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The best record stores in District of Columbia
Ranked by real customers — rating weighted by review volume across 1,183 Google reviews. Only shops with 25+ reviews qualify. Updated 2026.
#1 Som Records
4.7 ★★★★★ 253 reviews · Washington, DC
Quirky music store specializing in new, used, rare & imported vinyl, plus apparel.
“Some might mistaken this business as another typical record store. While it might mirror similarities with the others, Som Records just feels more inviting than most record stores …” — Redpresent12
#2 Joint Custody
4.6 ★★★★★ 242 reviews · Washington, DC
Secondhand shop offering a variety of clothing, records & electronics such as turntables.
“great place! owners/people who work there are very friendly and are more than happy to let you look around and browse. they have a HUGE selection of vinyl that spans the wall from …” — Jamari
#3 Smash Records
4.5 ★★★★★ 234 reviews · Washington, DC
Longtime destination for punk & indie music fans, with vinyl records, CDs & vintage rock clothing.
“Let me just start by saying if punk rock and skate boarding aren't your vibe ... that's sad. Smash records is an incredible mix of both. Super cool store catering to all your audit…” — Dennis
#4 Byrdland Records
4.6 ★★★★★ 141 reviews · Washington, DC
Record shop holding new and used records, plus an in-store studio.
“I had the most beautiful experience today at Byrdland Records, & I will NEVER forget it! I am new to D.C., and just purchased my very first record player. I searched TikTok for rec…” — Dominique
#5 HR Records
4.8 ★★★★★ 95 reviews · Washington, DC
Welcoming shop carrying jazz and soul records. Also offering CDs and cassettes.
“Stopped in on a recent trip to DC and so glad I went a bit out of my way to find this charming store. Fantastic selection of soul, r&b, funk, jazz -- and very well priced. Not an o…” — Doug
#6 Spin Time Records
5 ★★★★★ 61 reviews · Washington, DC
“I order online from Spin Time at least once a month, sometimes more often. Their selection of quality reggae LPs is unmatched. We seem to be in a golden age of quality vinyl reissu…” — Man
#7 Tiny Vinyl Shop
4.7 ★★★★★ 61 reviews · Washington, DC
“D.C. needs more spaces like the Tiny Vinyl Shop. Inside a bike shop in the heart of Adams Morgan, this record shop sells more than records. It's a gathering place for neighbors who…” — Austin
#8 art sound language
5 ★★★★★ 39 reviews · Washington, DC
“Wonderful new vinyl & literature spot with really good pricing. Located on the DC/Montgomery County line in Chevy Chase Circle, Art Sound Language has a fine little selection of us…” — Tim
#9 Joint Custody
4.8 ★★★★★ 28 reviews · Washington, DC
“Second location of this DC area stalwart. Great selection, friendly staff, and decent prices. The stickers used on their sleeves are not as large as the other location. Finds of th…” — Khalid
#10 Rail Records & Books
4.5 ★★★★★ 29 reviews · Washington, DC
“A Must-Visit for Music and Book Lovers at Union Station! As a music lover and vinyl enthusiast, I was thrilled to discover Rail and Records at Union Station. It’s exactly the kind …” — Kendra