When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Big 5 Sporting Goods
Why Big 5 Sporting Goods is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Founded in 1955, Big 5 Sporting Goods has grown from operating five stores in Southern California to a widely recognized retailer of sporting goods, equipment, and accessories. Its historical roots in supplying World War II surplus items transitioned naturally into specializing in sporting goods by the early 1960s. Today, Big 5 serves customers through a broad network of physical stores and e-commerce platforms, catering to a diverse range of sports and outdoor activities. The store carries products for team sports, fitness, camping, hunting, fishing, tennis, golf, winter and summer recreation, and roller sports, offering brands such as Coleman, Columbia, Everlast, New Balance, Rawlings, Skechers, Spalding, and Wilson. Alongside these, it markets private-label brands like Golden Bear and Rugged Exposure, ensuring competitive pricing and variety. The company is headquartered in El Segundo, California, and maintains a reputation for dependable service and a strong vendor network cultivated over six decades. This makes Big 5 Sporting Goods a convenient and dependable meeting place for friends and families who enjoy sporting activities or outdoor adventures, providing a one-stop shop for quality gear and apparel adapted to many lifestyles and budgets.
Here's what people think of Big 5 Sporting Goods
As of recent, Big 5 Sporting Goods holds a 4.3-star rating based on 773 reviews.
Customer reviews of Big 5 Sporting Goods reflect a majority positive sentiment, as evidenced by its 4.3 rating from over 770 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the friendly and helpful staff, a wide range of products, and an overall enjoyable shopping experience, with many customers appreciating the ease of finding sporting goods and apparel. Several reviewers point out the supportive and sociable atmosphere among employees, with mentions of ease in onboarding for new workers, which can enhance customer service quality as associates are approachable and knowledgeable. However, some negative reviews cite concerns regarding management disorganization and scheduling inconsistencies, with a few employees describing the work environment as challenging or hostile at times. Additionally, local operational inefficiencies and communication issues have been noted. Despite these criticisms, most customer and employee reviews emphasize Big 5's strengths in product availability and friendly interactions. In conclusion, while there are areas for improvement in managerial operations and workplace environment, Big 5 Sporting Goods maintains a generally solid reputation as a reliable sporting goods retailer with strong community ties and customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Angela M. Acosta (MotherRealtor)
This place had a real dark and rape-y looking parking lot, but inside everything was great! And for a Friday night, it was totally HOPPING 🎉!! Super nice, helpful staff. Great sales and prices.
KERRY CARNEY
Great selection of quality products no matter what you recreational or athletic needs are. Very friendly and helpful staff. Great customer service.
k b
Big 5 Sporting Goods can take care of your quick sporting, hiking, running, and other athletic needs. The prices are considered reasonable and more better priced than other sporting good stores. But don't be fooled, everything ain't inexpensive. The store has a lot of merchandise in a small space yet, you can find what you need when you are short on time. I bought ski pants for an adult and children. Waaaaaay cheaper than REI. Literally saved $200.00. Excellent customer service and attentiveness. Not crowded. Easy to shop and leave.
Jesus Cordova
I went to go buy some tennis shoes and also ended up with a water hose and a hat at a great price I'm amazed on how much good stuff they can fit inside that store great customer service and a clean store, good job Big 5
Doreen Egerer
Staff helped me right away with questions & cashier helped me carry purchase to car! I haven't put together multi level weight bench yet but it was $89.99. Dumbell set good quality on sale for $29.99 regular price 49.99. Easy parking near entrance.
How to reach Big 5 Sporting Goods
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Why Big 5 Sporting Goods may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big 5 Sporting Goods with your friends? Gathering at Big 5 Sporting Goods offers more than just a shopping trip—it’s a dynamic experience perfect for groups who share a passion for sports, the outdoors, and active living. With a solid rating of 4.3 from over 700 reviews, Big 5 Sporting Goods has earned a reputation for quality products and friendly service that invites groups to plan meetups. Whether you're planning a camping trip, organizing a team sport event, or just looking for a fun way to spend time together preparing for outdoor adventures, this retail hub provides a welcoming environment to spark ideas and gear up as a team. Friends and family can bond over exploring a broad selection of athletic and outdoor gear, discussing their favorite sports or activities, and trying on equipment that turns plans into reality. The store’s sizable footprint, roughly 12,000 square feet per location, ensures there is plenty of space for everyone to browse comfortably together, fostering a shared experience that’s both social and active. It’s more than just shopping; it’s a meetup destination with a common goal—to get ready to play, explore, and enjoy sports with the right gear in hand.
What activities does Big 5 Sporting Goods offer to groups? While primarily a retail store, Big 5 Sporting Goods functions like an activity hub by offering an extensive range of products that enable a variety of physical activities and outings for groups. For sports enthusiasts, the store stocks equipment and apparel for team sports such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball, making it easy for friends to prep together for pick-up games or leagues. Fitness fanatics can find shoes, clothing, and accessories to support workouts or runs planned with friends. For groups with an outdoor spirit, Big 5 offers camping gear like tents, sleeping bags, and lighting equipment—facilitating group camping trips where everyone has the right supplies. Seasonal gear for hunting, fishing, golf, and even roller sports further expands options for meetups that embrace nature and outdoor recreation. The store’s well-rounded product mix means that no matter your group’s activity of choice, you can gather, plan, and equip yourselves properly in one convenient place.
