The world's largest independent record store, Amoeba Music is a pilgrimage site for music lovers. Spanning massive locations in Hollywood, San Francisco, and Berkeley, it offers an unparalleled selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and rare musical treasures.

A Minneapolis institution since 1968, Electric Fetus was famously Prince's favorite record store, which he visited just days before his death. Despite its unusual name, the store offers an impeccable selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and music accessories across 70,000 items. Jazz, hip-hop, blues, and world music fans are especially well served here. The store's relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable staff (many who've been there for decades) make it a must-visit for any serious record collector in the Twin Cities.

A staple of the Austin music scene since 1982, Waterloo Records embodies the 'Live Music Capital of the World'. Known for its extensive Texas Music section and its legendary SXSW in-store performances.

Originally founded in London in 1976, Rough Trade is more than a record store—it's a cultural institution. The New York location at Rockefeller Center serves as a premier destination for indie music, artist events, and exclusive vinyl.

Though primarily known as a record-of-the-month subscription service, Vinyl Me, Please opened a stunning flagship retail store in Denver in 2023. The shop showcases their exclusive pressings alongside carefully selected new releases and reissues. What sets VMP apart is their commitment to high-quality vinyl production, featuring custom color variants, deluxe packaging, and audiophile-grade pressings. The physical store extends this ethos with listening stations featuring high-end audio equipment, allowing customers to experience the superior sound quality before purchasing.

Chicago's premier specialty record shop focusing on funk, soul, jazz, Brazilian, African, and disco music. Founded in 1996, Dusty Groove is widely considered the finest shop of its kind in the United States, offering meticulously curated selections of both common and incredibly rare vinyl. What began as an online-only operation evolved into a beloved brick-and-mortar store, though its website remains a crucial resource for collectors worldwide. The knowledgeable staff and thorough organization make it a paradise for cratediggers seeking hidden gems.

Nashville's beloved independent record store features over 300,000 albums in stock, with about one-third on vinyl spanning every imaginable genre. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere have made Grimey's a musician favorite, hosting legendary in-store performances from artists like Metallica (who recorded 'Live at Grimey's'), Phoenix, and The Black Keys. The store's success has allowed them to continually expand their vinyl selection, replacing many CD racks with additional record bins as the vinyl revival continues.

Portland's favorite record shop is known for its striking red ceiling and Las Vegas-inspired name and decor. Operating since 1997, Jackpot specializes in new and used vinyl with a particularly strong emphasis on local Pacific Northwest artists. The shop also operates an in-house record label focused on preserving and reissuing classic records, including works by regional punk heroes like Wipers and Green River, as well as more famous artists like Dr. John, Sun Ra, and Devo. The store's friendly atmosphere and extensive vinyl selection make it a must-visit Portland destination.

Though this legendary New York City record store closed its physical location in 2016 after 20 years, it lives on as an online retailer, mail-order service, and record label. During its heyday, Other Music was the epicenter of independent and experimental music in NYC, known for its carefully curated selection that often featured artists before they broke through to wider recognition. The store's knowledgeable staff and adventurous musical spirit made it a crucial hub for music discovery, with many artists citing the shop as a major influence on their careers.

This Athens, Georgia institution has been a cornerstone of the city's famous music scene since 1976. Wuxtry is perhaps most famous for being where R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck met Michael Stipe while working behind the counter. Future Danger Mouse (Brian Burton) was also once an employee. Beyond its storied history, the store continues to thrive with deep selections of rock, indie, and local music across both new and used vinyl and CDs. The Athens location also features a terrific comics shop upstairs, making it a dual destination for collectors.

Founded by Jack White in 2009, Third Man Records is a tactile wonderland for music fans. It combines a record store, live venue, and the world's only direct-to-acetate recording facility.

Seattle's premier independent record store has been a cornerstone of the city's music scene since 1997. With locations in Ballard and Capitol Hill (the latter recently relocated), Sonic Boom offers extensive selections of new and used vinyl, CDs, and music books. The stores frequently host in-store performances and are known for their handmade mixtapes curated by staff and local musicians, including K Records founder Calvin Johnson. The Ballard location in particular feels like the perfect expression of Seattle's music culture: unpretentious, deeply knowledgeable, and community-focused.

