7 Vinyl Record Stores In Alabama Where You Can Discover Rare Finds

Are you a music treasure hunter? A lot of people prefer music in its physical form, even as streaming services continue to grow. I like both for different reasons and know I am not alone. A leading industry data company shows a 21.7% jump in vinyl record sales for the first half of 2023 over the same period last year. If you are part of driving the trend and looking for titles to round out your collection, put these vinyl record stores in Alabama on your radar.

1. Seasick Records, Birmingham

Seasick Records, now in its third location in Birmingham's Avondale, celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2023.

Inspired by The Jesus Lizard's "Seasick" and its original proximity to a diving shop, its founders have consistently curated vibrant retail spaces. Like a good song, it has just kept growing and moving. Its Avondale location today hosts album releases, shows, and epic Record Store Day celebrations.

2. Vertical House Records, Huntsville

Vertical House Records, a go-to for vinyl collectors at Huntsville's Lowe Mill since 2007, is a labor of love run by a husband and wife. Now anchoring the southern end of the Mill’s back dock in Railroad Room 9, it has over 20,000 new and used records for you to peruse.

Lowe Mill often hosts special events throughout its spaces, and the shop also hosts its own live shows. Be sure to check both calendars before you go, because you may want to may a full day of your visit.

2. Urban Atlas, Decatur

You'll find a carefully curated block of record bins inside this little shop in downtown Decatur, which opened in 2017. While the selection is small, records range from rare collectors' sets to affordable deals on quality used and new titles.

Besides records, the shop stocks a balanced blend of vintage and new-retro gift items, clothes, and other necessary gear, like floral roller skates. More than just a bonus, it houses a sister business, Mad Hatter's Tea Shop + Apothecary. It's perfect for ordering a blend to sip and shop, and you can take home loose blends for later.

4. 10,000 Hz Records, Opelika

North Carolina transplants Russ and Hannah opened this shop in historic downtown Opelika in 2018 after existing as a pop-up the year prior.

The duo ensured their business weathered the COVID pandemic by building a well-supported online business, which they continue. They also reimagined their still-pristine physical shop. The focus is even more tuned to the merchandise, which includes over 6,000 new titles spanning genres, plus thousands more used records that are carefully restored before they are offered for sale.

5. Dr. Music Records, Fairhope

Dr. Music is the veteran on this list, having opened in 1996. In 2022, owner Wade Wellborn opened a companion business, Dr. Music Audio, which focuses on selling equipment and repairs.

Besides buying, selling, and trading new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and equipment, the shop sells unique gear. Check out the Sonic Suitcases for a life-of-the-party speaker system.

6. Mud Creek Trading Company/Blue Moon Records, Hanceville

Cullman County resident Neal Watts opened Mud Creek Trading Company and Blue Moon Records in 2019, following a lifelong passion for music and collecting into an enjoyable retirement project. In less than five years, it grew to three locations.

While the main location is in Hanceville, expansions include the Warrior Flea Market and Pearl Skate Supply in Cullman's historic Warehouse District. The business gets rave reviews for its selection, organization, and friendly vibes. Now you can experience it times three.

7. Mobile Records, Mobile

Founded in 2012 by Keith Glass of Melbourne's Missing Link record label renown, Mobile Records spans 3,500 square feet and houses over 200,000 45s and LPs across genres.

Mobile Records welcomes collectors daily from noon to 6 p.m., Sundays included.

What are your favorite spots to hunt for vinyl treasure? Let us know your top picks, including any Alabama antique shops for great vinyl finds. The audiophiles are listening!