When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunset Valley 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 as North America’s largest retailer specializing in arts and crafts, framing, floral, and wall décor. With over 1,252 stores across 49 U.S. states and Canada, it offers a vast array of products catering to makers, hobbyists, and DIY home decorators alike. The company is well-known for its private brands such as Recollections, Studio Décor, Bead Landing, Creatology, and Ashland, providing customers with a rich variety of supplies ranging from traditional art materials to innovative craft kits. Michaels stores are designed to be welcoming hubs where friends and family can gather to explore creative projects, share ideas, and purchase everything needed for their artistic endeavors. Beyond retail, Michaels offers custom framing through its Artistree brand and Aaron Brothers store-within-a-store concepts, enhancing its appeal as a one-stop shop for creative solutions. The stores also provide seasonal décor and home accents, making them ideal places to find inspiration and supplies for personalizing living spaces. Many customers appreciate the helpful staff and community-oriented atmosphere that makes Michaels a favored meeting place for crafting enthusiasts. This extensive network and wide product range make Michaels a prime location for anyone looking to connect over creativity and craftmanship.
Here's what people think of Michaels
As of recent, Michaels holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1077 reviews.
Customer reviews of Michaels present a predominantly positive picture, reflected in an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from over 1,000 reviews. Many users praise the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, especially highlighting excellent service in custom framing departments. One frequent commendation is for specific employees who go above and beyond to assist with projects and guidance, creating a welcoming and personalized shopping experience that fosters customer loyalty. Reviewers also appreciate the breadth of product selection and the convenience of shopping both in-store and online, supporting varied creative interests and skill levels. On the other hand, some negative reviews touch on inconsistencies in stock availability, occasional difficulties with website navigation or order fulfillment, and perceived high prices for certain items. A few customers also note that store layouts can be confusing, which may complicate finding specific crafting materials quickly. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of feedback concludes that Michaels remains a preferred destination for arts and crafts supplies due to its extensive offerings and commitment to customer service. Overall, the positive reviews outweigh the negatives, positioning Michaels as a trusted leader in the creative retail marketplace that many customers turn to repeatedly for their crafting needs.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Natalia Chapa Mills
I’ve yet to have a bad experience at the Michael’s in Sunset Valley. It’s spacious, organized, clean, and has the kindest staff I’ve ever interacted with. Most recently, one of the staff members, Nick, was extremely helpful. I had to make multiple tax-exempt purchases, and he was ready to help with a smile and no complaints. He was able to help me with my mega purchases while also tending to other customers. This is why I LOVE this Michael’s!
Lee Stewart (Lee’sNest)
Michaels, with all self-service check out, is not the Michaels it used to be. Staff is very scare. There is not the sense of creative excitement among its customers as I remember from even 10 years ago. Tons of products to choose from, but you are on your own. Go fish!
Deepak
Nice craft/wood/decor store located in Brodie Lane in South Austin. There are variety of house plants,flowers to chose for decoration. Staffs are very friendly in locating a certain product and were patient to show offers and deals. It has drive-up option for online orders. #HappyShopping
Alex Bevan
Great place for hobby supplies and picture framing. An alternative to hobby lobby but with less floor space and slightly less stuff. Staff very knowledgeable and friendly, parking easy and speedy checkout while I was there. Good place for art supplies and wool, you will need a staff member to unlock the cabinets if you want spray paint.
Tammy M
Always fun to wander. The aisles. Had some really cute journals and sketchbooks at the front of the store near the Easter stuff. Really don't care for the self-checkout.
How to reach Michaels
None
Website: None
Why Michaels may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Michaels with your friends? Michaels offers a unique, creative environment that makes it an ideal destination for group meetups with friends or family. Whether you are looking to spend a relaxed afternoon bonding over arts and crafts or wanting to spark imagination through shared projects, Michaels provides the perfect setting. The atmosphere encourages collaboration and conversation, allowing everyone to participate regardless of skill level. Beyond the tangible activities, the sense of communal creativity fosters lasting memories and strengthens social connections. Moreover, Michaels’ extensive array of supplies and project ideas ensures that groups can find something everyone enjoys, making your time together both fun and productive. Whether you want to host a casual craft night, celebrate a special occasion with a hands-on workshop, or simply unwind together while exploring various artistic pursuits, Michaels is more than just a store — it’s a creative haven worth gathering at.
