When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland 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 largest provider of arts and crafts supplies, offering an extensive range of products for makers, DIY home decorators, and creative enthusiasts alike. With over 1,300 stores operating across 49 states and Canada, Michaels has become a highly accessible and popular venue for meeting friends and sharing creative experiences. The store is well-loved for its broad assortment of arts and crafts materials including paint, yarn, fabric, framing, floral and wall décor, art supplies, baking and kitchen crafts, jewelry-making essentials, and much more. Beyond retail, Michaels provides custom framing services and specialty framing merchandise through its Artistree brand, catering to personalized creative projects. This rich product portfolio, combined with a welcoming environment, makes Michaels an ideal place to gather for those looking to engage in hands-on activities, attend crafting workshops, or simply explore new hobbies together. Moreover, Michaels has cultivated several proprietary brands like Recollections and Studio Décor which add unique and high-quality options to their shelves. Whether you seek to make holiday decorations, personalized gifts, or home décor, Michaels provides the tools, inspiration, and space to connect creatively with friends and family.
Here's what people think of Michaels
As of recent, Michaels holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1123 reviews.
Customer reviews of Michaels generally highlight its convenience, extensive product selection, and helpful staff as key strengths. Positive feedback commonly praises the wide variety of crafting supplies available under one roof, competitive pricing, and useful in-store services such as custom framing. Many users appreciate Michaels as a welcoming place to find inspiration for arts and crafts projects, from beginners to seasoned artists alike. Shoppers also find the seasonal decorating items and DIY kits particularly useful for special occasions and home projects. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional issues such as inconsistent stock availability, long checkout lines during peak hours, and variability in store cleanliness and organization between locations. A few customers have reported that certain specialized items may be pricier compared to online competitors. Nonetheless, despite these occasional criticisms, the overall customer sentiment remains favorable, reflecting Michaels’ status as a reliable, comprehensive resource for arts and crafts enthusiasts. In conclusion, Michaels’ robust product lines and community feel outweigh its drawbacks, making it a popular choice for creative gatherings and craft supplies procurement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Morai Ball
Services are good, store is a clean and neat. But they don’t have a regular price coupon anymore. But if you had so many arts projects and frames you could go.
Cyd Gann
Michael's, the large box store for all your crafting supplies. We go here for the canvas sale, 70% off, you can't find a better deal. Look at the close out section. it's a good place for the quick gift. Usually a nice clean store with lots of products and always an employee on hand to help find stuff.
Tatianna Z
They were out of what said was there when I checked online. I drove over 28 miles, one way, to go pick up the item that was supposedly in stock. I was very upset, to say the least. The actual store is well set up, and the employees were kind and helpful.
Joseph oliver
I put together model cars and had no idea until yesterday that this store had some of the things I needed to help me with my hobby love it here n my wife does as well check it out you'll love it to for crafting of any type
Matt R
Lots of selection and very affordable. Reasonable quality for big box craft store. Limited staff in the floor and because of self-check, only one person ringing up.
How to reach Michaels
None
Website: None
Why rally at Michaels with your friends?
Michaels is an ideal destination for gathering with friends or family because it offers a unique blend of creative inspiration, hands-on activities, and a welcoming environment that encourages socializing while exploring artistic pursuits. It caters to a wide range of interests, especially those centered around crafting, DIY projects, and artistic expression, making it perfect for groups who want to bond over shared creativity. Whether you and your friends are seasoned crafters or simply looking to try something new together, Michaels provides the supplies, guidance, and space to do just that. The store’s vibrant and colorful atmosphere sparks enthusiasm, helping groups create lasting memories through unique projects. Plus, with a rating of 4.3 from over a thousand reviews, many customers appreciate the quality of products and friendly service, adding to a positive group experience. Gathering at Michaels is not just about shopping; it’s about experiencing creativity collectively, learning new skills, and enjoying an engaging outing where everyone leaves with something they made themselves.
What kinds of activities can you do at Michaels?
