When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Michaels
Why Michaels is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Michaels stands out as North America's premier arts and crafts retail chain and an exceptional spot for friends to gather and explore their creative sides together. Established in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across 49 states and Canada, serving as a vibrant hub for makers, DIY enthusiasts, and home decorators. Its extensive product range includes arts and crafts supplies, custom and ready-made framing, floral arrangements, and home décor, alongside a variety of signature private brands like Recollections and Creatology. The environment at Michaels encourages collaboration and creativity, making it an ideal place to meet friends for crafting projects or to spark inspiration through hands-on activities. In addition to an expansive selection of products, Michaels enhances the social experience with its workshops, crafting events, and the convenience of both physical and e-commerce platforms. Whether friends are looking to embark on new DIY home décor projects, learn fresh skills, or simply enjoy quality time together surrounded by endless crafting possibilities, Michaels offers a welcoming and resource-rich space that fuels creativity and connection.
Here's what people think of Michaels
As of recent, Michaels holds a 4.4-star rating based on 673 reviews.
Customer reviews of Michaels, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 670 reviews, highlight the store's vast product selection and helpful staff as major draws. Many positive reviewers appreciate the variety of arts, crafts, and framing supplies available, emphasizing how Michaels caters to both beginners and experienced crafters. They often note the store’s organized layout and frequent promotions or coupons that make crafting affordable and accessible. Additionally, patrons value their online shopping experience through Michaels.com, citing convenience and good customer service. However, some negative reviews point out occasional issues such as inconsistent inventory availability, varying staff helpfulness depending on location, and occasional long lines at checkout during peak times. A few customers have expressed frustration with pricing on certain premium items and the quality of some products. Overall, while the feedback reveals areas for improvement, especially in customer service consistency and stock management, the majority of visitors find Michaels to be a friendly and well-stocked environment that supports creativity and social engagement. This balance of strengths and weaknesses reflects a solid reputation as a go-to crafting destination where users feel encouraged to gather and create.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lillie Briscoe
My curiosity sparks every time😁 I enter Micheal’s 🥰 I shop for hours so much to decide from I love getting the 40% off regular price tags . The ladies that work there are very friendly with a great attitude towards their customers.
Diana Clare
This store is STOCKED!!! The paint section, the PEN/MARKER section HAD PRODUCTS!!! Granted the entire store had merchandise, my focus was the art section. I thought i was transported to the good old days when Amazon didn't exist & brick & mortar stores still had inventory on their shelves. It was beautiful to see products I've been looking for i.e. markers, paints. Seriously I was beside myself with happiness. I truly wish the Michaels on Northern had stock like this! It was AMAZING! Everything was so neatly organized. The clearance area was located towards the front of the store in the middle of a main aisle & the products were sectioned off & neatly organized. Please Michael's on Northern/91st Ave take NOTE!! We wanted assistance in finding something (the store is HUGE) & we didn't find anyone until we went to the checkout area. The associate was helpful, yet it would be lovely to see more staff out & about; or perhaps one of those "call for assistance buttons". Overall I loved this Michael's & highly recommend.
Eric Catmull
I had a rather unusual metric sized piece of glass frame that broke unexpectedly. I came into Michael’s looking to purchase a whole new frame, but could not seem to match the glass size. Sal in Framing…. came over and was so nice to cut the glass to the perfect size. An incredible attitude and such a kind gesture. Good people like this make the world a little nicer!
Susan Caruso
DO NOT GO THERE TO HAVE BALLOONS PREPARED!!!!...we got the most unprofessional job. After speaking to the manager, Manny his only response was that the person who did the job was not fully trained and he was gonna send her back to be trained...not a good response!! Oh, in compensation for the horrific job he offered me a $5 coupon!
MelanieSweetBodyLove herbs
I love love Michael's!!!! Amazing experience and love what we got! The store is just chock full of such beautiful things most of which are on sale. My daughter and I had a blast.
How to reach Michaels
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Why Michaels may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Michaels with your friends?
If you're seeking a vibrant and creative space to gather with friends or family, Michaels offers more than just a store—it’s a hub for artistic inspiration and social connection. With a solid 4.4-star rating based on 673 reviews, Michaels has earned a reputation as a beloved destination for craft enthusiasts and novices alike. The charm of Michaels lies in its ability to transform ordinary gatherings into memorable creative experiences. Whether you're planning a casual meetup or a themed event, Michaels provides a welcoming atmosphere filled with colorful supplies and inspiring project ideas that encourage collaboration and fun. Meeting at Michaels means more than shopping; it means immersing yourselves in a space where creativity blooms, and everyone can participate hands-on in art projects, DIY crafts, or personalized decorations. This makes it an ideal venue to spark conversation, share laughs, and build lasting memories through the joy of making together. Plus, the abundant materials and knowledgeable staff ensure your group won't run out of inspiration or support throughout your visit. Rallying here creates an atmosphere of creativity and connection unlike any other retail experience.
