Seattle has more than enough record stores scattered around; here are a few of the best.
Easy Street Records
⭐ One of Seattle’s most iconic record stores is over in West Seattle, and if you haven’t been, treat yourself to a pilgrimage. Browse the stacks, breathe in the history (Easy Street has been around for nearly 40 years), and for God’s sake, get yourself one of those star T-shirts.
Know before you go: Easy Street also has a diner, and it’s a nice place to grab a coffee or a cocktail, depending on the time of day.
Sonic Boom Records
🚀 The other shop that’s always on these sorts of lists, Ballard’s Sonic Boom stocks an impressively wide selection, including a ton of movie soundtracks. It also boasts a terrific neon rocket ship sign; if you’re going to take a selfie under it, you should go inside, too.
Know before you go: While you’re browsing, check out the used section for some deals.
Zion’s Gate Records
💿 This hole-in-the-wall store on Capitol Hill has a ton of stuff, but it’s really a must-visit if you’re into aggro music — think metal, hardcore, punk, etc. Basically, if parents hate it, Zion’s Gate has it.
Know before you go: If you’re into the Grateful Dead, head to the back of the store for a selection of their live tapes.
Golden Oldies
📀 This weathered Wallingford shop has been in business since 1977, making it one of Seattle’s oldest record stores, if not the oldest. Fittingly, it specializes in out-of-print vinyl, but you can also find some new stuff.
Know before you go: Golden Oldies offers to maintain “want lists” for customers: You can tell them what record you’re looking for and they’ll let you know if and when they acquire it.
Daybreak Records
🌄 This Fremont record store is a great place to stop in when it’s sunny, and it opens its big doors to let the light and air in. But even when the weather turns, it’s worth stepping inside to check out the great vinyl collection hanging on the wall and in the stacks.
Know before you go: The records on the wall can come with hefty price tags, but there’s also a selection of bargain LPs and cassettes for $2 or $1.
