Stray Vintage

Dan is absolutely clueless when it comes to grading used records. Sells dirty VG or VG+ records as NM M- and only uses a visual grading system and stands strong on his grading and pricing. Dan has no idea if a disc has scratches it cannot be NM M-. Dan lacks experience and calls everything "glossy" which in his mind means NM M-. The strays call their records "vinyls" Stay away from the strays

stray is easily my favorite part of sunnyside, the shop is small and narrow but jam packed with an amazing selection of really well curated records. i’ve had some amazing finds from husker du to yellow magic orchestra. however, one of the greatest parts of the shop is dan the owner, being able to chat about music and the records you picked out and put you onto new stuff makes this shop one of the most accepting, helpful, and welcoming shops i know of. makes me sad im moving out of queens, cant recommend it enough!

In movies there's always these idyllic little unique shops that you wish were a thing but can never actually find in the real world. Search No longer. Come to Sunnyside Queens and go to Stray Vintage. I moved into Sunnyside a coupla years ago. As I was walkin around the neighborhood, checkin different locales out, I heard some insanely melodic and soulful music coming from this hole in the wall on the side of a large apartment complex. I walked in and I saw walls and boxes filled with vinyls, antique furniture, vintage 1950s movie posters, Surfboards???!!!! Just a plethora of unique, fun stuff. I immediately knew this was an amazing place that id be frequenting a lot As I wandered around in absolute awe of the amazingness of the place, a tallish cool lookin guy greeted me with a super warm, "Hey man, how can I help you?!" I immediately exclaimed, "This is the coolest freakin shop ever." And so began a quick friendship with the owner and one of the coolest guys in Sunnyside, Danny. Listen I know it sounds like im hyping this place up and guess freakin what...youre absolutely right! Since ive been going to Stray I found out thats its more than just a store. Its a gathering place for all sorts of unique characters and individuals. A meeting place for community where you can talk and just listen to great music. Its funny because now that Ive been goin to Stray for so long ive found that it's better than any makeshift movie dream. Its so freakin real. Go there! Tell Danny John sent ya!!!

If you live in or are stopping by Queens during the weekend, this is a must. Nice small shop with antique furniture, assorted glassware, a very nice used/new vinyl selection and more.

This is our favorite neighborhood store. Every visit will surprise you, and you get rewarded with close looks at whatever is in stock that day. Our apartment has gorgeous items from Stray Vintage all over, and that's a testament to the store's eclectic and ever-changing collection. This is a perfect place to outfit your home or buy gifts. And then the record collection here is just as eclectic. You can stay here and talk for hours about music with Danny, and this dude has deep and diverse knowledge. I once hung out for 30 minutes on a snowy afternoon talking about a band that Danny doesn't have in stock just because we both love the band. That's the welcoming type of place this is.

Awesome store. Danny is the talent/owner and he has a discerning eye for capturing beautiful relics and it shows. Danny is also a great guy, but that's not part of my review. Prices are OK for a second-hand store but you're paying for the beauty and curation. It's like a buy-what-you-see museum. His music taste + equipment is also a delight and a quick trip into the past 50 years of humanity's listening. He even supports local artists!

A must-stop if you’re in the neighborhood. Every item is interesting, record selection is excellent, prices are on point, and Danny is just a great person. Truly a gem of Sunnyside!

Nice curated selection of records. Found a lovely soul 45 in good shape that has been on my want list for some time now. Dan was great to chat with and had some tune recommendations that were quite dope. Will be returning when I venture up that way again.

In movies there's always these idyllic little unique shops that you wish were a thing but can never actually find in the real world. Search No longer. Come to Sunnyside Queens and go to Stray Vintage. I moved into Sunnyside a coupla years ago. As I was walkin around the neighborhood, checkin different locales out, I heard some insanely melodic and soulful music coming from this hole in the wall on the side of a large apartment complex. I walked in and I saw walls and boxes filled with vinyls, antique furniture, vintage 1950s movie posters, Surfboards???!!!! Just a plethora of unique, fun stuff. I immediately knew this was an amazing place that id be frequenting a lot As I wandered around in absolute awe of the amazingness of the place, a tallish cool lookin guy greeted me with a super warm, "Hey man, how can I help you?!" I immediately exclaimed, "This is the coolest freakin shop ever." And so began a quick friendship with the owner and one of the coolest guys in Sunnyside, Danny. Listen I know it sounds like im hyping this place up and guess freakin what...youre absolutely right! Since ive been going to Stray I found out thats its more than just a store. Its a gathering place for all sorts of unique characters and individuals. A meeting place for community where you can talk and just listen to great music. Its funny because now that Ive been goin to Stray for so long ive realized its even better than any makeshift movie dream. Its so freakin real. Go there! Tell Danny John sent ya!!!