What activities can you enjoy together at Michaels?
Michaels caters to a wide spectrum of creative activities ideal for groups, which enhances its appeal as a meetup spot. First and foremost, the extensive selection of craft supplies allows your group to engage in various artistic projects—from painting and drawing to knitting, scrapbooking, and seasonal décor crafting. This diversity ensures that each person can find a craft that resonates with their interests while sharing ideas and techniques. Michaels also offers custom framing services, which can turn your group’s artwork or memorable photos into keepsakes, providing a sense of accomplishment when you see your collaborative creations beautifully preserved. In addition, many Michaels locations host in-store classes and workshops that your group can participate in together, ranging from beginner-friendly lessons to advanced craft techniques. These classes foster a supportive environment where everyone learns and creates side-by-side. The hands-on nature of these sessions promotes team bonding, encourages creativity, and makes your meetup interactive and engaging. Between exploring aisles filled with inspiration and creating tangible art pieces, your group will find endless ways to have fun and connect.
Why is Michaels perfect for a group meetup?
Michaels excels as a group meetup venue because of its unique blend of accessibility, variety, and community spirit. Unlike typical restaurants or parks, which offer passive experiences, Michaels invites guests to actively create and explore their artistic sides, turning a simple gathering into a memorable creative adventure. The store is designed to accommodate groups by housing an array of craft supplies organized to encourage shared browsing and discovery, which naturally sparks conversation and collaboration. The staff at Michaels is another highlight: many locations have experienced and friendly employees who provide assistance, advice, and encouragement to groups, helping novices and experts alike feel confident in their projects. This supportive atmosphere reduces any intimidation around trying new crafts and fosters a positive group dynamic. Additionally, seasonal events and promotions provide timely themes that make meetups even more festive and purposeful. Michaels’ spacious layout often includes communal areas or space to work on larger projects together, making it physically easy for groups to gather comfortably in one location. Lastly, with frequent sales and options like custom orders or bulk purchases, Michaels supports group creativity practically and economically, making it a smart and enjoyable venue to plan your next social outing.
How does Michaels accommodate different group interests and skill levels?
One of Michaels’ greatest strengths is its inclusivity for artists and crafters of all ages, interests, and skill levels, making it highly adaptable for any group composition. Whether your group includes seasoned painters, curious beginners, kids, or adult hobbyists, Michaels’ vast inventory of tools and materials ensures everyone finds projects aligned with their abilities and preferences. Beginners can explore basic supplies such as coloring kits, simple DIY kits, or easy-to-use paint sets, while more experienced crafters can delve into specialized materials for knitting, woodworking, or custom framing. Moreover, Michaels provides instructional resources, both in-store and online, which group members can consult for project ideas or step-by-step guidance, leveling the playing field in terms of expertise. The variety of classes hosted at Michaels spans different age groups and skill sets, making group participation in workshops feasible and rewarding. If your group includes children, Michaels carries dedicated craft supplies designed for safety and fun, enabling parents and kids to craft together. The flexible environment encourages cross-generational interaction, where novices can learn from experts, and everyone can celebrate creativity without pressure or judgment. This thoughtful accommodation of diversity in crafting makes Michaels a truly inclusive destination for group creativity.
What makes Michaels’ customer experience enjoyable for group meetups?
Beyond the physical space and activities, Michaels focuses on creating a customer experience conducive to an enjoyable group outing. The store layout is spacious and thoughtfully organized, which reduces congestion and facilitates easy movement as the group explores different sections. Many locations feature clearly marked aisles and themed displays that make locating supplies intuitive, saving time and frustration for groups. Staff members are often praised for their helpfulness and patience, providing personalized suggestions or troubleshooting to ensure everyone in the group stays engaged and supported. Special programs, like group discounts or loyalty rewards, add financial benefits that make longer visits or larger purchases more affordable. Additionally, the ambient environment—bright lighting, cheerful decor, and seasonal decorations—sets a positive tone for creativity and socializing. Michaels also supports online ordering with options like in-store pickup, which can streamline material preparation for groups planning their projects in advance. All these elements come together to make a Michaels visit more than a shopping trip, but rather a coordinated and enjoyable event where friendship, art, and fun seamlessly intersect.
How do Michaels’ seasonal offerings enhance group gatherings?
