When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
All Hands Active
Why All Hands Active is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
All Hands Active (AHA) is a vibrant community makerspace located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, that serves as a dynamic hub for creativity, innovation, and collaboration among makers, hackers, and DIY enthusiasts. Founded to empower individuals with hands-on skills, AHA offers access to a wide variety of fabrication and technology tools including soldering stations, sewing machines, laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers, carpentry tools, machining equipment, and programming facilities for Arduino and embedded systems. AHA’s inclusive environment encourages people of all skill levels to come together, learn from each other, and develop projects spanning arts, science, and technology. It functions as a welcoming space where curiosity is encouraged and creativity can flourish by providing affordable classes, workshops, and open workspace hours. The community-driven philosophy at AHA champions the idea that if you can’t fix it, you don’t own it, promoting repair, repurposing, and technical skill acquisition. This collaborative culture fosters connections among diverse individuals who share a passion for making and learning, making All Hands Active an ideal destination for meeting friends, exploring new hobbies, or advancing personal projects. The makerspace continuously evolves through support from local donors and volunteers, sustaining its mission to democratize access to technology and creative empowerment in Ann Arbor.
Here's what people think of All Hands Active
As of recent, All Hands Active holds a 4.6-star rating based on 18 reviews.
User reviews of All Hands Active consistently highlight the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere as one of its greatest strengths. Many reviewers appreciate the diverse array of tools and technologies available, emphasizing that the space caters to beginners as well as experienced makers. Positive feedback often notes the knowledgeable and friendly community, helpful volunteers, and the variety of workshops that enhance learning and creativity. Patrons describe the space as a supportive environment where one can freely experiment, collaborate, and gain practical skills in areas like electronics, woodworking, sewing, and software development. Several community members mention how AHA serves as a social and educational nexus in Ann Arbor, enabling meaningful connections and personal growth. On the other hand, some of the less favorable reviews point to occasional challenges such as limited operating hours, the need for more consistent tool maintenance, or capacity constraints during popular events. A few users wish for expanded programming or additional resources to accommodate growing interest. Despite minor criticisms, the overall consensus remains strongly positive, with a 4.6-star average rating from 18 reviews reflecting a well-loved and valuable community resource. In conclusion, while there is room for growth and improvement, All Hands Active is widely recognized as a welcoming, expertly equipped makerspace that fosters creativity and collaboration among Ann Arbor’s makers and innovators.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Josh Williams
New location at 255 E. Liberty! Now has sunlight, cleaner space and the tools are much easier to access. Huge laser cutter, nice selection of electronics prototyping tools, and crazy fun people. Great for working on projects or getting quick input. Check out Thursday build nights.
Adam Funk
It's phenomenal for learning or honing a skill, or having a place to work on a project - whether it be your own or a group project, school or otherwise. Disclaimer - I am a member, but there is a reason that I wanted to help get this off the ground when it started in 2009, and there is certainly a reason I still believe in it and volunteer.
David Scheltema
Best place in town to meet people who love to tinker with electronics and technology! Plenty of space, advanced tools, and most importantly people who want to learn and share their knowledge!
Chris Turner
Uh, they fixed my usb drive so it's cool. Thanks guys, I'll stop by and play violin sometime if you'll have me.
Scott Crown
I'm bored. Do whatever you want. Bigger problems for humanity are coming. This fight isn't even worth my exceedingly worthless time.
How to reach All Hands Active
None
Website: None
Why All Hands Active may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at All Hands Active with your friends? Because it’s a unique, inspiring space that turns group gatherings into creative adventures. Located in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan, All Hands Active is not your typical meetup spot; it is a vibrant makerspace where ideas leap off whiteboards into real-world inventions and crafts. Whether you're looking to bond over building fascinating tech gadgets, experimenting with creative DIY projects, or simply exploring new skills together, this place offers a dynamic environment filled with energy and possibility. The community here is welcoming to all skill levels—from beginners just learning to solder to experts wielding 3D printers and laser cutters. What makes it especially perfect for friends or family meetups is the collaborative spirit and hands-on approach that encourages you to work alongside your group, share knowledge, and celebrate each other’s creativity. The atmosphere fosters connection not only through shared projects but through the joy of learning and making, turning your meetup into an engaging, memorable, and productive experience.
