a bookshop. It is true that the large warehouse-type building near Johns Hopkins campus is packed to the rafters with books. But, the books are not sold – they are free to anyone who wants them. In fact, customers are forbidden from paying a cent for anything they find on the shelves. This book lovers’ heaven was founded in 1999 by Russel Wattenberg and is operated entirely by volunteers. The store has an extensive collection of books and magazines, and new ones are constantly added through a system of donations. The Book Thing has only a few rules: visitors are not allowed to pay for books, they can choose whatever book they want, and they are absolutely not allowed to resell them.

The Book Thing, 3001 Vineyard Ln, Baltimore, MD 21218, Phone: 410-662-5631

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens with Kids Maryland Zoo with Kids National Aquarium with Kids Port Discovery The Walter Art Museum Baltimore Ghost Tours The Charmery B&O Railroad Museum Baltimore Museum of Industry with Kids Black Cherry Puppet Theater Maryland Science Center Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum Baltimore's Miracle on 34th St The Book Thing Carroll Park Druid Hill Park Autobahn Indoor Speedway Terrapin Adventures Chessie Paddle Boats

Explore more: Baltimore, Maryland > Exploring Baltimore with Kids

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Go to travel reservations.