When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
DICK'S Sporting Goods
Why DICK'S Sporting Goods is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
DICK'S Sporting Goods stands out as a top destination for individuals and groups looking to connect through sports and outdoor activities. Founded in 1948 by Richard "Dick" Stack with a humble $300 investment from his grandmother, the company has evolved from a small bait-and-tackle shop into the largest sporting goods retailer in the United States. With over 800 stores nationwide, including subsidiaries like Golf Galaxy, Public Lands, and House of Sport, it offers a vast selection of sporting equipment, apparel, and gear for nearly every sport and outdoor pursuit. The stores are designed to inspire and equip athletes of all levels, providing an immersive shopping experience that goes beyond just commercial transactions. Its strong legacy, expansive product variety, and commitment to customer engagement make it a great place for friends to meet, explore new sports interests, and prepare for outdoor adventures together. The company also embraces digital channels, featuring a mobile app and online platforms such as GameChanger, catering to modern athletes and youth sports communities. This multi-channel approach enhances accessibility and makes it easy for groups to coordinate and share experiences centered around their athletic passions.
Here's what people think of DICK'S Sporting Goods
As of recent, DICK'S Sporting Goods holds a 4.1-star rating based on 125 reviews.
Customer reviews of DICK'S Sporting Goods reveal a generally positive perception combined with some criticisms. Across numerous reviews, customers appreciate the extensive product range, knowledgeable and helpful staff, and the store's welcoming atmosphere, which makes shopping for sports gear enjoyable and engaging. Positive feedback frequently highlights attentive customer service, the availability of quality merchandise, and the stores’ role as community hubs for sports enthusiasts. Many users note that the stores provide convenient one-stop shopping for diverse athletic needs, fostering a sense of connection among friends and family who shop together. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to intermittent issues such as stock availability, occasional inconsistencies in customer service experiences, and challenges related to pricing or return policies. A few reviewers mention that some employees could improve in product knowledge or that management practices vary by location. Overall, the reviews suggest that while DICK'S Sporting Goods successfully serves a broad customer base with quality products and community involvement, there is room for improvements in operational consistency and customer experience. The company’s responsiveness to customer complaints, as seen in Better Business Bureau interactions, indicates a commitment to addressing concerns and enhancing satisfaction over time.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joseph Crissman
I had a golf fitting with Zack. Good person to work with, he spent an hour with me and 4 or 5 different drivers. Good employees make a good experience.
Josh Dudenhausen
Ryan in the golf department, knows whats good and is a good salesman. Snagged a limited edition Scotty Cameron from him and could not be happier. Give the man the raise he deserves. Some people would have been scared to pull out a thousand dollar putter in order to protect the merchandise but Ryan knew how to complete the sale and knows how to make the store money!!
Nanaj WooWoo
Facility is nice. Incredibly limited options. Maybe this is just a smaller location, but there were only a couple of options for leggings. Just a really, really disappointing selection for apparel. I went in hoping to get an idea of what would work for me, and didn't find a single thing I wanted to try on because there were such few options to choose from
Quan Hart
04/25/2025 12:00 pm Brandon and Nick gave outstanding service! the item I wanted had a mislabeled price that was lower than the actual price by $100 and they honored it! I've never had that happen before, give these two a promotion!
Joseph Crissman
I had a golf fitting with Zack. Good person to work with, he spent an hour with me and 4 or 5 different drivers. Good employees make a good experience.
Brandon Smith
Hey so I went in to grab a few small things for a camping and fishing trip. But they don’t have anything. Like not one thing. As in ZERO FISHING AND CAMPING STUFF. Don’t go here if you need anything related to that. But hey. they have half the store dedicated to golf. Not downing golf at all. but to be a sporting goods store and not have a single thing related to camping or fishing? They must be phasing it out kinda crazy since this store is like 10 miles from Falls Lake!!
Josh Dudenhausen
Ryan in the golf department, knows whats good and is a good salesman. Snagged a limited edition Scotty Cameron from him and could not be happier. Give the man the raise he deserves. Some people would have been scared to pull out a thousand dollar putter in order to protect the merchandise but Ryan knew how to complete the sale and knows how to make the store money!!
