Phoenix Books

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9 months ago

The store has a lot to offer - so many used books. However, I found the signage hard to read to be a to find genres on my own. Also, the staff really keeps to themselves in conversation making it harder to ask for help. The books were priced well and I left with a 1948 copy of This Side of Paradise and 8 Nancy Drew Books. read more

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Melanie H.

594

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2 years ago

This is a cute little bookstore in a fun street of SLO! I can't believe it's the only one around that sells used books! I was looking for one particular book and luckily they had it and for cheap too! The guy that was there was super helpful in finding it! read more

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Vic C.

Elite 26 All-Star

149

3960

17936

4 years ago

Phoenix Books is located in downtown San Luis Obispo. I visited this store twice, trying to give it a chance but found this store to be overly cluttered and a bit overwhelming to shop and browse at this bookstore. I love bookstores, as I love to read. I especially love used bookstores because you can often times fine the best deals. But this bookstore was messy and a bit confusing to navigate through. There are books on the floor, in boxes and just all over. If you don't feel like browsing, then this is not the store to visit (and both times I came here, I just gave up browsing because there is just too much to look through). Employees were not friendly when I came to visit twice and some of the prices for books did seem a bit overly priced. But am glad that others find this bookstore to be great. read more

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Terron R.

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1 year ago

Easily best used book store been to in years. Was here over an hour and got two bags worth of great books wanted to get for a while. read more

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Lisa V.

5

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3 years ago

We always find good books on every visit. The staff are happy and positive with book knowledge. There is something for everyone here, fiction and nonfiction. read more

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Steven K.

0

7

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8 months ago

Good prices and broad selection. Going back to buy a few more books to complete the series.

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Pratima M.

4

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3 years ago

A fun spot in downtown SLO for user books -- they have a large selection that's fun to peruse, but you definitely just need a lot of patience. There are so many titles and they're not organized in any particularly helpful way, but it's also a gargantuan undertaking so I don't blame the staff. I didn't see any newer titles (aka anything from the last ~3 years), but the prices here are pretty hard to beat. I wish I could've stayed longer, but I left empty-handed. read more

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Alicia B.

159

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450

3 years ago

Hands down a must visit for me every time I visit SLO. I always find something I "need" and at a good price. My latest score was an old copy of The Wizard of Oz, not in the best condition but at $3 I was stoked! For the size of this store and as jam packed as it is with books they are fairly organized. The always have a rack of .25¢ and $1 books out front or right as you walk in, a separate place for new arrivals, and a great children's and young adult section. I'm lucky to have a daughter that loves to read and loves to look for new stories right along with me. Be sure to bring your own bag as the area is very eco-friendly and most places charge a bag fee. If you like books this is the place to find that hidden gem you never knew you needed! read more

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Timmy S.

Elite 26 All-Star

62

3065

7881

5 years ago

If used bookstores were actors this place would be straight out of central casting. It's the epitome of what you imagine a used bookstore to be. Yes, it does have a bit of that used bookstore smell but not overly so. It is a large store with several rooms, somewhat organized into categories which are randomly placed here and there so it's a bit of a treasure hunt if you are after books of a specific type. At least the categories are labeled on stickers so you have a fair chance of being successful on your hunt. Most of the books are on the shelves but there are more books than shelf space so you'll find stacks of books on the floor here and there. Prices are excellent. I found a couple books in "like new" condition that I'd easily pay double for anywhere else. This is a really fun place to browse. I visit here every time I come to SLO. read more

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Taylor G.

Elite 24

138

105

137

4 years ago

As an avid reader, I'm always looking for ways to save on buying books (other than the library). While you won't always find the latest and greatest reads, I always leave with something unique or hidden gems if you will. This past week, I visited Phoenix Books to sell back a stack of books taking up space in my home. As expected, the selling price was fairly low. You have two options: 1) receive store credit 2) get cash. But the cash value is about 50% less. I sold about 10 books for $22 store credit. However, I feel it's fair in support of a small business and one of the only indie bookstores in the area! I highly recommend taking the books you don't sell to the little libraries around town as well. All in all, a visit to Phoenix Books is a treat! The store is surrounded by shelves of different genres and covered in stacks of books. It feels homey and is a great way to spend an afternoon. read more

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Gini G.

2

40

0

1 year ago

What a fun and funky store! Bruce Miller and now his son run a great bookstore full of gems to be discovered. Enjoy the hunt!

