When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Barnes & Noble
Why Barnes & Noble is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Barnes & Noble stands out as the largest bookstore chain in the United States, with approximately 600 stores nationwide, making it a central destination for book lovers and community gatherings. This retailer is known not just for its extensive selection of books—including novels, magazines, graphic novels, and educational materials—but also for its inviting in-store atmosphere, which often features spacious layouts combined with cozy seating areas. Many locations include a café serving Starbucks coffee and other refreshments, creating a perfect setting to relax, meet friends, or immerse yourself in reading. The brand’s focus on combining a contemporary aesthetic with traditional bookselling highlights its commitment to providing an enriching customer experience. With roots dating back more than a century and constant innovation—such as pioneering the NOOK e-reader and expanding its digital presence via BN.com—Barnes & Noble remains a vital hub for discovering stories and enjoying literary culture. Its recent expansion with new store openings across the U.S. complements its community-first strategy, making it more accessible and attractive for friends to connect around their mutual love of books and culture.
Here's what people think of Barnes & Noble
As of recent, Barnes & Noble holds a 4.6-star rating based on 279 reviews.
Customer reviews reflect a strong appreciation for Barnes & Noble’s broad book selection and comfortable store environments. Many positive reviews praise the friendly staff, inviting cafés, and well-organized stores that make visiting enjoyable and relaxing. Patrons often highlight how the company’s recent strategy to blend bookselling with community engagement has enhanced their shopping experience and reinforced their loyalty to the brand. On the digital side, customers commend the user-friendly BN.com platform for easy book browsing and purchasing. However, some negative reviews raise concerns about occasional customer service issues and delays or difficulties in complaint resolution, as reflected in the BBB’s critical rating for the company, which cites multiple unresolved complaints. Despite these complaints, the company’s continued growth, expanding store footprint, and CEO James Daunt’s leadership reinforcing a local, community-oriented approach indicate that Barnes & Noble is successfully addressing its challenges. In summary, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with many customers valuing Barnes & Noble as an essential destination to meet friends, explore books, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tina Goss
Lovely store with excellent selection. Cashier was very friendly with my girls. Plenty of space to perooze around and enjoy exploring the world of reading. Good decor and atmosphere.
Meredith Foster
A great experience at this Barnes and Noble. They had what I was looking for, and was able to locate it easily in the store without assistance. Staff was very cordial at checkout, as well. Only downside to going on a Saturday is that this shopping location gets very crowded, so I had to park a way off and walk, which wasn't a problem for me but could be for some.
Katy TwoJsMom
All grandkids need books. Staff was kind enough to go hunting in the back for the book Grandson wanted for Christmas ( Creepy underwear book?? Was specifically requested by a four year old). After shopping, skip over to Cantina 18 for an adult beverage and a taco 🌮. Knocked out gifts for four kiddos.
Alysia Stevenson
My friends and I went into this location tonight to find some new books for us to read. While browsing, we were approached by one of the employees, Samantha. She asked us if we needed any help and we told her no. As we were browsing, we noticed that wherever we went, she was close behind. Mind you, we were the only Black people in the store. She could have checked on any of the other patrons in the store but she decided to follow us at every section we were in. Eventually, I noticed one of my friends didn’t have the books she was going to get in her hands and she let me know Samantha had taken them to hold them up front. Other shoppers still had their books with them. There was a book club going on so we decided to not get the manager. Though I will be calling. I will not be returning to this location. Other locations in Raleigh are larger and have a better selection anyway.
Poet Satyr
I prefer the old Barnes & Noble layout. The staff is great and the book selection is... Alright. But it's not a place to stay and do work anymore. B&N has changed for the worse and its just not as enjoyable to step into their locations anymore.
Tina Goss
Lovely store with excellent selection. Cashier was very friendly with my girls. Plenty of space to perooze around and enjoy exploring the world of reading. Good decor and atmosphere.
Meredith Foster
A great experience at this Barnes and Noble. They had what I was looking for, and was able to locate it easily in the store without assistance. Staff was very cordial at checkout, as well. Only downside to going on a Saturday is that this shopping location gets very crowded, so I had to park a way off and walk, which wasn't a problem for me but could be for some.
Katy TwoJsMom
All grandkids need books. Staff was kind enough to go hunting in the back for the book Grandson wanted for Christmas ( Creepy underwear book?? Was specifically requested by a four year old). After shopping, skip over to Cantina 18 for an adult beverage and a taco 🌮. Knocked out gifts for four kiddos.
Alysia Stevenson
My friends and I went into this location tonight to find some new books for us to read. While browsing, we were approached by one of the employees, Samantha. She asked us if we needed any help and we told her no. As we were browsing, we noticed that wherever we went, she was close behind. Mind you, we were the only Black people in the store. She could have checked on any of the other patrons in the store but she decided to follow us at every section we were in. Eventually, I noticed one of my friends didn’t have the books she was going to get in her hands and she let me know Samantha had taken them to hold them up front. Other shoppers still had their books with them. There was a book club going on so we decided to not get the manager. Though I will be calling. I will not be returning to this location. Other locations in Raleigh are larger and have a better selection anyway.
