Finding independent music stores in Eastern Iowa has become more of a challenge over the years. Trusted locally-owned favorites such as Rock N’ Bach in Cedar Rapids have disappeared and been replaced by corporate music stores.
Luckily, independent music stores still remain alive in Iowa City, IA. Each of these unique, independent record stores offer amazing collections of vinyl records and compact discs for record collectors and music lovers to browse.
A great music store for true music lovers with one of the best collections of vinyl records in Eastern Iowa, the Record Collector has a collection of hundreds of hard-to-find vinyl LPs and 45s.
Titles in vinyl format are available for virtually every genre. From vintage rock, indie, jazz, blues, funk to country music. Record players are on hand and for sale as well.
The Record Collector also sells new and used CDs, DVDs, and posters. Typical store hours are Monday through Friday from 11 am – 7 pm, 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sundays. (Record Collector, (319)337-5029, 116 South Linn Street)
Another independent music store in Iowa City worth visiting is Sweet Livin’ Antiques and Art. This quaint shop offers an eclectic mix of antiques and vintage vinyl records with over 20,000 in stock.
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday and Mondays from 12:30 pm to 4 pm. This shop is a great stop to seek out your favorite vinyl records or to find some retro stereo equipment. (Sweet Livin’ Antiques and Art, (319) 337-5015, 940 Gilbert Court)
From the rich sound of vinyl or convenience of CDs, music lovers and record collectors can still find plenty of albums, 45s, and CDs to browse through at these top Iowa City independent record stores.
