When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
CAMP, A Family Experience Store
Why CAMP, A Family Experience Store is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CAMP, the Family Experience Store, stands out as a unique destination that beautifully combines retail with immersive family experiences to create memorable moments for kids and adults alike. Beyond being just a toy or merchandise store, CAMP transports visitors into a playful, themed environment that resembles a summer camp complete with classic elements like bonfire pits, dance halls, bunk beds, lakes, and sports fields, providing an interactive space where families can play and connect. Each location offers rotating themes every eight to twelve weeks—such as Base Camp, Toy Lab, Travel Camp, and Cooking Camp—that encourage exploration across nature, arts, sports, theatre, and cuisine, making each visit fresh and engaging. With seven locations across major U.S. cities including New York, Dallas, Chicago, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Boston, and Los Angeles, CAMP is designed to inspire and engage families by blending play, performance, and unique merchandise all in one place. The staff personify the essence of camp counselors—friendly, energetic, and knowledgeable—further elevating the welcoming and authentic atmosphere. Families can attend ticketed events, participate in interactive programs, or simply enjoy wandering through the imaginative spaces at their own pace. This integration of play, education, and shopping creates a compelling environment where young children and adults can learn, explore, and enjoy quality time together.
Here's what people think of CAMP, A Family Experience Store
As of recent, CAMP, A Family Experience Store holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1071 reviews.
User reviews collectively rate CAMP at around 4.2 out of 5, highlighting the store's originality, immersive atmosphere, and family-friendly vibe as standout attributes. Many positive reviews praise the cleverly themed setup that successfully evokes nostalgic summer camp feelings, noting that the constantly changing themes keep the experience exciting for repeat visitors. Customers value the enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff who contribute to an inviting environment where kids feel engaged and entertained. The interactive elements such as slides, bonfires, and sports fields also receive commendations for encouraging active play and creativity. Additionally, the merchandise selection, blended with themed snacks and souvenirs, appeals both to children and adults. On the downside, some negative feedback points to occasional high ticket prices for events or programming that might not fit every family’s budget. A few visitors have mentioned that the space can feel crowded during peak times, and that certain activities require advance bookings which may limit spontaneous visits. Others wished for more variety in merchandise or more frequent updates to themes throughout the year. Overall, the reviews suggest that while CAMP successfully delivers a fun, immersive family experience that many cherish, there is room for improvement in pricing flexibility and capacity management. Nonetheless, it remains a popular and innovative venue that redefines family retail and entertainment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sharon Lau
Overall, I expected more for the amount each ticket costs. We went on a Friday. My 3 year old isn’t a huge Bluey fan but wanted to check it out still. She wanted to go within 20 minutes. The interactive parts from the staff is cute, but otherwise the whole experience itself was not enjoyable. Very hot and crowded inside, they let too many families in at once. So many things are glued to the table so you can’t really do much here. Everything also looked so dirty. Would not recommend. Toys at the store are also all overpriced. The only other enjoyable part was meeting the real Bluey and Bingo. UPDATE: The CAMP team reached out and was very courteous about my feedback. Josh, the manager, noted “Since your visit, we've brought in a new general manager to help oversee the experience. We've had the entire experience deep cleaned, and enforced a regular cleaning schedule. We've also restructured the show's engagement opportunities with counselors to bring in more opportunities for play. I understand that the building's AC system was not working correctly during your visit, which I'm sure only amplified the conditions you experienced.” Hopefully this will help others have a more enjoyable experience!
Sharon H.
We were here for Bluey X CAMP. They re created Bluey’s house and had interactive plays inside. It was $50+ per person but they were running a promote for $29/person. Once we arrived, we checked in with the staff and waited for the magic door to open. Very cool for them to create “magic” for kids to open the door. During the playtime inside, they gathered everyone for story time and a special guest. We had about an hour inside the area and last stop was 1 picture with Bluey and Bingo. 1 picture per family. The shop has many educational toys, learning tools, Clothes, accessories and arts/crafts. It’s obviously more pricy than online. Overall still a good experience for kids. $29 I think it’s fair.
