Guitars the Museum

About

Quick facts: Housed inside a striking red building shaped like an oversized guitar pick, this museum holds over 500 guitars spanning from the 17th century to today. Its collection includes instruments once owned by world-famous musicians alongside custom-built electric guitars you won't find anywhere else.

Highlights: One of the museum's prized possessions is a 1964 Fender Stratocaster once played by Jimi Hendrix during his early career. The museum also lets visitors pick up and play many of the guitars on display, making it an interactive experience rather than a hands-off exhibition.

Insider tips

• Head to the listening stations where you can plug in and play signature guitars through vintage amplifiers for the full experience.
• The top floor features a rotating exhibition of rare custom models that swap out every few months, so check what's showing before you go.
• Photography is allowed everywhere except the small conservation room where delicate antique instruments are displayed.
• Grab a coffee at the in-house cafe which has a glass wall overlooking the guitar-shaped building from the outside.

Practical info

Directions

Official website

More attractions in Umeå

Västerbottens Museum

Umeå City Church

Bildmuseet

Arboretum Norr