Owner Dan is an idiot and has no business selling used record albums. Photos of a VG or VG+ record sold as NM M-. Sleeve of record was also VG sold as VG+ with a punch hole and two after market stickers that that were never written into the advertisement.

The y were closed when I went there in the middle of the day. No sign, no hours. I'm not going out of my way again.

Amazing shop. Truly a gem of Queens. The shop owner makes what is already an incredible experience even better. He is always willing to share his expertise and give a recommendation, both on records and just how to have a good time in Sunnyside. This spot is a must visit!

Stray Vintage is one of my favorite record shops in NY. Located on Skillman Avenue, b/w Gosman Avenue & 49th Street, this quaint neighborhood Queens shop is filled with retro furniture, clean antiques & incredible vinyl. Stray Vintage stays open every Saturday, 12p-7pm and every Sunday, 12p-6pm. Dan, is one of the owners. This trip to Stray Vintage was a memorable experience because it was months post a big COVID-19 scare and all of NYC had just reopened. Dan's wife and their little ones also gave him a visit that day. Dan was kind enough to carry my box of records purchased to my car. He introduced me to his wife, Tara, who was also polite. Their kids were sippin' on juice boxes by the window while they enjoyed some sun and watched their Dad. Kodak moment. Dan kept his store door open. Him and all of the customers wore masks inside. The shop's energy was alluring & I was swooning to the dreamy sounds of soul above & all around me. I'm glad I caught Stray Vintage spinning a favorite. Finnish tunes flowed through the shop while I immersed into my familiar black holes of finding new/fav music. It's always an adventure when thrifting. Dan made sure to introduce himself to all who walked in that day. He spoke to those of us interested on what the shop had gotten in that week. Quick turnover. Beautiful vintage selections. All of the furniture that day were clean 60's and 70's.. they could have other styles now. Don't hesitate if you find anything you like/love. As a word of advice, it'll probably be gone when you come back. Dan is hospitable. He was either helping someone on the phone, talking to customers in the store or cleaning in the back. Some girls, accidentally stepped on me, lol. I laughed it off. Dan came over & offered a chair to sit on as I made my way to the floor. He also left me unbothered to shop, which I love. A regular customer of his was nice enough to bring a 6-pack & he offered to share one w/me. I was thankful for the offer. We all ended up speaking and exchanged life changing experiences of our family friends [including myself] who were sick at the start of the pandemic. I was on his shelf for an hour. When I was done, Dan asked to see what I had picked. I asked for his honest opinion while he flipped through my stacks. Dan saw every record I chose and with insight, he shared his knowledge of music theory. He asked what I liked and it's hard to explain. He sensed by what I complimented, that I gravitate towards soul, jazz, rhythm and blues then reggae. Boney-M? I also told him I love a lot of international... 60's 70's. I think he saw [and heard.. well, everyone in that store heard], that I'm a huge fan of African then Hawaii beats. We laughed while listening to some... and I think a few other customers laughed too, lol. A plethora were from the 60's. Some 70's. A handful... were not in English which I knew already, ha. He was fair & honest with a few of the used, I hand-picked, due to their grades & he recommended I leave a few behind. I appreciate that. I'm blessed for what he added onto my collection that day. Dan- if you're reading this... I'm sorry this review took long. I'm not great w/yelp since I was there. Your shop is a special gem for what you've added to my music collection. Thanks for sharing you music with me. Thank you for being a help during my COVID-19 recovery. Music heals the soul. I hope you, Tara & your kids are alright Thanks again! Stray Vintage is a stop for music lovers and all of New York. So much to check out w/any given visit. For those of music healing love... gift a friend and then gift yourself... a piece of art and try a new sound(s). Worth.