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Mercedes L.

25

136

4

2 years ago

Wide array of books. The best part is how low priced most of their books are. They lose a star for sometimes having some very unfriendly and unprofessional staff working there. I'm not sure if that's the vibe they are going for but they could be nicer. read more

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Rochelle H.

Elite 23

6

100

6

2 years ago

Great store. Great selection, really well organized, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. If you like used books, you will be happy here read more

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Kimberly C.

44

30

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2 years ago

Phoenix Books on Monterey St in SLO is nothing short of an awesome rainy Saturday hanging in Phoenix's thousands of books, meandering around the isles. The store is two stories of anything and every book imaginable. And, usually, they have a sale shelf. I think for me an obsessive book person and reader- Phoenix is my happy place. Another big perk is...they buy back many books! read more

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Joanna M.

Elite 25

2

170

173

2 years ago

My husband and I came here while visiting and I am impressed. I'm sure I could spend hours here just browsing their selection. Books are fairly priced, I bought two books in excellent condition for $15. Staff was very kind when I went to pay. I'll definitely come back on my next trip here. read more

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Ok B.

0

48

0

2 years ago

Crowded. LOTS of used books at okay prices. If you want it, they might have it, but they won't know. There's no records of which books they have, so you need to search through the loosely categorized books. I do recommend this used book store; just know what you're signing up for when you go. read more

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Frances M.

50

267

204

5 years ago

This bookstore has been around forever and is my "go to place" for used books. The assortment is large so i usually find what I'm looking for -- more recently a book about Georgia O'Keefe's artwork. The staff is extremely helpful and a quick phone call will save you the trouble of parking downtown even though it's fun to browse their shelves. read more

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Kathleen B.

0

42

8

2 years ago

So many books! Great place to wander and discover! A wonderland of well loved books! Great central location too.

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Sam O.

2

17

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2 years ago

Love these guys. Knowledgeable, friendly crew. Always an adventure digging through their stacks. Support your local book store!!

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Nico D.

1

64

101

5 years ago

Please come by fellow readers! This establishment is honest in its appearance; it is a treasure trove of hidden knowledge. The pricing is fair, the books are plenty, and the staff are friendly. Pls support local business. It provides diversity in a quickly urbanizing downtown SLO. read more

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Rachel H.

346

10

2

5 years ago

This shop fluctuates in their selection of antique and collectibles. Sometimes I find gems and other times come out empty handed. It can be difficult to navigate the store, it's pretty confusing and disorganized. But the selection of collectibles can be incredible on a good week! read more

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Maggie M.

1

31

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2 years ago

This is my favorite used bookstore. I visit the San Luis Obispo area several times a year, and this is one place I have to visit when I am in town. The store is huge so there are books in every corner and all along the way. There is variety, volumes and varying quality. I can get lost here in a very good way. Only other bookworms can understand. The prices are a real value. Service is like visiting a library. You get help if you need it and ask. read more

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Don J.

6

13

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3 years ago

Great spot. Tremendous selection, fair pricing and friendly staff. Also a convenient location.

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Iliana A.

0

2

1

3 years ago

Massive selection of books at extremely reasonable prices. This store is one of the only places I have allowed myself to buy books from as an avid reader due to a tight budget, yet I don't feel like I'm missing out in anything. The atmosphere is amazing as well, quiet and bright, books wherever you look. read more

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Matthew R.

0

32

3 years ago

I just looked to see if this store was still open in San Luis Obispo and it is. my heart is overjoyed and I can't wait to make a trip there. As a little young 11 year old (41 for context now) I remember going in there and getting my first books on the punk rock subculture there. My very first anarchist cookbook and some of the paladin press stuff. This single place had more to do with influencing the direction of my life than any other store on earth. I still own all of the books I bought there as a kid - that's how integral they were to my life and it's amazing to see a book store with so much heart and soul still alive! read more

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Bob F.

32

363

0

6 years ago

I like to see independent used book stores continuing. Phoenix is one of these. The pricing is reasonable for good conditioned books and the selection is abundant, but a bit high on the older or more damaged copies. The reason I can't give it a better review is that it is horribly organized. Piles of books stuff ever square inch of floor space and cover the bottoms of most rows so unless you're determined to remove and then place them back, it's a real chore to view their entire selection. This is the hoarder's version of a book store where a thorough clean up would be advised. Nevertheless, it's a fun place to browse! read more

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Sunil R.

