When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Music Millennium
Why Music Millennium is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Music Millennium, established in 1969, is Portland's oldest and most iconic independent record store, making it a premier destination to meet up with friends and dive into music culture. Located on East Burnside, the store has maintained its authentic vibe and broad range of offerings including new and used vinyl records, CDs, and cassettes. It is renowned for its commitment to independent music, hosting thousands of in-store live performances since the late 1980s, helping to foster Portland's vibrant local music scene. Under the ownership and stewardship of Terry Currier, who began managing the store in 1984, Music Millennium has been instrumental in promoting regional artists and maintaining a unique cultural space for music enthusiasts. The store's welcoming atmosphere, vast inventory across all genres, and historical significance make it a great spot for music lovers to gather, discover new sounds, and experience live music events in an intimate setting. Moreover, its long hours and dedicated staff support a friendly, immersive shopping experience that has attracted multiple generations of customers in Portland and beyond.
Here's what people think of Music Millennium
As of recent, Music Millennium holds a 4.7-star rating based on 2157 reviews.
User reviews of Music Millennium highlight a predominantly positive reputation for being one of the best and most comprehensive record stores in Portland, praised for its wide range of music genres, new and used selections, and being a true independent shop. Positive reviews appreciate the store's extensive collection and the unique cultural experience it offers, often noting its role as a local music landmark and event venue with frequent live performances. However, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as customers feeling unwelcome due to staff behavior, including reports of being followed around the store, which some attributed to racial profiling. Despite these concerns, many customers continue to patronize Music Millennium because of its historical significance, excellent music selection, and support for local artists. Overall, the store maintains a strong 4.7-star rating based on over two thousand reviews, reflecting a generally beloved and respected presence in Portland's music community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Will Villodas
This record store is dope! They have a vast selection, certainly larger than any store I've ever been to! Impeccable customer service and you can even sell your records and tapes here! If you're a record collector, give 'em a peep!
S Kau
Vinyls for DAYS! My son is just starting to dip his toe into LPs, and for his birthday, I took him to Music Millennium. We spent a good hour thumbing through their selection of music. We were surprised at how big this place was, multiple rooms to get lost in. It was almost overwhelming at 1st, but the staff there was super helpful.
Aashish D'Mello
Massive CD collection! They stock quite a few rare discs and box sets too. Got to see a small gig while we were there. Will definitely come back when I'm in Portland next!
Jacob Strauss (Wildcard Albedo)
Been coming here for about 6 months now, and I have to say, they're definitely my Record Store of All Time. Their selection across all genres & formats is...well, I'd say "huge", but that feels like an understatement! There's been almost nothing I haven't been able to find here, even when it's something I'm damn sure I'd have to go to an online marketplace for. On top of that, it feels like there's always an event on, whether that's a sale, a performance, a listening party, or a celebration, so always an extra reason to stop by. Even when items aren't on sale, their prices have always felt fair, so I never feel like I'm overpaying for anything, which is a HUGE plus. MM is definitely a must-visit for any Portland local or visitor into music on physical media!
Noemi Hernandez
Go prepared and have an idea of what you'd like to get. In my experience it was overwhelming but loved how music is mostly organized alphabetical order or by genres
How to reach Music Millennium
None
Website: None
Why Music Millennium may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Music Millennium with your friends? Music Millennium is more than just a record store; it’s a cultural hub that sparks connection through a shared love of music. With its roots deeply embedded in Portland since 1969, this independent shop offers an authentic experience that resonates with music lovers of all generations. It’s the kind of place where friends can gather, explore, and dive into countless musical worlds, from the newest vinyl releases to vintage collectible records. The store creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for socializing, discovering new artists, and even reminiscing about old favorites. Whether you’re passionate about rock, jazz, classical, or indie, Music Millennium’s wide-ranging collection invites groups to bond over shared tastes or to challenge each other with new sounds. Additionally, its reputation for knowledgeable staff and community events makes it an inspiring destination that can turn any casual meetup into a memorable outing. Simply put, for friends looking to connect over music, Music Millennium is a magnetic and vibrant venue that delivers both variety and local charm.
