Brooklyn’s Rough Trade is much more than an independent record store. In addition to its stockpiles of vinyl, the music haven features a concert space, a café, books, a bar and a listening room. The Williamsburg spot is the lone location outside the UK for Rough Trade, which has more than 40 years of history across the pond. This venue also hosts artist events like record and book signings, Q&A sessions and concerts. On Record Store Day, Rough Trade really pulls out the stops. Beginning at 9am, the store hosts a full day of live music which you can listen while shopping for exclusive Record Store Day–only titles. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Address
64 N. 9th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Photo: Brittany Petronella
How to get there
By subway, take the L to Bedford Avenue (the first stop in Brooklyn) and then walk a few blocks toward the East River. It’s also a short walk from the North Williamsburg stop on NYC Ferry at North 6th Street.
Hours
Monday–Saturday, 11am–11pm; Sunday, 11am–9pm
Photo: Brittany Petronella
What to buy
Vinyl records (new and used)
CDs
Apparel
Books
Turntables and equipment
Photo: Brittany Petronella
What to do
See a show: Indie, rock and even hip-hop artists play in the cozy back space of the building.
Meet your favorite artist: Discussions, book and record signings and intimate performances take place daily. Check the events calendar for up-to-date listings.
Have a cup of coffee: The Brompton Bike Café serves espresso, drip coffee, tea and baked goods on the ground level of the building.
Play table tennis: Find tables and chairs for lounging—as well as a ping-pong table—in the upstairs section, which also serves as a good listening perch during concerts.
Browse some books: Shop music-related titles as well as a mix of literary works, nonfiction and photo books, curated by Dumbo bookstore Melville House Publishing.
Try before you buy: The upstairs Sonos Listening Room, outfitted with its sponsor company’s speakers, replicates a living-room experience for visitors looking to test drive their records.