When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Briarwood Mall
Why Briarwood Mall is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Briarwood Mall is a premier shopping destination located just three miles south of downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan. Serving as the retail hub of Washtenaw County, it features an extensive array of over 85 specialty shops and 14 eateries, offering a wide variety of shopping and dining options for visitors. Anchored by major retailers such as Macy's, Von Maur, and JCPenney, the mall also hosts popular brands including Apple, Urban Outfitters, Sephora, Forever 21, American Eagle Outfitters, Bath and Body Works, and more. The mall caters to a diverse community, including local residents, university students, and international visitors, making it a vibrant social space for friends and families to gather.
The mall provides outstanding guest amenities such as free WiFi, charging stations, family restrooms, and an interactive play area for children. Its clean, well-maintained environment and spacious parking facilities add to the convenience and comfort of the visit. Briarwood Mall is not only a shopping venue but a community spot where people can meet, dine, and enjoy quality time together. Whether for an afternoon of retail therapy, a casual meal, or simply to relax and socialize, Briarwood Mall remains a favored destination in Ann Arbor’s retail scene.
Here's what people think of Briarwood Mall
As of recent, Briarwood Mall holds a 4.2-star rating based on 6351 reviews.
User reviews of Briarwood Mall generally reflect its status as a convenient and well-stocked regional shopping center with a broad selection of popular stores and dining options. Many reviewers praise the mall for its variety of retail brands, from fashion outlets like American Eagle and Forever 21 to specialty stores such as Apple and Sephora. The dining experience is often highlighted positively, with several sit-down restaurants and cafés like P.F. Chang's and California Pizza Kitchen offering more than the typical food court fare. The children's play area and family-friendly amenities receive favorable mentions for making the mall a welcoming place for visitors with kids.
Positive reviews frequently mention the mall's cleanliness, accessibility, ample parking, and the quality of guest services like free WiFi and charging stations. Visitors appreciate the mall’s ability to serve diverse shopping preferences and notice the importance of physical retail in the digital age, valuing the in-person experience for trying on clothes and exploring products firsthand.
Negative feedback mostly revolves around areas needing improvement, such as some complaints about occasional store closures, less upscale ambiance compared to bigger metropolitan malls, and maintenance issues like the condition of certain entrances or restrooms. A few customers express nostalgia for the mall's former vibrancy, feeling it has somewhat declined over time. However, these criticisms do not overwhelmingly overshadow the overall positive impression, and Briarwood Mall remains well-regarded by the majority of its patrons. The mix of accessible retail variety, dining choices, and community-focused amenities continues to make it a popular meet-up spot in Ann Arbor.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ken Sih
This mall is well-kept and is appropriately renovated. Public restrooms are nice and well-ventilated. Some stores have endured, while others have changed. There are multiple dining options from quick bites to coffee to sit-down restaurants. Plenty of free parking with designated handicap parking.
Joy Gilbert
Since we have no malls and very little shopping options in Lenawee County, I started taking my granddaughters here for school clothes shopping. After 5 years of going to Toledo, I would never go back to Toledo. I love Briarwood! Every staff person we come across, in every store, is very helpful & friendly.
Alex Bennett
A mix of the usual mall stores that you would expect and mom and pop stores I hadn't heard of before. I was quite surprised to see an Apple store and Coach here, the Apple store is smaller than normal but was full of people. A little disappointing that there's really no food court, but there are some nicer restaurants along the outside edge of the mall such as P.F. Changs and California Pizza Kitchen. The mall is a single floor and easy to navigate. There were a few empty storefronts on my visit and 1 anchor store vacant.
Avram Liebowitz
Very cool shopping mall, a variety of stores and very clean. The mall staff are super friendly and knowledgeable about the shops and surrounding area.
Rosanna Ramos1
I’ve only visited Briarwood Mall once in my life, but the experience left a lasting impression. From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed by the warm atmosphere and friendly staff across various stores. We found great deals and purchased several items, but what made it truly memorable was how much my children enjoyed the play center in the heart of the mall. It gave them a chance to laugh and unwind while we took a break from shopping. It’s rare to find a mall that offers such a family-friendly vibe. We’ll cherish those memories for years to come!
How to reach Briarwood Mall
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Why Briarwood Mall may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Briarwood Mall with your friends?
Choosing a place to gather with friends or family often comes down to a mix of convenience, atmosphere, and the variety of activities available. Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor, Michigan, shines as a top-tier destination for group meetups because it offers all these in abundance. Centrally located just a few miles south of downtown Ann Arbor and easily accessible from major highways, it makes for a convenient rendezvous point for locals and visitors alike. With a solid 4.2 rating based on over 6,300 reviews, it clearly satisfies a broad array of customers with its welcoming environment. The mall’s diverse atmosphere caters to a mixed demographic including students from the nearby University of Michigan, families, and professionals, creating a vibrant social setting. Whether you’re looking to shop, eat, relax, or explore, Briarwood Mall blends the best retail brands, dining options, and entertainment amenities—all under one roof. This makes it an ideal spot to rally your friends for a day of fun, connecting, and shared experiences that suit virtually any interest or pace.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at Briarwood Mall?
Briarwood Mall provides a broad spectrum of activities tailored to groups, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable. First and foremost, shopping enthusiasts can indulge in browsing through 113 stores featuring a mix of premium brands and trendy outlets like Apple, Sephora, Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, and American Eagle Outfitters. The presence of major anchor stores such as Macy’s, Von Maur, and JCPenney amplifies the shopping experience with more comprehensive selections. But the mall isn’t just about spending money; it’s also about engagement and leisure. For families or groups with children, there is an interactive play area that offers a safe and enjoyable space for kids to have fun, allowing adults to relax or continue their shopping stress-free. If maintaining health is a priority, the mall facilitates mall walking starting early in the day before official shopping hours, a great social activity for health-conscious friends. Free WiFi and charging stations throughout the mall keep everyone connected and energized, perfect for planning the next steps of your meetup or simply staying in touch.