What types of musical treasures and products can you explore at Music Millennium? The store’s extensive selection offers new and used CDs, vinyl records, and boxed sets encompassing all imaginable genres and styles. This variety ensures every member of your group will find something tantalizing to explore. Their inventory includes everything from the latest chart-topping releases to hard-to-find gems that only true collectors know about. Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the shop’s deep and diverse collection, allowing for hours of browsing, discussion, and debate over album art and sound quality. The range of used music also provides a budget-friendly option that encourages discovering overlooked classics or rare editions. Beyond music, Music Millennium sells music-related memorabilia and merchandise that make perfect gifts or souvenirs to commemorate your meetup. This variety ensures that your group can engage in fun and enriching activities, whether picking out a classic LP or hunting down a special edition release together.
What makes Music Millennium a perfect spot for group meetups? First, the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are passionate about music and eager to share recommendations tailored to your group’s tastes. This creates an interactive and personalized shopping experience, perfect for stimulating conversations and music discovery as a group. The layout encourages wandering from aisle to aisle, which naturally sparks spontaneous discussions about your favorite artists or new finds. Since the store is independent and locally owned, visiting Music Millennium feels like supporting a community cornerstone, which adds a meaningful layer to your outing. Groups can also plan meetups around in-store events such as album release parties or live performances that bring the community together to celebrate music in a vibrant social context. Music Millennium’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment means it can comfortably accommodate groups looking for a fun and unique place to connect beyond the usual restaurant or bar.
Are there any special events or community activities at Music Millennium that enhance the meetup experience? Yes, Music Millennium regularly hosts events that transform the store into more than just a shopping destination. These include album signings, live in-store concerts, and listening parties that offer rare opportunities to engage with artists or discover new music in an intimate setting. Such events are ideal for groups because they provide shared experiences centered on music appreciation, strengthening bonds through collective participation. Special promotions like coupon book frenzies or holiday sales also add excitement and encourage group participation in scoring great deals. The calendar of events is frequently updated to reflect new releases and cultural moments important to music fans. Attending these events at Music Millennium offers a way for groups to be part of the local music scene, elevating the typical meetup into an immersive cultural outing filled with discovery and enjoyment.
How accessible and accommodating is Music Millennium for groups planning a meetup? The store is located conveniently within Portland, making it easy for friends or families to meet up without hassle. Its physical space is designed for comfortable browsing, with enough room for groups to explore without feeling cramped. The policy of checking bags helps protect merchandise and ensures a safe shopping environment, while staff assistance is readily available to guide larger groups. Although some visitors have expressed concerns about store policies or staff behavior, many reviews praise the helpfulness and friendliness of the team, highlighting a generally positive atmosphere. Music Millennium’s long-standing presence in the community demonstrates its adaptability and focus on customer satisfaction, which includes accommodating groups and making each visit enjoyable. Whether your group is setting aside a few hours for a casual outing or a special event, the store’s layout, staff, and location collectively support a smooth and memorable experience.
What are the broader cultural and social benefits of choosing Music Millennium for your group? Gathering in a place like Music Millennium allows for more than just shopping — it’s about cultivating a sense of community and shared cultural appreciation that transcends age or background. Music has a unique power to connect people, and an independent store dedicated to the art form fosters meaningful interactions that strengthen friendships and family ties. By hosting your meetup here, you contribute to supporting local business and preserving a cultural landmark that enriches Portland’s artistic landscape. Music Millennium’s inclusive environment invites everyone to celebrate diversity in music taste and cultural expression. This collective experience not only builds lasting memories but also encourages ongoing engagement with music, making your group’s meetup at Music Millennium both fun and culturally significant. Whether it’s introducing friends to new genres or bonding over nostalgic favorites, the store acts as a catalyst for lasting connections.