Texans love music, and even with the popularity of online music streaming services, these record stores listed below have stayed alive in the Lone Star State. Many of the stores mentioned here sell not only vinyl records but also CDs and cassette tapes. In-store musical performances and ticket sales for local concerts are also reasons to visit these iconic shops. Find a rare vintage vinyl, purchase your first record player or shop the newest vinyl releases at these best record stores in Texas.
Waterloo Records - Austin
Waterloo Records, which opened more than 35 years, is probably the most famous record shop in the Lone Star State. Located in the music-centric city of Austin, Waterloo provides music lovers with not only vinyl but also CDs, cassettes, and DVDs. Browse through the $1 bin of records, check out the Texas best-seller charts to support your local band or simply peruse through the thousands of records that range in genre from metal to country to pop. You can find vintage records here along with new releases. Waterloo Records also regularly hosts bands for in-store live performances.
Cactus Music - Houston
Cactus Music is the go-to record store in Houston since it just might have the best inventory of records in the city. Snag yourself a rare vinyl or simply head here for the newest CD release. This record store even has merchandise like posters and apparel. With musicians behind the counter, the staff here is friendly and knowledgeable about the stock. Don’t miss out on the in-store performances at Cactus Music, which are typically paired with free St. Arnold’s beer.
End of an Ear - Austin
End of an Ear is the second Austin record store to make this list. Located in South Austin, End of an Ear has been pleasing music lovers with a great selection of records since 2005. An eclectic bunch of Austinites shop here from pop enthusiasts to metalheads. Records aren’t the only things on the shelves that keep customers coming back to End of an Ear. You will also find a great VHS collection and a back room full of stereo merchandise and other music gear. Budget shoppers and collectors alike will find something hidden in the stock at End of an Ear.
Josey Records and Music - Dallas
Josey Records and Music in Dallas is a vinyl enthusiast’s dream. This 15,000-square-foot space is teeming with records, vinyl players, and vinyl accessories. Since Josey Records does have such an abundant collection, you’re sure to find that much sought-after record or the newest release from that obscure artist. This vinyl hotspot is a great place to visit to get your entire setup, from the record player to record collection. For those on a budget, don’t miss out on the $1 and $2 bin that is full of thousands of treasures.
Vinal Edge Records - Houston
Located in the Houston neighborhood known as the Heights, Vinal Edge Records is a hot record shop that has been known as a mecca for the musically obsessed for three decades now. Once located in north Houston, Vinal Edge Records moved to the more trendy Heights neighborhood in downtown Houston. However, that doesn’t mean Vinal Edge Records’ attitude has changed. Still expect an eclectic mix of records found in the stock from jazz to rock. Get on the shop’s email list to learn more about new releases and in-store performances.
Good Records - Dallas
Dallas hipsters typically frequent this Dallas record store. Good Records has grown as a highly popular music store to find the best indie rock vinyl along with jazz, hard rock, and other popular music genres. Since it’s located in Lower Greenville, its central location draws music lovers from all over the city. There are plenty of vintage records to browse in this two-story record shop, however, the newest records are also on sale here too. Check out Good Records’ schedule to learn about in-store live performances and even artist signings.
Breakaway Records - Austin
Breakaway Records is perfect for those seeking old-school vinyls, particularly from the 1950s to the 1970s. The selection is heavy in soul, R&B, jazz, and hip-hop, and you will also find a quality selection of punk and rock here too. You’ll also discover an array of cassettes at this record shop in Austin.
Sig’s Lagoon - Houston
Houston obviously has a treasure trove of record shops, since Sig’s Lagoon is the third H-Town record store to make this list. At Sig’s Lagoon, you’ll find a plethora of records and vintage classics filling the small shop to the brim. Head to Sig’s Lagoon to buy tickets to local shows too, just like the good old days. This record shop is located in an underrated part of Midtown, however, the record collection at Sig’s Lagoon puts this Houston spot on the map for music lovers.
Antone’s Record Shop - Austin
Antone’s Record Shop is an iconic staple of the Austin music scene. Here you won’t find overpriced vintage vinyl but hidden gems of yesteryear that are very reasonably priced. The genres sold here are varied from blues to Texas tunes to Americana to even 90’s hits. Antone’s Record Shop, opened by Clifford Antone, has been selling top-notch records for the Austin community since 1987. And surprisingly, Antone’s is still located in the original spot, north of the University of Texas campus.
