Ever since falling in love with the movie Empire Records in the 90s, I have always thought record stores are the coolest places to shop. And I must not be the only one. Music lovers of all generations are discovering what the Boomer generation has known for years–vinyl records are cool again! For the first time since 1987, vinyl record sales in 2022 surpassed CD sales. With artists like Taylor Swift and Adele leading the way in special edition releases of their vinyl records, music lovers are discovering vinyl records to be more than just a nostalgic pastime but a quality listening experience.
Not to mention, how cool do you feel scrolling the aisles of a record store? It’s one of my favorite ways to kill time, whether exploring a new neighborhood, out on a date night or just stopping by after picking up a cup of coffee. It’s the thrill of the hunt, the opportunity to discover something new and exciting. Let’s also not forget how much kids love music. Bring them along on your next music hunt!
With the Twin Cities being such an iconic music town, our record stores do not disappoint. Shop owners are helpful, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about finding you your next listen. National Record Store Day coming up on April 12 is a great way to visit your local record store and pick up a new or old vinyl. Some shops host live events, others are open early for those special releases, while others are open for you to show your support.
Here is a list of some of my favorites. But there are so many more to choose from. Check this list for participating Record Store Day stores. And tell us, what’s your favorite local record store? You can never have too many!
Electric Fetus | 2000 4th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN 55404
This iconic Minneapolis record store has been a favorite of vinyl lovers for over 50 decades. Their selection is outstanding and they often line up great live performances. You know it must be a great shop when you learn this was a favorite visit for Prince!
Check out their great lineup of all-day live events for Record Store Day!
Hymie’s Vintage Records | 3820 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55406
My husband and I stumbled upon this record store on a date night and had so much fun exploring the crates of rather affordable vinyl treasures. Test out the record before buying, catch live events, or get a personal recommendation for something completely new. Be prepared to go home with many new favorites.
Cheapo Records | Multiple Locations
With three locations—in Minneapolis, St Paul, and Blaine, Minnesota—Cheapo offers all genres of music (and movies!) in all formats, plus merch and gifts for music, television, and movie lovers. The owner is also great at updating on social media about upcoming album releases and how many they will carry in the store.
They open early for Record Store Day so keep an eye out on Facebook for what they will have to offer that day!
Solsta Records | 6006 Excelsior Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
This family-owned record store in St. Louis Park makes the hunt for vinyl records easy with their complete online catalog. But what I love the most about this place is their mystery packs. It’s like a present to yourself! Who knows what kind of treasure you’ll find!
Disco Death Records | 721 W 26th St, Minneapolis, MN 55405
A newcomer to the Minneapolis record store scene, Disco Death Records gives both coffee and vinyl lovers a two-for-one deal with their hybrid coffee shop record store. Explore their curated selection of vinyl and cassette tapes while sipping on a drink featuring specialty roasts from a South Minneapolis bean hub, Misfit Coffee.
