The fastest way to find a guitar store near you

Your best starting point is Google Maps or Apple Maps. Open the app on your phone, search "guitar store near me" or "music store near me," and you'll see results ranked by distance, hours, and customer reviews. This shows you what's actually open today and how far away each location is. Call ahead before you go—stock changes fast, especially for specific models or price ranges.

If you live in or near a city, you likely have three types of places to choose from: dedicated guitar shops (usually staffed by players who know the instrument), general music stores (which carry guitars alongside drums, keyboards, and band instruments), and big-box retailers like Guitar Center or Sam Ash. Each has different strengths depending on what you're looking for and how much help you want.

Key Takeaways

  • Google Maps and Apple Maps show you guitar and music stores ranked by distance and current hours, which is faster than searching the web.
  • Independent guitar shops usually offer more one-on-one information and may stock used or vintage instruments, while big-box stores have wider selection and consistent pricing.
  • Calling ahead saves a trip—ask whether they have the type and price range you're looking for in stock before you drive over.
  • Many music stores also sell online and offer shipping, so you can check their website to see inventory before visiting in person.

Independent guitar shops versus chain stores

An independent guitar shop is usually run by musicians or longtime guitar people. The staff will play the instrument with you, explain the differences between models in your budget, and often have used or vintage guitars you won't find elsewhere. They tend to know repair people in the area and can point you toward lessons or local playing communities. The downside is that hours can be limited, stock is smaller, and prices may be higher than chains.

Chain stores like Guitar Center, Sam Ash, or Sweetwater (which has physical locations in some areas) stock a wider range of new guitars at consistent prices. You can often order online and pick up the same day or next day. Staff knowledge varies—some locations have experienced players, others less so. These stores are useful if you know exactly what you want and just need to see it in person before buying, or if you want to compare multiple brands side by side.

What to look for when you visit

Bring a list of what matters to you: your budget, the type of guitar (acoustic, electric, classical), and any specific features (size, color, brand). If you're a beginner, tell the staff that—they should steer you toward instruments that are comfortable to hold and play, not just cheap. Play a few guitars in your price range and notice which one feels right in your hands and sounds good to your ear. Don't let anyone pressure you into a more expensive model.

Ask about the return policy before you buy. Most stores allow returns or exchanges within 30 days if the guitar is undamaged, but policies vary. Also ask whether they offer setup (adjusting the action, intonation, and truss rod so the guitar plays well) as part of the sale or as an add-on. A new guitar often needs setup, and a good shop will do this before you leave.

Online options if nothing is nearby

If your area has no guitar stores within reasonable driving distance, you can order online from Sweetwater, Thomann, Reverb, or Amazon and have it shipped to you. Reverb is a marketplace where independent sellers and shops list used and new guitars, so you can often find local sellers and arrange pickup. Sweetwater and Thomann have phone support and will answer questions before you order.

The risk of buying online is that you can't play the guitar first. Most reputable sellers offer a return window (usually 30 days), so you can send it back if it doesn't feel right. Budget for return shipping if you need to send it back—that can cost $30 to $80 depending on the guitar's size and weight. If you're a beginner, consider ordering from a seller with a good return policy so you have time to decide.

Used guitars and pawn shops

Pawn shops, secondhand music stores, and online marketplaces like Reverb, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace often have used guitars at lower prices. A used guitar can be a good deal if it's been well maintained, but you need to know what to look for: check the neck for warping (sight down the fretboard), look for cracks in the body, and play it to make sure it stays in tune and plays smoothly. If you're new to guitars, bring someone experienced with you or ask a local guitar teacher to check it out before you buy.

Pawn shops usually don't offer returns, so inspect carefully and ask questions about the guitar's history. Online sellers often do accept returns, which gives you more protection. Prices on used guitars vary widely depending on condition, age, and brand—a 10-year-old acoustic in good shape might cost half what a new one does, or it might be nearly the same price if it's a well-known brand.

Lessons and setup services at music stores

Many guitar shops and music stores offer lessons on-site or can refer you to local teachers. If you're buying your first guitar, ask whether the store offers beginner packages that bundle the guitar with a few lessons or a lesson referral. Some stores also offer free or discounted setup with a purchase, which is worth asking about—setup can cost $50 to $150 if you pay separately.

If you buy a guitar and later need repairs or adjustments, knowing where the nearest repair shop is matters. Ask your music store whether they do repairs in-house or refer you elsewhere. Building a relationship with a local shop means you have someone to call when your guitar needs work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy online or in a store?

Buy in a store if you can—playing the guitar first matters, especially if you're a beginner. If no store is nearby, order from a seller with a good return policy so you can send it back if it doesn't feel right. Budget for return shipping if you need to.

What's the difference between a guitar store and a music store?

A guitar store focuses on guitars and related gear. A music store carries guitars, drums, keyboards, band instruments, and accessories. Guitar stores usually have deeper knowledge of guitars; music stores have wider selection across instruments.

Do I need to buy from a big store or can I use a small shop?

Either works. Small shops often give better one-on-one information and may have used or vintage guitars. Big stores have wider selection and consistent pricing. Choose based on what you need and what's convenient for you.

What should I ask before visiting a guitar store?

Call ahead and ask: Do you have guitars in my price range? What types do you stock? Are you open today? Do you offer setup with a purchase? This saves a wasted trip and helps the staff prepare for your visit.

Can I return a guitar if I change my mind?

Most stores allow returns or exchanges within 30 days if the guitar is undamaged. Ask about the return policy before you buy. Online sellers usually have longer return windows than in-store purchases.