Best Record Stores in Detroit 2025: The Ultimate Vinyl Guide
Detroit’s music legacy is legendary, and in 2025, its record stores are more vital than ever. Whether you’re a crate-digger, a casual collector, or a newcomer to vinyl, Detroit’s shops offer a unique blend of history, community, and discovery. This guide spotlights the city’s best record stores. Each with its own story, specialties, and local flavor, so you can experience the Motor City’s vinyl culture firsthand.
1. Peoples Records
Address: 1464 Gratiot Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–7pm, Sun 11am–4pm
Genres: Soul, Jazz, Motown, Rock, Hip-Hop, House, Techno
Price Range: Fair, often better than NYC
Owner: Brad Hales
Founded: 2003
Website: peoplesrecordsdetroit.com
Peoples Records is a Detroit institution, famous for its deep crates of soul, jazz, and Motown, plus rare 45s and local gems. The shop is also home to the Michigan Audio Heritage Society Museum, making it a destination for music history buffs.
What Makes It Unique
Peoples Records is more than a store, it’s a living archive of Detroit’s musical past. Owner Brad Hales curates a collection that draws DJs, collectors, and tourists alike. The in-store museum and community vibe set it apart.
“We’re here to keep Detroit’s music legacy alive, one record at a time.” - Brad Hales
2. Third Man Records
Address: 441 W Canfield St, Detroit, MI 48201
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–6pm, Sun 11am–5pm
Genres: Alternative, Americana, Blues, Garage, Punk, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Metal, and more
Price Range: Collectible/specialty vinyl, retail pricing
Owner: Jack White, Ben Blackwell, Ben Swank
Founded: 2015 (Detroit location)
Website: thirdmanrecords.com
Founded by Jack White, Third Man is a must-visit for fans of Detroit’s garage rock and indie scene. The store features a vinyl pressing plant, live performance stage, and exclusive releases.
What Makes It Unique
Third Man’s in-store pressing plant lets you watch records being made. The shop’s design, live events, and exclusive White Stripes memorabilia make it a destination.
“We wanted to bring something special back to Detroit.” - Jack White
3. Hello Records
Address: 4165 Fort St, Lincoln Park, MI 48146
Hours: Wed–Sat 11am–7pm, Sun 12pm–5pm
Genres: Soul, Jazz, Rock, Experimental, Hip-Hop, Motown, Funk, Reggae, Blues, Gospel, Techno, House
Price Range: Reasonable, with specials
Owner: Wade Kergan
Founded: (Date not specified)
Website: hellorecordsdetroit.com
Hello Records is known for its eclectic, well-curated selection and friendly staff. The store stocks everything from classic Motown to experimental and electronic, plus cassettes, CDs, and music books.
What Makes It Unique
Hello’s focus on diversity and community events makes it a favorite for local collectors. Their regular specials and Record Store Day events are a big draw.
“We want everyone to find something they love here.” - Wade Kergan
4. The Detroit Record Club
Address: 28834 Woodward Ave, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Hours: Mon–Fri 12pm–7pm, Sat–Sun 12pm–5pm
Genres: Curated new/vintage vinyl, all genres
Price Range: Mid-range to premium
Owner: Joe
Founded: 2019
Website: thedetroitrecordclub.com
Detroit Record Club specializes in ultrasonic-cleaned, audiophile-quality vinyl. The staff’s expertise and the shop’s focus on rare finds make it a destination for serious collectors.
What Makes It Unique
Every record is cleaned and graded, and the shop offers music books and accessories. Their focus on quality and customer service stands out.
“We believe in the power of a perfectly clean record.”
5. Dearborn Music
Address: 22501 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124
Hours: (Farmington: Mon–Thu 10am–8pm, Fri–Sat 10am–9pm, Sun 11am–5pm)
Genres: All genres, focus on vinyl and pop culture
Price Range: Affordable
Owner: Kevin & Rick LeAnnais
Founded: 1956
Website: Deabornmusic.net
A Detroit-area staple for nearly 70 years, Dearborn Music is family-owned and known for its huge selection and friendly service. They stock new and used vinyl, CDs, and memorabilia.
