When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Antone's Record Shop
Why Antone's Record Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Antone's Record Shop, founded in 1987 by Clifford Antone in Austin, Texas, is more than just a retail space; it is a vibrant part of Austin's rich musical heritage and a beloved gathering spot for music enthusiasts. Located just north of the University of Texas campus, this iconic shop continues the legacy of its founder’s deep passion for blues music, offering visitors an authentic experience that bridges past and present. The shop stocks a diverse collection of independent, local, and blues records, proudly supporting both legendary and emerging artists. Its strong ties to the live music scene, including hosting live in-store events and release parties, make it a dynamic social hub where friends and music lovers regularly meet to share their passion. The atmosphere is enriched by the shop’s history as a natural extension of Antone’s famous nightclub, a cornerstone of Austin’s designation as the "Live Music Capital of the World." Antone's Record Shop not only offers a unique shopping experience but also serves as a cultural landmark preserving the city's musical roots and fostering community connections around shared music interests.
Here's what people think of Antone's Record Shop
As of recent, Antone's Record Shop holds a 4.6-star rating based on 300 reviews.
User reviews of Antone's Record Shop show a strong overall appreciation, reflected in its high 4.6-star rating from 300 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the store's well-curated selection of vinyl records, especially blues and local music, which appeals to diverse music tastes. Customers often praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who enhance the shopping experience by offering personalized recommendations and sharing their deep passion for music. The store’s commitment to hosting in-store events and supporting local musicians through consignment sales also receives commendations, fostering a sense of community and making visits memorable. On the other hand, negative reviews occasionally mention issues such as limited availability of certain popular releases or pricing some perceive as higher compared to other retailers. Some customers also cite parking difficulties or the age of the physical location impacting convenience. Despite these concerns, the consensus underscores that Antone's Record Shop successfully maintains its reputation as a cherished institution in Austin's music scene. It remains a must-visit spot for collectors, fans of blues music, and anyone looking for a genuine music store experience in a city renowned for live music culture.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
K G
This record shop has a variety of Vinyl’s although I did not get to buy any at the time I will be back. I loved the music they were playing on the speakers the staff was helpful cause I was looking for The cranberries vinyl and I had to ask for help and she was very helpful!
Reuben Reyes
Choice place for vintage vinyl records. They also have cassettes, CDs, posters, and clothing. Walking in took me back in time. They always have something cool playing in the background as you shop. Staff are very knowledgeable and helpful.
Bob Roszkowski
Talk about going back to the '70s and '80s. When I walked in it felt like I was a kid again. They had just about every album I can think of and more. They had things I never seen before. A great place to go and support your local businesses.
Cristal Clark
I haven't been into this record store for over 20 years 😩 nothing has changed. The vibe was great and my daughter got her dad's birthday gift 🎁 this time I won't take so long to get back. I was happily perusing for almost an hour 🤗
Claus-Dieter Strehle
Glad I found this place during my stay in Austin, TX. What a range .... from Jazz to 78ers to Pop you can not leave without finding a record you are looking for for ages. Nice chat with the owner - very friendly, competent and humble but also fast and save with an advice in any genre. Thank you for your business. Will sure come back .... when / if I'll visit Austin again.
How to reach Antone's Record Shop
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Website: None
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you and your friends are looking for a vibrant, authentic, and culturally rich spot to gather, Antone's Record Shop in Austin, Texas, is the perfect destination. With a glowing rating of 4.6 based on 300 reviews, it has earned a reputation as a welcoming and unique community hub. Located just a few blocks north of the University of Texas campus, this record shop offers more than just a retail experience; it’s a place steeped in the spirit of music and local culture, ideal for a memorable meetup. Whether you are vinyl enthusiasts, casual music fans, or simply in search of a nostalgic hangout, Antone's provides a laid-back environment where you can explore rare records, discuss music history, and discover new sounds together.
Beyond just shopping, the atmosphere encourages social interactions, making it easy to bond over shared tastes or find new favorites recommended by the knowledgeable and passionate staff. Everyone from serious collectors to casual visitors feels welcome here. The store’s daily hours (11 AM to 7 PM) make planning a group outing simple, whether it’s a weekend excursion or an after-class hangout. Its location on Guadalupe Street means you can easily combine your visit with other nearby activities or eateries. For friends who appreciate the tactile, analog joy of vinyl and music memorabilia, Antone's Record Shop is a musically immersive and socially enriching spot to rally and create lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Antone's Record Shop?