A gem where you would least expect to find one. This place is great. I walked with my boyfriend just to look around and ended up buying vinyl records, collectors working vintage camera, metal wall decoration. Love this place.

Stray has been an awesome neighborhood staple for years. I have always been able to find great records, amazing candles, and precious little tchotchkes that I'd never be able to find anywhere else. They also have adorable Sunnyside/Woodside shirts and onesies! Entering the store is a multi-sensory experience and it's all so well curated -- from the way all of the midcentury modern furniture is organized, to the smells and the unique music. I've walked in to find Dan listening to musicians I had never heard of before and walked out with a new record and a new favorite musician in tow.

what a cool vintage shop that has a large selection of used and never open vinyl records of every genre know to mankind. this shop in sunnyside queens is one of the many hipsters type shops opening up in the area and stray vintage is my favorite. not the typical vintage shop as most i have visited look gloomy dark and stuff is displayed in a mostly disorganized manner but not here as place is bright and cheerful looking with vinyls and other trinkets displayed nicely .with limited time to spend here as cuz is hungry (always ) i had to do a quick browse and grab . plenty of vinyls in great to good condition with prices better then fair .i grabbed 3 vinyls that are in the jazz/ rock fusion label from 3 different southern cali bands from the 70s that i never heard from but the album covers looked cool on all 3 and thanks to the internet i can do my research. also notice some other used nik naks including some furniture, lamps , picture frames , cups , buttons and a bunch of other neat items that would look hip on any wall unit or dresser. wish i had more time to browse but i am coming back soon and leaving cuz in astoria while i take my time. 4.5 stars on my yelp meter .

I was just there today and I got an amazing merch... the owner was awesome and the place is great! Be back tom! ( I'm eyeing on 2 more items lol)

This is actually a record shop and not really so much a vintage shop, so it is a bit mislabeled. Some of the decorative stuff is for sale but the main items are the records. It's a place where guys hang out.

I found this place by typing 'record store' into Google maps. I do this whenever I'm in an area I haven't been too before. I got there about 30 minutes before they closed. They have cool antique pieces, but I quickly rushed passed those to get to the vinyl collection. Gold mine! The collection is curated by Dan, the owner, and boy does he have a good ear. He also has a great knowledge of music of all genres. The prices are fair and the collection is well organized with anything from Soul to Jazz to Hip Hop to Punk. LP's and 45's for my ears and eyes. I live in Harlem, but I'll definitely trek back here to see what new gems he has in store.

At this point about half of the art, furniture and records I have in my apartment comes from Stray, and it is genuinely the best thing about Sunnyside. Dan and Tara are as charming and inviting as their shop, and it's my first stop for any present or card I have to buy. The record collection is consistently top-notch: I go in about twice a month and am always finding new (as in, newly arrived but usually ancient) blues, soul, folk and honky-tonk. The reviews here whining about not being attended to closely enough are genuinely weird. The people who work here have great advice about design and music, but they aren't going to impose on you at all if you don't ask -- the ideal retail experience imo. Also check out their instagram for up to date hours and new arrivals.

Great selection of vintage items and gifts, but I really don't understand why the workers here are so unfriendly. I've gone in a handful of times over the last couple of years and was greeted ONE TIME. Also, one guy was quite rude to me when I asked for help on t-shirt sizes.

Went there for the first time a few days ago, there's some pretty cool stuff. I found a Nick Cace cassette to add to my collection. Most things are fairly priced and affordable, just a few things that may cost more than what you're willing to spend for that item.

Very nice shop with a large record selection, friendly and helpful owner - I'll be back, thank you!

What you've read here is true. It really is a cool little place, with something for everyone. That is useless, however, if they're not open. Think of it more as a very nice yard sale that occasionally pops up. More like playing shop than an actual store. If you are going to go out of your way to get here, you'd better call first. If you think this is an exaggeration, try calling during business hours and see how it plays out. It's located on a busy street surrounded by shops (that are open), but the door here is gated more often than not. Would really like to be able to count on this place for gifts, but have been greeted by a dark storefront too many times. Step it up guys! If you have posted hours, don't treat them as fictional. *Edit (11/17/17): Changed my review (2 stars to 4) based on what looks to be a turn-around in their operation. I ride by the store daily en route to work and they have begun to align their actual store hours with those posted.

