When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale 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, established in 1948 by Richard "Dick" Stack, has grown from a single bait-and-tackle shop into the largest sporting goods retailer in the United States, boasting over 850 stores nationwide as of 2025. This expansive footprint makes it an ideal meet-up spot for friends who are enthusiasts of sports, outdoor activities, or just looking to explore the latest in athletic gear and apparel. With a comprehensive selection covering nearly every sport, outdoor gear, fitness equipment, and team apparel, DICK'S caters to athletes of all levels—from beginners to professionals. The stores often include specialized sections such as Golf Galaxy and House of Sport, enhancing the range of quality products and expert advice available. Many locations feature a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that encourages community engagement and supports active lifestyles. Additionally, their omnichannel presence, including a robust online store and mobile app, allows shoppers to easily browse and purchase items, making it convenient for groups planning outings or sporting events. Overall, DICK'S Sporting Goods serves as a comprehensive hub where friends and families can gather to ignite their athletic passions, discover new equipment, and enjoy the shared experience of discovering gear tailored to their needs and goals.
Here's what people think of DICK'S Sporting Goods
As of recent, DICK'S Sporting Goods holds a 3.8-star rating based on 754 reviews.
Customer feedback for DICK'S Sporting Goods is mixed, reflecting a range of experiences both positive and negative. The company holds a 3.8-star rating from more than 750 reviews, indicating moderate overall satisfaction among consumers. Positive reviews highlight the store's broad product variety, knowledgeable staff in many locations, and the convenience of its extensive nationwide presence. Customers often appreciate the quality of merchandise and the availability of specialty brands and equipment, which fulfills their sports and outdoor activity needs effectively. On the downside, negative reviews point to challenges in customer service, specifically concerning order fulfillment delays and the handling of in-store accessibility needs. Some customers have reported frustrations with customer support responsiveness and accessibility accommodations, which affected their overall shopping experience negatively. Despite these issues, many patrons remain loyal due to the quality and breadth of products. In conclusion, while DICK'S Sporting Goods is highly valued for its extensive selection and role as a prominent sporting goods retailer, prospective customers may want to be aware of occasional service-related shortcomings and approach with realistic expectations regarding customer support and order management.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
George Adaimi
I recently visited Dick’s Sporting Goods to exchange a Christmas gift, and I had a great experience. The staff were incredibly helpful and made the process smooth and hassle-free. The store itself is massive, offering a wide variety of sports apparel and equipment. Plus, there’s plenty of parking, making the visit even more convenient.
Matt Sorensen
I called the store to see if they had any mini steppers. Noah, the employee there, took my call and assured me that the store had four (4) in stock. He was very polite as well. After going into the store, I located the item, while waiting in line, a young gentleman came to the cashier, to help his colleague with the line that was building up. Low and behold, I get to his register and he said, "oh, you're the person I talked to, glad you found it okay". I thanked him and left the store pretty satisfied. I'm leaving this review because of the attention Noah gave to me as a customer. He was polite, courteous, and satisfied that I found my item. Service like this will bring me back to this store. Thank you Noah!!
Derek Evenson
I waited for about 20 minutes trying to get a salesperson to unlock a baseball glove from the rack. I went to the cashier to see if they would help. Maybe they called someone? At some point I just started waving hands in the air wildly, hoping someone would notice me. Some Gen Z sales kid said "we'll be with you in a second" ... What a dump of a store. Never again.
Jayashankar Raghunathan
I prefer this location (East El Camino Real). Wide choice. Good service! Good choice of HOKA shoes encouraged me to visit and purchase. I did get an 90 days return offer in HOKA shoes. Didn’t come to the return option; as my reasonable research time spent; resulted in being satisfied with what I got.
ragavendran balakrishnan
We had a really good experience in Dicks Sporting goods, Sunnyvale branch. Graham helped us out in picking bikes for my entire fam, along with all the Accessories needed. After purchasing everything, he even helped out setting all the bikes within our SUV. And when we realized it might be a bit too much, we picked a trunk rack, and he even helped fixing it and racking the bikes on it. Overall a very happy experience. Note : we bought a Large, Medium and a kid sized Nishiki bikes, 3 Helmets, 2 locks, a kids bike seat and a car trunk rack at the end.
How to reach DICK'S Sporting Goods
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Why rally at DICK'S Sporting Goods with your friends? Because it’s not just a sporting goods store; it’s a dynamic hub where friends and families can come together to explore, shop, and ignite their passion for sports and outdoor activities. With a rating of 3.8 based on over 750 reviews, DICK'S offers a reliable experience with a wide selection of quality gear, apparel, and footwear for virtually every sport and outdoor adventure you can imagine. Whether you are planning a casual meetup or gearing up for a new group activity, this is the perfect place to kickstart your shared athletic journey. The atmosphere is welcoming and inspiring, perfect for bonding over shared sporting goals or discovering new hobbies together. Plus, the store’s knowledgeable staff, often called “PROS,” are ready to assist your group with expert advice and gear fitting, ensuring everyone finds exactly what they need to perform at their best. From seasoned athletes to casual recreational players, DICK'S Sporting Goods provides an engaging venue ripe for rallying your friends or family for memorable, action-packed days together.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at DICK'S Sporting Goods?
