March 6, 2024: A Time Warp Awaits At Retro Attic Akron

Visiting used record stores is a favorite pastime for my dad, my husband, and me. There are plenty of excellent stores near us, but I don't think any of us were ready for what awaited us at Retro Attic Akron. Housed in an unassuming corner of Akron, Ohio, this store boasts a frankly astonishing collection of media in a space that manages to be both cozy and cool.

Each room in the Retro Attic has a general theme, such as VHS tapes, DVDs, music (vinyl, cassettes, and CDs), clothing, and memorabilia. So what sets this place apart from your typical used-media retailer? In an interview from late last year, Kevin, the owner of Retro Attic Akron, discusses his love of 80s and 90s media, as well as why he decided to turn it into a career. It's clear that this passion infuses the Retro Attic – the massive collection is well curated and features a broad variety that will appeal to everyone. You won't find an overabundance of Herb Alpert's Whipped Cream And Other Delights, but you may find the soundtrack for Neon Genesis Evangelion on vinyl like I did. I didn't pick it up in the end, but my husband and I did get great deals on several DVDs and VHS tapes.

While streaming services offer a convenient way to enjoy music, movies, and TV shows, issues like media consolidation, licensing, and a lack of true ownership is pushing many fans to seek out physical copies of their favorite works. If you're ever in Northeast Ohio, consider checking out the Retro Attic. No matter what you're after, there's a good chance they'll have exactly what you're looking for.