Why is Big 5 Sporting Goods the perfect place for a group meetup? The appeal of Big 5 Sporting Goods as a meetup spot lies in its combination of product variety, store layout, and community-oriented atmosphere. Its large, open format retail space allows groups to move freely, browse comfortably, and exchange opinions on gear without feeling crowded. The diversity in products caters to groups with different interests—it’s a place where avid runners and casual hikers alike can find something that suits their needs. Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience by providing personalized advice and sometimes guiding groups toward the best products for their plans. The availability of top brands at competitive prices means groups can secure high-quality equipment without breaking the bank, which is often a vital consideration for gatherings that might involve multiple people. Moreover, with hundreds of locations conveniently spread across 11 western states, Big 5 offers easy access for groups regardless of their home bases, adding to the convenience of meeting here and making it a reliable, familiar option time and again.
What kind of products can a group expect to find at Big 5 Sporting Goods? Big 5 Sporting Goods specializes in a broad spectrum of items that cater to diverse sporting and recreational needs. Groups can expect to find athletic shoes and cleats from respected brands like Nike and Adidas, suitable for various sports including volleyball, basketball, and soccer. Apparel options cover performance shorts, shirts, and outerwear allowing groups to coordinate or prepare for different weather conditions. The store’s extensive outdoor section includes tents—like the popular Coleman Quail Mountain Cabin Tent—sleeping bags, camping lanterns, and hiking shoes, ideal for groups planning wilderness adventures. Additionally, fishing and hunting gear is well-represented, supporting those interested in the great outdoors beyond typical sports, offering rods, reels, camouflage clothing, and other accessories. This comprehensive product offering makes it possible for groups with varied interests to shop under one roof, facilitating shared experiences and communications about their plans, all while supporting their active lifestyles.
How does Big 5 Sporting Goods enrich the group shopping experience? Beyond its expansive inventory, the group shopping experience at Big 5 Sporting Goods is enriched by its commitment to customer service and community engagement. Customers often mention the helpfulness of the staff, who can assist groups in selecting the right equipment for all skill levels and sports. This expertise is crucial when buying specialized gear like hiking boots or camping equipment where fit and function directly impact enjoyment and safety. Seasonal promotions, member discounts, and coupons encourage groups to make the most out of their visits while saving money, making the shopping experience both fun and economical. Furthermore, the store often hosts or supports local sporting events and outdoor activities, helping groups connect with like-minded individuals or teams, which enhances the social aspect of their visit. This blend of knowledge, savings, and community involvement makes Big 5 Sporting Goods not just a store but a resource and gathering place for avid sportspeople and outdoor lovers alike.
What makes Big 5 Sporting Goods a convenient and accessible meetup location? Convenience is a major advantage of Big 5 Sporting Goods for groups, with over 400 locations spread throughout 11 western states, ensuring that multiple groups can find a nearby store easily. Most stores operate regular hours suited for group outings, allowing meetups after work or school and during weekends. The stores are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wide aisles and spacious layouts that accommodate families with children, groups using strollers, or friends in wheelchairs, making it welcoming to people of all ages and mobility levels. The combination of in-store and online shopping options means groups can plan their visit or finalize purchases on the spot, with some stores offering free in-store returns to further ease the buying process. This practical accessibility combined with ample parking and clear directions enhances the attractiveness of Big 5 Sporting Goods as a group meetup destination.
What social benefits come from meeting at Big 5 Sporting Goods? Meeting at Big 5 Sporting Goods provides significant social benefits for groups by encouraging shared interests and teamwork in choosing sports and outdoor gear. It acts as a social hub where conversations flow naturally about upcoming sporting events, favorite activities, and adventure plans—all while interacting with physical products that turn ideas into actionable plans. This shared shopping experience can strengthen friendships and family bonds by involving everyone in decision-making and planning, creating memories beyond the purchase itself. For new groups or clubs, it’s an ideal icebreaker environment, combining a common love of sports or the outdoors with a relaxed setting for socializing. Additionally, group members often exchange tips and product recommendations, fostering a sense of community and support that often extends beyond the store’s walls into real-world activities and events.
How can groups maximize their time when meeting at Big 5 Sporting Goods? To make the most out of a meetup at Big 5 Sporting Goods, groups should come prepared with a clear idea of their intended activities or needs, which they can identify by browsing the store’s website or promotions beforehand. Dividing the group to explore different sections—such as footwear, apparel, outdoor camping, and team sports equipment—can save time and allow more focused conversations about product features and benefits. Taking advantage of staff expertise by asking questions about gear durability, sizing, and usage helps ensure that purchases meet everyone’s expectations. Groups can also plan to use the meetup as a start for joint activities, such as heading out for a hike or practice session immediately afterward, which turns the shopping trip into an integrated part of their experience. Finally, checking for any ongoing sales or coupons before the visit can help the group enjoy additional savings, making the meetup both fun and budget-friendly.