When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Best Buy
Why Best Buy is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Best Buy, recognized as the world’s largest specialty consumer electronics retailer, represents an ideal spot for friends to meet and explore the latest technology together. With over 1,000 retail stores across North America and a vast selection of name-brand electronics, visitors can bond over shared interests in gadgets, gaming, home appliances, and cutting-edge tech solutions. The store’s layout is designed to encourage exploration and discovery, featuring interactive displays and demo stations which make it easy to try products before buying. Beyond shopping, Best Buy offers expert advice and personalized services such as in-store consultations, design assistance, and technical support via its Geek Squad team, creating a welcoming environment where knowledge sharing is emphasized. With memberships like the My Best Buy program and the newly revamped Totaltech program offering tiered benefits, friends can also enjoy exclusive deals and services. Additionally, Best Buy supports sustainability through its trade-in, recycling, and repair programs, which often serve as conversation starters and community engagement points. Whether friends want to check out the latest Nintendo Switch 2 gaming device, compare mobile phones from leading carriers, or learn about smart home innovations, Best Buy’s blend of products, services, and collaborative atmosphere makes it a great gathering spot for technology lovers.
Here's what people think of Best Buy
As of recent, Best Buy holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2680 reviews.
Customer reviews of Best Buy reveal a predominantly positive experience centered around its extensive product selection and knowledgeable staff. Many users appreciate the in-store expertise, highlighting associates who provide valuable guidance when comparing complex technology choices or setting up devices, which adds a comfortable and supportive element to shopping. Positive feedback frequently mentions the convenience of the Geek Squad services for installation and repairs, alongside helpful and calm assistance in troubleshooting tech issues. Additionally, customers find value in Best Buy’s commitment to sustainability and community-oriented initiatives, such as buyback and recycling programs. However, some negative reviews focus on concerns including occasional delays in order fulfillment or delivery issues, especially for some online purchases. A few customers have noted inconsistencies in staff availability or wait times during peak hours, which can impact the overall shopping experience. Others mention pricing that, while competitive, may not always match certain online-only retailers. Despite these drawbacks, the general consensus remains favorable due to Best Buy’s strong customer service ethos and the comprehensive range of products and services it offers. Overall, the reviews underscore Best Buy’s success in maintaining a trusted reputation as a consumer electronics retailer where customers can meet their needs reliably while enjoying expert advice and personalized services.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Greta Heng
I had an amazing experience at the Mira Mesa Best Buy thanks to Dan, Justin, and Danielle! Dan and the Mira Mesa team provided exceptional service and went above and beyond to help us with all our questions about TVs. Dan patiently walked us through different options, explained everything clearly, and even helped us compare models in detail. We ended up staying in the store for nearly six hours, and throughout the entire time, every team member we interacted with was patient, friendly, and genuinely helpful. Out of all the Best Buy locations we’ve been to, this was by far the most helpful and customer-focused experience we’ve ever had. I will definitely be recommending all of my family and friends to visit the Mira Mesa Best Buy and ask for Dan and his team when they need anything. They truly made our shopping experience outstanding!
William Snyder
I am writing to formally complain about a highly unsatisfactory experience with a Geek Squad installation at your Mera Mesa location on 13APR2025 at 1730. I am seeking full reimbursement of the installation charge and compensation for damages caused to my vehicle due to negligence and failure to follow agreed-upon instructions. I had a 2:45 PM appointment for a reverse camera installation. At 2:30 PM, I spoke with the technician, Angel, to confirm my explicit instructions: no drilling into my vehicle and to splice the camera into the reverse light. Angel agreed to these terms. However, my car wasn’t brought into the bay until 4:00 PM, causing a significant delay. At 5:30 PM, I returned to find Angel sitting and playing on his phone, with my car reportedly “done.” When I requested to inspect the vehicle and equipment before signing, Angel displayed a dismissive and unprofessional attitude. I received a text at 5:50 PM stating the car was complete, but upon inspection, I discovered the installation was poorly executed and, critically, a hole had been drilled into my vehicle, directly violating our agreement. When I confronted Angel about the damage and improper installation, he became aggressive and uncooperative. I requested a manager, to which he responded that “the manager isn’t in” and handed me a card. After insisting, a supervisor (a heavy-set woman with a nose ring, who refused to provide her full name) appeared. She was equally dismissive, instructed me to “file a damage claim,” and offered no further assistance. Both employees’ attitudes were unprofessional and hostile, despite my calm approach while accompanied by my two young children. This experience was unacceptable. The technician ignored my instructions, damaged my vehicle, and performed a substandard installation. The lack of accountability from both Angel and the supervisor exacerbated the situation. I documented a brief description of these issues on the work order before leaving.
