Top 6 Vinyl Shops to Explore in Washington D.C.

While tourists flock to Washington, D.C.'s renowned museums and landmarks, immersing oneself in the city also means appreciating its rich musical heritage. With influences ranging from jazz and punk to go-go, D.C.’s unique mix of funk, rhythm, and blues shines through in its lively music scene and thriving vinyl culture.

To discover the capital beyond its monuments, we've curated a list of the six premier vinyl shops in D.C., along with nearby dining and lodging options. For newcomers and seasoned visitors alike, exploring the city's vinyl record shops provides a distinctive lens through which to appreciate its musical impact.

HR (Home Rule) Records

Located in Brightwood Park, HR Records is a must-visit for enthusiasts of jazz, soul, funk, and go-go vinyl. Charvis Campbell, the passionate owner dedicated to music preservation, also spearheads the Home Rule Music Festival—a vibrant annual event celebrating D.C.’s music scene each June with live performances and a record fair.

Regardless of the season you visit the capital, make sure to bring home a piece of history tied to D.C. legend, Duke Ellington. A must-have is Ellington’s A Drum is a Woman. If your vinyl hunt leaves you hungry, check out Mita Cafe across the street, offering a unique blend of sushi and Ethiopian dishes.

Smash Records

An iconic spot in Adams Morgan, Smash Records is your go-to for punk, alternative, and indie vinyl and CDs. You'll also find an array of vintage band patches, t-shirts, accessories, and skateboards.

Dig through the stacks for the essential Fugazi (EP) by Fugazi, a cornerstone of D.C.’s hardcore music scene that’s a must for any punk collection. Keep the D.C. vibe going at Shanklin Hall, a unique blend of a social club and food incubator celebrating the depth of Black culinary heritage.

Joint Custody

Located in the bustling U Street music district, Joint Custody bills itself as a “freak emporium.” This intimate basement shop is a treasure trove for fans of reggae, punk, hardcore, hip-hop, and metal, complete with vintage boomboxes, turntables, Harley memorabilia, posters, and classic concert tees.

A must-find record is Scream’s No More Censorship, featuring a young Dave Grohl from D.C. before his rise with Nirvana. After your adventure at Joint Custody, make your way to the original Busboys and Poets just a few blocks away, where you can enjoy a diverse vegan-friendly menu, browse a progressive bookstore, and catch open-mic nights.

Som Records

Often celebrated as the top record store in D.C., Som Records is tucked away in a basement beneath a barber shop (just look for the barber’s pole) and boasts an eclectic selection that ranges from samba and salsa to dollar bin treasures and rare finds. You can even test out records on their turntable with headphones before making a purchase.

Don’t miss D.C. legend Chuck Brown’s Go-Go Swing Live. After that, continue your musical exploration at the iconic Black Cat, a cherished venue that has showcased local, national, and alternative music for over three decades.

Byrdland Records

Situated in the Union Market District, Byrdland Records is the sister store to Songbyrd Music House, focusing on local D.C. artists, turntables, and music gear. Be sure to check out their Saturday Spins, where vinyl DJs enhance your shopping experience every Saturday.

For a contemporary glimpse into D.C.’s legendary punk scene, grab a copy of Bad Moves’ Untenable. Even better, join Byrdland’s record club for a curated monthly selection across various genres, including local D.C. music. You can easily spend an afternoon exploring the shops and eateries of Union Market, but elevate your experience by catching a film at the arthouse cinema, Angelika, which has a pop-up location at Union Market serving beer, wine, and ice cream in a stylishly repurposed industrial space.

Decibel Music

The latest addition to D.C.’s record scene, Decibel Music, boasts a vast collection of R&B, jazz, soul, gospel, comedy, and hip-hop in the Shaw neighborhood. With its welcoming atmosphere, live performances, and listening stations, this Black-owned shop has rapidly gained a dedicated and enthusiastic following.

Explore the shelves for the iconic D.C. classic, Billy Stewart’s Summertime, before heading to The Howard Theatre for a show. This historic venue has been a cornerstone of African American culture and entertainment since it opened its doors in 1910.

Hotel Recommendations for Music Lovers

For vinyl aficionados wishing to continue their musical experience during their stay, Eaton DC is an ideal choice. The hotel offers music-focused amenities including in-room turntables, R&B yoga sessions, a rooftop music venue, sound healing experiences, and much more.

Other music-focused hotels in D.C. include Yours Truly DC, which offers a music library and an in-room record player upon request, and The Line DC, located in a former neoclassical church that also hosts the Half Moon Radio broadcast.

For more information on how to enjoy music in D.C., check out washington.org