When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Knitty City
Why Knitty City is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Knitty City is more than just a yarn store; it is a vibrant community space on the Upper West Side of Manhattan where yarn enthusiasts gather to explore, learn, and connect. From its extensive selection of yarns, including alpaca, angora, cashmere, cotton, and wool, to its carefully curated books and accessories, Knitty City offers something for knitters of all levels. The store hosts a variety of classes and private lessons, making it an excellent place for beginners to learn and for experienced knitters to refine their skills. Regular events like Kids Club and Men's Night foster inclusivity and community engagement, encouraging people to spend quality time working on projects side-by-side. The store’s round white tables are designed to showcase the vibrant colors of yarn and facilitate social interaction, providing a welcoming atmosphere. Notably, Knitty City emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of knitting, promoting a simple daily practice that can positively influence mental well-being. The staff and owner Pearl Chin nurture a warm, communal environment where people come not only to purchase materials but also to share stories, participate in book signings, and enjoy creative gatherings, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends and fellow crafters.
Here's what people think of Knitty City
As of recent, Knitty City holds a 4.7-star rating based on 158 reviews.
Knitty City has garnered an impressive 4.7-star rating from 158 reviews, reflecting a strong positive consensus among customers. Reviewers frequently praise the store for its extensive and high-quality selection of yarns and knitting supplies, as well as its knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to assist and share their passion. Many highlight the welcoming community atmosphere, noting that the store is a great place to meet like-minded individuals and participate in engaging classes and events. Customers appreciate the unique offerings such as specialty yarns and well-stocked baby yarn sections, which cater to diverse knitting projects. On the downside, some reviews mention that the store can feel a bit cramped during busy hours due to its popularity and bustling activity, which might affect those seeking a quieter shopping experience. A few customers have pointed out that prices are on the higher side, reflecting the boutique nature and premium quality of products. However, most conclude that the excellence in service, community feel, and product quality justify the cost. Overall, Knitty City's reviews affirm its reputation as a cherished yarn destination and community hub in New York City, balancing a curated shopping experience with heartfelt social engagement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vee Food Life
Super cute shop with an awesome variety of yarns. All different assortments of types and colors. I really enjoyed the wall of buttons. Staff did not hover at all and were helpful when asked. It was nice to not feel any pressure while perusing. The sample squares were very nice when choosing the different weight of yarns and colors. Would recommend for any yarn enthusiasts!
Prodromos Peios
Some of the coolest ladies over there! They helped me a lot with my order and the product quality is great too!
Kimberly Butler-Gilkeson
I love this place. It is exactly what you want a yarn store to be: warn, friendly and FULL OF YARN! The staff is very knowledgeable about knitting and yarn. They can help you with a current project and get you supplied for your next one. They have a robust community of knitting groups that you can join. My fave is the summer knit in the Bryant park group. So lovely to be outside with others and get to knit in community! Highly rexommend!
G Frye
It is very nice to shop locally for knitting supplies because we could feel the yarns. The staff at Knitty City were friendly and helpful. They carried a good variety of yarns. I made a neck warmer using the yarn that my daughter picked. The staff helped me got the right sized knitting needles (US size 9, 5 mm). I think 50 g ca. 95 m was a good length for my project because it’s just a small project. It took a few hours spreading over the weekend. It’s feel so nice to custom make my daughter a neck warmer that she liked, and it really keeps her warm for the fall and winter weather. I will definitely go back for more yarns to create more projects for my family and even friends.
Emily Abernathy
I love going to Knitty City. I had a private lesson with Alice. She double checked my work and got me in a good place to start the short rows portion of my project. Short rows were very intimidating but she made it digestible and easy to follow. I highly recommend this lovely store.
How to reach Knitty City
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Why Knitty City may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Knitty City with your friends?
Knitty City stands out as an exceptional spot for gathering with friends or family, especially if you appreciate cozy, creative, and welcoming environments. Located in the heart of New York City’s Upper West Side, just a short walk from Central Park and accessible by subway, it offers the perfect urban retreat to unwind and connect. The atmosphere at Knitty City is remarkably friendly and bright — described as a space where even non-crafters feel at ease and engaged. This inclusivity makes it a fantastic venue to bond over a shared interest like knitting or crocheting or even to spark new hobbies together. The store’s layout, with yarn sorted by weight and vibrant colors filling the shelves, is visually inspiring and encourages browsing and chatting. Visitors have noted how natural it is to strike up conversations with both the staff and fellow customers — something that turns a simple shopping trip into a lively social event. For groups that want to blend creativity, comfort, and community spirit, Knitty City is more than just a store; it’s an experience that invites laughter, learning, and lasting memories.
What activities can you do at Knitty City for a group meetup?
One of the best ways to enjoy Knitty City as a group is through shared knitting or crocheting sessions. The store isn’t just about selling yarn; it cultivates an environment where you can actually sit, work on projects, and socialize. Whether your group consists of seasoned knitters or complete beginners, Knitty City welcomes all skill levels with a supportive and friendly vibe. They often host pop-up shops and local artisan events on Saturdays, showcasing unique handspun and hand-dyed yarns from the community. These pop-ups provide an opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind materials and support small businesses together, turning your meetup into both a creative outing and a meaningful shopping experience. Additionally, the presence of friendly, knowledgeable staff means your group can receive expert advice on patterns, techniques, or materials — perfect for tackling group projects or learning new skills. If any in your group prefer to take a break from crafting, the cozy setting allows for relaxed chatting, creativity-inspired conversations, or simply enjoying the colorful and tactile surroundings while someone knits. This blend of hands-on activity, community engagement, and laid-back ambiance makes it a compelling destination for any group looking to connect in a unique setting.