Michaels offers a wealth of activities perfectly suited for group meetups. The most obvious is exploring an extensive selection of arts and crafts supplies, including paints, canvases, yarn, beads, floral arrangements, framing materials, and seasonal decor. Friends can browse together, gather inspiration, and plan projects, whether it’s scrapbooking, knitting, painting, or home decoration. Beyond shopping, Michaels frequently hosts craft classes and workshops that groups can sign up for, providing an opportunity to learn new techniques in a social setting. These classes are often instructor-led and cover a variety of skills such as candle making, jewelry design, and personalized home décor, fostering interactive and cooperative creativity. Additionally, Michaels’ online platform offers ideas and project kits designed for group activities, which can be purchased in-store or online for later use. These activities make Michaels much more than a retail store—it’s a creative hub where groups engage in hands-on crafting, developing skills while bonding through shared accomplishment.
Why is Michaels perfect for a group meetup?
Michaels’ layout and offerings are specifically suited to accommodate groups, making it an excellent venue for meetups. The store is spacious and well organized by craft categories, enabling friends to easily explore different sections together without feeling overcrowded. The staff are typically friendly and eager to assist, adding a layer of support that ensures everyone in the group can find what they need and get help with ideas or techniques. For larger gatherings, Michaels provides project kits that simplify crafting for multiple participants. These kits ensure that everyone has the appropriate materials and instructions, streamlining the creative process in a group setting. Moreover, Michaels carries seasonal and event-specific decor and craft supplies that groups can use to create themed projects, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or family celebrations. The store’s commitment to having competitive prices and frequent sales means that large groups can enjoy crafting together affordably. This combination of accessibility, staff support, variety, and price makes Michaels especially welcoming and practical for hosting group meetups.
How does Michaels enhance the social experience during meetups?
Michaels fosters a social environment by creating opportunities for interaction around shared projects and discovery. Crafting is inherently collaborative, and Michaels facilitates this by providing materials that encourage teamwork—such as large canvases for group paintings or supplies for creating decorations together. The in-store mood, with displays that showcase vibrant creations from other customers, inspires conversations and shared excitement about creative possibilities. Workshops and community events held at Michaels further promote group interaction, allowing attendees to meet others with similar interests beyond their immediate friend circle. This community feel helps groups feel welcomed and part of something bigger, enhancing the meetup experience. Even outside of formal events, the space allows friends and family to organize their own crafting sessions, enjoying each other's company while engaging in meaningful activities. This social dimension makes Michaels more than a shopping destination; it is a creative meeting place that brings friends and families closer.
What should you expect from the customer service when visiting Michaels?
Customer service at Michaels is generally viewed positively by the majority of customers, contributing to an enjoyable group experience. Many reviewers highlight helpful and friendly staff who are knowledgeable about crafting supplies and eager to provide guidance or craft ideas. This supportive environment is especially valuable for groups that include beginners who might need extra assistance selecting materials or understanding project steps. While some locations have received criticism in isolated cases regarding stock issues or customer handling, these appear to be exceptions rather than the rule. On balance, staff at Michaels strive to create a positive atmosphere where groups can feel comfortable asking questions and getting inspired. The availability of customer support — both in-store and through the Michaels app — helps shoppers navigate purchases or special orders efficiently. This consistent focus on service quality ensures that groups can focus on enjoying their creative outing without unnecessary frustrations.
Can Michaels cater to diverse crafting interests within the same group?
Yes, Michaels is uniquely suited to cater to a wide variety of crafting interests within a single group, making it ideal for gatherings where participants have different hobbies. The store’s inventory covers numerous categories such as painting supplies, paper crafts, knitting and crochet materials, floral design, baking decorations, and seasonal decor. This diverse selection means that even if your group members’ interests vary widely, each person can find projects and supplies that excite them. The presence of specialty sections like jewelry making, framing, and kids’ crafts allows for easy segmentation during a visit while still keeping the group together under one roof. Michaels also offers themed project kits and craft bundles tailored to specific occasions or skill levels, enabling the group to experiment with new crafts or focus on a particular activity together. The extensive variety supports personalized creativity, making it easy for a group to have a fulfilling experience even with differing tastes and crafting backgrounds.
