When asking yourself about something to do near me in Smyrna 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 as the largest bookstore chain in the United States, boasting over 660 stores nationwide as of 2025. Its stores are widely appreciated for their spacious, inviting environments that blend the joy of browsing books with the comfort of Starbucks cafés, making them popular local gathering spots for friends, families, and book lovers alike. Beyond just books, Barnes & Noble offers a diverse assortment of magazines, newspapers, graphic novels, music, games, toys, and branded Nook e-readers and tablets, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests. This comprehensive selection coupled with comfortable seating and thoughtful store design creates a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for meetups and leisurely exploration. The retailer’s dedication to community is evident in its support for local neighborhoods and educational initiatives, further enhancing its role as a cultural hub. In recent years, Barnes & Noble has experienced a resurgence, opening 57 new stores in 2024 and planning more than 60 additional locations in 2025, signaling a renewed commitment to growing its national footprint and reinforcing its presence as a prominent place to gather and share a love for literature and learning.
Here's what people think of Barnes & Noble
As of recent, Barnes & Noble holds a 4.6-star rating based on 2774 reviews.
Customer reviews of Barnes & Noble reveal a generally positive perception, reflected in a strong average rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 2,700 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the breadth and quality of the book selection, highlighting the availability of both popular and niche titles. Positive feedback often mentions the pleasant store ambiance, helpful staff, and the convenience of having a café on-site, which contributes to an enjoyable shopping and social experience. Reviewers also praise the company’s commitment to physical retail expansion and community-focused initiatives, which resonate with readers seeking a traditional bookstore experience. Conversely, some negative reviews have surfaced, pointing to occasional issues such as delays in online order shipments, inconsistent inventory at certain locations, and customer service experiences that vary by store. A handful of critics also note pricing concerns compared to online competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the general consensus remains favorable, with customers valuing Barnes & Noble's continued efforts to blend a rich retail experience with a strong community connection. Overall, Barnes & Noble maintains its reputation as a beloved institution that successfully balances the charm of a local bookstore with the scale of a national retailer.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cherry V
It’s huge and has two floors. The staff were so friendly but sadly they didn’t have the book I was looking for because the one at stock was a but damaged. But overall, I like the place and might come back to hang at the cafe
Taylor Seamon
This is the biggest Barnes & Noble I’ve ever been to! They had an expansive magazine selection in addition to books, vinyl records, and a sizable manga section. I enjoyed wandering around on both levels of the store and hope to come back soon.
Adam M
This is probably one of the best Barnes and Noble left in the county. However, on this recent visit trashcan were overflowing on the ground, women's bathroom was gross and needed attention. They even had signs apologizing for the state of the bathroom and they were "working on it". Other than the cleanliness this go around.. Great toy selection and kids area! Well organized store, quiet.
Samantha G.
Beautifully maintained and welcoming atmosphere. The staff are exceptionally knowledgeable, courteous, and helpful. I was looking for a solitary copy of a book and they found it on a re-shelve rack for me!
Angelo
Automatic four stars for being one of the few survivors left. Unfortunately, that also means it can be crowded, and it's definitely not a quiet place. I was there yesterday, and some guy came up to me asking if I wanted to hear about the great book he wrote. Instead of sitting behind his little table, he was out snagging people. Luckily, I was able to escape when he turned and gave the same pitch to a young couple.
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 is an outstanding venue to gather with friends or family because it offers a unique blend of cultural enrichment, social interaction, and relaxed comfort. With a stellar rating of 4.6 based on nearly 2,800 reviews, it has earned a strong reputation as a welcoming destination where people can connect over shared interests in books, ideas, and creativity. The expansive store layout invites you to browse through millions of physical book titles across every genre imaginable, as well as magazines, graphic novels, games, and gifts, making it easy for groups with diverse tastes to find something exciting. Unlike many retail stores, Barnes & Noble incorporates a full-service café serving Starbucks coffee and delicious treats, creating a cozy environment perfect for conversation and relaxation during or after your browsing session. Whether your friends are avid readers, aspiring writers, or simply looking for a calm space to catch up, the store’s inviting ambiance naturally encourages extended visits, fostering meaningful experiences beyond a typical meetup. Moreover, Barnes & Noble’s commitment to community-building through frequent events adds another layer of engagement, making it the ideal site to rally around shared interests and passions.
