When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Happy Medium
Why Happy Medium is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Happy Medium is an inviting creative space and art school located in New York City, ideal for meeting up with friends who share a passion for art and creativity. With a strong focus on community and personalized experience, Happy Medium emphasizes "unreasonable hospitality," striving to surprise and delight visitors by attentively listening to their needs and preferences. The school offers a warm and friendly environment where both beginners and experienced artists can explore their creative talents through various workshops and collaborative projects. Founded about five years ago, the institution has grown a dedicated following, attracting individuals eager to learn and connect through the arts. Highlights include their attentive staff led by co-founder Tayler Carraway, who ensures that every interaction is meaningful and supportive. This thoughtful approach fosters not only artistic growth but also the building of friendships and a sense of belonging. Moreover, Happy Medium embraces moments of genuine care and empathy, embodying a culture where guests feel valued and inspired. Whether attending a class or a community event, friends can find a joyful space to create together and make lasting memories in a vibrant urban setting.
Here's what people think of Happy Medium
As of recent, Happy Medium holds a 4.8-star rating based on 99 reviews.
User reviews of Happy Medium reflect a generally positive reception, highlighted by a strong average rating of 4.8 across nearly 100 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that allows for artistic exploration at any skill level, as well as the personalized attention from staff who "always listen" and aim to deliver memorable experiences. Positive reviews often mention the founder, Tayler Carraway, and the team's dedication to creating "surprise and delight" moments, which enhance the visitor experience beyond expectations. Customers value the community spirit and the nurturing environment that Happy Medium fosters. However, some negative feedback points to occasional communication delays or difficulties, as evidenced by a complaint noted in the Better Business Bureau profile that remained unresolved, leading to a modest BBB rating. While this contrasts with the otherwise high praise, it suggests that in rare instances, follow-up and responsiveness could improve to match the high standards of hospitality and customer care the business aspires to. Overall, the reviews depict Happy Medium as a creative hub praised for its heartfelt approach and artistic inspiration, with minor areas for service refinement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bonnie Ye
I visited for the first time for happy hour. I arrived at 3 so there’s no issue finding a parking spot near by. The place is spacious and I liked the open air setting. My friend and I sat at the bar. The service provided by both staff (don’t know their names) was friendly and helpful. I ordered a Tiny Spro-Tini. It’s like an espresso martini. It’s tiny but tasty. My friend got a margarita. It looked like many people ordered a pitcher of margarita. We also ordered buffalo chicken sliders and kale Caesar salad and fries. The sliders were ok but i really liked the kale salad and fries. The price is reasonable for the portion size. I would go back again.
Nivedita Paul
They have a good happy hour. We tried the drinks - large margarita & ward 8 and the food - sliders and mushroom po’ boy (minus the bread). We also ordered the blue Negroni off of the regular menu. The highlights were definitely the blue Negroni and those amazingly crispy mushrooms!!!! FYI - I’m a huge fan of panda, coconut and Mezcal. Tried the drink called Supergrass, did not like it at all.
Leslie Iacono
Fun happy hour, very energetic vibe. Service was fast and good. We got a table on the patio, they have heaters and Christmas lights! Good was awesome, drinks were fun and excellent. Plenty of vegetarian options, falafel, broccolini, crispy mushroom, salads, fries. Everyone was happy with their food, we shared a bunch of plates. The lemongrass mezcal cocktail was our favorite. Great time
MEGHAN CUMA
Came in from out of town and absolutely loved this place. Staff are extremely friendly, perfect bar for chatting and people watching. Definitely seems like a local bar. Their drink prices range from divey to typical $15 cocktails. Their ‘spro-tini was fantastic !
Sarah Wright
This is truly the best go-to, any-day, come-as-you-are local bar. The drinks are fantastic, happy hour specials are great, and the food is memorably delicious. Their sauces are bomb, I haven’t had a single mediocre bite, and damn, those slushees slap.
How to reach Happy Medium
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Why Happy Medium may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Happy Medium with your friends?
If you’re looking for a vibrant, welcoming place where creativity and fun come together seamlessly, Happy Medium is the perfect spot to gather with your friends. With an outstanding 4.8-star rating from nearly 100 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently have a memorable, enjoyable experience here. This isn’t just another art studio; Happy Medium was born from a desire to make art accessible and joyous—a place where you aren’t judged by skill or experience but encouraged to express yourself freely. Whether you want to unwind after a hectic week, try something new, or just enjoy quality time with your closest people in a relaxed environment, this venue offers an energizing and inspirational atmosphere. The founders, Tayler and Rett Carraway, started this as a living room art party and grew it into a hospitality-driven art cafe concept that feels just like meeting friends at your favorite hangout, but with the added delight of creating art together. If you want a joyful mix of socializing and self-expression, Happy Medium offers an experience that both sparks laughter and encourages artistic exploration in an accessible, friendly setting.
What activities make Happy Medium the ideal place for group meetups?
Happy Medium offers an extensive range of engaging activities that cater perfectly to groups of friends or family looking to celebrate creativity together. At its core, Happy Medium operates as an “Art Cafe,” where you can reserve a seat and order art projects much like you would food at a restaurant. This unique setup means no expert skill is required, just a willingness to have fun and experiment. The variety of offerings includes canvas painting sessions, pottery painting, woodworking workshops, figure drawing classes, and more. For those who prefer a lively atmosphere, group canvas painting is especially popular—you and your friends can each create your own masterpiece while chatting and enjoying a laid-back vibe. Pottery painting provides tactile creativity and is delightful for all ages, allowing guests to decorate mugs, bowls, or planters. One of the standout features is the “Build-a-Chair” workshop, which offers a hands-on, collaborative woodworking experience that pushes the creative boundaries of typical meetups. These activities are meticulously designed to foster connection through collective creativity, making Happy Medium a hub for bonding while exploring art in accessible, enjoyable ways.
