Discover where to spend your time in the Live Music Capital of the World when you’re not listening to live music
Ah, Austin. Beautiful, sweet Austin.
As home to one of the most vibrant music scenes in America, the city has seen significant growth and change over the last decade. An invasion of tech has brought some significant cash into the town, and locals will tell you that things aren’t what they used to be. Frankly, that’s the story of America – but Austin in particular has changed significantly since the psychedelic waves of the 70s.
That said, the scene endures. It doesn’t hurt that the entire music industry parks itself on 6th Street every March for SXSW, but beyond the festival, there is still a local scene pumping out and supporting bands. Beyond touring acts, Austin is one of the best cities in America to find local live music. (The honky tonk at White Horse is a helluva good time, by the way.)
For music enthusiasts looking to see iconic sights throughout the town, be sure to check out the Daniel Johnston mural at Guadalupe & 21st, the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue by the Colorado River (near South First & Riverside), and, of course, the Willie Nelson outside the Moody Theater.
(The Austin Chronicle has a great music guide you may want to check out.)
This local appreciation for music leaks into its record store scene. Spend a day looking and browsing, and you’ll certainly be able to find whatever it is you’re looking for, like a rare garage rock 45, and something you weren’t, like some random traditional country album by a guy named Red Steagall. Top the day off with a Lone Star at one of Austin’s numerous iconic dive bars, and you’ve got yourself what we at VinylMapper like to call “the perfect day.”
Point is – you’ll have a good time. And we’re here to help. Here are what we consider to be the best record shops in Austin.
Waterloo Records
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
A cornerstone of Austin’s music scene, Waterloo Records has been serving the community for decades. The diverse and extensive selection mirrors the city’s diverse musical tastes. Here, you’ll find the latest indie releases to classic rock staples, and the used section is pretty damn good as well. They also have a dedicated section to the local music scene of Austin, providing a platform for the homegrown talent. It’s a quintessential record store run by cool people. Highly recommended.
Getting There
600 N Lamar Blvd
Austin, TX 78703
End of an Ear
Why It’s One of Austin’s Best Record Stores
Delightfully eclectic, End of an Ear is a haven for record collectors searching for records that might be considered a bit more unusual. They have standards, of course, but their emphasis is on avante-garde, experimental, and indie. The cozy shop has a great vibe that invites you to explore beyond the mainstream. Head here and start chopping it up with the staff, you’ll find something you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Getting There
4304 Clawson Rd
Austin, TX 78704
BLK Vinyl
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
Nestled on the east side of town, BLK Vinyl is a new kid on the block. Established in 2018, they serve the community with specialized and used records. There’s an emphasis on 60s and 70s garage rock – what we call an “Austin special.” These rare, vintage records attract a certain type of person (a.k.a. the VinylMapper staff), and the shop has become a hub for vinyl enthusiasts.
Getting There
2505 E 6th St Suite F
Austin, TX 78702
Antone’s Record Shop
Why It’s One of Austin’s Best Record Stores
Antone’s just feels like a place you want to spend an afternoon. The checkered floor, the old school sign. It doesn’t really get much better than that. Steeped in Austin’s blues heritage, the shop is a tribute to the city’s rich musical past. Here, you’ll find a beautiful and vibrant selection of iconic Texan artists. Plus, if you’re into the whole 45 thing, this is a garage rock haven.
Getting There
2928 Guadalupe St #101
Austin, TX 78705
Breakaway Records
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
Breakaway Records is a place to go for an adventure, for both newbies and experienced vinyl enthusiasts. It feels like walking through the attics of the mind of that relative who taught you about all the music you listen to today. Known for its extensive selection of 45s, you’ll find things you didn’t know existed. Just be cautious. This is the kind of place that will eat a hole in your pocket, because you didn’t know that you needed that one, until, well, now. Good luck!
Getting There
211 W N Loop Blvd
Austin, TX 78751
Piranha Records
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
Since 2003, Piranha Records has been offering one of the most diverse selections of music in the city of Austin. Technically located in Round Rock, it offers a wide array of music. Beyond the standards of all genres, this is where you want to go if you’re looking for rap or hip-hop music. It’s a cool vibe that feels more ingrained in the community each time we stop in. Head here for a taste of the local rap scene, as well.
Getting There
1208 N Interstate Hwy 35 #200
Round Rock, TX 78681
Love Wheel Records
Why It’s One of Austin’s Best Record Stores
A recent addition to the Austin scene, Love Wheel is a good example of how the city has maintained its personality and character despite changing significantly over the last decade. (We love the yellow walls.) Love Wheel feels like a nice neighborhood spot that’s been in town forever, and is a great place to go fart around and see what happens. When you head into a place like this with an open mind, you never know what type of weird record you might walk out with.
Getting There
2105 Justin Ln #116
Austin, TX 78757
Exploded Records at JuiceLand
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
Looking for some juice – well, why not some tunes, too? Exploded Records is located within a bustling cafe. It’s not a huge selection, but it’s an eclectic one. Here, you’ll find some cool electronic and experimental music. Plus, it’s just fun to go here for the novelty of it. A modern twist on a classic record store, perfect for those with great taste – in more than one way, heh.
Getting There
2828 Guadalupe Street
Austin, TX 78751
Living in Stereo
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin
Primarily a place to acquire high-quality audio equipment – you also will find a well-curated selection of records. This is a great spot to go if you’re an audiophile and prioritize sound quality as much as the quality of the music. Living in Stereo caters to that type of consumer. You’ll be able to test-drive your speakers and break them in with the right kind of tunes. Plus, audiophiles tend to like audiophiles, so you might make some new friends within the staff.
Getting There
4825 Weidemar Ln STE 600
Austin, TX 78745
Drinks Records
Why It’s One of the Best Record Stores in Austin, TX
Beer and vinyl, why didn’t we think of this? Combining the love of vinyl with the love of a classic bar, Drinks Records is a pop-up shop within a lovely establishment. You’ll find a diverse collection of records to browse through with a drink in hand – that’s what we call a relaxed and enjoyable record-shopping experience. But be careful you don’t have too many beers, or you might end up springing for the entire discography your record collection has been missing…
Getting There
2001 E Cesar Chavez St
Austin, TX 78702
Turntable Records
Why It’s One Austin’s Best Record Shops
This might be our favorite record store in Austin. No frills, no fuss, no muss. It kind of feels like you’re entering someone’s closet, and frankly, you kind of are. But it’s such a fun place to dig. The owner is super friendly and will tell you some cool stories about the Rolling Stones while you find a record you didn’t even know existed. It’s these kinds of places that VinylMapper is about – been there forever, hopefully will last forever. Plus, you’ll find a great selection of Tejano and Conjunto music alongside Latin hip-hop. A true Austin establishment. Check it out asap!
Getting There
1903 S 1st St B
Austin, TX 78704
