When asking yourself about something to do near me in Santa Cruz with a group of friends or family, consider
Flipside Thrift Center
Why Flipside Thrift Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Flipside Thrift Center stands out as a community-focused thrift store with locations in Novato, Rohnert Park, and Santa Cruz, California. Owned and operated by United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of the North Bay, its mission transcends typical retail by providing meaningful paid employment to adults with developmental disabilities. This unique social enterprise offers a clean, organized shopping experience featuring carefully curated clothing and household items at fantastic prices, making it an ideal spot for thrifty shoppers and treasure hunters alike. Visitors frequent Flipside Thrift not only for the exceptional bargains but also to support a cause dedicated to promoting independence and skill development for people with disabilities. The stores serve as vibrant community hubs where donations are welcomed, and convenient pickup services are offered to make giving back easier. Open seven days a week, Flipside Thrift Centers invite everyone to engage in a shopping experience that fosters inclusion, empowerment, and connection while discovering amazing deals and contributing to a meaningful social impact.
Here's what people think of Flipside Thrift Center
As of recent, Flipside Thrift Center holds a 4.3-star rating based on 204 reviews.
Customer reviews of Flipside Thrift Center highlight an overall positive shopping experience, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating based on over 200 reviews. Users frequently commend the stores for their well-organized layouts, cleanliness, and the quality and variety of merchandise, noting that it's easy to find valuable items at reasonable prices. Shoppers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, recognizing their dedication to customer service and the store's broader mission. The sense of community and support for adults with disabilities also resonates strongly, with many reviewers expressing satisfaction in supporting a socially responsible business.
Positive reviews emphasize the enjoyable atmosphere and the thrill of finding unique second-hand treasures, as well as praise for the convenient donation process, including porch and curbside pickup. Customers have also noted the consistent restocking of items, which keeps the inventory fresh and interesting.
On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional issues such as limited parking at certain locations and varying inventory quality depending on the day. A few reviewers have mentioned that prices can sometimes feel inconsistent or slightly higher compared to other thrift stores. However, these criticisms are generally outweighed by the positive experiences reported.
In conclusion, reviews paint Flipside Thrift Center as a reliable and welcoming thrift store that combines great value shopping with an admirable mission, making it a favored destination for bargain hunters who want to support an inclusive cause.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jenae Lien
Neat place to consistently check up on for finds. I lucked out on a dress worth $150 for $3. It was my first time there, and I went with my mother-in-law on a Monday. She paid for my items and we received 50% off our whole order because of her senior age. I felt super lucky! This place has a wide variety of clothing. Not too many furniture items, but they do carry a nice selection of cups, plates, and other kitchenware. Make sure you check out what deals they have on different days and plan accordingly to find some great offers.
Extremely Lucky Katie May
This place is horrible!! Pay attention when you check out!! I’ve been coming here for over a year and I just realized that they don’t always give you the sale price on certain color tags that they advertise as 50% off so make sure you’re getting your discount I realized that they only took off $.49 yesterday when the blue tags were 50% off I paid the money didn’t realize it until I got home.THEY DIDNT GIVE ME THE FULL DISCOUNT !!! I go back this morning and the workers there tell me that I’m mistaken that the color tags yesterday were not blue but were green and orange. It was blue and orange tags 50% off . Did I really have to take a picture of their advertise sale in order to get 50% off and not be hustled by these workers at the thrift store Who are obviously stealing. A way used Armani exchange T-shirt that was marked for $26 half of which is still $13……. Yeah $13 a bit of a discount to not receive unbeknownst to me. I just figured that the people that are excepting the money and bringing you up or doing their job properly and not ripping me off . I wouldn’t of got the shirt if I knew that she wasn’t gonna give me 50% off of it because $13for a used Armani shirt that’s ridiculous anyway. So just make sure that when you go to check out that you’re very clear about what color tags are on sale and that you figure in your discount that you’re expecting to get yourself as they’re bringing you up because if you don’t they will rip you off
Wil Michael
Loved it. The half off back to school sale got me lots of good deals. I’ve found many gems at this store.
Family Oviedo
I wish I lived closer, I remember going it was a pleasant experience
T F
Great deals. Been finding amazing outfits for Summer lately and so excited about it ❤ bummed they no longer give coupons after every $20 purchase, but oh well.
