When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Paradise Found Records & Music
Why Paradise Found Records & Music is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Paradise Found Records & Music, located at 1646 Pearl Street in Boulder, CO, offers an exceptional destination for music enthusiasts seeking a rich and varied collection of vinyl records, CDs, stereo equipment, books, and apparel. Owned by Will Paradise since 2016, this full-service retail record shop has cultivated a welcoming community atmosphere where both casual listeners and serious collectors can explore a diverse array of music across genres and eras. The shop is known not only for its extensive inventory but also for its personalized service; Will delights in engaging with customers about music, sharing his passion and knowledge. The store's intimate setting encourages discovery and conversation, making it a prime gathering spot to meet up with friends who share a love for music. Beyond the records, Paradise Found also provides great deals on both sealed and used vinyl, appealing to budget-conscious collectors as well as those searching for rare finds. Its location in the vibrant Pearl Street area allows visitors to combine their visit with dining at nearby venues like Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant and Creature Comforts Cafe, or enjoy complementary shopping experiences, making a trip to Paradise Found Records & Music an enriching and convenient occasion.
Here's what people think of Paradise Found Records & Music
As of recent, Paradise Found Records & Music holds a 4.9-star rating based on 450 reviews.
Customer reviews of Paradise Found Records & Music are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its impressive 4.9-star rating based on 450 reviews. Many patrons praise the store for its "super selection" of vinyl records available at reasonable prices, including sealed editions that are often more costly elsewhere. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality and quantity of the vinyl, emphasizing both the variety and competitive pricing. The personal touch offered by owner Will Paradise is frequently mentioned; customers appreciate his deep knowledge, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage in music conversations, which enhances the shopping experience. Positive reviews also commend the store’s welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community it fosters among music lovers. On the other hand, fewer negative reviews tend to focus on the limited space within the shop, which can make browsing during peak times a bit cramped, or occasional inventory availability issues for highly sought-after releases. However, these points are minor compared to the general goodwill customers express. Overall, the reviews depict Paradise Found Records & Music as a beloved local institution that excels in curation, customer service, and creating a friendly environment for collectors and casual listeners alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Antonio J
I initially hesitated to go in due to the crowd on a Saturday, but I'm glad I did! The prices were surprisingly affordable for Boulder, and the staff was incredibly helpful. A big shoutout to Will for going the extra mile and letting me explore their basement for 12" records. And the free singles were a fantastic bonus! I'll definitely be back to support this great shop.
Mathew
Awesome staff, selection, environment, and purpose. This is our main source for vinyl, and if they don't have it, they'll work to track it down. I love grabbing a few off the check list, and then asking them to recommend something I've never heard of... and it always blows my mind! A true music lovers paradise
Eric San
Stopped by Paradise Found Records and was pleasantly surprised by their vast selection of vinyl, tons of great finds at really reasonable prices. The staff was super friendly and helpful, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere that made browsing a great experience. Picked up a new vinyl for my wife, and she absolutely loved it. Definitely looking forward to coming back for more!
Silver Fox
I absolutely LOVE coming here!! My gf Kerry and I come up from Littleton about once a month, usually on a Sunday, and buy our records, some merch and always hang with Sean, who is truly the biggest reason why we come. It’s a great selection, the prices are very reasonable and the atmosphere is always great. If you’re into buying vinyl, this is the best place to go!! Highly recommend!! Sean
Aaron Sonego
Excellent store. I've been looking for a place in CO where they have great used and new selection at a FAIR price. They also allow dogs inside while you shop. I'll be returning here first if in the mood for some more wax. Its worth the drive from Aurora, CO just because of their pricing. All other stores in Denver are way over priced. It is nice to see a store who appreciates their collectors and the love for music.
How to reach Paradise Found Records & Music
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Why Paradise Found Records & Music may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Paradise Found Records & Music stands out as an ideal spot to gather with friends or family for multiple compelling reasons. First, its welcoming atmosphere combines the nostalgic charm of a classic record store with a modern, spacious layout that encourages social interaction. Located on Pearl Street in Boulder, Colorado, Paradise Found offers more than just music; it provides a vibrant community hub where collectors, casual listeners, and music enthusiasts alike can mingle and share their passion for songs and vinyl. The store boasts an outstanding rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 450 reviews, which speaks volumes about the consistently positive experiences visitors have had. Whether you're an experienced vinyl collector or someone simply looking for a relaxed and fun place to explore new music together, this store is bound to become your new favorite meetup destination. Moreover, the knowledgeable staff, including owner Will Paradise, add to the charm by engaging visitors in great music conversations, creating a warm and personalized environment that deepens the collective experience and helps strengthen friendships through shared musical discovery.
What activities can you enjoy at Paradise Found Records & Music?
At Paradise Found Records & Music, there is a diverse array of activities that make hosting group meetups both enjoyable and memorable. The primary activity revolves around exploring an extensive collection of new and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and even stereo equipment, which is perfect for friends who share a keen interest in music. Their inventory covers a wide range of genres such as jazz, soul, reggae, blues, rock, pop, punk, country, folk, bluegrass, hip-hop, new age, and world music, ensuring that every group member can find something to savor. Another engaging activity is browsing the store’s selection of music posters, books, and magazines, offering a deeper dive into music culture and history. The store’s spacious interior also allows for impromptu pop-up events and occasional in-store live performances, which can turn a regular visit into a lively gathering featuring local bands—making it perfect for group celebrations. Additionally, Paradise Found encourages interactions between music fans since owner Will and his team enjoy meeting collectors and sharing stories, which fosters a community vibe ripe for socializing. For collectors within your group, the store buys used records and can arrange for in-home pickups, making it a convenient place to trade or expand your music collection together.