One of the coolest shops ever. Unique awesome items, friendly staff, fair prices and chill atmosphere. Their inventory changes daily so check in often!

This is a review of just the vinyl section of the store. Stray is a small shop with a modest but well-chosen selection of records at fair prices. The staff (one guy when I was there) is pleasant but not especially friendly. One star off for using price stickers that can't be removed safely on the covers of the records (only on the $3 to $4 records; the more expensive records are in plastic sleeves). I found some nice records, but the price stickers couldn't be removed without damaging the covers. Another star off for not being open during their posted hours (this has happened to me twice). This is mentioned in another review, so it appears to be an ongoing problem. Those who live nearby can easily come back later, but those who are coming from outside the area might be out of luck. I probably won't stop in again unless I'm in the neighborhood because of the issue with the price stickers. And I'll call ahead to confirm they are open.

Everyone's always complaining that the big box stores and megaplexes will kill everything personal and particular to a neighborhood. Stray Vintage & More (38-09 Skillman Ave, Sunnyside (Queens) is a smart, little shop that stands proudly in defiance. Want candles? A Bowie, Pavarotti or Earth, Wind and Fire LP? How about custom made stained-glass windows? Or an antique wrought-iron swivel chair? How about all of it and a bad-ass mexican wrestling mask to go with that 60's hanging mirror you just spotted? Well, it's all there. And the couple who run the shop couldn't be cooler. They get new stuff all the time, so go often but be prepared to come home with stuff you'll love but never thought you needed. www.strayvintage.com strayvintage@gmail.com

Whenever I'm in the area, I always make it a point to stop at Stray, a vintage gem not to be missed. While you're walking around Sunnyside with nothing to do, grab a quick lunch at one of the handful of cafes or pubs in the area - preferably The Lowery Bar or Aubergine Cafe - and then treat yourself to some rare vinyl goodies at Stray. The record selection here is varied and good enough to not ever have to go into Manhattan again (especially if you live in the area)- well, maybe not never. But the owner (really nice guy who is both knowledgeable and up-to-date on all things music and audio) keeps this place stocked with rare gems and classics. And he's always got tunes on - in almost every genre. They've always got $1 records outside - I've found a few keepers there and you'll definitely want to raid those crates as well. Plus they've expanded into retro/hip novelty items including candles, t-shirts, refurbished audio equipment, stationary, and framed photos, among other things.

Love Stray! I've been in here serveral times and it always has cute, UNIQUE pieces that are very reasonably priced. It's a great place to buy gifts because many are one-of-a-kind. Recent purchases: -my FAVORITE glass bead necklace for $18. I used to get compliments on it all the time until I lost it :( - small black, leather purse. feels very 1920's to me but is great condition. real leather and great for going out. $22 - baby clothes for a gift - a really cool vintage standing wind clock for a gift - she loves it! -other miscellaneous items such as vintage-looking postcards that I hang up, and scented oils to burn The owners (pretty sure they are husband and wife) are always very laid-back and friendly.

hey folks!! Well let it be said that if you look, even when you're not searching, you'll come across some really beautiful treasures. I've lived in Sunnyside for quite a while. We frequent some of the same restaurants and supermarkets after which we returned home. Tonight I had the opportunity to walk down Skillman Avenue and wandered into Stray!!! The doorway was inviting, the room enticing, a kid in a candy store I became!!! My eyes darted to and from each crack and crevace of the seemingly tiny space. Books, candles, typewriters, bags, rings, old window frames - too much for an old soul to breathe in. I wanted to sit and play with marbles on the floor (although i think the guy might have thought me crazy, NOT uncommon in Woodside.. lol) I bought a ring with a Typewriter Key setting. Awesome treasure for a mere $15.00 (beauty is in the eyes of the beholder). So next time you venture down Skillman Avenue, take time to stop by and go in. You won't regret it!!!!!