Nanaj WooWoo
Facility is nice. Incredibly limited options. Maybe this is just a smaller location, but there were only a couple of options for leggings. Just a really, really disappointing selection for apparel. I went in hoping to get an idea of what would work for me, and didn't find a single thing I wanted to try on because there were such few options to choose from
Quan Hart
04/25/2025 12:00 pm Brandon and Nick gave outstanding service! the item I wanted had a mislabeled price that was lower than the actual price by $100 and they honored it! I've never had that happen before, give these two a promotion!
Brandon Smith
Hey so I went in to grab a few small things for a camping and fishing trip. But they don’t have anything. Like not one thing. As in ZERO FISHING AND CAMPING STUFF. Don’t go here if you need anything related to that. But hey. they have half the store dedicated to golf. Not downing golf at all. but to be a sporting goods store and not have a single thing related to camping or fishing? They must be phasing it out kinda crazy since this store is like 10 miles from Falls Lake!!
How to reach DICK'S Sporting Goods
None
Website: None
Why rally at DICK'S Sporting Goods with your friends? Gathering at DICK'S Sporting Goods offers a unique and engaging experience that goes far beyond the typical shopping trip. This place serves as a hub for sports enthusiasts, fitness buffs, and outdoor lovers, making it ideal for friends who share interests in active lifestyles or who want to explore new activities together. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a wide range of quality sporting goods and apparel ensuring that every visitor finds something that suits their taste and needs. Whether you are looking to equip your group for a weekend hike, start a new fitness journey, or simply enjoy browsing the latest gear, DICK'S Sporting Goods provides a stimulating environment to connect, share ideas, and inspire one another. Its reputation, backed by solid customer ratings, adds confidence that your group outing will be enjoyable and worthwhile. Choosing this venue for your meetup means combining fun shopping with hands-on opportunities to discover new sports and activities, making it more than just a retail store—it’s a community epicenter for health, fitness, and team spirit.
What activities can you enjoy at DICK'S Sporting Goods? While primarily a retail store, DICK’S Sporting Goods offers a vast array of activities and services that make it perfect for groups. You can explore different departments together, such as basketball, baseball, football, golf, and running, where you can test and try equipment side-by-side. The store’s knowledgeable staff, often referred to as “PROS,” provide expert advice and gear service right in the store, so you can get professional tips on equipment maintenance or performance enhancement. Many locations have areas where you can try out certain equipment, like batting cages or golf simulators, giving a tactile and interactive element to your visit. Some stores also feature demo days and local events, perfect for groups who want to try something new or learn together in a social setting. The variety of high-quality gear, from the latest sneakers to outdoor camping essentials, fuels conversation, engagement, and friendly competition as you compare gear and discuss your next adventure.
Why is DICK'S Sporting Goods perfect for a group meetup? DICK’S Sporting Goods excels as a meetup spot because it caters to diverse interests and activity levels within any group. Whether your friends are casual players, serious athletes, or outdoor enthusiasts, the store has equipment and apparel for all skill levels, making it inclusive and welcoming. Its spacious layout and multiple departments enable everyone in a group to find something exciting to focus on, whether it's browsing the latest basketball sneakers or checking out camping gear for the upcoming trip. The knowledgeable staff enrich the experience by offering customized advice, helping groups make informed decisions. Beyond shopping, the convenience of having a full-service sporting goods retailer means your meetup can extend to planning future activities or training sessions using gear purchased on site. Additionally, many DICK’S locations feature frequent sales or promotions, so groups can save money while gearing up together, which enhances the overall value of the meetup.
How does DICK'S Sporting Goods enhance the outdoor and sports experience? DICK’S Sporting Goods is not just a retailer but a gateway to outdoor adventure and athletic improvement. Their extensive selection includes premium brands like The North Face® and Patagonia® for outerwear, specialized running shoes, golf clubs with advanced technology, and even kayaks tailored for water sports. This wide range allows friends to gear up for almost any outdoor or athletic pursuit, making the meetup about more than just shopping—it’s a start to real-world experiences. The store supports active lifestyles by offering equipment for nearly every sport imaginable—from basketball and baseball to camping and biking—encouraging a group’s physical activity and team spirit. Additionally, DICK'S offers service areas where technical repairs and custom fittings can be done, so your gear is always ready for action. This attention to quality and service ensures that any group leaving the store is better prepared for safe, enjoyable, and successful sports or outdoor outings.