What kinds of activities can you expect at All Hands Active? The makerspace is packed with a wide array of tools and equipment that cater to diverse interests and skill sets. Its 1,500-square-foot workshop includes high-tech gear like 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, oscilloscopes, and soldering stations, alongside traditional crafting tools such as sewing machines and woodworking supplies. You and your friends might experiment in electronics by designing circuits or coding wearable tech, or work on artistic endeavors by building custom light fixtures or decorative fairy doors. The community regularly hosts workshops and events that cover topics ranging from basic software programming and hardware hacking to specialized crafts. All Hands Active’s lending library even offers programming books and niche references to aid your projects. This diversity ensures that whether your group is into high-tech creation, crafty DIY projects, or just curious about tinkering, there’s always something exciting and accessible. Plus, the space encourages “fixing rather than discarding,” making it ideal for collaborative repair days where friends can learn to troubleshoot and mend their gadgets together.
Why is All Hands Active ideal for a group meetup? The makerspace excels as a social hub where collaboration naturally thrives. Its open layout and communal environment invite conversations and teamwork, making it easier than ever to rally your crew around a shared project. The mix of skilled makers and enthusiastic beginners fosters an inclusive vibe, allowing everyone to contribute in their own way. For groups, this means not only fun but growth—learning new skills from one another, brainstorming ideas collectively, and celebrating creative triumphs together. Its location downtown Ann Arbor makes it conveniently accessible, and the welcoming culture ensures visitors feel at home quickly. Moreover, All Hands Active isn’t just a physical space—its active online Matrix chat community keeps the spirit alive even when you’re not onsite, allowing groups to share ideas, ask questions, and coordinate meetups seamlessly. If you want a venue that sparks innovation, teamwork, and laughter, all while surrounded by a supportive community and cutting-edge tools, this makerspace is a top choice.
How does All Hands Active support different skill levels and interests for your group? One of the standout features of this makerspace is its genuinely welcoming approach to all experience levels. Whether your group consists of curious novices or seasoned hackers, the environment is nurturing and non-intimidating. Beginners can start with guided introductions to basic skills like soldering or 3D printing, supported by friendly members and volunteers who love to teach. More experienced makers have access to advanced tools and ample space to work on complex projects, including software development or mechanical fabrication. This inclusive setup means your group can spread out according to individual preferences, yet still come together to inspire and help each other. Additionally, the makerspace hosts various workshops and events where everyone, regardless of background, can learn something new and feel a sense of accomplishment. The diversity of participants and projects creates a dynamic learning atmosphere, making it easy for groups to find common ground while also pursuing their unique interests.
What sets the community culture of All Hands Active apart for group gatherings? Beyond the impressive machines and projects, the real heart of All Hands Active lies in its people—the vibrant community of makers, tinkerers, and learners who energize the space. This is a place where collaboration, experimentation, and creativity are celebrated, and failure is seen as a step toward discovery. The group setting encourages sharing knowledge, troubleshooting together, and mentoring each other to reach individual and collective goals. Such a culture fosters strong social bonds and a supportive environment where your friends and family can feel comfortable expressing creativity without judgment. Many members also come with diverse backgrounds—from tech startups to hobbyists—allowing meetups to benefit from a wide range of perspectives and experiences. The constant buzz of collaboration and innovation provides a unique backdrop for any meetup, transforming it from a simple social visit into a shared adventure of making and learning.
Why does All Hands Active's location and accessibility enhance your group experience? Situated in downtown Ann Arbor on East Liberty Street, All Hands Active is easily reachable by car or public transit, making group logistics simple. The convenience of the location means planning a meetup requires minimal travel effort, freeing up more time for actual activities. The makerspace is set up in a basement-style workshop that offers an intimate yet spacious setting—perfect for groups to spread out without feeling cramped. Nearby dining and coffee spots further enhance the meetup potential, allowing your crew to take breaks or extend conversations offsite. Parking is available in the area, and the central location connects well with other local attractions, enabling your meetup to be part of a larger day out in Ann Arbor. This combination of accessibility and ambiance creates a hassle-free, enjoyable backdrop for friends and family to dive deep into creative projects together.
How can your group make the most of an All Hands Active meetup? To fully enjoy your visit, consider arriving with a project or idea to explore together—whether it's building a gadget, learning a new craft, or repairing an old device. Take advantage of the open hours when members and drop-ins can freely use most equipment, allowing you to dive hands-on right away. Engaging with members and staff can enrich the experience, providing insights and guidance tailored to your group’s interests. Participating in a scheduled workshop or event is another way to enhance your meetup, offering structure while still accommodating collaborative fun. Finally, bring curiosity and a willingness to experiment; the spirit of All Hands Active thrives on exploration without fear of mistakes. By embracing the makerspace’s tools, community, and welcoming culture, your group will leave inspired, connected, and perhaps with one-of-a-kind creations to remember your day together.