Simply amazed by the offering here. It was worth the drive and left with some amazing pieces. Collectors, this one is a must visit. Customer service was great too.

Forgotten a gift? Don't know where the hell to buy one in Sunnyside? This place is perfect. It's where I go for unique, fun gifts--mother's day, birthday, etc. Plus they play great music and never pressure you into buying anything...great selection. Look for their plastic bags of vintage earings...bought one for my sister last year and she looved it.

Wonderfully curated vintage shop - Tara and Dan definitely put a lot of heart and soul into this amazing little shop... I've made a few purchases (having only recently discovered Stray) and fully intend to revisit again and again. Mostly mid-century but with a splash of Victorian, Rustic and everything in-between; this store is a gem! Located on Skillman Avenue, it's easy to miss so look it up PRIOR to heading out... it will most certainly be worth it! I'm attaching photos of the wonderful mid-century colored glass vessels I purchased from them at only $15 each! They also have an excellent selection of original artwork, unique items handmade by local artists, carefully selected lamps, mirrors, frames, furniture and vintage records! A must-see shop! 5 stars!!

Heaven on Queens County earth. Charming kitsch/knickknacks adorn the tables and walls but what made my jaw drop was the wonderfully curated vinyl selection. For an amazing selection of vinyl records at incredibly reasonable prices; it just doesn't get any better in Western Queens than Stray. I ended up leaving with Brian Eno's "Music For Films" for $13, but among it I spotted Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, The Kinks, Garfunkel, and tons of other LPs that don't suck, mostly under $20 but with rarer finds at higher prices. My friend and I ended up talking to Dan (owner) for nearly an hour. We covered everything, from music to upstate-living to the bad rep that Queens is plagued with. Above being nice, he was genuine and passionate, he told us that he opened up the shop not to change the face of Sunnyside, but to be there for the residents that could use a decent vintage spot; and they got a whole lot more than that. Also, they stock work from local artists. Win, win, win, win, and win. Stray is a precedent that all independent businesses need to follow. Dan and Tara are actively involved in the community in which they reside, and are clearly proud Sunnysiders who know how to curate an amazing selection of antiques. Come or you're stupid (sorry for the truth)

There are not too many things vintage / used that interests me. Hence if I do go back to a vintage store it usually means its okay. So this store happens to have a decent selection of vinyl records. A lot of them are in fairly decent condition and price and sometimes you do find good records for a dollar. It does take some time to dig through and may have to clean your hands afterwards, but its worth it when you find a record you like. I usually don't pay much attention to other things if they don't interest me. But they do have prints, small knick-knacks and sometimes furniture among other things.

I HAVE A MOVIE IDEA I WANT TO PITCH YOU: Tom Hardy (as he appeared in the film Bronson) and Ryan Gosling have to take down a brazilian drug dealer (played by Boardwalk Empire's Michael Shannon) who has also kidnapped the two heroes' girlfriends (conjoined twins!) and made them dress in swedish maid costumes (just one XXL costume with an additional leg hole cut in it) and clean his classy yet affordable vintage furniture that he bought....wait for it...at STRAY. Anydays, Happy this store is around. It's a great addition to skillman and there is always something neat to buy.

One of the finest, friendliest and vinyliest stores in New York City. A reason in and of itself to come out to Sunnyside - then leave, please. But spend some money here. Then, seriously, leave. But Dan and Tara are gems of the nabe. They organized that street party last summer (2015) and deservedly have a sandwich named after them at the coffee place up the hill.

Dan the owner is a cool dude with excellent taste. This is a gem of a shop. We look forward to browsing there on Sundays after brunch. Adds a lot of taste to our neighborhood. Glad it's here.

I love this neighborhood vintage shop. I always find something different and interesting. I have purchased few items from them. The owners are sweet couple that are so helpful & kind. I love shopping at Stray Vintage!

Best little spot to get fair priced records in Queens. The employees were nice enough and the shop is really cute and filled with neat things. My only suggestion is look at records carefully, some of them are live versions which aren't the best quality.

