Guitar shops and music stores near you

A local music store is often the best first stop because you can hold guitars, play them, and talk to staff who know the inventory. Most cities have at least one dedicated guitar shop or general music retailer. You can find these by searching "guitar shop near me" or "music store" in your area, then calling ahead to confirm they stock the type of guitar you want—acoustic, electric, classical, or bass.

Staff at music stores can answer questions about setup, string gauge, and whether a particular model suits your skill level. Many also offer in-store repairs, trade-ins, and lessons, which can be valuable if you are new to playing. Prices at local shops are usually higher than online, but you avoid shipping costs and return hassles.

Key Takeaways

  • Local music stores let you play before you buy and offer staff information, though prices run higher than online retailers.
  • Major online retailers like Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, and Thomann ship quickly and often have lower prices, but you cannot test the instrument first.
  • Used guitars from pawn shops, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay cost less but require you to inspect for damage and verify the seller's reputation.
  • Big-box retailers like Guitar Center and Sam Ash carry a wide range but may have less knowledgeable staff than specialty shops.
  • Return policies vary widely—some retailers offer 30 days, others 45 or 60, so check before ordering.

Online retailers with fast shipping

Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, and Thomann are the largest online guitar retailers in North America and Europe. All three stock thousands of models, offer competitive prices, and ship within a few business days. Sweetwater is known for detailed product descriptions and responsive customer service; Musician's Friend is owned by Guitar Center and has a similar catalog; Thomann is based in Germany but ships to the US and Canada with reasonable rates.

Amazon and eBay also sell new guitars from authorized dealers, though you need to check the seller's feedback rating before buying. Prices on these platforms can undercut specialty retailers, but return policies depend on the individual seller. Most online retailers offer 30 to 60 day returns if the guitar arrives damaged or does not match the description, but you typically pay return shipping.

Big-box retailers and chain stores

Guitar Center and Sam Ash have locations across the US and carry a broad range of beginner to professional instruments. Both offer in-store pickup, which saves shipping time, and they price-match online retailers if you ask. Their staff knowledge varies by location—some stores have experienced players, others have generalists—so call ahead if you want to talk to someone knowledgeable about a specific model.

Walmart and Target stock entry-level acoustic and electric guitars, usually budget brands like First Act or Rogue. These are adequate for absolute beginners but often have poor setup and hardware that wears quickly. If you are serious about learning, a guitar from a music store or online retailer will hold up better.

Used guitars from private sellers and resale shops

Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and Reverb.com connect you with private sellers and small dealers. Used guitars cost 30 to 50 percent less than new ones, but you must inspect the instrument in person or request detailed photos and a video of it being played. Look for cracks in the body or neck, rust on the frets, and whether the tuning machines turn smoothly. Ask the seller how long they owned it, why they are selling, and whether it has been repaired.

Pawn shops and vintage dealers also stock used guitars. Pawn shops are hit-or-miss—prices are sometimes fair, sometimes inflated—and staff may not know much about the instrument. Vintage dealers specialize in older or rare guitars and usually price accordingly. Reverb.com is a dedicated marketplace for musical instruments where sellers have ratings and return policies are clearer than on general platforms.

What to check before you buy

Whether you shop online or in person, confirm the guitar comes with a warranty. Most new guitars carry a one to three year manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship, but not damage from drops or accidents. Read the warranty terms on the retailer's website or ask in the store.

Check the return policy. Music stores and online retailers differ widely—some offer 30 days, others 45 or 60. If you are buying online and cannot play the guitar first, a longer return window gives you time to test it at home. For used guitars, there is usually no return option, so inspect carefully or buy from a seller with strong reviews.

Ask whether the guitar is set up before shipping. A proper setup means the action (string height) is adjusted, the neck is straight, and the intonation is correct. Some retailers include setup in the price; others charge extra. A poorly set-up guitar is harder to play and can discourage beginners, so this matters.

Comparing price and convenience

Local shops cost more but save you shipping time and let you play before buying. Online retailers are cheaper and faster to your door, but you cannot test the instrument. Used guitars are the cheapest option but require more inspection work and carry no warranty. Big-box stores split the difference—moderate prices, wide selection, and in-store pickup available.

If you are a beginner, buying from a music store or established online retailer reduces the risk of getting a poorly made or damaged guitar. If you are experienced and know what to look for, buying used can save money. If you know exactly which model you want and have played it before, online ordering is usually the fastest and cheapest route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to buy a guitar online without playing it first?

Yes, if the retailer has a clear return policy and the guitar arrives in good condition. Most online retailers inspect guitars before shipping and offer 30 to 60 day returns. Play it at home within that window and return it if the action is too high, the neck is warped, or it does not feel right. Keep the original packaging in case you need to send it back.

What should I look for when buying a used guitar in person?

Check the body for cracks or deep scratches, run your hand along the neck to feel for warping, and play a few notes on each fret to listen for buzzing. Ask the seller about repairs, how long they owned it, and why they are selling. If the price seems too low, ask why—it may indicate hidden damage. Trust your instinct; if something feels off, walk away.

Do I need to spend more money to get a good beginner guitar?

Not necessarily. A $150 to $300 guitar from a music store or established online retailer will serve you well as a beginner. Avoid the cheapest options at big-box stores, which often have poor hardware and setup. Spending more gets you better tone and durability, but a mid-range guitar is enough to learn on.

Can I return a guitar if I change my mind after buying it?

Most music stores and online retailers allow returns within 30 to 60 days if the guitar is unplayed or in original condition. Some charge a restocking fee. Used guitars from private sellers typically cannot be returned, so buy only if you are confident. Always read the return policy before you buy.

Should I buy from a local shop or order online?

Local shops are better if you are new to guitars and want hands-on help and quick access to repairs. Online retailers are better if you know what you want, want a lower price, and do not mind waiting a few days. Many people do both—try guitars at a local shop, then order online if the price difference is significant.