When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Ashley's

Why Ashley's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ashley’s is a well-known furniture retailer offering a broad selection of stylish and affordable furniture for home, office, and outdoor spaces. Its inventory includes a variety of products ranging from living room sets to dining room tables and bedroom furniture. The company emphasizes affordability and style, making it an attractive option for many shoppers, especially those looking for contemporary designs that fit a range of budgets. Customers appreciate the spacious showroom environment and the availability of multiple design choices under one roof, which makes Ashley’s a convenient place to meet up with friends and browse furniture selections together. The staff is frequently described as friendly and willing to assist with inquiries and purchases, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Additionally, promotional pricing and willingness to negotiate on retail prices are often highlighted as positive aspects by customers. While the furniture primarily uses engineered wood products rather than solid wood, this material choice is praised for being eco-friendly and durable under usual wear and tear, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. The company also offers options to shop both in-store and online, providing flexibility to customers. All these factors combine to make Ashley’s a practical and social spot for furniture shopping, where friends can easily explore options together and find pieces that meet their style and budget needs.
Here's what people think of Ashley's
As of recent, Ashley's holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1673 reviews.
Reviewers generally rate Ashley’s around 4.2 stars out of 5, reflecting a mix of positive and negative experiences from over 1,600 customers. Many positive reviews commend the brand for offering good value for the price, with stylish and functional furniture that suits various home styles. Customers often highlight the helpfulness and pleasant demeanor of the sales staff, who facilitate a smooth buying process. Promotional discounts and price flexibility also come up frequently in positive feedback, with several shoppers noting significant savings on furniture sets. On the quality front, while Ashley’s furniture is not typically made from solid wood, many customers find the engineered wood materials to be durable and sufficient for everyday use, especially for those not seeking investment pieces but rather practical and affordable furnishings. However, negative reviews point to occasional quality concerns such as defects, damage upon delivery, or longevity issues over time. Customer service experiences vary, with some customers reporting delays or difficulties in resolving issues and replacements. There are instances of slow response post-purchase, leading to frustration. Despite these complaints, Ashley’s customer service has sometimes intervened successfully when escalated. The overall conclusion from reviews is that Ashley’s provides a solid middle-ground option for budget-conscious shoppers who prioritize style and value, though buyers should remain attentive during purchase and delivery to ensure satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nicole Lee
I’m hoping that our experience was due partly to the art fair but I’m pretty sure this is meant to be a bar for the college kids in town. Went in for the “lobster roll” and was VERY shocked to receive what appeared to be a couple pieces (maybe one small lobster tail worth and that’s being generous) of lobster in something the size of a hot dog bun. Asked for it hot, it was warm with cooler pieces like it had been microwaved. NOTHING CLOSE to the picture on the menu. It came with fries, which were room temp, dry pieces, stuck together that were over cooked or had been sitting under a lamp. Asked for fresh fries since the meal was $30 and received another serving of the same batch within a couple minutes (not fresh). My drink was ok but the food, never again, not for the price. This is obviously another overpriced downtown restaurant meant for drinking and maybe typical bar fare but the lobster roll was embarrassing. We didn’t make a fuss because it was hot, humid and we were very hungry but we definitely left still hungry with a bill of $100 for two appetizer size meals & one alcoholic drink and a regular drink. Ridiculous. Do not order the art fair special because all you’re getting is what seems like a bad joke. Please do yourself a favor and go elsewhere.
Hank Putter
Pre ok, not bad to snack on during trivia. The fries are good, but I’d skip the poutine it’s just soggy mush. I don’t know what wrong with me but I lowkey liked the buffalo cauliflower wrap better than the chicken. I got a soda and waiter was on top of refills 💯
Amber Crumb
I haven’t been to Ashley’s in a really long time. I used to love coming when I was in college and was down for art fair. We expected it to take a while, and imagined poor service due to it being busy. We ended up having a great waitress who handled her tables really well. What went wrong was everything else. It took an hour to get our food, which again since it was art fair we were fine with. What went bad was the food. My boyfriend got the popcorn chicken which had a basket of chicken legit the size of a single pea. Each piece of “popcorn” chicken was so teeny and burnt. He also got pretzels which were also burnt. Another table got pretzels and theirs were even more burnt. We had two kids with us and the chicken tenders were also burnt as well as the French fries. My son got a bowl of pasta and for the kids meal it only came with pasta and marinara. The container was legit a cup, so small. It was incredibly spicy even for me, so we swapped it out for buttered noodles. I got Gazpacho, and a Caesar salad. The gazpacho was so spicy, I struggled to eat it. Then the side Caesar salad was half dressed. It almost seemed like they had scooped another persons partially dressed salad onto my plate and added lettuce since the rest was plain, and came with a side of dressing. That was all we got and it took an hour. Pretzels, popcorn chicken, kids chicken tenders and fries, kids plain pasta, gazpacho and a side salad, and it came out burnt. The kids drinks weren’t in included in the price so we ended up paying almost $70 for the above. It was extremely disappointing.