1126

10368

35695

6 years ago

LOVE IT! They have a great selection of books, it almost feels like you are in a museum. Do yourself a favor, treat yourself to a few books and buy some as gifts for your friends and family. Wish they were better organized though. read more

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Judy T.

67

52

20

6 years ago

This bookstore is amazing. So quaint and full of variety, genres all located in downtown SLO. The books are amazingly well priced, bought two books for $3- really enjoyed the sale racks. Hidden gems through each aisle. Will be back next time I'm in SLO. The staff was super accommodating with also practicing Social distance guidelines and masks. read more

Phoenix Books - Sci-fi Aisle - Bookstores Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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Sara T.

Elite 24

2

252

125

5 years ago

I LOVE independent, used book stores. This one was not my favorite. It was very disorganized with books piled up everywhere. Too much inventory. The woman at the counter was speaking loudly with another lady the entire time. The kids section is really limited. It was not what I was hoping for. read more

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Dane B.

0

6

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3 years ago

Lots of books! Found exactly what I was looking for. Customer service was very helpful. Price was just right.

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Jeff B.

0

7

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3 years ago

It seems that overflowing inventory isn't every cat's meow, but it's mine. And so is the selection. The shelves are packed and well organized. The stacked-up corners and brimming boxes make for great searching fun (if that's your thing.) And the prices mean you always leave with something. read more

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Praveen M.

93

1

6 years ago

Amazing selection of books. They carry used books only, no new books. Store hours on yelp are not accurate so double-check by calling the store. read more

Phoenix Books - Store hours as of Dec 29, 2019 - Bookstores Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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Christopher C.

4

7

1

5 years ago

This is by far my favorite book store in California. It has remained an excellent source of many different genres both common and uncommon. Particularly excellent nonfiction sections of varying types. Dedicate an hour or two to dig through the stacks. You won't be disappointed. read more

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Haroun K.

Elite 21

138

1194

28

8 years ago

Phoenix is a great little bookstore. The complaints are all true, though. The service is glum, the place is horribly disorganized, and the prices on lots of the books are on the high end. Nevertheless, the selection is excellent - probably because this is a college town. As far as literature goes, there are tons of titles you won't find in an average small town bookstore. The prices, if you really hunt around, were quite reasonable. Although the layout can be overwhelming at first glance, if you take a breath, there is a kind of method to the madness. And the mayhem gives it a sort of treasure hunting effect. Highly recommended if you're in SLO! read more

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Ashley M.

Elite 19

45

87

50

8 years ago

Eclectic boutique bookstore gives off "Diamond in the Rough" vibes. I took off a star because the organization is haphazard, the aisles can be cluttered and it is not clear where to find certain genres. That being said it's easy to get sucked into a literary vortex and spend an hour here just perusing. Some books are overpriced and I'm sure you can find the same book on Amazon for less but I believe in keeping small local businesses alive and thriving and this bookstore definitely has some rare and interesting books that you can't find online. :) read more

Phoenix Books - Interesting wall art haha - Bookstores Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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Tabitha C.

Elite 18

57

53

34

8 years ago

Walking through downtown SLO on our way to get some coffee, I noticed this magical rabbit hole of a bookstore tucked into the building. I darted in so quickly my husband almost walked right past. I was immediately lost in the piles of art books near the front door, and we had a great time wandering the stacks, just absorbing the vast variety of content available on the shelves (and piled on the floor, and tucked between stairs, and--) Just when I thought we were done, I found the upstairs loft, and found myself mesmerized by heaps of old history books, geopolitical analysis, and biographies. If you're on the hunt for a specific book, you probably want to check Amazon. If you love the smell and feel of old books and feel like getting lost in the Narnia of bookstores, definitely carve out an hour or two to wander through Phoenix. And when you're done, head right next door to Ascendo to sip some delicious coffee and dig into your new finds! read more

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Paul A.

0

67

7

4 years ago

This place is certain to delight the true booklover. Books are literally poled everywhere, in every genre imaginable. We spent a few hours in the store, and could easily have spent more time. And, of course, bought more than a few books, which were all reasonably priced. If you're into books, this is the place for you. read more

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Patrick Troy D.