This beloved West Seattle institution combines a full-service record store with a classic American diner, creating a unique cultural hub for music lovers. The two-story shop features a vast selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and music books, while the attached cafe serves breakfast and lunch with musically-themed menu items like the Hank Williams Western Omelet and Dolly Parton Stack (pancakes). The store has deep connections to Seattle's music scene, with Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder being a regular customer who once worked a shift behind the counter in 1995.

This no-frills East Village shop has been a cratedigger's paradise since 1996, specializing in hip-hop, jazz, funk, and dance music. The store's ceiling is covered with music posters, while its shelves are packed with high-quality used vinyl treasures. A1's reputation for stocking rare and hard-to-find records has attracted famous DJs and producers like DJ Premier, Pete Rock, and Lord Finesse. The knowledgeable staff has deep connections to New York's music scene, making this a crucial stop for serious collectors looking for those special records that rarely appear elsewhere.

What began as a comic book store founded by two MIT students in 1978 has evolved into a New England retail powerhouse with nearly 30 locations across the Northeast. While Newbury Comics has expanded well beyond music to include toys, apparel, and pop culture items, its flagship Boston location remains a mecca for music lovers. The stores are known for stocking limited edition colored vinyl pressings, rare box sets, and an impressive array of indie and alternative music alongside mainstream releases. The atmosphere combines suburban mall nostalgia with authentic musical curation.

This Cincinnati stalwart has been serving Ohio's music community since 1999. Beyond its impressive selection of nearly 40,000 titles on vinyl and CD, Shake It distinguishes itself with extensive offerings of music books, magazines, and Japanese vinyl toys. The store also operates its own record label focusing on local Cincinnati artists. The knowledgeable staff creates a welcoming atmosphere for both casual listeners and serious collectors, while regular in-store performances and artist signings make it a cultural hub for the city's Northside neighborhood.

Chicago's beloved independent record chain operates three locations throughout the city, each with its own distinct character but united by a vast selection of new and used vinyl and CDs. The Wicker Park location famously inspired the record store depicted in the film 'High Fidelity.' Reckless prides itself on stocking everything from the latest indie releases to obscure international pressings and rare collectibles. Their knowledgeable staff creates handwritten recommendation cards throughout the store, helping customers discover new music across all genres.

Located on Denver's trendy Colfax Avenue, this massive 12,000-square-foot emporium houses over 250,000 new and used titles across vinyl, CD, and DVD formats. Since opening in the mid-1980s, Twist & Shout has hosted hundreds of in-store performances from artists like Ween, Elvis Costello, and John Cale. The used vinyl section is particularly notable, with deep selections across all genres and collectors competing for prime browsing spots daily. The store also offers an impressive selection of music books, film, Japanese toys, and band merchandise, making it a complete cultural destination.

A specialty record store dedicated exclusively to jazz vinyl, from classic Blue Note and Riverside pressings to avant-garde and spiritual jazz treasures. The shop organizes its inventory by sub-genre, making it easy to explore specific areas like hard bop, free jazz, and fusion. The knowledgeable staff includes musicians and serious collectors who can guide customers through the often complex world of jazz recordings, offering insights on artists, labels, and pressings. For jazz vinyl enthusiasts, this carefully curated shop offers one of the finest selections available anywhere.

With locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, Academy Records specializes in used vinyl with particularly strong selections in jazz, classical, and rock. The more compact Manhattan location focuses heavily on jazz and classical CDs, while the expansive Brooklyn outlet offers a treasure trove of carefully selected vinyl across all genres. Both shops are known for fair pricing on used items and knowledgeable staff who can help navigate their extensive collections. The Brooklyn location in particular has become a destination for serious vinyl enthusiasts looking for leisurely browsing in Williamsburg.

Known by regulars as PREX, this New Jersey institution offers an astounding selection of used CDs (under $9) and vinyl (generally under $5) alongside new releases. Located just steps from Princeton University, the store attracts a diverse clientele from students to serious collectors. Unlike many shops that have inflated vinyl prices during the current boom, PREX maintains accessible pricing that makes building a collection affordable. The shop buys and sells around 15,000 items weekly, ensuring constant turnover and fresh inventory for regular visitors.