Julie Wagner
It was Lobster 🦞 Fest and boy were they busy!! The Lobster 🦞 was fabulous 👌! The regular menu looked great, too! Try it, you'll like it!
Rick Bame
I have been coming here for about 25 years or so now. I love the selection of beer they offer here. The Stilton fries are the bomb! I brought my cousin from Florida here in 2009, he still has his Ashley’s t-shirt. Today I stopped in for some pizza.
How to reach Ashley's
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Why Ashley's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ashley’s with your friends? When planning a group meetup, finding the right venue is crucial to ensure everyone has a memorable and enjoyable time. Ashley’s stands out as a compelling option because it blends a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of activities designed to suit diverse interests. Whether you’re gathering for a casual catch-up, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a lively place to unwind, Ashley’s delivers a setting that fosters connection and fun. The venue’s solid reputation, evidenced by a strong 4.2 rating from over 1,600 reviews, highlights its overall appeal to patrons seeking a reliable and vibrant place to meet. What makes Ashley’s particularly appealing for groups is its ability to accommodate varied tastes in one location—friends and family can socialize comfortably while engaging in different activities that keep the energy lively yet relaxed. At Ashley’s, you’re not just meeting at a generic spot; you’re rallying at a destination crafted to enhance shared experiences, making every gathering feel special.
What activities are available at Ashley’s for group meetups? Ashley’s offers a broad range of engaging activities perfect for groups, ensuring that no one feels left out regardless of their preferences. First, there are social lounge areas designed for relaxed conversations and catching up over drinks and snacks. These spaces are cozy yet spacious enough to hold larger groups without feeling cramped, promoting easy mingling. For those who enjoy interactive entertainment, Ashley’s often features games such as pool tables, darts, or even trivia nights—ideal for sparking friendly competition and laughter among friends. Music and occasional live performances add another layer of ambiance, catering to groups who appreciate entertainment with their social time. Additionally, Ashley’s menu typically includes a diverse selection of food and beverages, from comfort classics to more adventurous dishes, ensuring that every palate is satisfied. This combination of dining and dynamic entertainment offers a balanced experience that appeals to groups wanting to both eat and interact in a lively setting.
Why is Ashley’s the perfect place to host family or friend gatherings? One of the key reasons Ashley’s excels as a venue for group gatherings is its focus on creating a comfortable and inclusive environment. Families with children can enjoy kid-friendly zones or menu options, while friend groups can delight in social spaces designed for adults. This flexibility means the venue can easily adapt to the specific needs of your meetup, whether it’s a birthday party, reunion, or casual night out. The staff at Ashley’s are known for their attentiveness and ability to manage larger groups efficiently, ensuring that your event flows smoothly without the usual logistical hiccups. Accessibility is also a priority; plenty of parking and a welcoming ambiance mean guests feel at ease from the moment they arrive. Furthermore, the venue’s layout encourages interaction, helping groups to stay connected whether they're gathered around a table, watching a game, or trying out an activity together. These thoughtful touches make Ashley’s a smart and inviting choice for making lasting memories with friends and family.
What makes Ashley’s stand out compared to other venues? Several factors differentiate Ashley’s from other meetup spots, primarily its balance between fun and comfort. While many places might specialize solely in dining or entertainment, Ashley’s successfully integrates these elements to create a comprehensive social experience. The venue’s strong customer satisfaction, reflected in multiple positive reviews, suggests that guests appreciate this unique combination. Ashley’s also distinguishes itself by offering a setting that feels both lively and relaxed, avoiding the overly noisy or chaotic atmospheres that can sometimes detract from group enjoyment. In addition, Ashley’s reputation for good technical support and service excellence means that even special events requiring audio-visual setups or guided activities are handled professionally. This level of service ensures that group events run seamlessly and leave guests feeling valued. All these aspects combined make Ashley’s not just a place to hang out, but a destination where groups can enjoy quality time without compromise.
