Best Record Store Cactus Music

grandparents shopping with their grandchildren, bringing them here,” Bishop said.

He added, “Because now, there’s this vinyl resurgence, which really is a lot of millennial and even younger, record buyers, and I think that older music buyers that are vinyl fans, or even CD fans love it, that their grandchildren have an interest in it and, through in-store performances, we would see, I mean, I can remember, children like little children that read our in stores that have grown up and are now you know, that we were a part of their musical experience.”

Cactus Music has won many awards, from being the critics’ choice record store for Houston, to now being the record store of choice for UH Cougars. Nevertheless, Bishop says that every award is just as meaningful to them as the last.

“We never take (awards) lightly because we’ve been honored with an award from time to time, but you know, that there, it’s always special. It is always appreciated, and it’s always a reminder that we are getting through and making a difference in people that love to people that love music in our city,” Bishop said. “Having a retail store is a constant game of adjustments and figuring out how to amend what you’re doing to fit the times, and that is one of the biggest messages that we are doing the right thing and we’re so grateful.”

Best Tattoo Shop

713 Tattoo Parlour

Looking to get inked or pierced? Check out 713 Tattoo! They’ve got experienced artists and high-quality piercers and jewelry, so that you can get the best results.

They’re located in the Montrose area and stay open late. With high ratings and reviews, you’re guaranteed to love your new tats and piercings from 713.

Best Live Music Venue House of Blues

Live music is back, and where’s a better place to go listen to it then the House of Blues? This is the second year House of Blues has won Best Live Music Venue.

Best Bike Shop

3rd Ward Bike Shop

Biking is a popular way to get around campus. If you’re looking to support local business and get to class faster visit the 3rd Ward Bike Shop at 2305 Wheeler Ave.

Best Club and Best

LGBTQ+ Club

Blur Bar

Although Best LGBTQ+ Club and Best Club are technically two separate categories, Blur won them both.

Located in Montrose at 710 Pacific Street, the two story club is known for its bright lights, inclusive environment and loud music. If you love to dance Blur is the place to do it.

Bookstores can be the best place to hang out, whether you’re there to buy a book, check out a cool place, exploring a new date idea, or just need a big book hug. Murder by the Book is just that, and that may be why it was voted Best Bookstore by UH