Looking for a cozy spot that has a little bit of everything?
Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse in Kent, Ohio, combines a charming bookstore, record shop, and coffeehouse all in one unforgettable location!
In a world where everything seems to be going digital, there’s something magical about a place that celebrates the tangible.
Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse is that magical place, nestled in the heart of Kent, Ohio.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill coffee shop.
Oh no, my friends
This is a caffeine-fueled wonderland where bookworms, music aficionados, and coffee connoisseurs unite in perfect harmony.
As you approach the storefront on East Main Street, you’re greeted by a classic brick facade with large windows that offer a tantalizing glimpse into the treasure trove within.
The sign above the door proudly proclaims “BOOKS • MOVIES • MUSIC,” like a siren song to culture vultures everywhere.
Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that can only be described as “cozy intellectual chic.”
The walls are lined with shelves upon shelves of books, their spines creating a colorful tapestry of literary delights.
But wait, there’s more!
Tucked away in corners and nooks are crates filled with vinyl records, waiting to be discovered by eager fingers.
The air is thick with the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans, mingling with the unmistakable scent of well-loved books.
It’s like someone bottled up the essence of a rainy Sunday afternoon and spritzed it throughout the store.
As you wander through the aisles, you can’t help but feel a sense of excitement.
Who knows what hidden gem you might uncover?
Maybe you’ll stumble upon that out-of-print novel you’ve been searching for years.
Or perhaps you’ll discover a vintage record that becomes the soundtrack to your summer.
The beauty of Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse is that it caters to all tastes and interests.
Whether you’re a fan of classic literature, obscure indie bands, or just really good coffee, you’ll find your tribe here.
Speaking of coffee, let’s talk about the caffeinated offerings at this establishment.
The coffee bar is a work of art in itself, with gleaming espresso machines and an array of syrups and flavors.
The baristas here are like coffee alchemists, transforming humble beans into liquid gold.
They take their craft seriously, but not so seriously that they can’t have a little fun.
Don’t be surprised if you overhear them debating the merits of different brewing methods or coming up with punny names for their latest concoction.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But what if I’m not a coffee drinker?” Fear not, my caffeine-averse friends!
Last Exit also offers a selection of teas that would make any British grandmother nod in approval.
And for those sweltering Ohio summer days, they’ve got refreshing iced beverages that’ll cool you down faster than jumping into Lake Erie (which, let’s be honest, you probably shouldn’t do anyway).
But let’s get back to the books, shall we?
The selection here is nothing short of impressive.
From bestsellers to obscure titles, from weighty tomes to breezy beach reads, Last Exit has it all.
The shelves are organized in a way that encourages browsing and discovery. It’s like a literary treasure hunt, and you’re Indiana Jones.
One of the things that sets Last Exit apart is its commitment to supporting local authors and small presses.
You’ll find a dedicated section showcasing works by Ohio writers, giving you a chance to discover voices from your own backyard.
It’s like farm-to-table, but for your brain.
Brain-to-book?
Book-to-brain?
We’ll work on that.
Now, let’s talk about the music selection. If you thought vinyl was dead, think again.
Last Exit boasts an impressive collection of records that’ll make any audiophile’s heart skip a beat.
From classic rock to jazz, from indie darlings to obscure world music, the vinyl section is a veritable smorgasbord of auditory delights.
And the best part?
They’ve got listening stations set up so you can sample the goods before you buy.
It’s like test-driving a car, but instead of a car, it’s a piece of musical history.
And instead of a test drive, you’re standing in a bookstore with headphones on.
Okay, maybe the analogy doesn’t quite work, but you get the idea.
But Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse is more than just a place to buy things.
It’s a community hub, a gathering place for like-minded individuals who appreciate the finer things in life (and by “finer things,” I mean books, music, and caffeine).
The store hosts regular events that bring people together.
Book clubs, author readings, open mic nights – there’s always something happening here.
It’s like a cultural buffet, and everyone’s invited to feast.