Michaels is well-known for its vast array of seasonal and holiday-themed craft supplies that make any group meetup especially festive and timely. Whether it’s Halloween, Christmas, Easter, or summer events, Michaels stocks decorations, specialty materials, and themed craft kits that enable your group to create unique, holiday-centric projects together. These seasonal items inspire creative themes for your meetup, from pumpkin decorating contests to custom-made Christmas ornaments, adding a layer of excitement and purpose to the gathering. The ever-changing inventory keeps the experience fresh, encouraging return visits and ongoing inspiration for groups looking to celebrate specific occasions through hands-on crafting. Seasonal sales and promotions also make it cost-effective for groups to bulk purchase supplies for event planning, party favors, or collaborative projects. By incorporating holidays and seasonal trends, Michaels helps turn routine meetings into special events filled with creativity and holiday spirit. This dynamic focus on the calendar makes Michaels an ideal place for groups that want to mark time with meaningful art and shared celebration.
What facilities and features support group creativity at Michaels?
Michaels is more than a store; it’s equipped to support group creativity through dedicated spaces and useful services. Many store locations have designated crafting areas, where groups can sit down to start projects immediately after shopping. This is particularly convenient for meetups that want to combine shopping with on-site creating without waiting for a later date. Crafting tables and demonstration stations often provide tools, patterns, or inspiration boards to jumpstart ideas. Michaels’ framing services also add a professional touch: your group can create custom artwork and walk out with a beautifully framed piece ready to display at home or as a gift. The availability of gift cards and bulk purchasing options enables groups to share materials or present project results as personal tokens among friends. Additionally, Michaels often runs workshops led by expert instructors who provide stepwise guidance and encourage group interaction, ideal for those looking to learn new skills together. The convenient parking, accessibility, and extended hours found in many locations further simplify meeting logistics for groups. These thoughtful features collectively support a smooth, creative, and enjoyable group experience.
How does Michaels inspire creativity and learning for all ages?
A core part of Michaels’ appeal is its commitment to fostering creativity and lifelong learning for customers of all ages. The store not only supplies an extensive range of craft materials but also invests in educational programming that encourages discovery and skill development. Children’s crafts promote fine motor skills and imagination, while adult classes and kits challenge participants to try new techniques or refine existing talents. The in-store classes often emphasize social learning, making it easy for group members to teach and motivate one another. Michaels also offers educational kits and resources aligned with school projects or art therapy, appealing to parents and educators seeking meaningful, interactive experiences. This environment motivates groups to expand their creative boundaries and provides a welcoming space where curiosity and experimentation take priority over perfection. Through this blend of resources and supportive culture, Michaels nurtures artistic growth that strengthens relationships and personal fulfillment, making gatherings here both fun and enriching.
What do customers say about Michaels that validates its group-friendly appeal?
The positive customer reviews and high ratings underline Michaels’ status as a favored place for group meetups focused on creativity and craft. Many customers highlight the helpful, patient staff who enhance the shopping and crafting experiences, especially for groups navigating projects together. The variety and availability of supplies receive praise, with shoppers appreciating the frequent discounts that make creative endeavors more accessible for larger parties. Customers also note the joyful ambiance and inspiring layout that stimulates group interaction and ideas exchange. While like any business Michaels has received critiques on customer service and product issues, its overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews confirms it consistently meets or exceeds expectations for many visitors. Reviews detail memorable moments spent crafting with friends or family at Michaels as key reasons for repeat visits, emphasizing its role as a trusted environment for building community through art. These testimonials reinforce Michaels as an exceptional choice for groups seeking creative, social venues.
Why should you choose Michaels over other meetup locations?
Michaels stands out as an ideal meetup location because it combines shopping convenience with creative engagement in a way that few other venues can match. Unlike restaurants or entertainment venues where the activity is static, Michaels invites groups to participate actively in making art—a process known to deepen social bonds and enhance enjoyment. Its extensive and diverse craft inventory means groups don’t have to compromise on interests or skill levels, while ongoing in-store events and classes provide continuous new reasons to return. The supportive atmosphere, coupled with dedicated creative spaces, ensures your meetup is not only fun but productive, with tangible results like personalized crafts or framed artwork. Moreover, Michaels’ approachable price points and frequent promotions make it economically viable for groups of various sizes. Together, these factors create a uniquely creative, interactive, and rewarding environment for friends and families to connect, learn, and celebrate their creativity beyond typical social outings.
In summary, Michaels offers a perfect blend of artistic inspiration, group-friendly facilities, and a supportive community, making it a top choice for hosting meetups with friends or family who want to enjoy a rich, creative experience together. The broad selection of art supplies, customizable activities, and frequent workshops foster social interaction and learning, ensuring every gathering leaves lasting memories steeped in fun and creativity. Whether planning a casual afternoon or a special occasion, Michaels provides the ideal backdrop to unleash your collective creativity and deepen connections.