Thanushka Chandradasa
Buyer Beware while shopping at this BB location. It’s not like others. We purchased something expensive and it had a 15% discount if purchased through BB CC. My husband asked the cashier if he could look up his CC and charge it (BB does that). The Deceitful employee instead proceeded to file a new credit card without informing that’s what he was doing or asking for consent. When the new card offer appear on the screen, we immediately realized what he did and confronted him. he continued to lie, saying it’s just that the BB now has a new card. Does he think we were born yesterday? We cancelled the new CC request with the bank, but Best Buy’s deceitful employee had already done a hard pull with a credit bureau. Buyer beware since some employees in this location operates like dangerous destinations where American values or honor code doesn’t apply. It’s unfortunate since the other gentleman (a different employee) who sold us the meta headgear was so nice and helpful. I think the bad apple might even stole that other employee’s commission. We are considering to have a formal complaint filed.
John Len Del Rosario
Worst experience today at this Mira Mesa branch and overall Best Buy. To start, I bought a 77” Samsung S95D TV back in January of 2025. I even bought a soundbar together with backlights for the TV, best buy protection plan, and we even paid for the delivery and installation of it. After coming back from our 3 weeks vacation, our TV stopped working “does not turn on.” I immediately called best buy customer service for a return and exchange. On the day that the new TV is getting delivered, I spoke to Marco (3rd party delivery crew) and he asked me if the TV will be installed which I replied to him yes, since I paid for the delivery and installation. He then told me that he will be calling me back. Shortly after, a service agent from best buy called telling me that I need to reschedule and the delivery guy cancelled on me. So, I rescheduled it again on Feb. 11. February 10 came, and another service agent called me at 1100 confirming my appointment. At 1145, I received another call saying that I need to reschedule my appointment again to which they did not say when because they couldn’t figure it out. At that time, I started asking if there has been an issue, the service agent (Harry ID# A3108333) told me that there was no LG G4 TV that is available. I asked to speak to a supervisor named Jay (ID# 3523406) and he explained to me that the issue is not the availability of the TV but the scheduling. So, I then took initiative of renting a truck from enterprise that day just to bring the TV back to best buy for an exchange. For the record, I have a 5ft petite wife and a 2 year old toddler that went with me to return this 77” TV. I’m not exaggerating but this TV is big and heavy just for my wife and I to carry. When we arrived at Mira Mesa, it was going good at first. The help was there. However, Victoria (Manager) couldn’t get our situation resolved because apparently what they were not telling us to begin with is that Best Buy’s system is jacked up. She explained that she has to submit a trouble ticket and also that we have to bring our TV again back home. She also said that best buys system is telling her that I purchased an LG G4 instead of a Samsung S95D. I tried to explain to them that the TV that I first got was the S95D and the TV that I’m trying to replace it with is the LG G4. Since there’s nothing that they can do, Victoria insisted that we take our TV because they can’t keep it for liability issues. I totally agree, however, this TV is a defective one. It came from best buy. I still have till Feb. 21 to return it. We only rented a truck for one day. I have a 2 year old toddler and my petite wife is struggling lifting the other end of the TV. They did not even offer to box the TV up instead they just threw it in the back of the truck like crap. We ended up bringing the TV back to the house. Now, its a waiting game for us till they credit us for this TV. Moving forward, we will definitely cancel our membership with Best Buy even our visa card. For all you people that will be reading this post. I hope this doesn’t happen to you. Just a warning, before you commit with best buy, understand fully the situation that you all will be going through. Your welcome, Best Buy for more than a decade of me being your loyal customer. Now, I’ll be taking my business elsewhere and I will never ever purchase again from any of your stores or even online.
