Eager to find the best record stores in Richmond, VA? We’ve got you covered
Located in the heart of the Old Dominion, Richmond blends historic Southern charm with an upbeat, modern vibe. Home to Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond, Richmond can feel like a college town in some neighborhoods and a major city in others. What makes this often-overlooked city tick? It’s simple: Besides a world-class food and brewery scene, Richmond is a musical city through and through.
It’s hard to find a city that punches above its weight class like Richmond, especially when it comes to music. Local venues such as The National and the Dominion Energy Center regularly host nationally recognized artists, but, if anything, Richmond’s DIY hardcore and indie scenes steal the show. The city is jam-packed with bars, coffeehouses, and house venues home to incredibly electrifying underground bands.
Richmond has quite a track record of producing famous artists as well. Pop and R&B lovers may recognize prominent Richmonders Jason Mraz and Chris Brown, while metalheads everywhere tune into Richmond’s own when they spin a Lamb of God or GWAR record. Chances are, at least one of your favorite artists is either from Richmond or has played a show in the city.
The River City continues to experience incredible growth yearly as more people from near and far move to Richmond to enjoy a low cost of living and an impressive quality of life. Unique neighborhoods such as Carytown, the Fan, Downtown, and Scott’s Addition have record stores ready to provide Richmonders, old and new, with records, CDs, and other music items.
But navigating Richmond’s musical landscape can be easier said than done. Thankfully, you can count on us. We’ve got the inside scoop on Richmond’s many record stores. Here are, in our opinion, the best record stores in Richmond, VA.
Vinyl Conflict Record Store
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
You can find this eclectic and quirky record store smack-dab in the middle of downtown Richmond. Vinyl Conflict has been a local staple for many, many years, especially within the city’s hardcore punk and metal communities. As such, this shop stocks an impressive array of vintage metal, hardcore, and punk records, but fans of other genres certainly won’t be disappointed either. Pick up a shirt or two while you’re at it; you won’t regret it!
Getting There
300 E Grace St
Richmond, VA 23219
Deep Groove Records
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Richmond’s Museum District is a dream come true for museum lovers. It’s also home to one of the city’s best-kept secrets: Deep Groove Records. Deep Groove Records has a homely, friendly vibe, as customers rave about how kind and knowledgeable the staff is. Finding your favorite LPs is a breeze at this hole-in-the-wall shop. Check it out next time you find yourself in the River City.
Getting There
317 N Robinson St
Richmond, VA 23220
Plan 9 Music
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Carytown features a dazzling array of shops, restaurants, and theaters, chief among them Plan 9 Music. Walking into Plan 9 Music, you immediately get a sense of just how large this store is. It’s spacious and roomy but chock-full of records. Whether you’ve got a specific album on your mind or want to take your time exploring, Plan 9 Music has you covered. You’ll be nothing but impressed!
Getting There
3017 W Cary St
Richmond, VA 23221
Crossroads Records
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Crossroads Records is one of Richmond’s newest record stores. Located in the hip and swanky Stony Point Fashion Park shopping district, this shop oozes charm and style. It’s clean, well-lit, and impeccably organized. But this store does so much more than records; you can find clothing, jewelry, decorations, and posters here, too. If you want to get away from the busy downtown area and try something new, give Crossroads Records a shot.
Getting There
9200 Stony Point Pkwy STE 191
Richmond, VA 23235
Records & Relics RVA
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Don’t be fooled by this store’s small size. Records & Relics RVA is home to one of Richmond’s best used record collections. Nestled in the historic Church Hill neighborhood, this homely spot bristles with positive vibes and affordable records. Locals rave about the shop’s rock, jazz, and soul collections. However, when planning your visit, keep in mind that this shop is only open on Fridays and weekends.
Getting There
2704 E Marshall St
Richmond, VA 23223
Wax Moon
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Scott’s Addition is one of if not the fastest growing neighborhoods in Richmond. Young professionals flock to this hip locale to take advantage of a seemingly endless array of breweries and eateries, along with high-quality residential complexes. However, the next time you find yourself in Scott’s Addition, take a trip to Wax Moon. This campy, horror-inspired store stocks CDs, LPs, cassettes, and even an impressive collection of vintage VHS tapes. A suite of old-school pinball machines you can play completes the retro vibe. Come get your goth on at Wax Moon.
Getting There
1310 Altamont Ave
Richmond, VA 23230
Small Friend Records & Books
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Quirky, inspired, and gritty: that’s the vibe you can expect from Small Friend Records & Books. Although Small Friend specializes in indie books and zines, you can find some cool records here. We recommend that you give this spot a try.
Getting There
1 N Lombardy St
Richmond, VA 23220
Barky’s
Why It’s One of Richmond’s Best Record Stores
Barky’s is a Richmond staple. This Christian store features a mind-blowing array of vintage gospel and soul records, along with a healthy helping of R&B and oldies. The staff are warm and inviting, no matter your faith tradition. Don’t pass by this one-of-a-kind store without taking a step inside!
Getting There
18 E Broad St
Richmond, VA 23219
2 replies on “The 8 Best Record Stores in Richmond, VA”
Do any buy used records?
Hey Ronald! Yes, several of the Richmond record stores on this list buy used records, including Vinyl Conflict, Deep Groove, Wax Moon, Plan 9, Crossroads, Small Friend, and Records & Relics RVA. Give them a call!