What kinds of gear and apparel can you explore together? At DICK'S Sporting Goods, your group can immerse in a comprehensive collection of sporting attire and equipment. From footwear designed for running, basketball, or hiking to activewear for all seasons and fitness levels, the store stocks an extensive variety. You’ll find specialized clothing lines for men and women, including brands like CALIA for women’s clothing, targeting both performance and style. Accessories such as activity trackers and fitness monitors complement the apparel, helping your group plan fitness goals or keep track of progress. The store’s fan shop also provides officially licensed jerseys and merchandise for cheering on favorite teams, making it a great place for sports fans to gather. Having all these options under one roof means your friends can compare styles, try on gear, and find perfect fits together, turning the outing into a shared adventure in sports fashion and equipment.
How do DICK’S Sporting Goods stores support their customers with expert services? One of the standout reasons to meet friends at DICK'S Sporting Goods is the range of expert services provided directly in the store. These include gear maintenance, professional fittings, and equipment customizations that make your sports setup optimized and personalized. Most locations have PROS—trained staff who offer personalized consultations for everything from golf club fittings to choosing the right running shoes. This hands-on assistance means your group can learn together, exchange advice, and make smarter purchasing decisions. The service commitment ensures that whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, you receive the necessary support to maximize your sports or outdoor pursuits. This expertise adds significant value for groups, transforming the experience from mere shopping into a benefit-rich consultation that boosts confidence and readiness.
What makes DICK’S Sporting Goods a community hub for active lifestyles? Beyond just retail, many DICK’S Sporting Goods locations act as community anchors for fitness and sports lovers. Regular promotional events, product launches, demo days, and clinics create opportunities for groups to engage with professionals and fellow enthusiasts. This environment encourages networking, learning, and mutual encouragement among friends who visit together. Especially in larger cities, DICK’S often partners with local sports leagues and clubs, offering exclusive gear and discounts to support community activities. The atmosphere becomes less transactional and more social and educational, making it ideal for friends or families who want a shared, active outing. This sense of community makes DICK’S Sporting Goods a trusted and vibrant venue to plan group activities around sports and fitness.
How accessible and convenient is DICK’S Sporting Goods as a meetup location? With numerous store locations across the United States, including in major shopping districts and outlets, DICK’S Sporting Goods offers easy accessibility for groups in many areas. Many stores feature ample parking, extended hours, and are located near food courts or cafes, making it easy to combine your visit with meals or other social plans. The large floor space in most stores allows groups to split up by interest and then regroup to share discoveries or plan joint activities. Online tools such as weekly ads and digital coupons help groups save even more when shopping together. All these elements combine to create a seamless and enjoyable experience, where logistics don’t get in the way of having a good time with your friends or family during the meetup.
What should you expect after a visit to DICK’S Sporting Goods with friends? After spending time at DICK’S Sporting Goods, groups are typically inspired and equipped to pursue new or existing sports and outdoor hobbies with more enthusiasm and proper gear. The shopping trip often translates into planning actual sports events, fitness routines, or outdoor adventures coordinated among friends. Moreover, the experience builds connections through shared interests and collective goal setting. This benefit is amplified by the expert advice gained and the hands-on experience with sports equipment and apparel. The store thus acts as a springboard for healthier, active lifestyles and unforgettable group memories rooted in sport and recreation.
By choosing DICK’S Sporting Goods as a destination for your next meetup, you ensure a dynamic blend of shopping, learning, and socializing in an environment dedicated to an active lifestyle. Whether you’re there to pick up gear, get professional guidance, or simply explore sports and outdoor equipment, it’s a venue that turns a casual visit into an energetic and inspiring outing for friends and family alike.