Amoeba Music Hollywood
World's largest independent record store offering vinyl, CDs, DVDs, and more, plus free live music.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Amoeba Music Hollywood
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more browsing time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World's largest independent record store offering vinyl, CDs, DVDs, and more, plus free live music.
"Amoeba LA is a treasure trove for anyone who loves music, movies, or pop culture. A true LA gem!"
Allocate ample time
You could easily spend hours lost in the aisles! :stopwatch:
Check parking validation
Get 75 mins free parking with purchase in the El Centro structure. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vinyl Wonderland
Main floor
Thousands of new and used vinyl records spanning every genre imaginable. A true paradise for collectors and casual listeners alike.
DVD & Blu-ray Deep Dive
Second floor
An extensive collection of new and used DVDs and Blu-rays, from cult classics to recent releases. A treasure trove for film buffs.
Live Music Stage
Front of store
Catch free live performances from local and touring artists. Check their schedule for upcoming shows.
Pop Culture Memorabilia
Various sections
Discover band t-shirts, posters, books, and other merchandise that celebrate music and pop culture history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vinyl Dive
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate ample time
You could easily spend hours lost in the aisles! :stopwatch:
Check parking validation
Get 75 mins free parking with purchase in the El Centro structure. :parking:
Explore all media
Don't just focus on vinyl; CDs, DVDs, and books are also abundant! :cd: :dvd:
Look for free live shows
Amoeba often hosts free performances. Check their schedule! :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate ample time
You could easily spend hours lost in the aisles! :stopwatch:
Check parking validation
Get 75 mins free parking with purchase in the El Centro structure. :parking:
Explore all media
Don't just focus on vinyl; CDs, DVDs, and books are also abundant! :cd: :dvd:
Look for free live shows
Amoeba often hosts free performances. Check their schedule! :microphone:
Bag check required
Be prepared for a bag check after your purchase. :baggage_claim:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Amoeba Music Hollywood is a beloved institution, celebrated for its immense selection of music, movies, and pop culture items. Visitors rave about the vast inventory, knowledgeable staff, and the nostalgic, cool atmosphere. While parking can be a minor hassle, the overall experience is considered a must-do for music lovers and tourists alike, offering hours of enjoyable browsing.
"Amoeba LA is a treasure trove for anyone who loves music, movies, or pop culture. The store is huge, with an amazing selection of vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, posters, and even some vintage finds. Whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, jazz, or indie, you’ll find something here. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and the vibe is super cool and nostalgic. You can easily spend hours just browsing. A true LA gem!"
Nicole Y.
"Amoeba has been my oldest son’s favorite store since he was 9 years old. He’s 30 now, and every time we walk in, it’s like he’s in a candy shop. A true film junkie at heart, he loves collecting DVDs, and Amoeba never disappoints.
The new location is spacious, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the music always matches the vibe of the day. My son can get lost for hours in here, and honestly, I love it.
As someone on the spectrum, Amoeba is one of the few places where he doesn’t need my help. The energy of the store, the noise, the people, the staff, it all gives him confidence. I’ve watched him ask for help finding a movie, and every time, the staff treat him with patience and respect. Those moments of independence are priceless to me as a parent.
Whether you’re a tourist visiting Hollywood or a local who knows the magic, Amoeba is more than a store, it’s an experience."
Karen Waleska
"Such and epic cool place for music lovers. Absolutely full of vinal, cds books and music merchandise. You could spend all in there. Best place for band t-shirts, bag patches and pin badges, a must for Indie fans."
Bob
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amoeba Music Hollywood is located at 6200 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, within the El Centro complex. It's easily accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors arrive via the Metro Red Line to the Hollywood/Highland station, which is a short walk away. Rideshares are also a convenient option.
Yes, there is parking available in the El Centro parking structure. With a purchase, you can get 75 minutes of validated parking. Make sure to have your QR code ready before going down to the lot, as cell service can be unreliable.
Absolutely! The Metro Red Line's Hollywood/Highland station is a convenient option, putting you within walking distance of the store. Several bus lines also serve the Hollywood area.
The new location is spacious and designed to be accessible. Visitors have noted that individuals on the spectrum can navigate the store independently, indicating good accessibility.
If you're visiting Los Angeles, taking the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland is a straightforward option. Alternatively, rideshares like Uber or Lyft are readily available and can drop you off directly at the El Centro complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Amoeba Music Hollywood. It's a retail store, so you can browse freely.
