The fastest way to find a guitar store near you
Your best starting point is Google Maps or Apple Maps. Open the app, search "guitar store" or "music store," and you'll see what's within driving distance, their hours, and whether they're open right now. Call ahead before you go—many small shops have limited hours or may be closed for inventory.
If nothing shows up nearby, expand your search to "music shops" or "instrument retailers." Some towns don't have dedicated guitar stores but do have general music shops that stock guitars alongside drums, keyboards, and band instruments. You can also search by brand—"Fender dealer near me" or "Gibson dealer near me"—if you already know what you want to look at.
For towns with no physical stores, you have two paths: order online from a national retailer (covered below) or drive to the nearest city with a music district. Many musicians are willing to travel an hour or two to a larger store where they can try multiple guitars and talk to staff who specialize in the instrument.
Key Takeaways
- Google Maps and Apple Maps show guitar and music stores near you, their hours, and current status in one search.
- Small independent shops often have better selection and staff knowledge than big-box retailers, but call first to confirm they're open.
- Big-box retailers like Guitar Center and Sam Ash have multiple locations and longer hours, but may have less staff informed.
- Online retailers like Sweetwater, Thomann, and Reverb ship nationwide and let you return guitars within a trial period if they don't suit you.
- Pawn shops and used-instrument dealers sometimes stock guitars at lower prices, but inspect the instrument carefully before buying.
Independent music shops versus chain stores
Independent guitar and music shops usually have deeper knowledge and smaller, more curated inventory. The staff often play guitar themselves and can answer questions about tone, playability, and which models suit beginners versus experienced players. They're also more likely to do repairs and setup work in-house, which matters if you need adjustments after purchase.
Chain retailers like Guitar Center and Sam Ash have more locations, longer hours, and bigger selection. You can walk in and try dozens of guitars in one visit. The trade-off is that staff knowledge varies—some locations have experienced musicians working there, others have sales staff with less instrument informed. Prices are often competitive, and they run regular sales.
If you're new to guitar, an independent shop is often the better experience because staff will spend time helping you understand what you're looking for. If you know exactly what model you want and just need to see it in person before buying, a chain store works fine.
Online retailers and mail-order options
National online retailers like Sweetwater, Thomann, Reverb, and Musician's Friend ship guitars across the country. Sweetwater and Thomann are known for fast shipping and good customer service. Reverb is a marketplace where both retailers and individual sellers list instruments, so you can find new guitars, used guitars, and vintage models in one place.
The advantage of ordering online is selection—you can compare hundreds of models, read reviews, and often find better prices than local stores. Most reputable retailers offer a trial period (usually 30 days) where you can return the guitar if it doesn't suit you, though you pay return shipping. Some retailers like Sweetwater offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
The downside is that you can't play the guitar before it arrives. If you're a beginner, this is riskier because you won't know if the action (string height) feels right or if the neck width suits your hand. Experienced players often order online because they know what they want and can adjust setup issues themselves or take the guitar to a local tech.
Pawn shops and used-instrument dealers
Pawn shops and secondhand music stores sometimes stock guitars at lower prices than new retailers. You might find a decent beginner guitar for $100 to $200, or a higher-end used model for less than retail. The inventory changes constantly, so you may need to visit a few times to find what you want.
The risk is that used guitars can have hidden damage—a cracked neck, worn frets, or electronics that don't work. Always inspect the guitar in person before buying. Look down the neck from the headstock to check for warping, play every fret on every string to listen for buzzing or dead spots, and test all the knobs and switches if it's electric. If you're not confident doing this yourself, bring someone who plays guitar with you.
Some pawn shops offer a short return window (often 3 to 7 days), but not all do. Ask about their return policy before you buy. If the guitar needs repair, factor that cost into your decision—a $150 guitar that needs a $100 setup might not be the bargain it looks like.
What to bring and what to ask when you visit
Bring a list of what you're looking for: your budget, whether you want acoustic or electric, and any specific features that matter to you (like a certain body style or pickup type). If you're a beginner, tell the staff that—they can point you toward guitars that are easier to play and less expensive to start with.