This Washington DC brick-and-mortar shop specializes in used jazz, soul, R&B, funk, go-go, hip-hop, and international vinyl. Located in the Uptown neighborhood, HR Records has cultivated a loyal following among serious collectors for its carefully curated selection and fair pricing. The store particularly excels in jazz and soul records, with many rare and hard-to-find pressings regularly appearing in their bins. The knowledgeable staff creates a welcoming environment for both newcomers and experienced collectors, making recommendations based on customers' existing tastes.

Located in a quiet Tokyo neighborhood, Kankyō Records is a sanctuary for ambient and experimental music lovers. The pristine white interior with meticulously organized displays creates a stark contrast to the typically busy Japanese record stores. Customers remove their shoes upon entry to browse a thoughtfully curated selection of ambient, drone, and experimental vinyl and cassettes from around the world. The store particularly excels at highlighting small Japanese tape labels alongside international imprints like Constellation Tatsu. Its minimalist aesthetic perfectly complements the atmospheric music it specializes in.

Since opening in 2003, Phonica has established itself as London's premier destination for electronic music on vinyl. Located in Soho, the shop stocks an impressive range of house, techno, disco, ambient, and experimental releases from both underground and established labels. The knowledgeable staff includes working DJs who regularly host in-store mixing sessions and album launch parties. Phonica also operates its own record label, releasing limited editions from emerging electronic artists. The store's listening stations allow customers to preview records before purchase, making it a favorite among DJs hunting for their next dance floor weapon.

Founded in 1989 by Basic Channel's Mark Ernestus, Hard Wax has become a techno institution in Berlin's Kreuzberg neighborhood. Located on the third floor of an old factory building, the minimalist space offers a meticulously curated selection of electronic music with special emphasis on techno, house, dub, and experimental sounds. The store is known for its no-nonsense approach - records are organized by genre and release date, with concise hand-written descriptions. Staff members, many of whom are respected DJs and producers, are known for their encyclopedic knowledge but characteristically Berlin bluntness. For electronic music aficionados, Hard Wax is nothing short of a pilgrimage site.

Tucked away in Tokyo's vibrant Shibuya district, Face Records is a vinyl treasure trove specializing in rare jazz, soul, funk, and disco. The store's atmosphere epitomizes Japanese record store culture - compact yet meticulously organized, with every inch of wall space covered in rare original pressings and reissues. The extremely knowledgeable staff provides personalized recommendations while spinning choice selections on the store's high-end sound system. Face Records is particularly renowned for stocking hard-to-find Japanese pressings, which are coveted by collectors worldwide for their superior sound quality and immaculate packaging.

Operating in Melbourne, Australia since 1992, Goldmine Records has established itself as one of the country's premier destinations for vinyl collectors. The shop offers an extensive selection of new and secondhand records across all genres, with a particular focus on limited editions, audiophile pressings, and rarities. Their knowledgeable staff can help track down even the most obscure releases, while their innovative vinyl de-warping service has saved countless valuable records from the trash bin. The store's bright, spacious layout allows for comfortable browsing through their meticulously organized collection, making it a must-visit for any serious record collector in Australia.

Situated in London's vibrant Brick Lane area, Rough Trade East is the flagship store of the legendary UK record shop chain that spawned the influential indie label of the same name. Opened in 2007, this 5,000-square-foot space combines an expansive record store with a café, performance venue, and gallery. The shop stocks thousands of new vinyl releases and reissues across all genres, with a particular emphasis on independent and alternative music. The venue regularly hosts free in-store performances, album release parties, and book signings, cementing its status as a cultural hub. The shop's knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations while the listening posts allow customers to discover new music before buying.

With multiple specialized locations throughout Tokyo, Disk Union represents the pinnacle of Japanese record store culture. Each branch focuses on specific genres - the Shibuya store is legendary for jazz, Shinjuku for rock and psychedelia, and Shimokitazawa for used vinyl treasures. What sets Disk Union apart is its meticulous organization, expert grading system, and the sheer volume of inventory. The stores are famous for their floor-to-ceiling shelves packed with pristine vinyl, many featuring coveted Japanese pressings and obi strips. Despite the cramped spaces, the stores maintain an almost library-like organization system that makes browsing a pleasure for serious collectors. The knowledgeable staff communicates effectively with international customers despite language barriers.