Why is Happy Medium considered more than just an art studio?
Beyond simply providing a space for art, Happy Medium has evolved into a hospitality brand focused on delivering a warm, human-centered experience from the moment you book your reservation to the time you leave. The founders intentionally keep communication personal and inviting—reservations can be made through direct messages, ensuring each guest feels valued and welcomed. This personal touch creates an atmosphere where customers feel at ease, encouraging openness and fun rather than intimidation. The venue itself reflects this commitment, with thoughtfully designed interiors that invite relaxation and socializing. The founders liken their vision to cultural icons like FAO Schwarz or Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory—places that inspire wonder and joy. At Happy Medium, art is not just a product; it’s a gateway to happiness and mental well-being, with creativity embraced as a vehicle for a healthier lifestyle. This hospitality DNA sets it apart from run-of-the-mill workshops and makes it a destination for people looking to connect meaningfully with each other through shared creative experiences.
What makes Happy Medium’s “Art Cafe” concept unique and perfect for groups?
The “Art Cafe” concept pioneered by Happy Medium is a brilliant reinvention of the traditional art studio experience, designed specifically with socializing in mind. Instead of coming to class for hours or signing up for formal lessons, guests simply reserve a table and select from a menu of artistic experiences, much like ordering from a restaurant tabletop menu. This relaxed format allows groups to customize their experience based on their interests—whether that’s trying pottery for the first time or diving into figure drawing. The ordering system promotes flexibility, letting your group try different mediums at your own pace in a fun, no-pressure setting. This model works exceptionally well for meetups because it fosters interaction—while you create, you talk, share ideas, and enjoy each other’s company without the formality of a class. It also means newbies feel welcome, as there’s no pressure to “perform” artistically; the goal is enjoyment and exploration. This innovation transforms art-making into a shared party-like event that naturally strengthens social bonds and creates lasting memories.
How does the environment and customer care elevate the Happy Medium experience?
Every aspect of Happy Medium’s environment is deliberately curated to make guests feel not only comfortable but inspired and energized. The founders believe that customer experience is as important as the art itself. From the warm, inviting decor to the friendly staff who guide you through your artistic choices, the vibe is welcoming and supportive. The cafe-like setting is social and lively yet intimate enough to allow meaningful conversations. Special touches like background music, cozy seating arrangements, and seasonal decorations all contribute to a mood that invites relaxation and creativity. Importantly, the team’s approach to reservations and communication—often handled personally through social media or direct calls—ensures that from the moment you decide to come, you feel a genuine connection to the Happy Medium community. This focus on hospitality and care transforms a simple meetup into a nurturing and memorable outing. Visitors frequently remark that the staff’s enthusiasm and attentiveness make the experience feel personalized and special, adding genuine value beyond the art projects themselves.
What makes Happy Medium suitable for all skill levels and age groups?
One of Happy Medium’s greatest strengths is its inclusive design, welcoming individuals and groups regardless of artistic experience or age. From beginners to seasoned creatives, everyone can find joy in the varied offerings. Many people appreciate that there are no “wrong” answers here—whether you’re casually painting or meticulously sculpting, the focus is on expression and enjoyment, not expertise. The beginner-friendly activities are perfect for those who have never picked up a paintbrush or who might feel intimidated by traditional art classes. Their self-guided, supportive environment encourages experimentation in a way that even children and seniors can comfortably engage. The social aspect means friends of different backgrounds and skill levels can participate together without feeling out of place. This inclusive approach ensures that the entire group feels empowered to relax, explore, and bond, making Happy Medium an ideal spot for family gatherings, friend reunions, or even corporate team events.
Why is Happy Medium’s location and ambiance important for hosting successful meetups?
Happy Medium’s locations, including its flagship and the newer Greenpoint, Brooklyn studio, have been carefully chosen and designed to enhance the meetup experience. These urban hubs are easily accessible yet provide a sense of escape from the city’s usual noise and hustle. The studios offer spacious, light-filled rooms that promote creativity and socializing simultaneously. Outdoor garden spaces, such as the one in Greenpoint, provide additional tranquil areas for relaxation or informal chatting between sessions. The ambiance is artful but unpretentious, balancing inspiration with comfort. This combination makes it easy to lose yourself in the creative process while still enjoying the company of your friends. The vibe powers a sense of occasion—making even a casual meetup feel special. The aesthetic appeal and thoughtful layout contribute to guests feeling refreshed and connected by the time they leave.
In what ways does Happy Medium support ongoing creative connections beyond the meetup itself?
Happy Medium has built a community around the act of creating together that extends beyond a single visit. Many guests become regulars who come with friends repeatedly, drawn by the welcoming atmosphere and evolving slate of activities. The founders envision the brand as a modern cultural touchstone for creativity, encouraging long-term engagement through workshops, seasonal events, and special collaborations with artists and muses. They publish engaging content and stories that invite reflection and inspiration, bridging the experience in-studio with daily life. Gift cards and group packages also make it easy to plan future gatherings or share the experience with loved ones. This ongoing creative ecosystem nurtures friendships and social ties by providing continual opportunities to connect through art, making Happy Medium not just a one-time destination but a vibrant network for creative socializing.
Overall, Happy Medium offers an unmatched combination of fun, inclusivity, and hospitality that makes it an exceptional place to rally your friends or family for a memorable meetup filled with creativity and connection. Whether you want to paint, sculpt, build, or simply enjoy vibrant company in a beautiful setting, this art cafe delivers a joyful experience that will keep your group coming back for more.