7 Destinations for the Best Vinyl Records and Live Music
Explore the U.S. for great music venues, records, and guitar shops in Nashville, New Orleans, and more
Here, we explore seven of the most destinations in the country and change iconic rhythm-centric U.S. destinations.
U.S. cities offer some of the best places to find vinyl records, live music, and music shops.
Nashville, Tennessee | The Heart of Country Music
No music lover's journey would be complete without a pilgrimage to Nashville, an undisputed American music capital. Visit Grimey’s New & Preloved Music for an impressive collection of vinyl records, and don't miss a chance to strum away at Gruhn Guitars, a local guitar shop that’s earned its legendary reputation among local and traveling musicians.
Head to Ryman Auditorium, one of the city’s music venues that’s hosted numerous legends, from Johnny Cash to Dolly Parton. After taking in a rousing show, indulge in Nashville’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s for a fiery taste of local flavor.
New Orleans, Louisiana | Birthplace of Jazz
In the sultry streets of New Orleans, jazz is the heartbeat. Swing by Louisiana Music Factory to score some rare jazz vinyl records. For instruments, Uptown Music Exchange is a hotspot for everything from tambourine to upright bass.
Preservation Hall offers a nightly pilgrimage site for jazz lovers, providing intimate, acoustic jazz concerts in a historic, cozy setting. After a night of mind-blowing music, visitors can enjoy a beignet and coffee at the iconic Café du Monde to complete the quintessential New Orleans experience.
Austin, Texas | Global Live Music Capital
Austin’s vibe is undeniably eclectic, with live music everywhere from street corners to major music venues. Waterloo Records is a must-visit for vinyl aficionados, and South Austin Music is another lauded spot where local musicians find their tools of the trade.
Be sure to check out the Continental Club, a cornerstone of Austin's live music scene since 1955, where Stevie Ray Vaughan once played. Afterhours, hit Franklin BBQ, where the late-night flavors are as legendary as the city’s music scene.
Detroit, Michigan | Motown and More
Detroit pulses with the legacy of Motown and the evolution of rock and techno. Hello Records is an essential stop for vinyl hunters, while Jack White’s famed Third Man Records offers unique vinyl records and live music shows.
Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.) lets you stand where the Supremes and the Temptations recorded their hits. Savor a Coney Island hot dog at American Coney Island, a Detroit staple since 1917.
Memphis, Tennessee | Birthplace of the Blues & Rock n Roll
In Memphis, the music scene is steeped in the blues and the roots of rock n roll. Shangri-La Records is a must for music lovers, and Martin Music offers fine instruments.
Visit Sun Studio, where Elvis Presley recorded his first song. Be sure to sample Memphis-style ribs at Central BBQ, a local favorite.
Seattle, Washington | From Jazz to Grunge
Seattle’s rich musical history ranges from jazz legends like Quincy Jones to grunge icons like Nirvana. Easy Street Records offers a great selection of vinyl, and Emerald City Guitars is the go-to for vintage finds.
Check out The Crocodile, where bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam shaped the grunge movement, and grab a sampling of Seattle coffee culture at the world’s first Starbucks location.
Chicago, Illinois | Jazz, Blues & Beyond
Chicago’s music landscape is a diverse mix of blues, jazz, and rock n roll. Dusty Groove is renowned for its vinyl collection, and Chicago Music Exchange features an array of instruments.
The Green Mill, a former speakeasy, offers a quintessential jazz experience, and Buddy Guy’s Legends is a haven for blues enthusiasts. For local flavors, deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s is an essential Chicago experience.
From storied vintage record shops to tried-and-true pubs and music venues, these cities celebrate their musical past while cultivating future generations of sound makers. Tune your senses to these vibrant music scenes, and prepare for a deep, memorable, soul-resonating experience.