Want to know where to find vinyl records in Washington, D.C.? We’ve got your back.
Don’t be fooled by the lack of towering skyscrapers. Washington, D.C.’s streets are full of life and vigor. Thousands of government employees crowd the city’s streets and Metro system daily, ready to work long hours and late nights. Young professionals, eager to make it on the Hill, flock to the city in droves. The world of politics may be confusing and distressing for some, but for many Washingtonians, it’s what they live for.
But Washington, D.C., is far more than a government town.
Beneath a ritzy white-collar exterior lies a city with a gritty, captivating artistic scene. Washington, D.C., is packed with creative energy and fervor. In particular, the city has been (and continues to be) a mecca for music lovers. From the counterculture of the 1960s, which saw college students command the airwaves of student radio stations, to the iconic 1980s hardcore scene, D.C. has quite the musical history.
There’s a venue for everyone in D.C. The world-famous 9:30 Club hosts some of the biggest names in music, while the Atlantis — a brand-new venue backed by none other than Dave Grohl — offers an intimate recreation of the original 9:30 Club. Other notable venues include the Black Cat, the Anthem, the Lincoln Theatre, and the countless DIY venues scattered throughout the city.
When they’re not feeling the heat of a mosh pit or singing along to their favorite songs at a show, you can find local music lovers in one of D.C.’s many iconic record stores. In fact, there’s a good chance that they’ll be behind the counter! Local veterans who have spent years cutting their teeth on the city’s music scene often find themselves opening record stores to keep the scene alive.
Finding the right record store for your tastes and preferences can be tricky. Who can you trust? If you’re eager to go record-hunting in D.C. but could use a little help, you can count on us. In our opinion, these are the best record stores in Washington, D.C.
Smash Records
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Located in the hip, youthful neighborhood of Adams Morgan, Smash Records has quite the history. You can feel history oozing from the walls when you enter this shop. Although the store relocated to Adams Morgan in 2006 from Georgetown, they’ve been fueling local music lovers’ love for punk, hardcore, and other types of music since 1984. They have shirts, zines, and other unique trinkets for sale that will complement any record store run experience.
Getting There
2314 18th St NW,
Washington, D.C. 20009
Byrdland Records
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Byrdland Records is a soulful, fun record store in Union Market, part of D.C.’s often overlooked Northeast side. This record store features a light, airy decor and countless records spanning dozens of genres. Each Sunday, visitors enjoy live D.J. sets from 12-2 p.m. as they shop for records, but the shop’s commitment to live music doesn’t stop there. Byrdland Records operates Songbyrd House, a nearby indie venue that regularly hosts local and touring artists. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Byrdland Records!
Getting There
1264 5th Street NE,
Washington, D.C. 20002
Joint Custody
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Joint Custody is far more than your average record store. While this eccentric and quirky shop has its fair share of records—45’s, 33’s, even cassettes—it also stocks a mindblowing amount of vintage clothes. Have you ever wanted an original Misfits or Iron Maiden t-shirt? At Joint Custody, you’ll find these types of fits with no trouble at all. Don’t forget to pick up a zine or two on the way out.
Getting There
1530 U Street NW,
Washington, D.C. 20009
Cool Kids Vinyl
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Cool Kids Vinyl is, forgive the pun, the “new kid on the block” in the world of D.C.’s record stores. But this shop easily holds its own in a competitive market. Taking pride in the golden era of ’80s and ’90s hip-hop, Cool Kids Vinyl cultivates a nostalgic vibe, carving out a specific niche. If you’re big on old-school pop, hip-hop, and R&B, this may just be your shop.
Getting There
1351 H Street Maketto Upstairs, 1351 H St NE
Washington, D.C. 20002
HR Records
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Are you a soul, jazz, and R&B fan? Perhaps you’re a reggae lover keen on a Marley record or two. No matter who you are, you’ll find a trip to H.R. Records worth your time. This D.C. staple sells affordable, vintage records in a friendly, low-key setting. Locals rave about how friendly and kind the staff is, so you’ll have a fun experience no matter what. Do yourself a favor and take a trip to H.R. Records — you won’t regret it.
Getting There
702 Kennedy St NW
Washington, D.C. 20011
Som Records
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Som Records is a great place to get some records! Excuse the pun, but it’s absolutely true. Nestled at one of the city’s liveliest intersections — 14th and U — Som Records has it all. Whether you want an old-school go-go record or something more contemporary, this D.C. staple has you covered. Once you walk through the front door, you’ll be amazed by a warm, orange-colored interior covered with records; you’ll know you’re home. Don’t forget to check out the $1 bargain bin!
Getting There
1843 14th Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20009
Spin Time Records
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
Spin Time Records is a vinyl store with a simple mission: to keep D.C.’s rich musical history alive for a new generation. It’s located less than a mile from the Capitol Building and Supreme Court in the aptly-named Capitol Hill neighborhood. Spin Time Records takes its slogan— “the sounds of D.C.” — very seriously. It curates individual collections, both online and in-store, highlighting D.C.’s unique contributions to genres as varied as punk and jazz. However, the store’s collection extends far and wide, including virtually anything you can think of. Next time you visit the Capitol or the Supreme Court, take a short walk to Spin Time Records to cap off your visit.
Getting There
600 Pennsylvania Ave. SE #15123,
Washington, D.C. 20003
The Hip Hop Shop
Why It’s One of D.C.’s Best Record Stores
How many museums can say that they have a record store for you to visit? The National Hip-Hop Museum can. This fantastic museum explores the history and origins of hip-hop, preserving and showcasing countless artifacts for both locals and tourists to enjoy. Once you’ve finished exploring the museum, you can travel to 18th Street to check out the Hip Hop Shop. Cassettes, CDs, and, of course, vinyl records abound at this store. If you grew up listening to classic artists like Run D.M.C., Eric B & Rakim, and Public Enemy, or if you’re a newcomer to the genre, this shop has your name written on it.
Getting There
1919 18th St NW,
Washington, D.C. 20009