Amoeba Music Hollywood is typically open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
Browsing at Amoeba Music is free! You only pay for the items you decide to purchase.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally recommended to use the store's bags for purchases. Be aware that a bag check is conducted after purchases are made.
Amoeba Music frequently hosts free live in-store performances. Check their website or social media for schedules. Entry to these events is usually free with store purchase or on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Amoeba boasts an incredibly diverse selection, covering virtually every genre imaginable, from rock, pop, jazz, and hip-hop to electronic, world music, and classical. They have both new releases and a vast used inventory.
Beyond vinyl and CDs, Amoeba Music Hollywood offers a wide array of DVDs, Blu-rays, cassettes, books, posters, band t-shirts, and other music-related merchandise and pop culture collectibles.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours, and many can easily spend much longer exploring the extensive collection. It's easy to get lost in the aisles!
Yes, reviews consistently praise the staff for being knowledgeable, friendly, patient, and helpful in assisting customers find specific items or recommendations.
Amoeba Music buys used CDs, vinyl, DVDs, and other media. You can bring your items in for evaluation and potentially get cash or store credit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Amoeba Music Hollywood is primarily a retail store and does not have an in-house cafe or restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding Hollywood area.
It's generally advised to refrain from eating or drinking inside the store to protect the merchandise. There are no designated eating areas within the store itself.
The Hollywood Boulevard area offers a wide variety of eateries, from fast-casual spots to sit-down restaurants. You can find everything from pizza and burgers to ethnic cuisines within walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially for capturing the vastness of the store and your finds. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other shoppers and staff.
The sheer scale of the record aisles, the diverse CD and DVD sections, and the general vintage vibe of the store make for great photo opportunities. The exterior of the building is also iconic.
During live performances, it's best to check with the artist or store staff regarding photography policies. Often, flash photography is discouraged to avoid disturbing the performers.
Weekday mornings are ideal for photography as the store will be less crowded, allowing you to capture shots without many people in the background.
For commercial or professional photography, it's advisable to contact Amoeba Music Hollywood in advance to inquire about their policies and obtain any necessary permissions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a part of a larger Hollywood adventure. You can leverage the 75-minute validated parking with a purchase, which might be sufficient for a focused browse. If your child has specific interests, like a particular band or movie genre, guiding them towards those sections can make the visit more targeted and enjoyable. The free live shows can also be a fun, family-friendly event if scheduled during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Take advantage of the free browsing and the potential to sell your own unwanted media for store credit or cash, which can then be used towards new purchases. Planning your visit during weekday mornings can help you avoid peak crowds and potentially find better deals before the weekend rush. Remember to factor in parking costs if you plan to stay longer than the validated 75 minutes.
🎵 Music Aficionados
Engage with the knowledgeable staff for recommendations or to track down specific artists or labels. Don't overlook the CD, cassette, and even the extensive book sections, which often contain hidden treasures. Attending one of the free live performances can also be a highlight, offering a chance to discover new talent or see established artists in an intimate setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Amoeba Experience: More Than Just a Record Store
Beyond its vast inventory, Amoeba is a cultural hub. It's known for hosting free live in-store performances by both emerging artists and established musicians, adding a dynamic layer to the shopping experience. This commitment to live music and community engagement makes Amoeba more than just a retail space; it's a destination for music discovery and appreciation. The store's layout is designed for exploration, with sections clearly organized, making it navigable despite its size.
The recent relocation to Hollywood Boulevard has provided a more spacious and modern environment, while retaining the core essence of what makes Amoeba special. The store's commitment to supporting independent music and culture continues to draw locals and tourists alike, solidifying its status as an iconic Los Angeles landmark.
Navigating Hollywood's Music Mecca: Tips for First-Timers
Parking can be a point of consideration. While validated parking is available for 75 minutes with a purchase in the El Centro structure, it's crucial to have your QR code ready and be aware of potential service issues. If you plan on spending more than 75 minutes, factor in the parking fees, which can add up. For those using public transport, the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland is a convenient and cost-effective option.
Remember that Amoeba also buys used media. If you have records, CDs, or DVDs you're looking to sell, bringing them along could be a productive part of your visit. This not only allows you to potentially recoup some costs but also contributes to the store's ever-rotating inventory.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit