When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Hobby Lobby
Why Hobby Lobby is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hobby Lobby stands out as a beloved destination for meeting up with friends and indulging in creativity. With its vast selection of over 70,000 products covering arts and crafts, home décor, seasonal items, fabric, yarn, jewelry making, and more, it offers something for everyone. Founded in 1970 from a modest $600 loan by David and Barbara Green, Hobby Lobby has grown into the largest privately owned arts-and-crafts retailer in the U.S., boasting over 1,000 stores nationwide. Their stores average 55,000 square feet, creating a spacious and inviting environment that encourages exploration and inspiration. The store layout and extensive selection provide customers ample opportunity to discover new projects or find supplies for shared hobbies, making it a perfect meetup spot for friends who enjoy crafting together. Additionally, Hobby Lobby emphasizes values by operating with a commitment to Biblical principles, creating a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere during its Monday through Saturday hours. The store is closed on Sundays, providing a restful day for their employees and customers alike. This blend of variety, community values, and accessibility makes Hobby Lobby a great social and creative hub.
Here's what people think of Hobby Lobby
As of recent, Hobby Lobby holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2736 reviews.
Customer reviews of Hobby Lobby generally praise the retailer for its wide variety of products and high-quality merchandise. Many customers appreciate the regular sales and discounts, which make creative projects more affordable. Users also highlight the large store size, which contributes to a pleasant shopping experience with plenty of options. Positive feedback often mentions friendly and helpful staff who enhance the shopping experience. However, some negative reviews point out inconsistencies in customer service quality, with some locations experiencing long wait times at checkout or occasional stock issues. A few customers express frustration over the manual price entry system, which can slow transactions. Despite these occasional setbacks, the overall consensus is favorable, with many customers returning due to the broad product range and value offered. In conclusion, Hobby Lobby enjoys a strong reputation among its shoppers, balancing a vast selection and value with occasional service challenges, making it a trusted spot for arts and crafts enthusiasts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Elizabeth
New Hobby Lobby location on Research & Braker is NOW open! Nice, big, clean location with lots of parking.
kaye nicholson
Staff doesn't know their stock. The manager did not honor well posted prices even though they were valid the day before and would be valid in two or three days and the signs were everywhere as though they were current. We spent 1/2 hour with staff planning photo framing continually referring to 2 for one price. Never corrected our understanding and incorrect posting. When we suggested to the manager that she remove outdated signs so no one else would be misled as we were she replied, " when I get around to it".
Suzanne Nightengale
Employees there were very helpful. Especially the lady in the framing department (Sorry, I don't remember her name.) She went above and beyond to make sure I purchased the proper item. Real positive experience at this Hobby Lobby.
Gracie Escareno
This was my second visit to a different Hobby Lobby, and once again, the customer service was virtually nonexistent. It seemed like no one wanted to help or even be there. In the framing department, an older gentleman told me he was ready to go home and clearly didn’t want to assist. I told him not to worry, grabbed my artwork, and left. As I was walking out, I saw another customer asking for help, only to be told by an employee that it wasn’t their department—with no attempt to offer further assistance. It’s no wonder the parking lot was nearly empty.
Cat S.
So excited to have a location even closer to me. It is your standard Hobby Lobby in regards to items carried, definitely more stocked and organized considering this store opened not that long ago. I can't say the customer service of staff was rude or negligent, as I was aware of what I needed and didn't require assistance. Overall, super happy to see how this location will grow in the future.
How to reach Hobby Lobby
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Website: None
Why Hobby Lobby may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hobby Lobby with your friends?
Hobby Lobby is much more than just a store—it’s a vibrant gathering place that invites friends and family to explore creativity together in a welcoming environment. When you rally at Hobby Lobby with your friends, you enter a space bursting with inspiration and endless possibilities for fun and accomplishment. With a strong 4.4-star rating from over 2,700 reviews, Hobby Lobby has proven to be a popular destination for groups looking to bond over shared interests and hobbies. Whether you’re looking to craft personalized gifts, decorate for a party, or discover a new DIY project, Hobby Lobby offers a well-stocked selection of arts and crafts supplies that cater to all skill levels. This makes it perfect for groups that want to enjoy activities together, learning new techniques or simply enjoying the thrill of creating something unique. The friendly staff, extensive product range, and inspiring displays create an atmosphere that encourages collaboration and conversation, turning a simple visit into a memorable outing with friends or family.
What activities can you do at Hobby Lobby that make it perfect for group meetups?
Hobby Lobby offers a wide variety of activities tailored to different interests and creativity levels, making it an ideal venue for group meetups. One of the biggest draws is the opportunity to explore diverse craft projects—from painting and scrapbooking to floral arrangements and home décor crafting. Friends can browse aisles filled with everything from fabric and yarn to modeling clay, beads, and seasonal decorations, sparking new ideas for collaborative projects. The store also features a custom framing department, where groups can get expert advice on framing artwork, photographs, or created crafts, making it a perfect stop for turning a shared project into a cherished keepsake. Besides hands-on crafting, groups can plan themed party supplies shopping trips or pick up materials for DIY home improvement and décor projects. This variety not only keeps every member engaged but also allows the group to collectively plan and execute creative ideas, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.