Poet Satyr
I prefer the old Barnes & Noble layout. The staff is great and the book selection is... Alright. But it's not a place to stay and do work anymore. B&N has changed for the worse and its just not as enjoyable to step into their locations anymore.
How to reach Barnes & Noble
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Website: None
Why Barnes & Noble may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Barnes & Noble with your friends?
Barnes & Noble, with its impressive 4.6-star rating from 279 reviews, offers a compelling and cozy destination for gathering with friends. Beyond being a bookstore, it is a vibrant cultural hub where book lovers, families, and friends converge to share experiences that go far beyond simply purchasing books. The ambiance itself—quiet yet welcoming—makes it an ideal place for meaningful conversations, discovery, and relaxation together. Whether your group consists of avid readers, casual browsers, or people looking for a comfortable space to reconnect, Barnes & Noble invites you into a world of literary wonders and community engagement. The thoughtful layout provides cozy reading nooks, ample seating, and inviting cafes where groups can enjoy coffee and snacks while discussing their latest discoveries or planning future meetups. This combination of literary atmosphere and social comfort transforms Barnes & Noble into a place where relationships deepen and memories take root. Hosting a meetup here connects your gathering to a larger community of book enthusiasts and cultural events, creating an enriching shared experience everyone will appreciate.
What activities can groups enjoy at Barnes & Noble?
Barnes & Noble offers a variety of activities that make it the perfect venue for group meetups. One primary activity is exploring the extensive collection of books, ranging across numerous genres such as fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, children’s books, and academic titles. You and your friends can wander the aisles together, exchanging recommendations or discovering new authors, which sparks engaging conversations. Many stores also feature dedicated sections for games, puzzles, and educational toys, providing interactive entertainment that appeals to diverse age groups. Another major activity is attending the scheduled events frequently hosted at Barnes & Noble, such as author signings, readings, book clubs, and storytimes. These events foster a sense of community and provide unique opportunities to meet authors or participate in group discussions. Additionally, the café situated within many Barnes & Noble locations serves as a comfortable gathering spot for groups to relax over coffee, tea, and light refreshments, making it easy to pause, chat, and socialize in between browsing. This blend of quiet discovery and lively activity creates a dynamic environment suited for all types of group interactions.
What makes Barnes & Noble perfect for a group meetup?
Several factors make Barnes & Noble an outstanding choice for group gatherings. First and foremost is its welcoming and spacious environment, accommodating both small and large groups without feeling cramped. The layout typically includes seating areas integrated with the café, allowing groups to conveniently shift from browsing to socializing. This flexibility supports extended visits, making it easy to spend hours enjoying both company and content. The store’s emphasis on community engagement through events adds an enriching dimension to any meetup, turning a casual visit into a participative cultural experience. Moreover, Barnes & Noble careers to offer a safe and comfortable space where people of all ages feel welcome, from children at storytime events to adults exploring hobbies or academic interests. Accessibility features and a customer-friendly staff enhance the overall experience, ensuring your group’s needs are well attended. Lastly, the bookstore’s reputation for quality and variety guarantees that every group member finds something of interest, whether a rare first edition or the latest bestseller, enhancing the shared joy of discovery.
How does Barnes & Noble’s event calendar enhance your group experience?
Barnes & Noble is much more than a bookstore; it is a cultural venue with a thriving events calendar that dramatically enriches a group meetup. The events range from author appearances and book signings to themed storytimes for kids and adult book clubs, all designed to foster community spirit and excitement about literature. By aligning your meetup with a scheduled event, your group can participate actively rather than just observe, making the gathering more interactive and memorable. These events provide common ground, sparking lively discussions and shared enthusiasm that naturally deepen friendships. Many stores also offer virtual events, extending the community reach and allowing your group to continue exploring shared interests beyond the physical visit. Furthermore, the variety and frequency of events mean there is always something fresh and engaging to experience. Whether your group wants to dive into a new genre together or hear directly from an author, these scheduled activities bring an added layer of meaning and entertainment to your time at Barnes & Noble.
What dining and socializing options are available inside Barnes & Noble?
One of Barnes & Noble’s standout features for group meetups is the in-store café, which offers a warm and inviting setting for socializing and dining. The café typically serves a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and smoothies, alongside bakery items, light sandwiches, and snacks. This allows groups to enjoy casual refreshments without leaving the bookstore environment, making it easy to linger and continue conversations. The seating in the café area is designed for comfort and accessibility, with tables and chairs arranged to accommodate groups of different sizes. This space is ideal for casual discussions, planning sessions, or simply relaxing after a browsing session. The combination of good food and drink with the literary ambiance creates a unique social atmosphere where intellectual and friendly exchanges flow naturally. Additionally, some larger flagship stores have expanded offerings or designated party areas that can be reserved for special gatherings, enhancing the potential for group celebrations or themed meetups.
How does Barnes & Noble support families and kids in group visits?
