What and where is Rough Trade?

• Rough Trade NYC is situated at 1250 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10112, between 49th and 50th Streets.​

  • Subway: Take the B, D, F, or M trains to 47–50 Streets–Rockefeller Center Station.​

  • Bus: M5, M7, and M50 buses have stops nearby.​

  • Entrance: The main entrance is on 6th Avenue, with the upcoming Rough Trade Below located at the rink level of Rockefeller Center.​

• Listening Station Alcove

  • 📍 Near the back of the vinyl racks

  • Tucked-away spot to preview records with headphones—quiet, cozy, and often overlooked by casual shoppers.

• Basement Nook (Rough Trade Below)

  • 📍 Beneath the main store at Rockefeller Center

  • A newer level with specialty pressings, books, and hidden crate finds—less crowded than the upper level.

• Indie Zine Shelf

  • 📍 Alongside the checkout area

  • A curated mini-library of underground zines, local press, and music magazines—easy to miss if you're only browsing records.

• Photo Wall Corner

  • 📍 Across from the performance stage

  • Rotating collage of past performances, signed posters, and music memorabilia—great photo backdrop for superfans.

• Staff Picks Crate

  • 📍 Mid-store near the genre dividers

  • Personal recommendations by Rough Trade employees—sometimes featuring handwritten notes and rare vinyl gems.

• Del Frisco’s Grille: Upscale American dining with steaks, seafood, and a wide range of appetizers — perfect for a sit-down meal near the store.

• Magnolia Bakery: Famous for its banana pudding and cupcakes, this beloved bakery is a great spot for a sweet treat.

• Black Seed Bagels: Hand-rolled, wood-fired bagels with creative fillings, just a few minutes' walk from Rough Trade.

• Blue Bottle Coffee: Sleek and modern coffee shop offering strong espresso, pour-over brews, and light pastries.

• Rough Trade NYC is committed to sustainability and community engagement:​

  • Vinyl Recycling: Encourages customers to recycle old records and packaging responsibly.

  • Sustainable Merchandise: Offers eco-friendly products, including reusable tote bags and sustainably sourced apparel.​

  • Community Events: Hosts workshops and discussions promoting environmental awareness within the music industry.​

  • Local Partnerships: Collaborates with local artisans and vendors to support sustainable practices.​

Visitors are encouraged to participate in these initiatives and contribute to a greener music community.

• Store Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Events: Check the official website for upcoming in-store performances and signings. 

• Photography: Allowed, but please be respectful during live events.

• Purchases: Staff are knowledgeable and can assist with recommendations across various genres.

• Live In-Store Performances:

  • Location: Main floor performance space

  • What to Expect: Intimate concerts by emerging and established artists across genres.

  • Shows are often free with RSVP or purchase of vinyl; arrive early for standing space.

• Artist Meet & Greets:

  • Location: Signing tables near the merch section

  • What to Expect: Album signings and photo ops with musicians on tour.

  • Check social media and the events calendar for upcoming appearances.

• Vinyl DJ Nights:

  • Location: Listening area or lobby space

  • What to Expect: Guest DJs spinning vinyl-only sets from indie rock to soul.

  • Often paired with exclusive sales or limited-edition drops.

• Music Talks & Book Launches:

  • Location: Back corner event zone

  • What to Expect: Discussions with authors, artists, and producers about music culture and history.

  • Includes Q&As and opportunities to purchase signed books.