What activities can you enjoy at Michaels as a group? Michaels is a treasure trove of arts and crafts supplies that caters to an incredibly broad range of interests, making it perfect for group activities. You can dive into painting projects, scrapbooking, knitting, jewelry-making, or DIY home décor crafts. The store is stocked with tools, kits, and materials suited for beginners through advanced hobbyists, meaning groups of mixed experience levels can engage comfortably and creatively. Crafting together encourages conversation, laughter, and teamwork as you share tips, ideas, and inspiration. Michaels also often hosts in-store workshops or seasonal crafting events that can accommodate groups, providing guided activities that enhance the experience and add a special learning component. This structure can be especially great for those who want to try new crafts with professional instruction in a social setting. The variety and accessibility of options make Michaels a vibrant space for creating and enjoying art with others.
Why is Michaels perfect for group meetups? Hosting group meetups at Michaels offers convenience and inspiration in equal measure. The store layout is designed to draw visitors into hands-on experiences with easy access to a wide variety of supplies all under one roof. This eliminates the hassle of purchasing materials from multiple sources and ensures your group can jump right into projects together. With spacious aisles and often dedicated areas for crafting, there is room for everyone to spread out comfortably. Michaels’ staff are generally knowledgeable and happy to offer advice on supplies or project ideas, enhancing the experience of groups who may want guidance or suggestions. Furthermore, Michaels frequently features discounts and coupons that help groups save on their collective purchases, making crafting meetups economical. Whether you choose to focus on a collaborative project or individual explorations, the store’s extensive inventory and friendly ambiance create an inviting environment for social creativity.
How can Michaels support different group dynamics and interests? One standout feature of Michaels is its incredible versatility that accommodates various group dynamics and interests. For families with children, Michaels provides kid-friendly craft kits and supplies that allow younger participants to engage fully and safely. Groups of adult hobbyists can explore more advanced projects, from elaborate painting sets to specialty knitting yarns and jewelry supplies. Friend groups looking for casual fun can take advantage of simple DIY projects or seasonal crafts, which help break the ice and promote a relaxed vibe. Even corporate or community group gatherings can find value in Michaels as a venue for team-building activities through shared creative challenges. The store’s wide-ranging inventory means nearly every taste and skill level is catered to, ensuring no one feels left out. This adaptability makes Michaels a unique and inclusive place for any group looking to connect and create together.
What are the benefits of hosting a meetup at Michaels compared to other venues? Choosing Michaels for your next group meetup offers several benefits over more traditional venues like restaurants or entertainment centers. First, the focus on creativity and making something tangible elevates the experience beyond passive socializing. Guests leave not only with memories but often with handmade keepsakes, which adds a meaningful dimension to the gathering. Michaels also removes pressure around consumption since the core activity revolves around creation rather than spending on food or drinks. This can make meetings more budget-friendly and inclusive for all attendees. Additionally, the flexibility of Michaels means groups can tailor their visit to fit schedules and interests — from quick drop-ins to longer sessions focused on intricate projects. While some venues limit the size or type of gathering, Michaels’ diverse supplies and inviting space offer more freedom to personalize your meetup. This combination of engagement, affordability, and creativity makes Michaels an outstanding choice for social get-togethers.
How does Michaels ensure a good experience for groups in terms of customer support and environment? Although experiences may vary by location, Michaels typically strives to provide helpful customer service and a welcoming environment suited for all visitors, including groups. Many staff members are passionate about crafts themselves, leading to genuine enthusiasm when assisting customers in choosing materials or planning projects. Store layouts generally prioritize easy navigation and accessibility, allowing groups to explore different departments without congestion. Michaels also often implements promotional events and workshops that are designed to be group-friendly, enhancing the sense of community and shared enjoyment. While recent online reviews reveal some mixed feedback regarding customer service and stock availability, many customers still praise the helpfulness and knowledgeability of the staff in-store. Groups planning to visit might consider calling ahead to ask about special events or available space for crafting sessions to optimize their experience. Overall, Michaels aims to balance product variety with attentive service to make group visits enjoyable.