How to reach Flipside Thrift Center
None
Website: None
Why rally at Flipside Thrift Center with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Flipside Thrift Center in Rohnert Park offers an experience that is both fun and meaningful, wrapped in an atmosphere of discovery and community support. This thrift store is not just about shopping; it’s an opportunity to bond over shared interests in sustainable fashion, affordable treasures, and giving back. With a solid 4.3-star rating from over 200 reviewers, the store’s well-curated selection of quality clothing, household items, and unique finds ensures there’s something special to spark conversation and delight for every member of your group. Friends can enjoy the thrill of hunting for bargains and one-of-a-kind pieces while contributing to a worthwhile cause. Flipside Thrift supports United Cerebral Palsy of the North Bay, empowering individuals with disabilities through employment and community programs. This social enterprise’s mission gives your meetup a deeper, impactful dimension—every purchase or donation helps improve lives in the local community. The clean, organized environment paired with friendly staff makes everyone feel welcomed, relaxed, and engaged during their visit. Whether you are bargain-hunting, donating, or simply spending quality time together, Flipside Thrift Center creates a lively, purpose-driven atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot to rally with your friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Flipside Thrift Center with your group?
The main draw at Flipside Thrift Center is the joy of thrift shopping itself, which turns retail therapy into an adventure for groups. The store offers a wide variety of quality, resalable clothing, accessories, and household items. This variety creates opportunities for friends to explore sections based on their individual tastes—whether vintage apparel, trendy accessories, or charming décor—and then share finds with each other, making the experience interactive and social. Every week, Flipside introduces exciting new values and treasures, giving your group a fresh reason to return. Beyond just shopping, donations add a collective activity for meetups; groups can bring items to donate or even schedule pickups, supporting the mission of empowering people with disabilities. This shared giving experience deepens the bond among friends by focusing on community impact. Furthermore, Flipside encourages community engagement through volunteer opportunities and events, which your group can participate in to support local causes while spending meaningful time together. The store’s layout and ambiance encourage relaxed browsing, allowing conversations to flow naturally as you discover unexpected gems amid a clean, well-organized space.
Why is Flipside Thrift Center perfect for a group meetup?
Flipside Thrift Center blends a welcoming, community-centric environment with social and philanthropic elements, making it an ideal destination for group meetups. The spacious store layout allows groups to comfortably shop side-by-side without feeling crowded, which is often a concern in busy stores. Their operating hours are generous, open daily with extended evening hours Monday through Saturday, accommodating different schedules so your group can find the perfect time to come together. The store’s mission empowers adults with developmental disabilities by providing them work opportunities and skill development, which adds value beyond commerce. When meeting friends here, you’re supporting an enterprise that fosters inclusion and dignity. This shared social mission can inspire conversations centered around community involvement and collective impact, enriching your meetup experience. Additionally, staff members are known for their warmth and assistance, creating a friendly, inclusive vibe that puts everyone at ease. This welcoming ambiance combined with the thrill of thrifting cultivates a fun, purposeful outing that mixes shopping excitement with meaningful community support, ideal for building lasting memories with friends or family.
What makes the shopping experience at Flipside Thrift unique and appealing?
Flipside Thrift Center stands out due to its careful curation of quality merchandise and commitment to maintaining a clean, organized shopping environment. Unlike many thrift stores that can feel cluttered or overwhelming, Flipside’s staff takes pride in presenting items neatly, with clear pricing and new weekly values that keep the experience fresh and exciting. This attention to detail enhances browsing pleasure and encourages longer visits, perfect for social groups who enjoy chatting and taking their time exploring. The diverse inventory spans clothing, accessories, and household goods that cater to many styles and budgets, making it easy for everyone to find treasures that resonate with their tastes. Furthermore, the presence of donations and pick-up services creates a cycle of giving and receiving that involves the community in a continuous loop of kindness and sustainability. Shopping here is not just about getting good deals but also about feeling connected to a larger cause, generating a satisfying sense of purpose with every purchase. This blend of quality, value, and social responsibility makes Flipside Thrift a compelling, feel-good shopping destination.
How does Flipside Thrift support the local community, and why does that matter for your meetup?
Flipside Thrift Center directly supports United Cerebral Palsy of the North Bay’s efforts to enhance the lives of individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. The store’s revenue funds programs providing meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities, which fosters independence and inclusion. This social mission transforms Flipside from just a shopping venue into a community hub where every dollar spent helps create opportunities for dignity and success. When you organize a meetup here, you’re investing in a cause that uplifts local families and promotes diversity. Additionally, Flipside encourages community donations and volunteerism, inviting groups to take part in these impactful contributions. Knowing that your gathering supports such meaningful work adds a layer of significance to the outing, making it more than just a casual get-together. This connection to community welfare encourages conversation and a collective sense of purpose among friends, strengthening bonds and inspiring empathy. Supporting Flipside means nurturing a more inclusive, caring community—one thrift trip at a time.