Barnes & Noble is particularly family-friendly, making it an excellent choice for meetups that include children and multi-generational groups. The stores often feature dedicated children’s sections filled with age-appropriate books, educational toys, and interactive displays that engage young minds and encourage a love of reading. Regularly scheduled storytime events provide opportunities for kids to hear books read aloud by staff or guest readers, fostering imagination and participation in a group setting. These storytimes are often thematic and seasonal, keeping the content fresh and exciting for returning families. The safe and inviting environment ensures parents can relax while children explore, knowing the space is designed with young visitors in mind. Furthermore, the presence of games, puzzles, and arts-and-crafts materials in some locations offers additional entertaining activities for children during group meetups. This nurturing environment supports shared family experiences and encourages intergenerational bonding centered around learning and enjoyment.
Why is Barnes & Noble expanding and how does that benefit your group meetups?
Barnes & Noble is in a significant growth phase, planning to open over 60 new stores in 2025 alone. This expansion reflects renewed interest and investment in physical bookstores as community hubs. For groups looking to host meetups, this means more opportunities to find conveniently located, modern Barnes & Noble stores tailored to local community needs. New stores often feature updated layouts, enhanced café spaces, more event programming, and expanded merchandise variety, improving the overall experience. The increased number of locations also fosters vibrant regional communities of book lovers, which can enrich your meetup through shared local interests and collaborations. Additionally, with more stores opening, Barnes & Noble can host a wider range of in-person and virtual events, providing diverse ways for groups to engage and participate. This growth helps ensure that Barnes & Noble remains a relevant, welcoming, and accessible destination for social and cultural gatherings well into the future.
What kind of group size is ideal for a Barnes & Noble meetup?
Barnes & Noble caters well to groups of various sizes, but the ideal range tends to be small to medium-sized groups from around 3 to 15 people. Smaller groups enjoy the intimacy of shared browsing, café conversations, and interactive events without overwhelming the space. These groups can easily split up and regroup for discussions, making the visit dynamic and flexible. Medium-sized groups can take advantage of reserved seating areas in cafés and coordinated participation in events or book clubs. For larger groups, some Barnes & Noble locations offer private room rentals or event hosting options, although it's best to check with individual stores in advance. The bookstore’s layout with multiple areas for quiet reading, browsing, and social space means groups can comfortably spread out or come together as needed. This flexibility makes Barnes & Noble a practical and inviting venue for a wide range of group meetups, whether casual or more organized.
How can book lovers personalize their Barnes & Noble visit to make it a special group meetup?
Book lovers can make their Barnes & Noble meetup truly special by planning activities tailored to their group’s interests. Starting with a group book purchase or exchange can create fun anticipation, especially when combined with themed discussions or mini book clubs during the visit. Booking a private event with an author talk or arranging a signed book purchase adds a memorable, exclusive aspect. Groups can also coordinate around in-store activities like trivia nights or reading sessions, creating a lively but relaxed cultural experience. Personalizing the café experience—such as pre-ordering specialty drinks or snacks for the group—can enhance comfort and enjoyment. Finally, taking advantage of Barnes & Noble’s loyalty programs or memberships can provide discounts and perks that make the meetup more rewarding. These personalized touches elevate a simple visit into a cherished occasion that celebrates friendship through literature and shared pursuits.
What makes Barnes & Noble a unique venue compared to other meetup spaces?
Barnes & Noble stands apart from other meetup venues because of its seamless blend of commercial, social, and cultural functions all under one roof. Unlike typical cafés or restaurants, it offers an enriching intellectual environment where every visit is an opportunity to learn, discover, and be inspired collectively. Its vast book inventory and regular events bring guests into contact with diverse ideas and communities, fostering spontaneous conversations and meaningful connections. The quiet yet welcoming ambiance is conducive to both lively discussion and peaceful reflection, a combination not often found in most public spaces. Additionally, the integrated café facilitates a full sensory experience—taste, smell, sight, and sound—that complements the literary focus and keeps guests comfortable through extended visits. This unique synthesis of bookstore, cultural center, and café creates a compelling space for groups that value depth and engagement alongside fun social interaction.
What should prospective visitors know before planning their Barnes & Noble meetup?
Prospective visitors planning a Barnes & Noble meetup should consider a few practical tips to maximize their experience. Checking the specific store hours and event schedules on the Barnes & Noble website or app can help coordinate timing to coincide with special readings or author events. Calling ahead is advisable if your group wants to reserve space in the café or inquire about private room availability for larger gatherings. It is also useful to know the features of your chosen location, as some stores may have unique amenities like expanded café menus or diverse activity zones. Visitors should be prepared for a quiet atmosphere that encourages respectful conversation and browsing, making it perfect for thoughtful gatherings but less suited for loud celebrations. Finally, exploring membership options or loyalty programs can provide added value for frequent visitors or groups planning multiple meetups. Knowing these details helps ensure your group’s visit is smooth, enjoyable, and tailored to your interests.
Barnes & Noble offers a vibrant, welcoming environment rich with books, events, and social spaces that make it an ideal place to rally with friends or family. Its mix of literary culture, café comfort, and engaging activities invites groups to connect over shared interests and create lasting memories through the joy of reading and community participation. Whether your meetup is casual or themed around books and events, Barnes & Noble provides a unique and enriching backdrop to nurture friendships and cultural curiosity alike.