Cool stuff, good taste on a cool street in Sunnyside. Visit this place a lot...Window shopping mostly. Think the small trinkets are a bit overpriced but you do find good deals. And they seem to have high turnover even for vintage...so act quick if you like something and the price is right. Kind of wish I got the table & chairs the other day.

Essential to Sunnyside. You can get old records for a couple bucks (Michael Jackson, Beatles, Heart, The Who) or new records (James Brown, Ramones, reggae, funk). Or high quality vintage furniture and knick knacks. One of my favorite stores in all of New York City.

My friend and I were walking around the area and I noticed there was a little shop next to the church and I had never seen it before, even though I've lived in the neighborhood my whole life. We walked in and it was a really cool place. The music was mellow, the ambience was peaceful, and it made me feel like I wasn't in New York. Then I remembered a friend's b-day was coming up, and i got her something really nice from here. It's an excellent place to go to get a gift since there's so much for everybody. And I'm glad I live close by so I can do more gift-shopping here instead of going into the city.

It's like walking into a vinty thrifty wonderland. I love the shop and the couple who own it.

Stray Vintage is Sunnyside's hidden treasure. Its the cutest little shop in the neighborhood. I've found the best pieces there. From a great 1940's Vanity and 1950's kidney shaped coffee table to sweet little magnets with vintage girlie prints. They have a great selection of repro and vintage jewelery as well. This place has it all and the owners are friendly and very knowledgeable.The prices are very reasonable and their selection is constantly changing so its definitely worth visiting frequently.

Candles, cards, books, art, clothing, jewelry, furniture, frames, records, bags, and other cool stuff. The owners of this cute little shop are just the nicest young couple ever, and they are really helpful and gracious. Great Sunnyside find. This place exemplifies the growing culture, business and community of the Gardens.

It is the only vintage store in Sunnyside (north of Queens Blvd.) that I'm aware of. Though it is small it has a fun collection of stuff.

Such a gem! The owners area amazing, and the items here are incredibly unique and charming.

Quaint and edgy, chic and kitsch -- all rolled into one great little shop in Sunnyside! Even when I'm not looking for something here, I find something. Store owners Dan & Tara are knowledgeable, reliable and downright awesome; I am never disappointed.

A much needed shop in the Skillman district of Sunnyside Gardens. It's hard not to stop in to check out the menagerie of collectibles and curiosities in this store. It is beautifully maintained and always changing. I like that about it. Dan & Tara are two of the nicest people and very knowledgeable about the things they carry. I'm happy to see that Stray has not strayed from Skillman.

A wonderfully eclectic mix of vintage and unique trinkets made (many made by local artists) makes this place a treasure each time I walk in. No matter what, I always see something new and unique which makes me smile. Word to the wise: if you like something, buy it, because things come and go very quickly here!

What a kickass eclectic collection of awesome vintage finds artfully packed into this cozy place! I kinda want to live there. They carry everything from reasonably priced jewelry to cool retro art to a nice selection of furniture. This place really is a hidden gem in Sunnyside. And the owner was super nice and welcoming.

Excellent little shop on Skillman. The owners meticulously seek out great vintage finds and even better, support local artists. Here you can find the fruits of the labor local painters, authors, jewelry makers, candle makers, and so on. Places and people like this are generally hard to come by; it's a perfect reason to trek into Sunnyside, and if you live here, a great place to stroll by with a coffee.

Excellent vinyl selection. Great one of a kind vintage items. Small selection but a truly local establishment.

This is a lovely & charming little shop, despite the fact that the word "vintage" is a bit misleading since their selection of clothing is sparse. However, you will find adorable little knick knacks, odds & ends, artwork, purses & bags, jewelry, essentially everything your little heart desires.

Consistently great stock of local artists' work plus vintage furniture, clothing and gifts. The owners are very friendly and helpful but not at all pushy. A wonderful addition to our neighborhood.

Was hunting for some record stores today to pick up some vinyls but the ones I kept going to were all closed for some reason... came back home and saw Stray was only 1 block away.. so I took a chance. And I'm glad I did, it's a great vintage spot with good picks on records as well. I also got a suggest to try Sunnyside Thrift Shop which wasn't as good of picks...but still found a few things. Will definitely keep Stray on my top choices to go back for more :)