376

79

234

12 years ago

~Feeling Smart and Reminiscing~ My girlfriend needed a book on parenting or childcare for class to discuss. Decided to check out Phoenix and see what gems they had on this topic. The place was a true used book store, which I've never been to. I'm not much of a reader, but it was fascinating to me to see so much books on so many topics. It was disorganized, but I don't mind. I came in expecting that anyways. What's great is that I saw so many books from my high school AP English days and all those novels that we had to read. I haven't been reading since coming to college, so this visit kinda sparked my desire to get back into the mind of great thinkers of the past and reminisce on all those nerve racking high school discussion circles. Picked up Albert Camus novel for 3 bucks. Boom! And my girlfriend got a directional behavior book for parenting children for 5 bucks. Definitely love the discount prices! read more

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Jazmine P.

91

40

2

6 years ago

Staff was polite and wearing masks. The selection of books was amazing. Love the location and the town. Bought way too many books would love to visit again read more

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Josiah H.

25

4

1

4 years ago

Awesome Bookstore with a pretty good selection of literature. Slightly overpriced, but there are some great titles there.

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More info about Phoenix Books

990 Monterey St
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Directions
(805) 543-3591
Call Now

Hours

What time does Phoenix Books open?

Phoenix Books opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Phoenix Books opens at 11:00 AM on Sunday.

What time does Phoenix Books close?

Phoenix Books closes at 6:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.Phoenix Books closes at 9:00 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Wed 10:00 AM - 6:00 PMThu-Sat 10:00 AM - 9:00 PMSun 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Phoenix Books take credit cards?

Yes, Phoenix Books takes credit cards.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Phoenix Books have bike parking?

Yes, Phoenix Books has bike parking.

Does Phoenix Books have parking?

Yes, Phoenix Books has parking options. Street Parking

Review Highlights - Phoenix Books

“Finding a specific title is a challenge, but you will find an amazing assortment of topics and titles.”

Mentioned in 4 reviews

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Explore benefits

Barnes & Noble

3.9(103 reviews)

0.1 mi

I absolutely love going to Barnes and Noble to peruse new titles, look at the beautiful journals,…read morecheck out the games, and more. You can find local interest items as well. There is a great variety in prices, so if you are looking for a gift or something for a set price, this is an easy source to utilize. The only downside is the customer service at Barnes and Noble. It may be that I always visit when they are busy, but the staff never go out of their way to help, don't seek to care if you find what you are looking for, I have stood at the "customer service" desk several times and had the person at the desk completely ignore me. They didn't even offer an, "I'll be right with you." One even walked away to do something while I was standing there. Wow. All in all, I will still visit for my book needs, but I never expect good servic

I've been to Book Stores ALL my life. Naturally born book worm. Ive frequented SO many B & Ns I…read moreshould get compensation. jk but I really wanted to say SLO Barnes & Noble? Is where it's at!! Nestled in the beautiful heart of downtown SLO only a stones throw from other thriving businesses, beautiful architecture, great restaurants/eateries and right there next to ALL of the awesomeness? Barnes & Noble SLO. Love this bookstore! Feels like stepping into an exclusive hidden world of awesome stationary, music, books, and just about anything you can imagine for the wee ones. Should you be traveling? & need to grab some slime, or a lego kit, cards to play. Something for everyone here. Including the book worm sig other who mayn't be that into just books. Love this little nook of magic!

Seaglass Hunters dream (guide for literally ANYTHING you find)

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A Satellite Of Love

5.0(29 reviews)

0.3 mi

I have been trying to go here for a while & they did not disappoint! I would have spent hours if I…read morehad the time. Picked up an amazing white leather skirt that I been looking for. Picked up a book of short stories from Japanese writers, and an amazing book with masks for my son. I can't wait to bring my husband here, he's going to love the book selection. I can't wait to have more time in those clothing racks

My first time purchasing vintage! Store has a great selection of vintage clothes, books, and…read morerecords. The owner was super welcoming and friendly. Would definitely visit again and recommend to others.

Entrance to A Satellite of Love.

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Whiz Kids Toys

4.9(41 reviews)

2.6 mi

the CUTESTTT store suuuper sweet workers, amazing jellycat…read moreselection, absolutely loved

I have been going to Whiz Kids since I moved up here 24 years ago. It all started with grandkids…read morewho are now in their mid to late 20's. Now I buy for the younger grandkids and nieces. The staff over the years has been so friendly and helpful. The have ample staff to help you with whatever you need. They have lots of dolls, stuff animals, legos, books and I could go on. They also have educational toys/books.I always pick a couple of girl/boy tags off the Christmas tree. Then I ask what is popular for a child of that age. I'm best with younger kids but also pick an older one. They have a sale once a year prior to Christmas so get on their mailing list. I also love the fact that they gift wrap. All the kids know where the gift has come from over the years.

