dude, just head down to a local music shop, mill around and look at different guitars. they shouldnt have a problem with you pickin up guitars and playing them.
when lookin at your guitars, dont go for something that looks cool, look at:
-is it comfortable for you
-does it sounds good
-playability (action)
-quality
if you get a well cared for used guitar, you'll get a way better deal. when you found the guitar you like, bring over and plug it into an amp you're interested in buyin. then you can hear what it will sound like with an amp. it is the best way to shop for a guitar