Top five guitar shops every guitarist should visit

Buying a guitar is a risky venture that often leaves you dissatisfied. However, you often do better in a place where you can see, feel and touch before purchasing. The establishments listed below include everything from iconic stores that have been open since 1972 to specialized shops for every level and budget. If you love guitars, these are the places you need to know about.

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Guitars and basses on display at Guitar Nook. (Gwyneth Perez/Caplin News)

The Guitar Nook
13744 Biscayne Blvd.
North Miami Beach
(305) 947-1211
Sunday – Monday: Noon – 6 p.m.
Tuesday – Saturday: Noon – 8 p.m.

Under the management of Jonny Stein, this establishment stands out as an authorized Fender repair center. Its technical team is capable of performing complex repairs, ensuring that every instrument is in perfect condition. You will find an extensive Fender catalog and a wide variety of iconic brands, including Gibson and Ibanez. The store offers complete sets for beginners and options starting at $100, ensuring that there is something for every level. They also offer personalized lessons.

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A guitarist stands with a variety of guitars. (Gwyneth Perez/Caplin News)

Wayne’s Guitar World
18505 SW 104th Ave.,Bays 4 and 5
Cutler Bay
(305) 407-4848
Tuesday – Friday: Noon – 7 p.m.
Saturday: Noon – 6 p.m. 
Sunday and Monday: Closed

Run by Wayne De Mario, this is not your typical music store. It is a sanctuary for musicians. With 30 years of experience repairing instruments for legends such as Carlos Santana and Roberto Carlos, they offer personalized, one-on-one service. Specializing in complex restorations and modifications, they can rebuild everything from shattered necks to performing precision technical adjustments on amplifiers and drums. Their inventory is a mix of new and used guitars and unique pieces from the 1950s, ideal for collectors, with options for all budgets starting at $175. Reliable after-sales service, and they also provide rental rehearsal studios.

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Guitars displays, and a poster of Jimi Hendrix. (Gwyneth Perez/Caplin News)

Kendall Conservatory of Music
7153 SW 117th Ave.
Miami
(305) 274-9207
Monday -Friday: 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. 
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
Sunday: Closed

Since 1972, Kendall Conservatory of Music has been known for its homey, family-friendly environment. The store specializes in unique guitars and mostly sells second-hand instruments, including a diverse range of brands for every type of player, with options starting at $150. They guarantee that every used guitar is in best condition before it reaches your hands. They offer professional repairs and lessons, and it buys and rents instruments.

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Owner Michael Cohen with a customer and a variety of guitars. (Gwyneth Perez/Caplin News)

Musician Discount Center
19405 S. Dixie Highway
Cutler Bay
(305) 255-9466
Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. 
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
Sunday: Closed

Founded by Michael Cohen in 1987, this store is a unique place in South Florida’s music community. Musicians who visited as children now return as adults. Their customer service is their priority. Their inventory is unique, offering guitars and equipment that are hard to find elsewhere, as well as their variety collection of vinyl records in the area. With prices ranging from $100 to $2,000, the store offers new and used guitars for all levels.It stands out for its versatility, offering personalized lessons and a repair shop specializing in guitars, amplifiers, and band instruments.Bob Marley’s family chooses to shop there. 

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Yamaha guitars on display and students. (Gwyneth Perez/Caplin News)

Miami Music Works
11771 S. Dixie Highway
Miami
(305) 265-1655
Monday – Friday: 1:00 -7 p.m.
Saturday: 11: am to 5 p.m. 
Sunday: Closed

This store is a favorite destination for students and families. It is known for its brand new Yamaha guitars that suit a range of budgets starting at $200, as well as offering digital and grand pianos. Its additional services include lessons in various styles and high-quality repairs.

Gwyneth Nicole Perez is a sophomore majoring in Journalism and Communication. She aims to build a professional career in music, entertainment, and cultural arts reporting. Once she graduates, she hopes to pursue a career in the culinary arts.