What supplies and tools does Michaels offer that make group crafting possible? Michaels boasts an extensive range of supplies and tools that make it easy for groups to launch into any craft project. From painting acrylics, watercolors, and brushes, to a variety of papers and adhesives for scrapbooking, paper crafts, and card making, the inventory supports countless artistic pursuits. For textile crafts, the store provides knitting yarns, crochet hooks, embroidery threads, and sewing notions in all colors and textures. Jewelry enthusiasts can find beads, chains, wires, and jewelry-making kits. Seasonal and holiday-specific crafts add thematic inspiration throughout the year with curated décor kits and embellishments. Michaels also offers various crafting machines such as die cutters and embossers to help groups explore technology-assisted creativity. Tools such as scissors, rulers, glue guns, and cutting mats are available in abundance, ensuring groups have everything necessary to craft comfortably. The sheer depth and breadth of choices empower groups to take on coordinated projects or individual creative journeys side-by-side.
How can you plan a successful group meetup at Michaels? To host an effective and enjoyable group meetup at Michaels, some planning tips can help optimize the experience. First, decide on the type of craft or project you want to focus on to ensure supply readiness and engagement from all participants. Consider calling ahead or visiting the store in advance to consult with staff about materials and kits that suit your group size and skill levels. Establish a budget for supplies, and take advantage of Michaels’ regular coupons and sales to stretch your dollar further. When gathering the group, communicate the expected timeframe and any preparation needed, such as bringing personal tools or ideas. During the visit, encourage collaboration and sharing of techniques to enhance social bonding and learning. Also, factor in breaks or refreshments if the crafting session will be lengthy. With these steps, your Michaels meetup can be a well-organized, fun, and memorable experience that encourages creativity and connection.
What kind of events or workshops does Michaels offer for group participation? Michaels frequently organizes in-store events and workshops that can be great opportunities for groups to learn and create together. These sessions often focus on seasonal crafts, holiday decorations, or trending DIY projects and range from beginner-friendly introductions to more advanced techniques. Instructors guide participants through step-by-step processes, making it easier for all skill levels to participate and succeed. Group attendees benefit from the structured, social atmosphere where they can interact and exchange ideas with fellow crafters. Occasionally, Michaels hosts special event nights, like “Sip and Paint,” which are explicitly designed for groups to enjoy crafting in a lively and festive environment. These workshops provide added value by supplying materials, expert tips, and a creative community vibe. Checking local store calendars or Michaels’ website can reveal upcoming events that align with your group’s interests and schedule.
In what ways does Michaels cater to families or multigenerational groups? Michaels excels in catering to families and multigenerational groups by offering products and projects accessible and enjoyable for all ages. For children, the store features a robust selection of crafting kits designed to develop fine motor skills and encourage imagination, such as coloring sets, simple DIY decor, and bead stringing. Parents and grandparents can assist or guide younger members, making crafts a shared experience that enhances intergenerational bonding. Meanwhile, adult family members will find options for more complex projects that match their expertise and interests. Michaels’ environment allows family members to explore their unique creativity while spending quality time together in a supportive, fun setting. The large variety of supplies ensures that activities can be tailored for mixed-age groups, from easy crafts for kids to detailed projects for adults. This inclusivity makes Michaels an ideal place for families to come together creatively.
What do customers say about their Michaels experience in terms of group visits? Reviews of Michaels paint a picture of an establishment with a strong appeal for crafters and groups, though individual experiences vary. Many customers highlight the impressive selection of supplies and the availability of helpful staff as significant positives for group crafting outings. Some recount enjoyable workshops and collaborative projects that made their group visits special. However, there are also complaints about inconsistent customer service and inventory management at certain locations, which can affect group experiences if expectations are not met. Despite occasional criticisms, the overall rating of 4.3 from over 1,000 reviews suggests that most visitors find Michaels a suitable and enjoyable place to meet and craft together. Groups that plan ahead and leverage the store’s resources often report positive, enriching gatherings. In summary, Michaels is favored as a venue for social creativity, provided attendees manage expectations and communicate with staff where possible.
What makes Michaels different from other craft stores for hosting meetups? Michaels sets itself apart from many craft stores by combining a vast product range with a welcoming, versatile environment designed to accommodate groups. Unlike smaller specialty shops, Michaels operates large-format stores that provide space for browsing and crafting simultaneously. The regular introduction of new seasonal products and trending craft lines keeps the inventory fresh and engaging for repeat visits. Michaels also emphasizes community through workshops, events, and promotional offers that encourage group participation and social connection. Their investment in educational crafting experiences, combined with readily available supplies at competitive prices, attracts diverse audiences, from casual hobbyists to serious artists. While some competitors may focus only on materials or niche crafts, Michaels provides a one-stop shop where groups can share ideas, purchase supplies, and create on site – making it a comprehensive and convenient destination for meetups centered on craft and collaboration.