Visiting DICK'S Sporting Goods with your group opens the door to numerous activities that make it ideal for meetups. First and foremost, the store offers hands-on experiences like renting batting cages at some locations, where you and your friends can challenge one another to perfect your swings or simply have fun competing. This interactive offering turns a typical shopping trip into an active, energetic event where everyone participates.
Additionally, DICK’S features extensive departments catering to team sports such as basketball, baseball, football, and soccer. This means groups can test and compare gear in real time, from basketball shoes to baseball gloves, making it a practical outing for community teams or casual groups looking to upgrade equipment together. The store also provides specialized zones for golf with cutting-edge clubs and accessories for golf fanatics and newbies alike, promoting friendly competition or group lessons.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find a treasure trove of camping gear, bikes, kayaks, and outdoor games, perfect for planning group expeditions or simply bonding over shared outdoor goals. The diverse range supports all-season activities, making it easy to plan meetups throughout the year. With apparel and footwear from top brands, your group can also enjoy trying on the latest in athletic fashion, creating a fun, social atmosphere full of discovery and encouragement.
Why Is DICK'S Sporting Goods a Perfect Venue for Group Meetups?
DICK'S Sporting Goods excels as a meetup venue because it seamlessly blends shopping with active exploration and personalized service. The diverse product selection means visitors with varied sporting interests or fitness goals can find something suited to their needs, from high-end athletic shoes to beginner-friendly gear. This breadth attracts groups with mixed passions, allowing everyone to engage in activities that excite them personally.
The presence of seasoned PROS—knowledgeable staff equipped to provide expert advice—adds tremendous value to group visits. They help tailor recommendations based on each person’s skill level and aspirations, fostering an encouraging environment for growth and camaraderie. This service approach nurtures group bonding, as friends and family share tips, try new equipment together, and learn collectively.
Moreover, many DICK’S Sporting Goods locations host special events, clinics, or equipment demos that groups can attend to enhance their sporting skills or discover new activities. These events provide exciting social opportunities beyond shopping, making every visit more than just a transaction but a shared experience. Whether gearing up for a local league or simply preparing for weekend adventures, the store's environment encourages social interaction and positive competition.
How Does DICK’S Sporting Goods Support Ongoing Group Activities?
Beyond the initial meetup, DICK'S Sporting Goods supports ongoing group activities by providing essential equipment, maintenance, and services needed to keep the momentum going. Their PROS service includes gear repairs, custom fittings, and equipment tune-ups, ensuring that your team’s gear stays in peak condition for continuous use. This professional care helps groups avoid frequent disruptions and get the most out of their investments.
The store’s commitment to the community also includes youth sports programs and technological tools like the GameChanger app, which assists groups in managing schedules, scores, and communication. This digital integration makes it easier for teams to organize and stay connected, fostering a sense of belonging and streamlined collaboration.
Furthermore, seasonal discounts and promotions accessible in-store and online make it affordable for groups to upgrade or replace equipment as needed. This ongoing access to quality gear at reasonable prices encourages repeated visits, turning DICK'S Sporting Goods into a reliable partner for sports groups and families who want to invest in their athletic lifestyles together.
What Makes the Shopping Experience at DICK'S Unique for Group Visitors?
Shopping at DICK'S Sporting Goods with friends or family is more than browsing shelves; it’s an interactive, educational experience where everyone can get involved. The store layout often includes specialty shop-in-shops dedicated to specific sports and activities, letting groups explore their interests independently or collectively in focused zones. This setup allows for a more personalized experience within a larger communal space.
The footwear deck, for example, offers an opportunity to test running shoes and get advice on the best fit, making it ideal for groups with diverse fitness habits. Similarly, visitors can explore the Fan Shop’s officially licensed sports merchandise to deck out their group in team colors and apparel, perfect for enhancing group identity during games or outings.
Interactive displays, demos, and hands-on product testing add an experiential layer to shopping that engages all ages. This is perfect for families with kids who might want to try sporting equipment or tech gadgets while learning about new activities. The combination of self-exploration and attentive, knowledgeable staff assistance creates a dynamic, supportive shopping environment that feels tailored for group outings.
How Does DICK’S Sporting Goods Foster a Positive Social Atmosphere?
DICK'S Sporting Goods fosters a social atmosphere by creating opportunities for connection through shared interests and collaborative experiences. The store often functions as a community hub, where individuals and groups can learn from each other, share stories, and encourage one another’s fitness and sporting ambitions.
By offering various clinics, product demos, and event sponsorships, the store connects groups with local sports culture and networks, encouraging ongoing interactions beyond the visit. Groups can benefit from these social touchpoints, expanding their friend and activity circles while deepening existing relationships.
Moreover, the inclusive approach to fitness and sports—welcoming beginners, youth groups, competitive athletes, and casual shoppers alike—helps reduce barriers often associated with sports participation. This open environment helps friends and family feel comfortable rallying together regardless of skill level or experience, reinforcing bonds through shared goals and achievements.
In summary, DICK'S Sporting Goods is more than a retail store; it is a community space that inspires groups to rally, explore, and grow together in an active, engaging setting. Whether for casual meetups, serious training, or seasonal adventures, the combination of extensive gear, expert guidance, interactive features, and social events makes it an ideal place for friends and families to connect through sports and outdoor activities.