Based in Melbourne with a second location in Brisbane, Dutch Vinyl claims to be Australia's largest online record store with over 30,000 titles in stock. The spacious brick-and-mortar shops offer an impressive selection of new and secondhand vinyl across all genres, with particular strength in jazz, soul, and audiophile pressings. The stores are known for their meticulous record grading and detailed descriptions, giving customers confidence when purchasing rare or expensive items. Dutch Vinyl also stocks a comprehensive range of record care products and high-quality inner and outer sleeves. Their knowledgeable staff can help track down even the most obscure releases, making it a favorite among serious Australian vinyl collectors.

The flagship location of Chicago's beloved Reckless Records chain, the Wicker Park store was famously the inspiration for Championship Vinyl in the film 'High Fidelity.' Located on Milwaukee Avenue in one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods, this spacious store offers an exceptional selection of new and used vinyl across all genres, with particularly strong offerings in indie rock, punk, and electronic music. The knowledgeable staff creates an authentic record store experience that draws serious collectors and casual music fans alike.

Founded in 2013, Mills Record Company has quickly become Kansas City's premier destination for vinyl enthusiasts. This woman-owned shop in the Westport neighborhood offers a carefully curated selection of new and used records, with a particular focus on local and regional artists. The store regularly hosts in-store performances and maintains strong ties to Kansas City's music scene. With knowledgeable staff, competitive pricing, and a welcoming atmosphere, Mills has established itself as an essential community hub for music discovery.

Located beneath Grimey's New & Preloved Music in Nashville, The Basement is a legendary small venue that perfectly complements the record store experience upstairs. This intimate 100-capacity space has hosted secret shows by major artists like Metallica and The Black Keys, as well as providing a launching pad for countless emerging artists. The venue's 'New Faces Nite' on Tuesdays has become a Nashville institution for discovering new talent. The combination of carefully curated vinyl shopping upstairs and live music downstairs makes this one of America's most complete music destinations.

Located in downtown Alpharetta, Georgia, Comeback Vinyl has established itself as Atlanta's suburban destination for serious vinyl enthusiasts. The store specializes in pristine used vinyl, with each record carefully cleaned and graded before hitting the shelves. Their selection spans classic rock, jazz, soul, and indie releases, with a growing audiophile section featuring high-quality pressings. The shop's listening station allows customers to preview records through high-end equipment before purchasing. Owner Amanda Sleger has created a welcoming environment that appeals to both veteran collectors and those just beginning their vinyl journey.

Founded by Memphis garage rock legend Eric Friedl of the Oblivians, Goner Records has evolved from a small mail-order operation into one of the South's most influential record shops. The store specializes in punk, garage rock, and underground sounds, with an exceptional selection of both new and used vinyl. Goner's in-house record label has released influential albums by Jay Reatard, Ty Segall, and other garage rock luminaries. The shop is also famous for hosting the annual Gonerfest music festival, which brings underground bands from around the world to Memphis each September, cementing the store's reputation as a cornerstone of the international garage punk community.

Located in Reykjavik, Lucky Records has established itself as Iceland's premier vinyl destination, with over 40,000 new and used records in stock. The spacious shop offers deep selections across all genres, with particularly impressive collections of Icelandic music, international indie, and electronic records. The knowledgeable staff is happy to introduce visitors to Iceland's rich musical heritage, from classical compositions to the country's thriving indie and electronic scenes. During the Iceland Airwaves festival, the store becomes a hub for international music fans, often hosting intimate in-store performances by local and visiting artists.

This Oak Cliff, Dallas institution has established itself as a community-focused record store with a distinctly inclusive vibe. Founded by Kate Siamro in 2014, Spinster (a reclaimed term suggesting independence rather than spinsterhood) offers a carefully curated selection of new and used vinyl across multiple genres. The shop regularly hosts listening parties and in-store performances, with a particular focus on highlighting local Dallas artists and women in music. The welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for both serious collectors and those new to vinyl, with staff who pride themselves on creating a judgment-free environment for musical exploration.

Nestled in the college town of Bloomington, Indiana, Landlocked Music has become a Midwest vinyl destination since opening in 2006. The spacious store offers an exceptional selection of new and used records across all genres, with particularly strong sections dedicated to indie rock, jazz, and experimental music. The shop maintains close ties to Bloomington's vibrant music scene and the nearby Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, regularly hosting in-store performances from local and touring artists. Landlocked's knowledgeable staff includes musicians and serious record collectors who create an unpretentious environment where musical discovery is paramount.