What practical amenities and services does Flipside Thrift offer to facilitate group visits?
Flipside Thrift Center understands that convenience and comfort are essential for a positive group outing. The store is located in a convenient shopping area in Rohnert Park, easily accessible and surrounded by other amenities such as Planet Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness, making it simple to coordinate meetups with multiple activities nearby. Ample parking makes it easy for groups to arrive without hassle. Flipside’s hours run from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays, providing flexible timing options to fit your group's schedule. For added convenience, Flipside offers donation pickup service, which groups can use if bringing items to donate but prefer not to haul them themselves. Friendly staff are available to assist, answer questions, and help find items, enhancing the overall experience. The store’s clean environment and organized displays offer a relaxed shopping atmosphere, ideal for groups who want to explore at leisure while socializing. These amenities ensure your gathering runs smoothly and comfortably, supporting both shopping and socializing.
What kind of crowd and atmosphere can you expect at Flipside Thrift?
Flipside Thrift Center attracts a community-oriented crowd that values affordability, sustainability, and social impact. Shoppers range from thrifting enthusiasts and environmentally conscious buyers to families and bargain seekers, creating a diverse and welcoming environment. Because the store’s mission supports employment for people with disabilities, there is an added sense of warmth and inclusivity permeating the atmosphere. Customers and staff alike contribute to a friendly, supportive vibe, making it easy for groups to feel at home and engaged. The store is generally clean and well-kept, with merchandise arranged thoughtfully to avoid the chaos sometimes associated with thrift shopping. This atmosphere fosters relaxed conversations and leisurely exploration, perfect for groups who want a low-pressure, fun outing. It’s a place where shared interests in fashion, sustainability, and community converge to create a lively backdrop for socializing and discovery.
How can your group make the most of a visit to Flipside Thrift?
To maximize your group’s experience at Flipside Thrift Center, plan your visit around exploring different types of merchandise with shared enthusiasm. Make it a fun challenge to find the quirkiest item or best deal, encouraging lighthearted competition and conversation. Bring donations ahead of time as a collective contribution to the store's mission, and consider scheduling a donation pickup if you have bulky items. Engage with the staff to learn more about UCP of the North Bay’s programs and how your shopping supports these initiatives—this knowledge can deepen your appreciation of the experience. Follow up your visit with refreshments nearby to extend the meetup, sharing your finds and stories. For repeat visits, keep an eye on weekly specials or events hosted by Flipside, which can add unique experiences to your outings. By blending shopping, giving back, and socializing, your group can create memorable and meaningful gatherings centered around Flipside.
Why is Flipside Thrift Center a sustainable choice for group outings?
Choosing Flipside Thrift Center for your group meetup aligns with values of sustainability by promoting reuse, reducing waste, and supporting ethical employment. Thrifting extends the life cycle of clothing and household items, preventing them from ending up in landfills, which makes this a greener alternative to conventional retail outings. By shopping with a group at Flipside, you’re collectively contributing to environmental conservation while enjoying the personal benefits of unique, affordable purchases. The store’s connection to UCP of the North Bay means your outing also supports social sustainability by empowering individuals with disabilities through meaningful work and community participation. This triple bottom line approach—economic, social, and environmental—makes Flipside Thrift a holistic destination for groups who want to spend quality time with friends while advancing causes that matter. It’s a way to make your gathering inherently rewarding beyond mere entertainment, fostering responsible consumerism and community care.
What are some tips for organizing a successful meetup at Flipside Thrift Center?
To ensure your meetup at Flipside Thrift Center runs smoothly, consider these tips: First, coordinate your group’s arrival during off-peak hours like weekday mornings or early afternoons, when the store is less crowded and there’s more room to browse. Communicate with members about the store’s layout and merchandise variety so everyone’s expectations are aligned. Encourage participants to bring donation items ahead of time to streamline contributions and support the store’s mission. Plan extra time for relaxed shopping so no one feels rushed, and schedule a social hangout nearby afterward to discuss your finds and experiences. If your group includes individuals who might need assistance, inquire in advance about any accommodations or support services provided. Lastly, remind everyone to embrace the spirit of thrifting—appreciating the unexpected and enjoying the camaraderie. Following these steps can turn your visit into a memorable, impactful outing for friends or family centered on fun, community, and discovery.