Best Record Stores in Columbus 2025: The Ultimate Vinyl Guide
Columbus, Ohio, is a city with deep musical roots and a thriving vinyl culture. In 2025, the city’s record stores are more than just retail spaces. They’re community hubs, creative sanctuaries, and living archives of music history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual listener, or a newcomer to the world of vinyl, Columbus offers a diverse array of shops to explore. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best record stores in Columbus for 2025, complete with insider details, local hotspots, and a map to plan your vinyl adventure.
1. Magnolia Thunderpussy
Address: 1155 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Hours: Mon–Wed: 10am–7pm, Thu–Sat: 10am–8pm, Sun: 11am–5pm
Genres: Rock, punk, metal, indie, hip-hop, electronic, jazz, classical
Price Range: Varies by format and rarity
Owner/Founder: Chuck Kubat & Gary Lazar
Founded: 1970
Website: thunderpussy.com
Magnolia Thunderpussy is the city’s oldest record store, with a legacy stretching back to 1970. The shop is a Short North landmark, offering everything from new releases to rare finds, plus band merch, posters, and audio accessories.
2. Lost Weekend Records
Address: 2960 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Hours: Mon–Sat: 11am–7pm, Sun: 12–6pm
Genres: Indie, alternative, pop, rock, rare and out-of-print, eclectic mix
Price Range: Vinyl from $5, new releases around $16-$50
Owner/Founder: Kyle Siegrist
Founded: January 16, 2003
Website: lostweekendrecords.com
Lost Weekend Records is a Clintonville favorite, known for its deep crates and focus on independent and rare releases. Owner Kyle Siegrist is a fixture in the local music scene, supporting artists and hosting record swaps and live music events.
What Makes It Unique
Lost Weekend’s reputation for unearthing hidden gems is legendary. “We’re here for the diggers,” says Kyle. “If you want something off the beaten path, you’ll find it here.”
3. Used Kids Records
Address: 2500 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43202
Hours: Mon–Sat: 10am–8pm, Sun: 12–6pm
Genres: Rock, punk, jazz, soul, rap, pop, metal
Price Range: Fair prices, cassettes $1–$5, wide range for vinyl
Owner: Greg Hall
Founded: 1986 (by Dan Dow & Ron House)
Website: usedkidsrecords.com
A Columbus institution, Used Kids Records has been serving music lovers for nearly four decades. The shop is packed with new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and stereo gear. It’s also known for in-store events and a welcoming, no-attitude atmosphere.
What Makes It Unique
Used Kids is famous for its deep punk and metal bins, and for being a launchpad for local musicians. “We’re all about the music community,” says Greg. “If you love music, you belong here.”
4. Spoonful Records
Address: 144 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215
Hours: Mon: 12–6pm, Tue–Fri: 11am–7pm, Sat: 10:30am–7pm, Sun: 12–6pm
Genres: Indie, pop, rock, Motown, soul, jazz, soundtracks, and more
Price Range: $15–$50 for most items
Owner/Founders: Brett Ruland & Amy Kesting
Founded: 2010
Website: spoonfulrecordsohio.com
Spoonful Records is a downtown staple, run by husband-and-wife team Brett and Amy. The shop is known for its welcoming vibe, carefully curated bins, and a mix of new and vintage vinyl. They also stock CDs, cassettes, and new Audio-Technica turntables. Spoonful hosts Record Store Day events and $1 sale bins, making it a favorite for both collectors and bargain hunters.
5. Records Per Minute
Address: 2579 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Hours: Tue–Sun (exact times vary, call ahead)
Genres: Classic and modern rock, jazz, world, pop, country, soul, classical
Price Range: Affordable, $2 records or 6 for $10 deals
Owner: Steve Louis
Founded: 1986
Website: N/A
Records Per Minute is a University District favorite, known for its massive, ever-changing selection—over 50,000 records! Owner Steve Louis is a vinyl veteran, and the shop’s bargain bins are legendary.
What Makes It Unique
RPM’s $2 record deals and friendly, knowledgeable staff make it a must-visit for crate diggers. “We want everyone to leave with something they love, no matter their budget,” says Steve.
6. Elizabeth’s Records
Address: 3037 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202
Hours: Tue–Sat: 11am–6pm, Sun–Mon: Closed
Genres: Rock, jazz, world, pop, country, soul, classical
Price Range: Most records in bargain bins, large used selection $5-$15
Owner/Founders: Dave & Laura Lewis
Founded: November 2010
Website: elizabethsrecords.wordpress.com
Elizabeth’s Records is a family-run shop named after the owners’ daughter. The store is beloved for its diverse, affordable selection and its community feel—plus, it’s home to Jonesy, the record store cat.
What Makes It Unique
Elizabeth’s is known for its ever-changing inventory and house calls for large collections. “We want to make vinyl accessible to everyone,” says Dave. “And Jonesy keeps us all in line.”
Other Notable Shops
Guitar Center Columbus
Music Royale
Bluegrass Music Shop
Music & Arts
Music Go Round
German Village Music Haus
Columbus Percussion
Guitar House Workshop
Rettig Music
These shops focus more on instruments and gear but often have vinyl sections or host music events.
Local Venues / Hotspots
The King of Clubs
KEMBA Live!
Newport Music Hall
The Basement
A&R Music Bar
The Bluestone
The Summit Music Hall
Rumba Café
Natalie’s Grandview
Dick’s Den
Skully’s Music-Diner
Global Gallery Coffee House
The Roosevelt Room
Cafe Bourbon Street
Why Record Stores Matter in 2025
In a world of streaming and digital playlists, Columbus’s record stores remain vital. They’re places to discover new sounds, meet fellow music lovers, and support local artists. As we move deeper into 2025, these shops continue to foster creativity, preserve music history, and keep the spirit of vinyl alive for the next generation.
Whether you’re crate-digging for a rare gem or just soaking up the atmosphere, Columbus’s record stores are a testament to the city’s enduring love of music. Happy hunting!