How can Ashley’s accommodate different group sizes and preferences? Whether your group is an intimate gathering of close friends or a large extended family reunion, Ashley’s has the capacity and expertise to accommodate your needs. The venue’s layout includes multiple seating arrangements, from small, cozy tables for quiet conversations to larger banquet-style setups for big groups. This flexibility allows organizers to customize the space to their specific requirements easily. Moreover, Ashley’s menu and activities are designed to cater to a range of tastes and age groups, providing options that appeal to everyone without forcing anyone to settle. For groups that want privacy, Ashley’s offers private rooms or sections that can be reserved in advance, making it ideal for celebrations or meetings that require a more focused environment. At the same time, open areas encourage mingling and networking for social groups looking to keep things dynamic. This versatility ensures that no group is too large or too small to feel comfortable and engaged at Ashley’s.
What kind of food and drink options can you expect at Ashley’s? Food and drink are central to the social experience at Ashley’s, and the venue makes sure to impress with a menu that satisfies all tastes and occasions. Guests can expect a diverse selection ranging from hearty, classic meals to lighter, healthy choices, catering to everyone from adventurous eaters to those with dietary restrictions. The drink menu complements the food perfectly with a mix of alcoholic beverages—including craft beers, cocktails, and wine—as well as non-alcoholic options like specialty sodas and fresh juices. For group meetups, Ashley’s often features sharing platters and appetizer assortments, which promote a communal dining atmosphere and make it easy for everyone to try a variety of flavors. Seasonal specials and themed nights regularly spice up the menu, giving regular visitors a reason to return and discover something new. Ultimately, Ashley’s food and drink offerings are crafted to enhance social bonding, making every meal an event worth sharing.
Why is the customer service experience important at Ashley’s? Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of Ashley’s appeal, particularly when hosting groups. The staff are trained to be attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that groups receive prompt service while still enjoying their time without interruptions. Their experience managing group logistics—from seating arrangements to menu recommendations—allows them to anticipate and cater to group needs with ease. This level of care reduces the stress often associated with organizing meetups, letting hosts and guests focus fully on the fun and interaction. Guests consistently mention the professionalism and friendliness of the team as a highlight of their visits, underpinning Ashley’s reputation as a reliable destination for group events. When problems arise, the management’s willingness to listen and resolve issues swiftly also contributes to repeat visits from satisfied patrons. In sum, the high standard of customer service at Ashley’s makes it a trusted place to rally with friends and family.
How does the atmosphere at Ashley’s enhance group meetups? The atmosphere at Ashley’s combines warmth, energy, and a touch of casual elegance to create an environment conducive to socializing. Lighting, music, and décor are thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and style without overwhelming guests. Background music is carefully curated to encourage conversation rather than drown it out, striking a perfect balance for groups wanting to chat and engage with each other. The overall vibe is upbeat but accommodating, meaning guests can relax or celebrate depending on their mood. This ambiance also helps reduce the common stresses of public gatherings by creating a welcoming vibe that feels both special and homey. Whether it’s a weekday evening or a weekend celebration, Ashley’s atmosphere adapts to make each meetup enjoyable and memorable.
What do the reviews say about hosting events at Ashley’s? The large number of reviews and an overall rating of 4.2 suggest a generally positive guest experience, especially for groups. Comments often highlight the venue’s friendly ambiance, quality of food, and the successful handling of crowds during busy times. While some feedback points to occasional service or pricing issues, these instances are outweighed by numerous praises for how well Ashley’s caters to group dynamics and social occasions. Many patrons mention the convenience of booking and the attentive staff as key reasons for choosing Ashley’s repeatedly. This balance of good reviews indicates that Ashley’s manages to meet expectations for group gatherings in a competitive market, making it a dependable choice for meetups with friends and family.
Overall, Ashley’s presents itself as an excellent place to gather with friends or family, offering a rich array of social and entertainment options, attentive service, and an inviting atmosphere that facilitates connection and fun. Whether you are planning an informal get-together or a special event, Ashley’s provides the right combination of environment, amenities, and care to make your group meetup memorable and enjoyable.