How does Hobby Lobby accommodate groups and enhance the meetup experience?
Hobby Lobby’s spacious store layouts and friendly environment make it easy and convenient for groups to shop and explore together without feeling rushed or cramped. Store hours typically range from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM throughout the week, which provides flexible time slots for daytime or evening meetups, accommodating varied schedules. The staff are knowledgeable and approachable, readily offering assistance specific to group needs, such as helping locate products for larger projects or giving crafting tips. The consistent availability of framing experts at each location adds another layer of personalized service, giving groups special access to professional guidance that can elevate group projects from ideas to beautifully finished products. Additionally, Hobby Lobby’s frequent sales and discounts on arts and crafts supplies provide a budget-friendly option for groups keen on making the most out of their creative outings. These features contribute to a relaxed, inspiring, and productive meetup atmosphere.
What makes Hobby Lobby’s product selection ideal for creative group activities?
Hobby Lobby stands out for its enormous and diverse product selection that appeals to a wide range of crafting tastes and project ambitions. Whether your group is interested in painting, sewing, jewelry making, or seasonal décor, Hobby Lobby’s inventory carries everything needed to bring those ideas to life. Their extensive selection of fabrics, paints, brushes, beads, and home décor items enables groups to explore multiple craft forms in one visit, which is perfect for larger meetups where different members may have varied interests. Seasonal and holiday sections offer timely inspiration for group projects themed around upcoming events, which can transform a casual meetup into a festive creative session. The variety and quality of supplies encourage experimentation and shared learning, enriching the overall experience and enabling groups to leave with tangible, personalized creations that celebrate their collaboration.
Why is Hobby Lobby a good place to create lasting memories with friends and family?
Beyond being a well-stocked craft store, Hobby Lobby serves as a creative hub where relationships are nurtured through the joy of making and sharing. Hosting a meetup at Hobby Lobby allows friends and family to spend quality time together, sparking conversations and laughter as they try new hobbies or work on joint projects. The tactile experience of crafting enhances connection—learning a new technique or completing a craft together creates a sense of achievement that strengthens bonds. Hobby Lobby’s welcoming atmosphere combined with its focus on art, craft, and home décor creates a unique space where creativity meets community. Group members can create custom gifts, personalized decorations, or even memorabilia that symbolize their friendship or family ties. These shared experiences and tangible outcomes make each visit more than a shopping trip—it becomes a meaningful memory-making occasion that invites return visits and ongoing creative exploration.
How does the custom framing service enrich the Hobby Lobby group experience?
One of the standout features at Hobby Lobby is the custom framing service available at every store, enhancing the group outing by adding a professional touch to creative projects. This service allows friends or family members to bring their artwork, photos, or handcrafted items and collaborate on selecting the perfect frame to preserve and showcase their work. Having a framing expert on hand means the group receives tailored recommendations on materials, styles, and techniques, ensuring that each finished piece is both beautiful and lasting. The ability to turn a group project into a professionally framed keepsake adds a sense of accomplishment and pride, encouraging future group activities centered around art and crafting. It also provides a unique opportunity for the group to commemorate their time together with personalized, framed memories that can be gifted or displayed at home.
What should you know about Hobby Lobby’s accessibility and convenience for group visits?
Hobby Lobby locations are conveniently situated in many communities, usually within larger shopping areas that provide ample parking and easy access. Most stores operate with consistent hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday, allowing groups to plan visits that fit their availability. Some stores are closed on Sundays, so it is advisable to check local store hours before planning a meetup. The wide aisles and organized layout provide a comfortable environment to walk through with friends or family, making shopping stress-free and fun. The company’s large footprint means there are many nearby locations, so groups can often find a Hobby Lobby close to home or their meeting spot. Additionally, the availability of online resources and the option to order supplies for in-store pickup or delivery complements the in-person experience, making it even easier for groups to coordinate projects ahead of time.
What other benefits make Hobby Lobby an attractive spot for group creativity?
Aside from the extensive inventory and specialized services, Hobby Lobby also fosters a culture of creativity through frequent sales, seasonal events, and crafting inspiration displays. These elements keep the shopping experience fresh and exciting, ensuring groups have new ideas to explore on every visit. Hobby Lobby often features coupon deals that make group projects more affordable, encouraging multiple outings and continuous crafting adventures. The staff’s enthusiasm for arts and crafts is contagious, often leading to helpful tips and encouragement that boost group morale. Furthermore, the store’s focus on family-friendly projects and supplies means that meetups can easily include younger members or beginners, making Hobby Lobby an inclusive destination. Overall, the combination of product variety, expert assistance, flexible hours, and an inspiring atmosphere makes Hobby Lobby an excellent choice for those seeking a creative and social meeting place.