What dining options make Briarwood Mall great for group meals?
Food is often central to any gathering, and Briarwood Mall excels in catering to diverse tastes and group sizes with its varied eateries. The mall houses 14 dining options ranging from quick bites to full-service restaurants, which means your group can enjoy anything from a casual snack to a sit-down meal. Popular chains like P.F. Chang’s and California Pizza Kitchen provide familiar, crowd-pleasing menus with ample portions for sharing and group dining. For smaller groups or friends who prefer to grab something quick and continue exploring, there are plenty of options offering lighter fare or international flavors. The variety ensures that group members with different dietary needs or preferences—whether vegetarian, gluten-free, or adventurous eaters—can all find something satisfying. The comfortable and inviting dining areas scattered throughout the mall create relaxed environments perfect for conversation, recharging your energy, and social bonding.
How does Briarwood Mall’s atmosphere and amenities support group meetups?
Beyond shopping and eating, Briarwood Mall is designed to foster an enjoyable social atmosphere that makes meetups easy and fun. One of its standout features is the variety of guest amenities that improve the overall group experience. Family restrooms provide convenience and comfort for groups with children, while numerous seating spots let friends rest when they want a break. The mall’s welcoming vibe is amplified by its clean, spacious interiors and well-maintained public spaces that enhance comfort during long visits. Free WiFi and accessible charging stations mean no one will lose touch or run out of battery, important factors when coordinating plans or sharing the day's photos. The mall’s long hours—open until 9 PM most days and earlier on Sundays—offer flexibility for groups to meet at times that fit different schedules, whether it’s an afternoon gathering or an evening outing. This combination of thoughtful amenities and a lively yet relaxed environment helps make Briarwood Mall an attractive hub for group socializing.
Why is Briarwood Mall a perfect spot for diverse groups?
One of Briarwood Mall’s greatest strengths is how well it serves a diverse community. With its proximity to the University of Michigan, it naturally draws students from across the globe, alongside a variety of local residents from all backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the mall’s store selections, food offerings, and overall vibe, making it a place where different cultures and tastes are respected and catered to. The retail mix includes global brands as well as specialty shops, so groups with varied shopping interests can find things they love. Additionally, the mall hosts special services like the AARP Eye Center and salons such as Tricho Salon, catering to different age groups and lifestyle needs, making it convenient for multigenerational meetups. This inclusivity fosters a welcoming environment for any group, be it friends catching up, extended families gathering, or colleagues holding informal meetings. All these factors ensure the mall is more than just a shopping complex—it’s a community center of sorts, where many come to connect and engage.
How convenient is Briarwood Mall for group meetups?
Convenience is key when organizing group outings, and Briarwood Mall scores highly in this area. It is positioned just off State Street and close to Interstate 94, providing easy driving access and ample parking space, an important consideration when multiple cars are involved. Public transit connections are also available through AAATA bus routes 6 and 24, ideal for friends who prefer not to drive or visitors from other parts of Ann Arbor. The mall’s operating hours offer flexibility to accommodate different schedules, with doors opening as early as 9 AM for mall walking and staying open until 9 PM most days, extending potential meetup times well into the evening. Its centralized location within the southern Ann Arbor commercial district also means that there are nearby hotels and additional amenities useful for groups visiting from out of town or wanting to extend their social day. These practical benefits ensure that coordinating a meetup at Briarwood Mall minimizes logistical hassles so that the focus remains on enjoying time together.
What makes Briarwood Mall a comfortable venue for long group visits?
Long group visits require facilities that promote comfort and convenience, and Briarwood Mall addresses these needs effectively. The mall’s single expansive floor plan, combined with multiple anchor stores having two floors, allows for both intense exploration and easy navigation without overwhelming visitors. Seating areas are plentiful, allowing groups to rest and regroup as needed, which is especially valuable for older attendees or those with mobility considerations. Amenities like clean family restrooms and charging stations add to physical comfort and practical needs. The mall is fully renovated and maintains a modern, bright ambiance that feels welcoming and safe at all times. With free WiFi throughout, groups can stay digitally connected during their visit, making it easy to share plans or coordinate activities in real time. This combination of comfort, accessibility, and engaging spaces means visitors can linger as long as they want without feeling rushed or fatigued.
How does Briarwood Mall cater to tech-savvy groups or students?
Given its proximity to the University of Michigan, Briarwood Mall naturally appeals to tech-savvy students and young professionals looking for a place to meet, study, or shop. The presence of the Apple Store, a strong highlight among its tenants, allows groups interested in the latest technology to explore new gadgets or receive expert advice, making it an interactive experience beyond typical retail. On-site tech support and product demos offer an engaging way for friends to bond over shared interests. Free WiFi and charging stations facilitate extended visits for those who might want to combine their social time with light study or work sessions. The mall also hosts trendy brands that resonate strongly with younger crowds, supporting not just socialization but also personal style exploration. This makes Briarwood Mall an ideal venue for groups of students or young adults looking for an environment that blends convenience, commerce, and connectivity seamlessly.
Briarwood Mall truly offers an exceptional environment ideal for group meetups, boasting a wide range of shops, dining options, and social amenities. Its welcoming atmosphere, convenient location, and strong community orientation make it a versatile and enjoyable venue for friends and families to rally, explore, and create lasting memories. Whether you are gathering for shopping, meals, or just a casual hangout, Briarwood Mall accommodates group needs on many levels.