The Best Record Stores in Austin
It’s tempting to order a vinyl online, but for the real treasures, there’s nothing like visiting a brick-and-mortar. While Austin is widely considered to be the live music capital of the world, it could also be called the recorded music capital of the world thanks to its iconic line-up of record stores. Find your next favorite vinyl with our list below of the top record shops in town.
Photo by Spencer SelvidgeWaterloo Records
600 N Lamar Blvd.
An Austin institution, Waterloo Records has been bringing music to locals for 40 years. On top of their extensive and amazing record collection, Waterloo has hosted in-store performances by artists such as Gary Clark Jr., The 1975 and Penny and Sparrow. The knowledgeable staff and comfortable ambiance create an ideal shopping experience for audio junkies.
Photos courtesy of Living In StereoLiving In Stereo
4361 South Congress Ave.
This mid-century modern dream store sells vintage music equipment, furniture and home decor, along with a carefully curated selection of records. Stop by for a look through their impressive stock while sipping on an espresso from their full-service coffee bar. You’re sure to run into fellow music lovers as you browse!
Photo courtesy of BLK VinylBLK Vinyl
2505 E 6th St.
Started by three high school friends in 2018, BLK Vinyl specializes in used and collectible records for vinyl lovers to add to their repertoires. You can’t miss their East 6th Street store’s black and white mural. BLK Vinyl is the place for locals to talk music, buy records and even take guitar lessons, offered by the shop to students of all skill levels.
Photo courtesy of Drinks LoungeDrinks Records
2001 E Cesar Chavez St.
Grab a cocktail at Drinks Lounge and browse through their collection at Drinks Records, open inside the neighborhood bar on East Cesar Chavez. The record store recently started its Drinks Sessions series, inviting artists to perform a 15-minute set at the shop, to be released later on the shop’s YouTube channel. Bands can even invite their fans to pre-order a limited edition 7-inch record of their performance.
Photo by Holly CowartBreakaway Records
211 W North Loop Blvd.
Open for browsing from noon to 7 p.m. daily, North Loop’s Breakaway Records specializes in soul records, while also carrying a mix of pop, punk and rock albums. Explore their racks of employee picks to discover new-to-you music that their staff knows and loves.
Antone’s Record Shop
2928 Guadalupe St.
Clifford Antone opened Antone’s Nightclub in 1975, then opened Antone’s Record Shop across the street in 1987. The shop still sits in its original location on Guadalupe Street, making it a great spot for students, no matter their musical persuasion. Their stock features many genres, with a focus on Texas artists and blues music.
Photo courtesy of End of an EarEnd of an Ear
4303 Clawson Rd.
Buy, sell and trade vinyls at the well-organized and well-stocked End of an Ear in South Austin. Their staff is knowledgeable and available to customers for recommendations and guidance. Follow the store on Instagram to keep up with their metal, jazz, electronic and pop selections, plus many other genres.
Photo courtesy of Love WheelLove Wheel Records
2105 Justin Ln.
Brentwood’s Love Wheel Records is a newer addition to Austin’s music scene, having opened in 2021. The shop showcases new and used vinyl LPs in a hip and colorful space. Get your dose of soundtracks, country, jazz and much more — they’ve got something for everyone.
Photo by Tucker RaylBig Henry’s Vinyl and Gifts
305 E 5th St.
Blues, funk and soul records abound at Big Henry’s, the retail space and box office of Antone’s Nightclub. The store is open daily from noon to 6 p.m., as well as during Antone’s Nightclub operating hours, so visitors can stop by late for vinyls, Antone’s apparel and their signature po’boys.