Why is Paradise Found Records & Music perfect for group meetups?
Paradise Found Records & Music offers an unbeatable combination of atmosphere, space, and features that make it ideal for hosting a meetup with friends or family. The store’s location on the corner of Pearl and 17th streets places it less than two blocks east of the Pearl Street Mall, one of Boulder’s most popular pedestrian shopping areas, which means your group has access to additional attractions, dining options, and parking facilities nearby. The new, larger store space (more than twice the size of the previous location) comfortably accommodates groups, allowing visitors to browse, chat, or sit down and listen to music without feeling cramped. With its dedication to community events and pop-up shows, the venue adds an exciting dynamic to meetups by providing live entertainment or themed music nights. The supportive and passionate staff are another advantage—whether you want expert suggestions, to discuss your favorite bands, or to discover hidden gems, they enhance the group experience with personalized attention. Finally, the diversity in music genres and media formats ensures that groups with different tastes are all catered to, making Paradise Found Records & Music a one-stop destination for musical exploration and a lively social outing.
What nearby amenities enhance the group meetup experience?
The convenience of the surrounding area makes Paradise Found Records & Music an even more attractive place to host meetups. Situated in downtown Boulder, the store has a number of dining establishments within walking distance that are perfect for pre- or post-visit meals or coffee breaks with friends. Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant, Creature Comforts Cafe, and Laughing Goat Coffeehouse are just a few nearby spots where your party can relax, eat, and chat about the music finds of the day. For those who want a quick snack or need other essentials during the meetup, Pearl Convenience and other shops nearby offer convenience without a lengthy detour. Parking is also straightforward, with several parking garages located less than a block away, including the 15th & Pearl and the 14th & Walnut Parking Garages, ensuring your group can arrive and leave with ease. The central location and accessibility make it simple to plan flexible meetups that can include music browsing, dining, and even exploring the rest of Pearl Street’s vibrant scene, turning a music outing into a full-day event that appeals to different interests within your group.
How does Paradise Found Records & Music reflect community spirit?
What truly sets Paradise Found Records & Music apart is its deep connection to the local music community and its role as a gathering place beyond just a retail store. This business has roots dating back to its time as Bart’s Record Shop, which was a Pearl Street landmark for years before rebranding and relocating to the current, larger space. The transition was led by owner Will Paradise, who has been part of the music collecting scene since at least 2008 and has a personal passion for building community through music. The store’s ethos embraces music fans as a family, promoting connection through shared tastes and the stories behind their collections. This manifests in how the shop hosts pop-up concerts featuring local bands and fosters an atmosphere where casual visitors and serious collectors feel equally welcome, blending commerce with culture. This spirit encourages groups to not just shop but to linger, chat, and bond over records in an environment where music is celebrated as a unifying force. The attentive staff and owner’s love for discovery invite everyone to engage in meaningful conversations, creating memories that extend well beyond the purchase of a vinyl or CD.
What unique features make the store stand out?
Paradise Found Records & Music stands out thanks to a carefully curated and expansive inventory that goes beyond mere quantity. Along with new and used vinyl, CDs, and cassettes, the store offers a selection of stereo equipment — including turntables — and collectible music posters, which make it a paradise for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The store continuously updates its stock, providing fresh and rare finds daily, which keeps frequent visits exciting and appealing, especially for groups that want to explore music history and contemporary trends together. Additionally, the owner’s willingness to buy used records, including offering in-home pickup services, adds convenience and fosters relationships with the community of sellers and collectors. The physical layout allows for browsing in comfort, with clear organization by genre to help visitors find exactly what they want, making group visits efficient and fun. Finally, the ambiance evokes a nostalgic yet contemporary vibe that resonates with music lovers of all generations — a rare combination that mixes a classic record shop vibe with a community-focused music venue, ensuring it stays vibrant and relevant in a digital age.
How can a group prepare to make the most out of their visit?
To maximize the experience at Paradise Found Records & Music, groups should come prepared to immerse themselves fully in music exploration. It’s a good idea to set aside several hours for the visit given the extensive selection and the possibility of live events or pop-up performances. Planning ahead by following the store’s social media for announcements on special events or new arrivals can enhance the visit. Groups should consider their members’ musical tastes and interests to target segments of the store that will most appeal to everyone, perhaps dividing the shop into genre sections to ensure a collective but individualized experience. Bringing a list of artists or albums to hunt for can add a fun scavenger element to the visit. Don’t hesitate to engage with staff and the owner, who are known for their friendliness and readiness to share recommendations or stories behind collections. Lastly, planning to pair the visit with a meal or coffee at the nearby cafes or restaurants can enrich the meetup by offering time to chat about discoveries and deepen connections.
In sum, Paradise Found Records & Music is more than a record store—it is a dynamic, community-driven space designed to bring people together through the love of music. Its extensive collection, welcoming atmosphere, prime downtown location, and dedication to hosting in-store events make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to rally with friends or family in Boulder. Whether your group is there to hunt rare vinyl, enjoy live local music, or just soak in the vibrant culture, Paradise Found Records & Music offers a unique and enriching experience for all attendees.