James Lukerralli
How does Best Buy stay in business (or at least the Mira Mesa location)? Walked in and witnessed three employees chatting it up at the front of the store. Zero acknowledgment so I walked over to the TV section thinking someone would be there to help me buy a TV. Nope. Walked around in the TV area for 10 min and finally saw one person assisting a customer while five other customers were looking at TVs with no assistance. I waited for an additional five minutes and saw the three employees at the front chatting it up again so walked out. If this is part of Best Buys get well plan. Good luck. Customer service is not in their vocabulary. I will not be doing business here again.
How to reach Best Buy
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Website: None
Why Best Buy may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Best Buy with your friends?
Meeting up with friends at Best Buy offers far more than just a shopping trip; it is an engaging, modern, and tech-savvy social experience that can appeal to a wide range of interests. Best Buy, with its 4.2-star rating from over 2,600 reviews, is well-recognized for its extensive selection of the latest consumer electronics, from laptops and gaming consoles to smart home devices and audio equipment. This makes it an exciting destination where you and your friends can explore cutting-edge technology together, try out new gadgets, and even plan future tech-enhanced hangouts. Beyond shopping, Best Buy stores often feature dedicated specialty shops such as the Apple Shop, Samsung Experience, and Sony Experience, providing interactive spaces for groups to explore in-depth product lines from top brands. The presence of the Geek Squad adds an expert dimension, offering advice or hands-on help, making a group visit both educational and fun. Whether your group is into gaming, photography, music, or simply curious about smart home innovations, Best Buy offers an environment to spark conversations, shared discoveries, and collaborative planning, which transforms an ordinary meetup into a memorable tech adventure.
What activities can you enjoy at Best Buy during a group meetup?
Visiting Best Buy with friends is not just about buying gadgets; it's layered with diverse activities that catalyze interaction and enjoyment. First, exploring the vast showroom together can turn into a mini tech-tour, where each friend gets to demo the latest laptops, smartphones, televisions, and game consoles. This hands-on experience encourages collective decision-making, debates, and excitement as you discover new features or compare products side-by-side. Many stores include interactive specialty shops focused on leading brands like Apple, Samsung, Sony, and LG, giving everyone the chance to get acquainted firsthand with devices they may want to purchase or learn more about. For groups enthusiastic about gaming, Best Buy presents a variety of consoles and games, often with in-store display units where you can play and test multiplayer games, fostering friendly competition or cooperative play. Additionally, Best Buy’s growing assortment of smart home products, including lighting, security, and appliances, offers an intriguing peek into future home tech, perfect for group members who enjoy futuristic innovations. These in-store experiences double as an informal tech workshop, making a Best Buy visit a stimulating social activity.
Why is Best Buy an ideal place for gathering family or friends?
Best Buy stands out as a superb venue for group gatherings because it caters to diverse tastes and ages, making it inclusive for families and friends alike. Its wide product offerings span from toys and games to health and fitness tech, ensuring that everyone from kids to adults can find something captivating. Families can bond over selecting the perfect home theater system or smart appliances, while gaming groups might enjoy sampling the latest multiplayer video games together. The one-stop experience is enhanced by the store’s knowledgeable staff and Geek Squad services, who can provide assistance or demonstrations tailored for your group’s interests and skill levels, making visits smoother and more enjoyable. Seasonal merchandise available at Best Buy also lets groups get into holiday spirit or home decorating moods together, featuring everything from ornaments to cozy blankets. Because of its large format and organized layout, the store easily accommodates groups moving together or splitting up to explore various sections and reconvening to share finds and recommendations. This combination of variety, expert support, and room to socialize makes Best Buy a favored destination for group meetups.
