Looking for guitar strings or a whole lot more? You’re in luck. There is simply no end to the number of guitar shops that have just what you’re looking for. Some of these DC-based musical establishments are well-known, longtime shops that cater to every need in the folk or classical music community. Other guitar shops are relative newcomers that sell new, used and everything in between. Indeed, the Washington, DC and National Capital music scene is fortunate to have these locally-based, commercial establishments that support acoustic and electric guitar players. And, it sure beats taking a chance on your guitar repair or buying musical equipment or parts online.
Buying a new guitar? Need new pickups for your axe? Ready for a repair? Maybe you’re just looking for lessons. Whatever your musical needs, check out these Top 5 Best Guitar Shops in Washington, DC. Local guitar shops that are sure to pluck your musical strings each and every time.
The Guitar Shop
1216 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20036
Telephone: (202) 331-7333
Website: www.theguitarshop.us
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 12-7pm; Saturday 11-6pm; and Sunday closed.
Details: If you’re a discriminating guitarist, this place is for you. Check out Guitar Shop’s vintage instruments, steel string guitars, classical guitars, electric guitars, bass guitars, banjos, mandolins, strings, sheet music & accessories. There’s lots of value added at this guitar-oriented commercial gem, including expert advice, repairs & musical instruction. Conveniently located in downtown Washington, DC, Guitar Shop has been serving the needs of amateur guitarists and guitar pros since 1922.
Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center
11151 Veirs Mill Road
Wheaton, MD 20902
Telephone: (301)946-8808
Website: www.chucklevins.com
Hours of Operation: Monday 10-9pm; Tuesday 10-6pm; Wednesday 10-9pm; Thursday 10-6pm; Friday 10-9pm; Saturday 10-6pm; and Sunday closed.
Details: Most Washington, DC guitarists will tell you they purchased their first rig from Chuck Levin way back when. Today, this commercial establishment is still going strong. Founded by Chuck and Marge Levin in 1960, the music store was originally located at 12th and H Streets in downtown Washington, DC until the riots in the late ’60s resulted in a store fire that caused its relocation to Maryland. But, this is no small town shop. On the contrary, Chuck Levin’s has the best inventory and prices around, making it well worth the trip.
The Guitar Gallery
3400 Connecticut Avenue NW
Washington DC 20008
Telephone: (202) 244-4200
Website: www.the-guitar-gallery.com
Hours of Operation: Tuesday-Friday 11-7pm; Saturday 11-5pm; and Sunday-Monday closed.
Details: DC guitarists love the convenience of this little shop off the Red Line at the Cleveland Park station stop as well as free parking at the door. Studio for the serious study of guitar, including Classical, Flamenco, Folk, Blues, Rock, Jazz, Bossa Nova, Brazilian, and more. Nice selection of guitars and gear. Repairs and rentals. Well worth a stop next time you’re in town.
Crossroads Guitar Shop
5610 Scoville Street
Bailey’s Crossroads, VA
Telephone: 703-931-2139
Website: www.crossroadsguitarshop.com
Hours of Operation: Tuesday-Friday 10-6pm; Saturday 10-4pm; and Sunday-Monday closed. Other hours by appointment only.
Details: While Crossroads is a relative newcomer to the music establishment, it’s sure to make its mark with its great selection of new and used guitars and amps. Offers PlekPro™ certified service guitar technical setups and repairs. Sign up for Crossroads’ e-list for special events, discounts and more. Sure to have just what you’re looking for.
Guitar Center
6272 Arlington Blvd.
Falls Church, VA 22044
Telephone: (703) 533-8500
Website: http://stores.guitarcenter.com/Seven-Corners
Hours of Operation: Monday-Thursday: 11-9pm; Friday 10-9pm; Saturday 10-8pm; and, Sunday 12-6pm.
Details: This is one commercial establishment that offers you the best deals on acoustic and electric guitars and related musical gear and equipment. Guitar Center features just about every brand of electric, acoustic, acoustic-electric, and classical/nylon guitar. No, you won’t get that down home, personalized service and attention that you’ll find at, say, The Guitar Shop in the city. But, one visit to Guitar Center and you’ll be hooked on the sheer variety and prices. The Guitar Center is no newcomer to the industry. On the contrary, this nationwide chain has been dishing up sound and more to discerning guitarists since 1959.
RESOURCES
Washington Area Music Association
www.wamadc.com/wama
DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities
http://dcarts.dc.gov/DC/DCARTS