Why is Knitty City perfect for group meetups?
Knitty City’s physical space and atmosphere are thoughtfully designed to accommodate groups looking to gather in a more intimate and creative way. The store’s brightness and cheerful layout promote a relaxed, inviting mood that encourages exploration without pressure. Yarn is meticulously arranged by weight, allowing groups to easily browse and discuss favorite textures or colors, making the shopping experience interactive and friendly. This accessibility helps everyone in your group stay engaged, whether they’re novices picking out their first skeins or experts hunting for rare fibers. Moreover, the staff are notably warm and attentive without being intrusive, which builds a welcoming environment that feels less like a retail store and more like a community hub. The location itself is another advantage. Being close to major landmarks like Lincoln Center and Central Park means your meetup can easily expand beyond the store, combining urban sightseeing with crafting fun. Many visitors appreciate having an area where some can shop or knit while others explore nearby attractions, making it very versatile for varied group preferences. The ongoing pop-up events featuring local artisans further enrich the experience by adding an educational and philanthropic layer, whereby 20% of sales from these pop-ups support nonprofits — a perfect way for a group to share in giving back while enjoying time together.
What kind of shopping and creative inspiration awaits groups at Knitty City?
Groups visiting Knitty City are treated to an impressive variety of yarns in countless colors and textures, which serves as a rich source of inspiration for any fiber artist. The store’s collection features everything from basic, sturdy yarns perfect for beginners to luxurious, specialty fibers that appeal to enthusiasts. You can expect to find popular brands and unique local hand-dyed selections like those offered by Woolen Wench Fiber Arts and Hu Made yarns, which showcase artisanal craftsmanship right from New York’s Upper West Side. Alongside the yarn, Knitty City offers an extensive wall of buttons and a broad range of knitting notions, adding to the tactile joy of selecting materials as a group. Shopping here transforms into an interactive exploration, where friends can compare choices, exchange ideas on patterns, or even plan collaborative projects inspired by the array of colors and textures around them. The environment invites curiosity and creativity; many customers have expressed delight at how easy it is to get lost in the shelves of yarn, feeling almost at home amid the fiber treasures. This tactile, colorful experience creates a natural setting for conversation, ideas sharing, and collective enthusiasm, making it especially appealing for groups wanting to make their time productive and fun.
How does Knitty City's community engagement elevate group visits?
Beyond just yarn and notions, Knitty City is deeply rooted in community, offering a social and philanthropic dimension that enhances the appeal for group visits. The store regularly hosts pop-up shops for small, entrepreneurial yarn artists and fiber crafters, which not only bring fresh creative energy but also give your meetup a chance to become part of a larger narrative supporting independent makers. These events invite visitors to interact directly with the creators behind unique, hand-dyed, and handspun yarns – a rare opportunity to learn about the artistry and passion involved in fiber crafting. Importantly, 20% of the sales from these pop-ups are donated to charitable organizations, such as Heifer International, adding a meaningful cause to your group outing. This creates a fulfilling atmosphere where having fun and doing good go hand in hand. The welcoming and inclusive community spirit at Knitty City makes it easier for newcomers and returning visitors alike to forge friendships and share experiences. For groups looking to connect not just through crafts but also by giving back and learning about the craft community, Knitty City offers a uniquely enriching environment that stands out from typical retail experiences.
What practical benefits make Knitty City a smart choice for hosting a meetup?
From convenience to comfort, Knitty City offers several practical benefits that make it an ideal spot for your group gathering. Its location at 208 West 79th Street places it right near the subway and within walking distance of major city landmarks, making it easy for everyone in your group to get there regardless of their mode of transportation. The store’s operating hours, Monday through Saturday from noon to 6 pm, provide flexibility for scheduling meetups during leisurely afternoon or early evening hours. Inside, the layout balances plenty of browsing space with seating areas where group members can knit together or simply relax while enjoying the vibrant ambiance. The staff’s approachability means that groups can get personalized help and recommendations without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the ability to purchase carry-away yarn in environmentally conscious packaging reinforces a positive shopping experience. For those who want to extend the meetup beyond the store, nearby attractions like Central Park or the Lincoln Center provide excellent options for dining or sightseeing afterward, rounding out a full day of enjoyable, shared activities. All of these thoughtful features converge to make Knitty City a smart, comfortable, and inspiring choice for social and creative gatherings.
In summary, Knitty City offers a unique combination of a warm, creative atmosphere, excellent yarn and notion selections, and a strong sense of community, making it an outstanding venue for meetups with friends or family. Whether your group is composed of avid fiber artists or newcomers curious to try something new, Knitty City provides inspiration, comfort, and an opportunity for lasting connections in a lovely New York City neighborhood. The chance to engage in crafting activities while discovering exclusive hand-dyed yarns, supporting small businesses, and giving back through charitable efforts adds layers of meaning and enjoyment that are hard to find elsewhere. If you’re planning a meetup, Knitty City invites you to rally together, unwind, and create beautiful memories alongside vibrant yarn and friendly faces.