Anoj Gurung
It is a great place for family and toddlers. Our toddlers loved this place, and they had such a great time. The interactive plays and storytime are a great features. There are multiple rooms that are designed beautifully for kids to play. The entry point is tricky through the gift store, and it gets a bit tight when there are lots of families entering and exciting. What's great is that they have coat & strollers check, alleviating some stress. There are also many staff on the floors to assist families and kids. Parking meters are available, especially in the weekend, so there is no need to worry. Enjoy.
sophie natsvlishvili
my two year old daughter loves this show so we took her to the camp and it was OK. its cute but kind of boring after 20 minutes, once u have seen all the rooms. even my two year old she was walking from one room to another asking “more Bluey, more Bingo” it would be much better experience if the cartoon characters would be involved in the camp.
Corinne Marie Rhodes
Kids had a blast. Space to play imaginative games similar to bluey and bingo in the show. 45 minutes in house with 3 groups that move through and a few structured dance parties/ reading. Didn’t need 15 minutes for bluey bingo photo op but kids were happy. Staff helpful and positive.
How to reach CAMP, A Family Experience Store
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Why CAMP, A Family Experience Store may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CAMP, A Family Experience Store with your friends?
Gathering a group of friends for a memorable outing requires a venue that offers more than just a space—it needs to deliver excitement, interaction, and shared joy. CAMP, A Family Experience Store, with its vibrant 4.2-star rating from over a thousand reviews, fits this bill perfectly. It’s not just a store; it’s an immersive playground where adults and children alike can step into enchanting worlds together. Located in the heart of New York City, this uniquely themed experience center invites you and your friends to escape everyday life and dive into a mix of creative play, interactive shows, and delightful crafts. Every visit promises fresh surprises, from magical doors leading to new adventures to specially curated events inspired by popular family franchises. You get the chance to explore, learn, laugh, and create memories in a space designed to bring groups closer through shared discovery and fun. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a celebratory occasion, CAMP offers an environment that encourages connection and collective joy, making it an ideal rallying point for friends looking to bond through immersive experiences rather than traditional meetups.
What activities can you enjoy at CAMP with your friends?
CAMP is bursting with a variety of activities that cater to diverse interests within any group. One of the standout attractions is the Magic Door, an immersive gateway into fantastical worlds crafted carefully to enthrall visitors of all ages. Stepping through the Magic Door transports groups to interactive shows and storybook settings that are as captivating for adults as they are for children. Beyond this, the store offers hands-on crafting sessions where everyone can channel their creativity through fun projects—perfect for bonding while making personalized souvenirs. Themed experiences inspired by beloved characters, such as Disney’s Encanto or the wildly popular Bluey, revive the magic of these stories through live interactions, creating moments that friends will talk about for years. Guests can also explore a curated selection of the best toys, games, and gifts, making it a treasure trove for those who enjoy discovering unique items together. For groups who appreciate activities that spark collaboration, creative thinking, and wonder, CAMP stands out as a hub that combines entertainment with meaningful engagement for every visitor.
Why is CAMP perfect for a group meetup?
CAMP’s design and atmosphere naturally promote group interaction and enjoyment, making it ideal for meetups with friends or family. The open layout encourages wandering together from one activity to another, fostering shared experiences rather than isolated ones. Its mixture of immersive theater, interactive games, and crafts means that different personalities in your group can find something that captivates them, ensuring no one feels left out. The store’s staff enhances this communal vibe—they are friendly, enthusiastic, and ready to guide groups through experiences, helping everyone participate fully and comfortably. Accessibility is also a strength here; located conveniently near major subway lines in Manhattan, CAMP is easy for groups to reach without hassle. Whether your group includes young kids, parents, or adults longing for nostalgic play, CAMP’s inclusive environment allows you to create joyful, interactive memories together. Plus, the excitement generated by exploring imaginative worlds collectively builds camaraderie that is hard to replicate elsewhere.
What unique features make CAMP stand out among family and group venues?
CAMP differentiates itself from typical family stores or play centers through its inventive blend of retail, immersive entertainment, and creative workshops—a trifecta rarely seen under one roof. The Magic Door experiences are not simply themed areas; they are live, evolving productions that engage visitors actively rather than passively watching. This level of interaction captivates groups, creating moments of surprise and wonder that cement lasting impressions. Additionally, the store constantly refreshes its offerings with limited-time experiences tied to current family-favorite franchises, ensuring repeat visitors always find something new to explore. CAMP’s toy and gift selection is curated for both originality and quality, enabling groups to discover unique items not available elsewhere, perfect for thoughtful gifting or personal collections. The crafting workshops provide tactile joy and creative freedom, key elements that stimulate both children’s and adults’ imaginations while encouraging collaboration. These aspects combine to create a dynamic environment that can transform a simple meetup into an extraordinary day of shared discovery and delight.