Free Holiday Giftwrap available with every purchase!

Santa Approved! The Toy Experts at Whiz Kids are here to make your holiday shopping easy and fun!

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Shop from our large selection of LEGO sets! Choose between Star Wars, Ninjago, Harry Potter, Minecraft, Friends, Technic sets and more!

The Den at SLOCA

5.0(3 reviews)

1.0 mi

•$

Such a great selection for books, school items, and resources, for young minds! Michele is…read moreextremely helpful with locating any book needs for SLOCA students. Prices are extremely reasonable and there's a great assortment of snacks and fun choices if you bring the Littles along with you!

The staff here are great! They are always very nice and helpful! Highly recommended! The books are…read moreinteresting and well chosen!

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Dr Cain's Comics & Games

4.8(81 reviews)

0.2 mi

•$

Super nice and very helpful owner, I had no idea where to start with comics and he helped me out!…read moreGreat selection.

Really enjoyed stopping by here at the end of our day. They had an assortment of books and they…read morewere all really easy to view. I liked that the had lots of visual prints as well. The value seemed good.

Couple of comics I bought

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Love my Stan Lee funko!!!

Boo Boo Records

4.6(180 reviews)

0.0 mi

What a wonderful record store! Pristine and welcoming. Very spacious with a great ambiance. Prices…read moreare better than Nemo's and contains a wonderful selection. Obscure & essential. Regular & discounted prices. Definitely a must stop if you are a music fan.

Awesome record shop, tons of options…read more Selection: CD's, LP's ( different sizes), cassette tapes, dvds, posters and memorabilia The variety in all the items was amazing. We found things we haven't been able to find at other record shops. Service: awesome, attentive and helpful. They are fast and courteous. Value: reasonable prices, comparative to other places Definitely will go back

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Cal Poly University Store

3.6(9 reviews)

1.3 mi

Great selection of Cal Poly Mustang gear as you would expect. I got a new hoodie since my other one…read moreis old and finally starting to fray around the sleeves. You will pay full price for stuff but the shirts, sweatshirts, and hats are all great quality merchandise.

Great staff! Very friendly! Love the atmosphere! Apple at discount prices and always graet…read moreclearance deals.

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The Parable Christian Store

4.7(15 reviews)

1.6 mi

Blessed precious Sarah the precious parable sister who loves all God's creatures great and small…read moreshe's a blessing to so many thank you dear God she's always blessed me and my precious poodle Rayann we call the parable poodle thank you for this wonderful storm for the wonderful Gabriel's who God blessed as owners of the Blessed Parable Store we have known them for over five plus years thank you Jesus for them amen

I loves being able to look online and get a sense of what I might want to buy. I recently went in…read moreand grabbed a few things for my wife for her birthday including a nice Bible. They asked if I wanted it engraved and said it would only be about 15-20 minutes. What a great deal! Lovely customer service. I'll be back.

Precious Beautiful Parable Poodle Ray Ann Love going in and visiting precious beautiful Parable Sarah

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A color book. Very cool :-)

Cheap Thrills

3.7(91 reviews)

0.4 mi

Okay so first of all why did all your war gaming go to Atascadero, super inconvenient there has to…read morebe people willing to go to SLO for this. Next that place needs fans or air conditioning it is always too hot in there I always leave with a sweat on my back Your comic selection is mostly only DC and Marvel and I wish it was better organized by genre so I could get things I want in horror or Sci-fi. Your board game selection, TTRPG's, and miniatures are always good and I enjoying growing these sections for something new. I have also in the past gone for movies and I picked up a few I have wanted to watch for years and it felt better than going through Amazon for it. Lastly your staff was really pissed one time I was in there about some boxes that came in and it made me really uncomfortable, please ask them to keep it professional mostly in front of paying clients.

Sketchy history with the owner. The application to work here is uneccessarily difficult (asking to…read moredo complicated math questions without a calculator) and full of weirdly personal questions. People seem snooty as hell. They have a decent CD and comic collection but the records are severely lacking.