The Best Record Shops In Toronto
The number of record stores in Toronto is a testament to Torontonians’ loyalty to – and love of – vinyl records. Despite the influx of new and evolving music formats, music just sounds better on vinyl. Toronto is serious about preserving the art, with independent shops scattered throughout the city. Whether you’re simply looking to browse, or are on the hunt for rare vinyl finds, check out these 10 shops.
1. Ric’s Recollections
Store
After 23 years in business, Ric’s Recollections may no longer be a ‘best kept secret’; word has spread that this is the go-to place for vinyl if you find yourself in Mississauga. While not in Toronto proper, this list wouldn’t be complete without Ric’s: here you’ll find every genre, and both used and new records. Browse over 20,000 titles in rock, jazz, blues, R&B, country, pop, and international collections. You’ll also find everything you need to keep your records up and running, including cartridges, brushes, vinyl record cleaning fluid, and more. Remember, it is ‘recollections,’ not just ‘collections,’ at Ric’s.
2. Rotate This
Store
Rotate This has become a sort of Toronto institution among fans of independent music. With its convenient Queen West location, you’ll have ample opportunity to stop in. Stocking both classic and new releases, Rotate This sells records by your favorite independent artists and bands from both Canada and around the globe. Don’t let the hipness deter you; the music-savvy staff knows its stuff – be sure to ask for recommendations. And for all your live-music-going needs: get official tickets to concerts, as well.
3. Cosmos Records
Store
5. Pandemonium
Store
6. In The Groove
Store
7. The Tiny Record Shop
Store
8. Play De Record
Store
9. She Said Boom
Bookstore, Store
She Said Boom is a record and bookstore that sells new and used CDs and records at its two locations, High Park and Kensington Market. You can specifically find alternative, electronica, jazz, and reggae. The store has served Toronto for over 20 years and continues to keep the city’s music folk updated on what’s in and the latest in vinyl, books, and CDs.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
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