How can hosting a meetup at Michaels inspire creativity and strengthen relationships?
Hosting a meetup at Michaels inspires creativity by providing a rich environment filled with color, texture, and endless possibilities, encouraging participants to express themselves through craft. Creativity in a social setting often leads to sharing ideas, offering encouragement, and collaborating on projects, all of which deepen connections among friends or family members. Crafting together at Michaels allows people to slow down from their routine and engage in mindful, purposeful activity, which can reduce stress and enhance mood. Completing a creative project as a group fosters a sense of achievement and pride, creating joyful memories that participants carry beyond the meetup. Additionally, trying new crafts or techniques in a supportive atmosphere builds confidence and curiosity, qualities that positively impact personal growth. This combination of creative stimulation and cooperative effort distinctly enriches relationships, making Michaels the perfect venue where creativity and social bonding come together seamlessly.
What are the benefits of Michaels’ pricing and promotions for group meetups?
One reason Michaels is a top choice for group meetups is its competitive pricing structure combined with frequent promotions and discounts, which make crafting more affordable for multiple people. The store regularly offers coupons, sales events, and bulk purchase deals, helping groups save money while buying supplies in larger quantities. These promotions make it feasible for meetups to involve elaborate projects without worrying about excessive costs. Additionally, Michaels’ reward programs and special member discounts further reduce expenses, which is especially attractive for groups planning recurring get-togethers centered on crafting. The affordability provided by Michaels enables groups to experiment freely, purchase a variety of materials, and try high-quality products without stretching budgets. This financial accessibility removes a common barrier to group crafting projects, making Michaels an inclusive space where creative activities can thrive regardless of spending limitations.
What online and in-store resources support group crafting at Michaels?
Michaels supports groups both in-store and online with numerous resources designed to facilitate enjoyable and successful crafting sessions. Online, the Michaels website offers detailed project ideas, tutorials, and downloadable instructions to help users plan activities before arriving. Groups can explore these resources together to pick projects suited to their skills and interests. The website also features curated project kits that include all necessary supplies, simplifying preparation for large groups. In-store, Michaels employees often help by suggesting projects, providing how-to advice, or directing groups to the right materials. Many locations have dedicated crafting areas or scheduled event spaces where groups can meet and work on projects. Michaels’ mobile app further enhances the experience by offering digital coupons, project inspiration, and easy access to store information, making it convenient for groups to plan and coordinate meetups. These comprehensive support tools create a well-rounded environment where groups feel empowered to craft confidently and creatively.
Why do customers consistently rate Michaels highly for their group experiences?
Customers rate Michaels highly for group experiences because of its broad selection, inspiring environment, and helpful customer service which collectively create a positive and memorable outing. Many reviews mention how enjoyable it is to browse the variety of products with friends, finding everything needed to complete diverse creative plans. The ability to participate in crafting workshops and classes adds a layer of fun and learning that enriches meetups. Friendly staff and thoughtful store organization help groups navigate their visit smoothly, minimizing frustration and maximizing enjoyment. Additionally, the sense of community and shared creativity fostered at Michaels resonates with customers, who appreciate the unique mix of social and artistic interaction. These elements consistently result in strong ratings and recommendations from customers who value Michaels as a go-to destination to host and inspire group gatherings.
In summary, Michaels is an excellent venue for friends and family looking to bond over creativity. The store's extensive craft supplies, welcoming atmosphere, and variety of activities provide an ideal space to socialize while exploring arts and crafts. Friendly staff, competitive pricing, and numerous resources enhance the experience further, ensuring groups leave inspired and connected. Whether shopping, learning, or crafting together, rallying at Michaels promises a fulfilling and enjoyable gathering.