What Makes It Unique
Longevity and breadth. Dearborn Music has survived every music format change and remains a go-to for collectors and families alike.
“We’ve seen it all, and we’re still here.” - Rick LeAnnais
6. Detroit Threads
Address: 10238 Jos Campau, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–7pm (variable), closed Sun
Genres: Techno, House, Electro, Soul, Jazz, Rock, New Wave
Price Range: Varies (vintage/rare items)
Owner: Mikel Smith
Founded: (Not specified)
Website: Detroit Threads on Discogs
Detroit Threads is a hybrid shop, part record store, part vintage clothing boutique. It’s a hub for Detroit’s electronic music scene and a favorite among DJs.
What Makes It Unique
The only place in Detroit where you can buy a rare techno 12" and a vintage jacket in one stop. Owner Mikel Smith’s deep roots in the scene make this a true local gem.
“We’re all about Detroit’s underground.” - Mikel Smith
7. Found Sound
Address: 234 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 12pm–5pm
Genres: Indie, Punk, Metal, Electronic, Detroit Techno, Jazz, and more
Price Range: Reasonable, frequent promotions
Owner: Ray Hayosh
Founded: 2012
Website: found-sound.wheree.com
Found Sound is beloved for its wide selection, knowledgeable staff, and community feel. The shop is a go-to for indie and punk fans, but you’ll find something for every taste.
What Makes It Unique
Personalized service and a constantly rotating inventory make every visit different. Their staff recommendations are legendary.
“We love helping people discover new music.” - Ray Hayosh
8. Flipside Records
Address: 3099 Coolidge Hwy, Berkley, MI 48072
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–7pm, Sun 11am–4pm
Genres: New/used vinyl, cassettes, CDs, DVDs, games, collectibles
Price Range: Broad, competitive
Owner: Todd Fundaro
Founded: 1983 (moved to Berkley 2021)
Website: shopflipsiderecords.com
Flipside is a classic shop with a huge inventory. Vinyl, CDs, games, and more. It’s a favorite for bargain hunters and collectors alike.
What Makes It Unique
Flipside’s “pay more, sell for less” philosophy means great deals for buyers and sellers. Their selection of collectibles and games is unmatched.
“We’re here for the music—and the fun.” - Todd Fundaro
9. Detroit Music Center
Address: 7324 Seven Mile W, Detroit, MI 48221
Hours: M-T 12-5pm, Friday/Saturday 12-6pm, closed Sundays
Genres: Underground, all genres
Price Range: $8.99–$99.99 (most $10–$50)
Owner: (Not listed)
Founded: 1980
Website: detroitmusiccenter.com
Detroit Music Center is a haven for underground music fans, with a focus on rare and hard to find vinyl. Their pricing is competitive, and the shop has been a leader in Detroit’s scene for decades.
What Makes It Unique
A true underground institution, Detroit Music Center is where serious collectors go to dig deep.
“We’ve been the leader in underground music since 1980.”
Record Store Map & Local Hotspots
Detroit’s record stores are clustered in vibrant neighborhoods such as Corktown, Midtown, Hamtramck, Royal Oak, Ferndale, and Dearborn. After crate digging, check out these local hotspots:
Trinosophes (next to Peoples Records): Café, art space, and live music
Motor City Brewing Works (Midtown): Craft beer and pizza
The Old Miami (Cass Corridor): Legendary dive bar with live music
Avalon International Breads (Midtown): Detroit’s best bakery
Eastern Market: Food, art, and weekend markets
Why Detroit’s Record Stores Matter in 2025
In 2025, Detroit’s record stores are more than retail. They’re community anchors, cultural archives, and creative incubators. They connect generations, support local artists, and keep the city’s musical spirit alive. Whether you’re a lifelong Detroiter or a first-time visitor, these shops offer a window into the soul of the Motor City.
Ready to start crate digging? Detroit’s record stores are waiting.
Sources: All information gathered from in person visits, official store websites, local news, and community reviews as of October 2025.
