When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
King's Hobby ATX
Why King's Hobby ATX is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
King's Hobby ATX, located in Austin, Texas, is renowned as the best locally owned hobby store in the city with a legacy dating back to 1973. It serves as an ideal meetup spot for friends who share interests in hobbies such as scale modeling, model rocketry, model railroading, slot car racing, and STEM-based educational supplies. The store offers an extensive selection of merchandise designed to appeal to novices and experts alike, making it a versatile hub for hobbyists across all skill levels. Highlights of King's Hobby include specialty paint and scale model kits, a new line of premium tools for kit building aficionados like the Dispiae Departure Tool Set, and exclusive promo cars and customizing kits available online. The store supports the local community, boasting staff with over 150 years of combined hobby product knowledge and project expertise, personally matching customers with products suited to their unique projects. Besides retail, King's Hobby fosters community engagement through events like the AVAFest Veterans Film Festival, highlighting its commitment to cultural support. The in-store atmosphere encourages socializing and sharing passions, making it a welcoming destination to meet up with friends and collaborate on creative projects.
Here's what people think of King's Hobby ATX
As of recent, King's Hobby ATX holds a 4.5-star rating based on 255 reviews.
Customer reviews of King's Hobby ATX average an impressive 4.5 stars from 255 reviewers, reflecting a strong reputation in the Austin area. Positive reviews frequently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who offer personalized advice and have deep expertise in various hobby domains. Many customers appreciate the quality and variety of products available, especially the scale models and specialty tools, noting the helpfulness in finding the right supplies for projects. The store's commitment to the community and local events also earns praise as it adds a meaningful dimension beyond just retail. In contrast, negative feedback tends to revolve around occasional stock limitations or specific items being out of stock, which can be frustrating for dedicated hobbyists. Some reviewers mention that parking or store space can be tight at peak times, slightly impacting the shopping experience. Nonetheless, the overwhelmingly positive experiences with the service, product range, and community engagement underscore King's Hobby ATX as a beloved local institution. Overall, the reviews confirm that King's Hobby provides not only quality products but also a warm community environment, making it an excellent place for meeting friends and sharing hobby interests.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daniel Li
GREAT STAFF GREAT MODELS GREAT DISCOUNTS AND GREAT DEALS. STAFF ARE CHATTY WITH ALL TOPICS IN HOBBIES, HISTORY AND SPORTS. GREAT VISIT, HAVE KITS FOR ALL AGES. ALSO HAVE GREAT TOOLS AND PAINTS, A WIDE SELECTION. VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED GREAT PLACE!!! WOULD 10000% RECOMMEND TO VISIT!!!
Courtney Coleman
My teen son has recently started modeling and wanted to check out something other than the big box stores. The gentleman that helped him was awesome. He helped him narrow down what he was looking for and made him feel welcome. My son is already looking for ways to save up more money and go back. Was a very positive experience. It’s really nice when a niche store is welcoming of beginners.
Sergio Flores
I stopped in today for a gift for my wife and really enjoyed my experience. I was hoping to get some advice and guidance on paints as my wife sells 3d printed webcam covers that she hand paints. Damien(spelling?) was very helpful they helped me not only figure out what kind of paint might be best but also pointed me in the direction of some accessories to help with the paintng as well. I was pretty sure that I would be given the help I needed and I was correct and it made my experience very easy. I also love all the of cool model planes hanging from the ceiling on display! I would gladly recommend this place to anyone needing anything in the model/model painting hobby space. Thanks again
Cam
Awesome and friendly staff, accidentally spent almost 2 hours in there looking over everything. Helped me narrow down what I’m looking to do with my model railroad layout, and got my setup for a very fair price. Incredible deals in their bargain bin, awesome for scratchbuilding. Only downside is I wish they had boxes for taking some of that stuff home, got a little beatup in a plastic bag
Steve Jones
An Austin iconic hobby shop in a new location. Love the people there and the owners.
