From blues to jazz, rock to hip-hop, Chicago has been a melting pot of musical genres. And for music lovers who cherish the tangible experience of flipping through vinyl records, Chicago offers a plethora of record stores. Here’s a curated list of the 26 best record stores in Chicago that every music enthusiast should visit.
Best Classic Record Stores In Chicago
Here are some of the local favorites around town:
1. Laurie’s Planet of Sound (4639 N Lincoln Ave)
A classic indie record shop, Laurie’s offers a mix of new and used CDs and vinyl. With knowledgeable staff and a nineties ambiance, it’s said to be the best rock record store in the city. Enjoy a few off-beat curios while you’re there, too.
2. Shuga Records (1272 N Milwaukee Avenue)
Shuga Records stands out for its vast collection of rock, jazz, punk, and hip-hop and for being Chicago’s largest online record store. Their loft-like space is perfect for browsing and discovering new favorites.
3. Dusty Groove (1120 N Ashland Ave)
A spiffy storefront known for its eclectic range of genres, Dusty Groove boasts an impressive collection of rare groove, soul, funk, jazz, and world music on vinyl. Founded in 1996, it has garnered attention from global record collectors and has been featured in numerous publications.
4. Reckless Records (1379 N Milwaukee Ave)
Established in 1988, Reckless Records is a haven for fans of 80s and 90s hard rock and metal. Known for its vast selection of new and used LPs, CDs, DVDs, and video games, Reckless Records is the perfect spot for finding a musical gift or expanding your music collection.
5. 606 Records (1808 S Allport St)
606 Records is a contemporary music hub established in 2015. This community-centric store and label boasts a diverse collection of local and international LPs, spanning genres from country to reggae.
6. Bob’s Blues & Jazz Mart (3419 W Irving Park Rd)
A historical indie store focusing on jazz, blues, and associated genres such as gospel. Established in 1953, it’s a treasure trove for fans of these genres.
7. Out Of The Past Records (4407 W Madison St)
A store that lives up to its name, Out Of The Past Records specializes in classic vinyl, offering yesterday’s favorites like soul, rock, jazz, blues, and disco.
8. Record Breakers (2935 N Milwaukee Ave)
Established in 1988, Record Breakers is known for its vast vinyl collection across genres. It’s also a popular destination for live music events.
9. Hyde Park Records (1377 E 53rd St)
A treasure trove for jazz and soul enthusiasts, Hyde Park Records offers thousands of vinyl, old-school magazines, vintage artwork, and CDs. Be sure to check out the 99-cent bins.
10. Val’s Halla Records (239 Harrison St, Oak Park)
Established in 1972, Val’s Halla Records has become an iconic destination for music enthusiasts, offering a diverse collection of new and used vinyl, cassettes, and CDs and hosting memorable in-store performances. As many fondly recall, a visit on a quiet day would often lead to Val sharing her vast trove of musical tales.
11. Pinwheel Records (1722 W 18th St)
Located in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood, Pinwheel Records is a go-to for vinyl enthusiasts. With its friendly staff and a carefully curated collection, it offers both new and vintage selections at fair prices. Customers frequently commend the store for its swift online order and delivery system.
12. Rattleback Records (5405 N Clark St)
Rattleback offers a vast selection of new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and more. Rattleback also boasts a selection of musical instruments, making it a one-stop-shop for both listeners and musicians.
13. Beverly Records (1612 Western Ave)
Established in 1967 and fondly known as the city’s “Oldies Headquarters,” this iconic store offers nostalgic vinyl, from oldies to rare 45s and 78s. Beyond vinyl, they also provide a diverse range of new and used CDs. Originally a quaint gift and novelty shop, John Dreznes transformed it into the beloved record store it is today, purchasing it as a gift for his wife, Christine.
14. Orbit Records (7155 W Grand Ave)
Orbit Records is a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Although specializing in genres like soul, northern soul, and jazz, Orbit Records also boasts an impressive range of pop culture memorabilia. Shoppers can explore the vast $1 LP section and discover thousands of 50c 45s & 78s.
Best Unique Record Stores In Chicago
15. Bric-A-Brac Records and Collectibles (2845 N Milwaukee Ave)
Dive into a world of punk, junk, and rock n’ roll! This whimsical store offers vinyl, vintage toys, and a plethora of pop culture memorabilia.
16. Electric Jungle (1768 W Greenleaf Ave)
A meditative shopping experience awaits at Electric Jungle. With their selection of records presented in rolling laundry carts and a no-cellphone policy, it’s all about immersing oneself in music.
17. Gramaphone Records (2843 N Clark St)
Established in 1969, Gramaphone has evolved from selling folk and jazz to becoming a hub for electronic music enthusiasts. It’s a must-visit for DJs and fans of house music, techno, and underground tunes.
18. Round Trip Records (3455 W Foster Ave)
A recent addition to Chicago’s record store scene, Round Trip offers a curated selection of vinyl, books, VHS tapes, and CDs.
19. Interstellar Space (2022 W Montrose Ave)
Specializing in genres from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, Interstellar Space offers a curated selection of jazz, soul, reggae, and hip-hop. The owner’s expertise ensures you’ll find hidden gems whenever you visit.
20. Tone Deaf Records (4356 N. Milwaukee Ave)
Located in the Portage Park neighborhood, Tone Deaf Records offers a mix of new and used vinyl. With a focus on underground music, it’s a haven for those looking for something different.
21. Bucket O’ Blood Books and Records (3182 N Elston Ave)
A quirky store in the Windy City that caters to fans of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, indie rock, punk, and metal. Established in 2010, it’s a go-to spot for genre fiction and music.
22. Transistor (5224 N. Clark Street)
More than just a record store, Transistor is an art gallery, bookstore, and audio electronics boutique. It’s a space that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
23. Graveface Records And Curiosities (1829 N. Milwaukee Ave)
Graveface is a unique blend of music, horror memorabilia, and a museum. Originating as a music label with a sister location in Savannah, it boasts the world’s largest collection of John Wayne Gacy paintings. Dive into its curated vinyl selection and explore the intriguing world of true crime within its walls.
24. Decibel Audio (1429 N. Milwaukee Ave)
Decibel Audio is a destination for audio enthusiasts. With a focus on high-fidelity items, turntables, amplifiers, and more, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate quality sound.
25. Rolling Stones (7300 W Irving Park Rd, Norridge)
A staple in the Chicago music scene, Rolling Stones Records offers a vast collection of CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and vinyl records. Established in 1971, it’s a vibrant space adorned with neon lights, making it a visual and auditory treat.
26. Mojo’s Vinyl Bar (448 Sheridan Rd, Highwood)
Mojo’s Vinyl Bar is a space where music meets camaraderie. Enjoy drinks with friends while listening to music on a top-notch sound system. It’s technically not a record store, but it is a place that celebrates the communal joy of music—and that’s why it earned a place on our list.
Share Your Sound With Us
Do you have a sound that the world needs to hear? Or do you know someone whose melodies deserve the spotlight? We’re an independent record label, and we’re all ears.
(Curious what we do? Read more about how to get signed to a record label and learn why indie labels are the best for new bands).
Seriously—Hardstop Records is always on the hunt for fresh talent and one-of-a-kind sounds. This is your moment—learn how it works, and let’s rock.