Antone's Record Shop offers a variety of engaging activities that make it an exciting destination for groups. The core activity is browsing an extensive collection of vinyl records spanning multiple genres, from classic rock to jazz, indie, punk, and more. This makes it ideal for groups with diverse music tastes, as everyone is likely to find something intriguing. Hunting through the racks for hidden gems or historic editions encourages shared discovery, sparking conversations and debates about artists and music history.
In addition to records, the shop carries music-related memorabilia including concert posters, vintage music flyers, and band merchandise. These collectibles add an element of nostalgia and visual appeal to the visit, perfect for fans of Austin’s rich musical heritage. Staff picks and featured collections provide curated recommendations, offering opportunities to learn about new artists or local legends.
While Antone's does not function as a traditional event venue, it often coincides with local happenings like nearby vintage markets or music events, allowing groups to extend their outing beyond the shop itself. The welcoming and unhurried ambiance encourages friends to linger, chat, and share listening sessions using the store's listening stations or personal headphones you bring, making it a genuinely social experience.
Why is Antone's Record Shop perfect for a group meetup?
Antone's Record Shop stands out as a meetup spot because it combines a relaxed vibe with engaging, communal activities centered on a shared passion—music. For groups of friends or families, the spacious and well-organized layout allows everyone to explore comfortably without feeling cramped. Since the store is open daily and consistently staffed by music enthusiasts, groups can rely on a dependable, friendly environment where questions and music discussions are welcomed and encouraged.
One of the key advantages for groups is the diversity of interests the shop accommodates. Whether older family members recall vinyl’s golden era or younger guests are curious about the resurgence of analog records, everyone can participate. It’s a fantastic cross-generational meeting point. The knowledgeable staff enriches the experience by sharing insights about rare finds or the stories behind certain albums, enhancing group conversations and learning.
Furthermore, the shop serves as a cultural landmark near the bustling University of Texas area, making it easy to combine with dining or entertainment plans nearby. Parking and accessibility are also reasonable, facilitating a hassle-free meetup. Overall, whether your group’s aim is to simply enjoy the joy of music discovery or to dive into Austin’s music culture, Antone’s Record Shop is an inviting and memorable place to gather.
How does Antone's Record Shop support music lovers and collectors?
For music lovers and collectors, Antone's Record Shop is more than a store; it’s a curated sanctuary of vinyl and music culture. The shop’s inventory is carefully curated, providing rare and sought-after vinyl records that appeal to both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Regular new arrivals keep the selection fresh, encouraging repeat visits and ongoing exploration.
Beyond just buying records, the shop fosters a deep appreciation of music history through its posters and flyers, which feature legendary local concerts and iconic artists. This connection to Austin’s live music scene adds a layer of authenticity that collectors value, making the shop a place to uncover pieces of musical heritage.
The staff plays a pivotal role, offering expert guidance and personal recommendations that help patrons make informed decisions and discover unexpected artists. This personalized service enhances the shopping experience, transforming it from a transaction to a meaningful interaction.
By encouraging exploration and celebrating a community of music enthusiasts, Antone’s nurtures the collector’s passion and sustains Austin's vibrant music culture, making it a treasured destination for anyone serious about vinyl or just looking to connect with music history.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Antone's Record Shop special?
Antone's Record Shop’s location on Guadalupe Street places it in the heart of Austin's thriving cultural and university district, making it highly accessible and surrounded by other unique shops, cafes, and cultural sites. This prime spot allows visitors to blend a trip to the record store with other social outings, crafting a full day of entertainment with friends or family.
The shop occupies its original space, giving it an authentic and nostalgic charm that enhances the overall experience. Walking into Antone's feels like stepping into a music lover’s time capsule, reflecting decades of Austin’s renowned music scene. The visual and auditory elements inside evoke a warm and inviting atmosphere dominated by the love of music.
This ambiance draws people in not only for shopping but also to socialize, reminisce, and discover new music together. The shop’s comfortable layout and friendly vibe make it easy to relax and spend hours digging through the collections, sharing stories, or even planning future music adventures.
In addition, Antone's commitment to community is visible in how it engages with customers and supports music culture, making each visit feel personal and meaningful. For groups wanting an authentic Austin experience revolving around music, Antone’s Record Shop is unmatched.
Antone’s Record Shop is more than a retail space; it’s a dynamic gathering spot that perfectly blends music discovery, social interaction, and cultural appreciation, supporting groups seeking both entertainment and connection in Austin’s vibrant community.