What activities does Barnes & Noble offer for group meetups?
Barnes & Noble is not just a bookstore; it is an activity hub tailored to various interests and group dynamics. First, browsing books together can be a stimulating and bonding experience—friends can recommend favorite reads, discover new authors, or explore themed sections such as young adult fiction, graphic novels, or cookbooks. The bookstore also regularly hosts special community events throughout the year including book signings with nationally touring and local authors, storytime sessions for children, and themed celebrations like “Get Pop-Cultured” summer events or “Mini Maker Faire” in the fall. These gatherings provide unique opportunities for groups to share memorable literary and cultural moments. For those who enjoy quieter time, Barnes & Noble’s cafés provide an excellent setting for coffee breaks, casual chats, or even group study, all while enjoying premium Starbucks beverages and an array of snacks. The store offers free WiFi and cozy seating areas that can accommodate small to mid-sized groups comfortably. Additionally, Barnes & Noble embraces technology with its NOOK digital readers and tablet offerings, allowing friends to share and discuss ebooks or audiobooks in a modern, interactive way. These wide-ranging activities ensure that any meetup at Barnes & Noble can be as lively or laid-back as the group desires.
Why is Barnes & Noble perfect for hosting meetups of different sizes?
Barnes & Noble excels at accommodating meetups of various sizes due to its spacious layout and thoughtfully designed spaces. Most stores cover large retail areas with dedicated sections for reading, browsing, and socializing without feeling cramped. For smaller groups, quiet corners and café seating create intimate settings ideal for one-on-one conversations or casual reading sessions. Medium-sized groups benefit from communal tables and lounge areas where conversations flow freely and everyone can stay engaged. Importantly, Barnes & Noble’s community-driven model often includes spaces for public events and book clubs, meaning larger gatherings or group activities can be seamlessly coordinated with store staff support. The inclusive environment welcomes families, friend groups, and book clubs alike, with amenities like children’s storyrooms and pet-friendly policies that make everyone feel at home. The café’s menu diversity—ranging from coffee and tea to pastries and sandwiches—caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring all attendees can find something enjoyable. Free WiFi and ample power outlets also make it convenient for groups who wish to combine leisure with work or creative projects, enhancing the versatility to meet varied group needs.
How does the Barnes & Noble café enhance the group meetup experience?
The café within Barnes & Noble is a standout feature that greatly enriches the social experience of any meetup. Serving Starbucks coffee alongside an appealing selection of baked goods such as cookies, croissants, scones, and even cheesecake slices, the café creates a warm and welcoming space that encourages guests to linger and engage. This culinary offering transforms a simple bookstore visit into a multisensory experience, blending the aroma of fresh coffee with the satisfaction of good company. The café also emphasizes sustainability and quality, with commitments like sourcing cage-free eggs for menu items demonstrating a thoughtful approach to food that conscientious groups appreciate. The café’s environment is equipped with free WiFi, enabling friends to share music playlists, stream book-related media, or even collaborate on group projects while enjoying their refreshments. For Premium Members, additional perks like free size upgrades on café beverages further enhance the value and joy of meeting up here. Whether your group prefers to discuss a recent read over a latte or just catch up over snacks, the Barnes & Noble café acts as a comfortable, cozy heart of the gathering.
What community and cultural events make Barnes & Noble an engaging venue?