How to reach King's Hobby ATX
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Why King's Hobby ATX may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at King's Hobby ATX with your friends?
If you're looking for a place to gather with friends or family that sparks creativity, camaraderie, and fun, King's Hobby ATX is an unbeatable choice. This locally owned Austin gem offers more than just a hobby store experience; it provides an engaging environment where enthusiasts can connect over shared passions. Whether you're a seasoned model builder or someone new to the hobby scene, King's Hobby ATX invites you to step into a space filled with fascinating scale models, paint supplies, and more. The welcoming atmosphere encourages group interaction, making it perfect for meetups where you can collaborate, learn, and compete in a relaxed setting. Hosting an event here means tapping into a community that celebrates craftsmanship and creativity, ensuring everybody has something enjoyable to do. Plus, with a solid 4.5-star rating from over 250 reviews, the store’s reputation stands as proof of the consistently positive customer experience and quality offerings. Rallying your friends at King's Hobby ATX is not just about shopping — it’s about creating memories, sharing interests, and having a unique group gathering unlike any other.
What activities can you enjoy at King's Hobby ATX?
King's Hobby ATX offers a diverse range of activities centered around model building and hobby crafts, making it an ideal spot for groups looking to engage in hands-on fun. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of scale models—from cars and planes to trains—allowing you to choose projects that match everyone’s interests and skill levels. The store stocks everything you need to bring these models to life, including specialized paints, brushes, and tools, making it a one-stop shop for hobbyists. Groups can participate in build-along sessions, where friends work side-by-side on their individual or collaborative projects in a supportive environment. This setup encourages conversation, skill sharing, and friendly competition, perfect for bonding. Some meetups might even include demonstrations or tutorials offered by staff or experienced hobbyists, providing valuable tips that can elevate your building techniques. The tactile, creative nature of the activities ensures a fulfilling and immersive experience that does not rely on digital entertainment, allowing your group to unplug and focus on tangible accomplishments together.
Why is King's Hobby ATX perfect for group meetups?
King's Hobby ATX is especially suited to group meetups due to its carefully curated space, knowledgeable staff, and community-oriented vibe. The store's layout incorporates ample room for groups to gather comfortably without feeling crowded, allowing for both socializing and focused work on projects. The employees are hobby enthusiasts themselves, eager to assist with advice or product recommendations, which enriches the group experience by providing personalized support. For family meetups, King's Hobby ATX offers an inclusive environment where all ages feel welcome, blending fun and education in a way that keeps everyone engaged. Groups can also take advantage of special events and consignment options that often promote community involvement and sharing of rare or custom models. Located in Austin with convenient hours Tuesday through Sunday, it is accessible for weekend get-togethers or weekday hobby breaks. This combination of convenience, expertise, and space makes King's Hobby ATX not just a store but a destination for those looking to deepen friendships through shared interests.
What unique products and services does King's Hobby ATX offer?
King's Hobby ATX carries a comprehensive range of hobby supplies that make it a treasure trove for enthusiasts. Their inventory includes high-quality paint brands, precision tools, adhesives, and an array of scale model kits covering various themes such as military, automotive, and trains. This diversity ensures that every visitor finds something to ignite their passion. A standout feature is their ability to source specialty items on request, catering to serious hobbyists who need particular or rare components. Additionally, the store provides consignment services, allowing collectors and modelers to buy, sell, or trade unique items within a trusted local setting. This service fosters a vibrant collector community and adds variety to what’s available each visit. By offering both the basics and advanced products under one roof, King's Hobby ATX supports beginners and experts alike. The holistic shopping experience means your group can try different projects over time, making every visit fresh and exciting.
How does King's Hobby ATX support community and hobby learning?
