Electric Fetus, a Minneapolis institution, moved to its current location in 1972. Yet, St. Paul's newer Agharta Records boasts a 4.4-star Yelp rating from just 22 reviews. This striking contrast reveals a dynamic Twin Cities music scene, where long-established record stores thrive alongside highly-rated local favorites. The market clearly sustains both its deep historical roots and a vibrant capacity for new businesses to emerge and flourish.
Top Picks: Iconic and Highly-Rated Stores
Here are some of the Twin Cities' most notable record stores, blending historical significance with strong current appeal:
Electric Fetus
Best for: Established collectors and fans of local music history.
Electric Fetus, founded in 1968, moved to its current Minneapolis address at 2000 4th Ave S in 1972, according to Minneapolis. It's the #1 vinyl record store in Minneapolis, according to 181 Yelp reviews on Yelp. Even Prince favored this store, cementing its legendary status.
Strengths: Deep history, high Yelp ranking, strong community presence | Limitations: May feel overwhelming for new collectors | Price: Varies widely, from common LPs to rare collectibles.
Agharta Records
Best for: Discovering unique used vinyl and niche selections in St. Paul.
Agharta Records ranks first on Yelp's 'Top 10 Best Vinyl Record Stores in Saint Paul, MN', holding a 4.4-star rating from 22 Yelp reviews. Shoppers find used LPs for $1-4, alongside used first pressings priced between $50-100, reports Billboard.
Strengths: High Yelp rating with fewer reviews, diverse pricing for used vinyl, strong local appeal | Limitations: Smaller review base compared to older stores | Price: Budget-friendly used LPs to high-end first pressings.
Caydence Records & Coffee
Best for: Casual browsing with coffee, finding affordable used vinyl.
Caydence Records & Coffee provides a relaxed atmosphere for browsing with a drink. Used vinyl typically costs about $4, an accessible option for collectors. New vinyl selections start at $20.
Strengths: Combined coffee shop experience, affordable used vinyl, new releases | Limitations: Fewer detailed metrics available for online ranking | Price: Accessible for used, standard for new.
