The Painted Porch Book Shop

Haven't been here since 2022 but have always yearned to be back.nnMy girlfriend and I found some great finds and we loved seeing the bookstore cats!nnAmazing vibes. Will definitely be back soon.

Here’s a clean, natural Google Review you can post as-is:nn⸻nnFinally made it to the Painted Porch in Bastrop and it was absolutely worth the trip. This is exactly the kind of bookstore experience I look for. Not endless shelves packed with filler, but a thoughtfully curated selection where you actually want to pick things up and read them.nnEvery book feels intentional. You’re not sorting through noise, you’re choosing from quality. It’s refreshing and honestly rare.nnThe space itself is just as compelling as the books. The design details really stand out, especially the fireplace, which gives the whole place a warm, inviting feel that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile.nnIf you’re anywhere near Bastrop, this place is a must visit. Come for the books, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with something you’re genuinely excited to read.

I discovered Ryan Holiday’s books while I was living in Italy, and they had a lasting impact on me. I applied many of the Stoic principles and leadership lessons from his writing to both my teaching and my basketball coaching, and they’ve continued to influence how I approach life and work.nnI now live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but I visit my parents in San Antonio whenever I can. During this trip, I made a point of driving to Bastrop to visit The Painted Porch Bookshop, and it exceeded every thought I had going in..nnThe shop is beautiful, thoughtfully decorated, and situated in a location that captures the charm of an old-fashioned Main Street. It has the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to slow down, browse every shelf, and enjoy the experience. I was especially excited to purchase an autographed book by Ryan, along with several other great finds.nnWhat made the visit even better was the staff. Everyone was genuinely friendly, welcoming, and eager to help, making the experience feel personal from the moment I walked in.nnIf you’re anywhere near Bastrop, I highly recommend taking the time to visit. It’s more than just a bookstore—it’s a destination that reminds you why independent bookstores are so special. I left beyond satisfied and already looking forward to my next visit. Hopefully, I’ll have the chance to meet Ryan next time!

This place was at the top of our list…travelling with my wife and daughter 13,255km from Brisbane, Australia to visit the store and pick up a couple of gifts for myself was the best b’day present ever…such a cool place, amazing selections and atmosphere. We enjoyed out time there and got to meet the resident cats 😀

Painted Porch is an amazing bookstore experience. It’s thoughtfully curated both in terms of books and the space. Includes children and young adult sections. The two friendly cats even came over to say hi. The shop’s instagram page features book recommendations (and cat videos). Learned about Libro.fm as the alternative to Audible to support local bookstores for audiobooks. If you know Ryan Holiday and his Daily Dad, and Stoic Virtues projects, you will find here special items such as leather bound and signed versions. Even if you’re not coming for stoic wisdom, many other genres are well represented.