Supporting community growth and learning is one of King's Hobby ATX’s core missions. The store often hosts workshops, build nights, and hobby demonstrations that encourage both new arrivals and seasoned hobbyists to sharpen their skills. These gatherings are perfect for groups because they facilitate interaction, teamwork, and mentorship opportunities. Attendees can ask questions, exchange tips, and discover new techniques in a hands-on format that promotes continuous improvement. The friendly and supportive ambiance also helps reduce the intimidation factor for beginners, ensuring everyone feels confident to try new things. Moreover, King's Hobby ATX acts as a hub for local hobby clubs where enthusiasts meet regularly to share their projects and experiences. This nurtures a sense of belonging and encourages repeat visits. The social and educational components of the store transform it from a simple retail space into a lively community center for Austin’s craft and modeling scene.
What makes the location and hours of King's Hobby ATX convenient for meetups?
King's Hobby ATX is strategically located at 7801 N Lamar Blvd Suite E188 in Austin, a central and easily reachable spot for residents and visitors alike. Located on a major thoroughfare with accessible parking, it removes the hassle often associated with urban meeting spots. The store’s operating hours — Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from noon to 5 PM — accommodate various schedules, whether you want a daytime hobby session or a more relaxed Sunday meetup. Closing only on Mondays, it provides consistent availability for planning recurring gatherings. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for groups who want to blend hobby time with other weekend activities or casual weekday meetups. Plus, the nearby local amenities and eateries allow your group to extend the meetup beyond the store itself, creating a full-day social experience.
Why do customer reviews highly rate King's Hobby ATX for social meetups?
With a 4.5-star rating from 255 reviews, customer feedback solidifies King's Hobby ATX as a favorite destination for group hobby experiences. Reviewers consistently praise the shop for its friendly staff who are knowledgeable and approachable, enhancing both the shopping experience and group interactions. Many mention the welcoming atmosphere that encourages creativity and relaxed socializing, key factors for a successful meetup. Patrons appreciate the store’s well-stocked inventory and the quality of products available, which ensures enjoyable and productive sessions for individuals and groups. Positive reviews often highlight the sense of community fostered by the store’s events and consignment opportunities, making it more than just a retail outlet. This blend of excellent customer service, quality offerings, and a strong community feel explains why so many choose King's Hobby ATX as their go-to spot for meetups with friends and family. The consistently high ratings demonstrate its effectiveness in meeting group needs and exceeding expectations.
What should you expect when visiting King's Hobby ATX for the first time?
If it’s your first time visiting King's Hobby ATX, expect to step into a vibrant and well-organized environment that caters to hobby enthusiasts of all levels. Upon entering, you’ll notice the extensive displays of model kits and painting supplies, thoughtfully arranged to inspire creativity and simplify product discovery. The staff are typically eager to greet you and offer help, whether you need guidance selecting a beginner kit or advice on advanced techniques. You can expect a welcoming, pressure-free atmosphere that encourages exploration and questions, making it easy to feel comfortable even if you're new to the hobby. The store’s layout and lighting are designed to showcase products clearly, with areas suitable for browsing and even informal group activities. Walking in, you’ll quickly understand why many choose this place not just for supplies but also as a gathering spot to share their enthusiasm and craft with others.
How can King's Hobby ATX enhance your group's hobby experience over time?
King's Hobby ATX offers a dynamic ongoing experience that evolves with your group’s interests and skill levels. Regular visits can help you discover new model types, painting techniques, and tools, ensuring your hobby sessions never get stale. The store's community-driven approach means you can engage in different events, workshops, and consignment opportunities that continually expand your knowledge and collection. As your group builds confidence, you might organize informal competitions or collaborative projects that foster deeper bonds and creativity. The staff’s expertise is always available, providing a valuable resource as challenges arise in your builds or ideas grow more complex. By making King's Hobby ATX your meetup destination, you invest not only in supplies but also in a supportive network and a source of inspiration that encourages long-term enjoyment and social connection through the shared love of crafting scale models and more. This progressive involvement makes each gathering richer and more rewarding for every member of your group.