Barnes & Noble distinguishes itself as a community landmark through its dedication to hosting thousands of events annually that cater to readers and cultural enthusiasts. These events range from author signings and talks to children’s storytimes and themed parties for book releases like the Harry Potter countdown. For groups meeting up, such events offer chances to share meaningful experiences that extend beyond casual socializing into interactive learning and celebration of literature. Barnes & Noble’s events calendar also includes seasonal activities such as summer reading programs aiming to expand literacy and connect local communities, making it an ideal gathering place for families and friends interested in educational enrichment. Fundraising book fairs partner with schools and nonprofit organizations to support community causes, providing a venue where social meetups can also be aligned with broader philanthropic goals. These inclusive and frequent events create a dynamic atmosphere that makes every visit memorable and encourages repeat interactions among friends who share literary passions or cultural interests.
Why is Barnes & Noble a convenient and accessible meetup location?
Accessibility and convenience are key highlights of Barnes & Noble stores, which operate approximately 600 locations nationwide, ensuring there is likely a store close to you. Many stores are situated in shopping centers, malls, or prominent commercial areas, making it easy for groups to reach by car or public transportation. Ample parking and pet-friendly policies further enhance convenience for attendees with diverse needs. Inside, spacious layouts and clear signage guide guests effortlessly to different sections, cafés, or event spaces, so groups can quickly locate what interests them without hassle. The store typically opens long hours, accommodating meetups that can happen at almost any convenient time of day or week. Barnes & Noble’s integration with online services, including their rewards membership program with discounts, exclusive offers, and free shipping options, also adds to a seamless experience that invites guests both to visit in person and engage digitally. This smooth blend of physical and virtual accessibility makes Barnes & Noble a practical and appealing choice for group meetups.
What additional perks and membership benefits does Barnes & Noble offer for regular groups?
Barnes & Noble rewards its frequent visitors and group regulars through its membership programs that add valuable perks to every visit. Its Premium Membership offers a 10% discount on most in-store and online purchases, free standard shipping, monthly free eBook coupons, and perks at the café such as free size upgrades on prepared beverages—perfect for groups who enjoy combining shopping with social coffee breaks. Members also earn rewards points for every $10 spent, which convert into in-store credit usable for books, gifts, or café items, supporting budget-friendly regular meetups. Special member-only offers, birthday treats, and other promotions cater to personalized experiences that make gatherings feel extra special. Additionally, Barnes & Noble’s partnerships with schools and community organizations mean that hosting book fairs or educational events can be supported by the company, offering groups opportunities to organize fun and meaningful community-oriented activities. This comprehensive membership ecosystem encourages frequent visits and ensures that groups feel appreciated and engaged each time they rally together at Barnes & Noble.
How does Barnes & Noble support diverse interests for group gatherings?
One of Barnes & Noble’s strengths as a meetup destination is its wide range of offerings that cater to varying interests and age groups, making it easy to appeal to a diverse circle of friends or family. The bookstore carries more than 1 million unique physical book titles every year, spanning genres from fiction and nonfiction to specialized subjects like cooking, travel, gaming, art, and science. Beyond books, the store stocks thousands of magazines, newspapers, graphic novels, gifts, toys, music, and games, providing multiple entertainment and educational options within the same venue. For tech-savvy groups, Barnes & Noble’s NOOK e-readers and apps enable shared digital reading experiences and audiobook listening, blending tradition and innovation. The dedicated children’s areas and weekly storytime sessions make it a kid-friendly destination, while adult book clubs and writing workshops engage mature audiences. This diversity makes Barnes & Noble a versatile location that satisfies group members of all ages and interests, encouraging everyone to join and participate comfortably.
In summary, Barnes & Noble offers far more than a bookstore experience—it is a vibrant community space that fosters connection through books, food, and shared cultural events. Its expansive product offerings, inviting café, accessibility, and regular programming make it an ideal venue for meetups of all kinds. Whether you seek a calm environment for conversation, an educational outing for families, or a lively event space to celebrate literary passions, Barnes & Noble stands out as a premiere choice for rallying with friends and loved ones.