One of the most charming aspects of Last Exit is the seating area. Scattered throughout the store are cozy nooks and crannies where you can curl up with a book and a cup of joe.
The chairs are mismatched in the best possible way, like they were collected from the world’s most interesting yard sales.
Some are plush armchairs that threaten to swallow you whole, while others are quirky vintage pieces that look like they have stories of their own to tell.
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And let’s not forget about the tables.
They range from sturdy wooden affairs perfect for spreading out your work (or, let’s be real, your snacks) to tiny side tables just big enough for a coffee cup and a paperback.
It’s like the furniture equivalent of a potluck dinner – everyone brought something different, but somehow it all works together.
The walls of Last Exit are a feast for the eyes.
In addition to the shelves of books and records, you’ll find an eclectic mix of artwork adorning the spaces in between.
Local artists are featured prominently, their works adding splashes of color and creativity to the already vibrant atmosphere.
You might see anything from abstract paintings to quirky illustrations to black-and-white photographs capturing the essence of Kent.
It’s like a mini art gallery, but instead of sipping champagne and pretending to understand modern art, you can enjoy your latte and appreciate the creativity of your neighbors.
The staff at Last Exit are a breed apart.
They’re not just employees; they’re book sherpas, music gurus, and coffee connoisseurs all rolled into one.
Need a recommendation for your next read?
They’ve got you covered.
Looking for an obscure jazz album from the 1960s?
They’ll point you in the right direction.
Can’t decide between a latte and a cappuccino?
They’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each with the patience of a saint and the knowledge of a barista savant.
But what really sets them apart is their genuine enthusiasm.
These folks aren’t just working a job; they’re living their passion.
You can see it in the way their eyes light up when they talk about a new book arrival or the way they lovingly handle a rare vinyl record.
It’s infectious, and before you know it, you’ll find yourself just as excited about that first edition you didn’t even know you wanted.
The atmosphere at Last Exit is conducive to lingering.
Time seems to slow down here, in the best possible way.
You might come in for a quick coffee and end up spending hours browsing the shelves, flipping through records, or chatting with fellow patrons.
It’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself for an afternoon and emerge feeling like you’ve been on a mini-vacation for your mind.
One of the things that makes Last Exit so special is its commitment to sustainability.
They offer a selection of fair trade and organic coffees, and they encourage customers to bring their own reusable cups.
The store also has a robust used book and record buying program, giving new life to pre-loved items and keeping them out of landfills.
It’s like they’re saving the world, one cup of coffee and one dog-eared paperback at a time.
The store’s location in downtown Kent adds to its charm.
After you’ve had your fill of books, music, and caffeine, you can step out onto the bustling streets and explore the rest of what this vibrant college town has to offer.
From quirky boutiques to local restaurants, there’s plenty to see and do.
It’s like Last Exit is the perfect launching pad for a day of urban adventure.
As you leave Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse, arms laden with new treasures and a to-go cup of their excellent coffee, you can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction.
You’ve just experienced something truly special – a place that celebrates the joys of literature, music, and good company.
It’s more than just a store; it’s a testament to the enduring power of physical media in a digital world.
In a time when everything seems to be moving online, Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse stands as a delightful anachronism, a reminder of the pleasures of turning a page, dropping a needle on a record, or savoring a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
It’s a place where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony, creating an experience that’s both nostalgic and thoroughly modern.
So, whether you’re a Kent local or just passing through, make sure to carve out some time for a visit to Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse.
Trust me, your inner bookworm, music lover, and coffee aficionado will thank you.
For more information about events and offerings, be sure to check out Last Exit Books and Coffeehouse’s Instagram page.
And when you’re ready to embark on your own literary and caffeinated adventure, use this map to guide your way to this Kent gem.
Where: 124 E Main St #1, Kent, OH 44240
Who knows?
You might just find your new favorite hangout spot.
After all, in the journey of life, sometimes the best destinations are the unexpected ones.