What specialized services boost the group experience at Best Buy?
Best Buy enhances group visits with specialized services that add convenience and expertise, elevating the overall experience. One of the key offerings is the Geek Squad, whose technicians provide support ranging from installation to troubleshooting, which can appeal to groups looking to set up or upgrade home technology together. This service ensures that while friends or family shop for complicated electronics such as smart security systems or high-end audio, they can rely on professional help either in-store or at home. The store also has brand-specific counters like Apple, Samsung, Sony, and LG Experience Centers, which provide specialized demos and tailored advice, creating a focused and immersive experience for aficionados in these technologies. Best Buy’s trade-in and financing options further allow group members to explore purchasing plans flexibly, which can prompt discussions on budgeting and product value within the group. Moreover, the availability of curbside pickup and in-store ordering lets friends coordinate purchases efficiently, enabling fast exchanges or group orders. Collectively, these services turn a shopping trip into a seamless, enjoyable outing enhanced by expert assistance and practical options built for groups.
What product categories at Best Buy make it especially attractive for group meetups?
Best Buy’s extensive and diverse product catalog is a major draw for group visits, as it encompasses categories that intrigue technology fans, gamers, home decorators, and everyday consumers alike. The store is well-known for its wide array of consumer electronics including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and headphones, which invite group members to compare and review together. Gaming is a central highlight, with consoles, games, and gaming accessories on prominent display, perfect for friends eager to compete or collaborate in multiplayer experiences. Home appliances and smart home devices offer additional points of interest—groups can investigate everything from robotic vacuums to smart thermostats, helping families or roommates plan tech upgrades collectively. Audio equipment, such as speakers, soundbars, and headphones from premium brands, invites trying and sharing opinions, making it a sensory and social activity. Seasonal decorations and musical instruments recently added to Best Buy’s inventory also add variety, allowing groups to explore festive or artistic interests beyond technology. This range ensures that any group visiting Best Buy can find something to captivate and inspire conversation.
How does Best Buy’s online and outlet shopping options complement a group visit?
After exploring at the store, groups can extend their experience through Best Buy’s robust online and outlet shopping platforms, which offer added convenience and savings. Best Buy’s digital marketplace now includes a wider selection that more than doubles the in-store assortment, featuring items from top brands including specialty sellers. This allows groups to research or purchase hard-to-find products after an in-person visit and take advantage of exclusive online deals or bundled offers. The Best Buy Outlet offers open-box, refurbished, and clearance items that provide high quality at discounted prices, making budget-conscious group members happy to find bargains on electronics or appliances. Online order pickup and curbside services simplify the logistics of group purchases, allowing friends or family members to coordinate pickups efficiently. Additionally, Best Buy membership programs like My Best Buy Plus™ provide extra discounts and rewards that groups can leverage on subsequent shopping trips. Together, these online and outlet options complement the in-store experience by enabling flexible shopping plans tailored to a group’s preferences and budget.
What makes Best Buy a fun and tech-forward social destination?
Best Buy’s combination of technology, wide product variety, and interactive demo spaces turns it into a fun and tech-forward social spot ideal for gatherings of friends and family. Unlike typical retail stores, Best Buy offers a playground of the latest innovations where groups can explore new gadgets, test gaming systems, or engage with smart home devices firsthand. The store’s atmosphere is lively with discovery, conversation, and learning, creating a dynamic backdrop for social interaction. Special promotions, seasonal décor, and exclusive product launches add to the excitement, turning visits into timely events to look forward to. By merging retail with entertainment and education, Best Buy provides a multi-dimensional environment that encourages shared experiences and memorable moments. Whether your group is tech-savvy or just curious, the store’s balance of expert assistance, hands-on demos, and extensive inventory makes every visit engaging, educational, and enjoyable—fostering a social lifestyle around technology and innovation.