Ask to play several guitars in your price range, not just one. Every guitar feels and sounds different, even models from the same brand. Spend time with each one—at least a few minutes—to get a sense of how it feels in your hands and whether the tone appeals to you. Don't let anyone rush you.
If you're buying electric, ask whether the guitar comes with a cable and whether the store can set it up before you leave (adjusting the action, intonation, and truss rod). A proper setup costs $50 to $150 but makes a huge difference in playability, especially for new guitars. Some stores include setup in the price; others charge separately.
Trying before you buy: what to listen for
When you play a guitar in the store, listen for tone—does it sound bright, warm, or somewhere in between? Does it sustain (ring out) or does the note die quickly? Tone is subjective, so trust your ear. A guitar that sounds great to you is the right choice, even if someone else would pick differently.
Feel the action—how high the strings sit above the fretboard. Lower action is easier on your fingers but can buzz if it's too low. Higher action is harder to play but cleaner sounding. Beginners often prefer lower action because finger pain discourages practice. As you improve, you can adjust this later.
Check the neck. Does it feel comfortable in your hand? Is it too thick or too thin for your grip? Can you reach the frets without straining? Neck comfort is personal and matters more than you might think—a guitar that feels awkward will sit in the closet.
Comparing prices and negotiating
Prices vary between stores, so it's worth checking online retailers before you buy locally. Many independent shops will match or come close to a competitor's price if you ask, especially if you're a new customer or buying multiple items (like a guitar and an amplifier). Don't be shy about asking—it's normal in the music retail business.
Watch for sales around holidays (Black Friday, Christmas, back-to-school season) when stores discount guitars and gear. You can also ask staff when the next sale is coming if you're not in a rush to buy.
If you're buying used, there's usually room to negotiate, especially at pawn shops or from private sellers on Reverb. Start by asking 10 to 15 percent below the asking price and see where the conversation goes. For new guitars at retail stores, negotiation is less common but still worth trying if you're buying multiple items or the guitar has been on the shelf for a while.
When to call a professional for help
If you're completely new to guitar and feel overwhelmed by the choices, a local teacher or experienced friend can help. Many guitar teachers offer a one-time consultation to help you pick your first instrument—it usually costs $20 to $50 and can save you from buying the wrong guitar.
If you buy a used guitar and aren't sure whether it needs repair, take it to a local guitar tech or luthier for an inspection before you play it much. They can spot problems you might miss and tell you what repairs will cost. This is especially important if you're spending more than $300 on a used instrument.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy from a local store or order online?
Local stores let you play before you buy, which matters if you're a beginner or unsure what you want. Online retailers have more selection and often lower prices, plus a return window if the guitar doesn't suit you. If you know exactly what model you want, online is faster and cheaper. If you're still figuring out what feels right, visit a local store first.
What's the difference between a guitar store and a music store?
A guitar store specializes in guitars and related gear like amplifiers and effects. A music store carries multiple instruments—guitars, drums, keyboards, band instruments—and may have less depth in any one category. For guitar information, a dedicated guitar store is usually better, but a music store works fine if that's all you have nearby.
Can I return a guitar if I buy it in person?
Return policies vary by store. Chain retailers like Guitar Center usually offer 30 days. Independent shops may offer shorter windows or no returns at all. Always ask about the return policy before you buy, and keep your receipt. Online retailers almost always offer a trial period, usually 30 days.
What should I budget for a beginner guitar?
A playable beginner acoustic guitar costs $150 to $300 new. A beginner electric guitar costs $200 to $400, plus you'll need an amplifier ($50 to $200). Used guitars can be cheaper but require inspection. Avoid guitars under $100 new—they're often difficult to play and frustrating for beginners.
Is it worth buying a used guitar from a pawn shop?
Yes, if you inspect it carefully or bring someone who plays. Used guitars can be good value, especially if they're from a known brand and in decent condition. Always test every fret, check for cracks or warping, and ask about the return policy. If repair costs are high, the discount may not be worth it.