How does CAMP cater to different age groups and interests within your friend circle?
One of CAMP’s greatest strengths is its carefully designed inclusivity that appeals to a broad age range and varying interests. For families with young children, the whimsical atmospheres and beloved characters like those from Bluey or Gabby’s Dollhouse provide comfort and excitement, offering familiar touchpoints that engage kids immediately. For teens and adults, the sophisticated immersive narratives and creative workshops offer a wonderful outlet for imagination and stress relief, blending nostalgia with new experiences. Even visitors who identify as toy enthusiasts or collectors can indulge in the store’s thoughtful selection of distinctive toys and gifts, some exclusive or hard to find elsewhere. Different interest groups within a meetup can split off into different activities and then share their experiences together over casual conversations, enriching the visit. This adaptability ensures that no matter the demographic mix—parents, children, friends, or multi-aged groups—everyone leaves feeling satisfied and inspired by what they’ve experienced. CAMP’s commitment to a multi-sensory, multi-interest environment transforms it into a versatile destination welcoming diverse friend circles.
What can you expect from the overall atmosphere and customer experience at CAMP?
Walking into CAMP feels like stepping into a lively narrative where creativity, joy, and discovery are the guiding principles. The décor and layout are thoughtfully designed to immerse guests from the start, with vibrant colors, themed sets, and interactive elements that invite exploration. The staff play a crucial role in enhancing the atmosphere, as they are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely enthusiastic about making every visitor’s experience memorable. They facilitate activities, help participants engage with the Magic Door adventures, and offer personalized recommendations for toys and crafts, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Even small touches like thoughtful merchandising and well-organized spaces keep the mood cheerful and accessible for guests of all ages. The store buzzes with energy but never feels overwhelming, striking a careful balance that allows groups to relax, explore freely, and engage with activities at their own pace. Combined, these factors ensure your meetup at CAMP is marked by ease, excitement, and meaningful shared moments that linger well beyond the visit.
How accessible is CAMP for planning your group meetup logistics?
CAMP’s prime location in Manhattan’s flatiron district at 110 5th Avenue makes it geographically convenient for most New Yorkers and visitors alike. It is just steps away from the Union Square subway station, which connects to multiple train lines, easing travel for groups coming from different parts of the city. The store’s operating hours are also accommodating, with doors open daily including weekends, allowing flexible scheduling options for meetups. Whether you prefer a daytime craft session during quieter weekdays or an energetic weekend visit filled with shows and interaction, CAMP accommodates various preferences. Reservations for ticketed experiences can be made easily, helping groups secure their spots in advance especially during peak times. There is ample space within the venue for groups to comfortably move around, and staff assistance with group needs ensures the flow of your meetup is smooth and enjoyable. Overall, the combination of location, open scheduling, and helpful customer service works seamlessly to support practical planning and logistics for any group visit.
What additional benefits make CAMP a standout choice for family and friend gatherings?
Aside from the engaging activities and convenient location, CAMP offers several enhanced benefits that elevate it above other meetup venues. Their continual influx of new and exclusive experiences inspired by trending family media keeps outings fresh and relevant—a huge plus for groups who enjoy novelty. The store also offers a wide array of thoughtfully selected merchandise that can double as mementos or gifts, making it easy to commemorate the occasion or bring a piece of the magic home. The blend of entertainment, education, and playful exploration caters well to meaningful interactions, creating an environment conducive to both laughter and learning. Staff attentiveness ensures that any special needs within groups, including accessibility accommodations or interest preferences, are well managed. For organizers looking to host meaningful get-togethers, CAMP’s reputation as a friendly, immersive family experience store with consistently positive reviews guarantees a tried-and-true destination that delivers smiles and shared happiness each time.
In summary, CAMP, A Family Experience Store offers a uniquely immersive, interactive environment to rally your friends and family for special moments. Its mixture of magic door adventures, themed activities, crafting workshops, and curated shopping blends creativity and fun for all ages. Conveniently located and welcoming to diverse groups, CAMP excels in creating captivating shared experiences that move beyond the ordinary meetup to something truly memorable and joyful. Whether marking a celebration or simply seeking connection through play, CAMP provides an extraordinary space where lasting memories are made together.