When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor 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 is North America's largest arts and crafts retail chain, renowned for being an inspiring and welcoming destination for creative individuals and groups to meet up and collaborate. With over 1,252 stores across the U.S. and Canada, it provides a vast selection of arts, crafts, framing, floral, and home décor materials, making it an ideal location for friends and crafting communities to gather. Apart from an extensive inventory featuring private label brands like Recollections and Studio Décor, Michaels offers custom framing services and seasonal items that keep the shopping experience fresh and exciting throughout the year. The stores are thoughtfully designed to accommodate DIY enthusiasts, makers, and hobbyists of all skill levels, encouraging creativity and social interaction. Michaels also integrates digital platforms via its website and app, enhancing accessibility and engagement beyond the physical stores. Their broad range of arts and crafts supplies encompasses everything from papercrafting and beadwork to home décor projects, ensuring a versatile environment where friends can connect over shared creative passions. The company fosters a community feel often complemented by workshops and events, transforming Michaels stores into vibrant hubs for social crafting and artistic inspiration.
Here's what people think of Michaels
As of recent, Michaels holds a 4.4-star rating based on 899 reviews.
Customer reviews of Michaels reflect a generally positive reputation with a 4.4 rating from approximately 899 reviews, indicating many customers appreciate the product variety and helpful store staff. Positive feedback frequently highlights the friendly and attentive service, especially praising staff members who assist shoppers with care and expertise. Many users commend the wide assortment of arts and crafts supplies and private label brands that offer value and quality, making Michaels a dependable go-to for crafting needs. Conversely, negative reviews tend to focus on occasional issues with customer service, including difficulties with resolving order or product discrepancies, as seen in some reports involving online purchases and promotional advertising. Some customers expressed frustration over the company's responsiveness and communication during problem resolution. Despite such complaints, Michaels often responds promptly to concerns, emphasizing their commitment to customer satisfaction and improvement. Overall, the reviews portray Michaels as a well-established arts and crafts retailer admired for its comprehensive inventory and community atmosphere, while acknowledging the occasional operational hiccups that come with managing a large retail chain.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
heather r
I have been here three times in the past three months. They have a bunch of u scans that don’t accept cash. They keep one register open. The cashier is also responsible for filling balloon orders. I always end up in a line for the register. Which i have no trouble with. But the cashier looks at me when I put merchandise on the counter and tells me they will have to log in again. I don’t know whether the cashier doesn’t want to ring up customers. Or whether the store is overwhelming them with other tasks and not enough support. Idk whether the machine is logging the cashier out after ever order or whether they are doing that themselves. The effect is I feel my business is an inconvenience here. Michaels should invest in hiring more employees instead of instead of u scans
Brett Bourdage
Medium size store- they don't have everything if it's rare go to a different one. The store needs to be in bigger for Ann Arbor now that Joann's is gone. Could even be an upholstery supply store with sewing machines and marine vinyls. Look into it busta. Until then you get 3
Michaela Brown
The store has good inventory and is clean and well organized, but I have visited this location at least 25 times and I very rarely have a half decent customer service experience. Not all, but most of the staff members here I have ever interacted with has been snippy, rude, short tempered, and impatient. They consistently treat me and other customers I’ve seen them interact with like a major inconvenience. It’s very disappointing considering this is the only Michael’s location in the area. this store will have what you need, and what you’re looking for, but I highly recommend the self check out, I recommend not needing any help finding anything, or asking any questions about any products.
Jessica K
I checked out fours items and paid for them at self check on 4/11/25 at 15:34. I began to bag my items and the u scan scanned one of my bagged items again. I had to show my receipt to the cashier to prove I paid for each item the cashier said she couldn’t see one of the items so I reviewed the receipt and all four items were on there. The U scan may be a bit sensitive. I heard the beep but many customers may walk out not noticing the beep. I know there’s cameras but trying to prove my payment and amount of purchases due to in store error is a waste of time.
Steve Carr
Went to pickup balloons. Thr store was practically empty. Lady told me they need 2hour heads up. She could have started filling them but was not interested in helping me.
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 an inviting and creative environment that makes it an excellent place to gather with friends or family for a fun and productive outing. Whether you and your group enjoy crafting, DIY projects, or simply exploring artistic ideas, Michaels provides a vast selection of materials and inspiration to fuel your creativity together. The store creates a unique social experience where you can brainstorm, share tips, and make projects side-by-side, which can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. More than just a craft store, Michaels often hosts in-store classes and workshops that encourage group participation, offering a structured yet enjoyable way to learn new skills together. Its welcoming atmosphere combined with knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance adds to the appeal, making it perfect for group meetups focused on creativity and collaboration.
What activities are available at Michaels that make it perfect for a group meetup? Michaels specializes in arts and crafts supplies across many mediums, which means there is an activity for everyone’s interests. The store carries materials for painting, drawing, knitting, scrapbooking, home décor, floral arrangements, and seasonal crafts, allowing each person in your group to pursue a project they love. Beyond supplies, Michaels frequently offers workshops and classes in subjects like watercolor techniques, DIY home décor, wreath making, and jewelry crafting. Signing up for a class together adds a fun educational dimension to your gathering and provides an opportunity to learn something new alongside your friends. For groups who prefer less formal activities, just browsing the aisles can spark collaborative brainstorming sessions for future projects or events. Michaels also provides custom framing services, a great option if your group wants to finish and display any artwork created during your meetup.
How does Michaels cater to groups looking to host a social outing? The spacious layout of Michaels stores comfortably accommodates groups without feeling crowded, providing plenty of room to spread out your supplies and work on multiple projects simultaneously. Large tables or dedicated crafting sections, available in many locations, facilitate a communal work area ideal for socializing while being productive. The store’s frequent promotions and discounts are an added advantage for groups, making it more affordable to buy materials in bulk or purchase everything needed for a shared project. Moreover, the staff at Michaels are known for being helpful and can assist groups in sourcing supplies or recommending project ideas suitable for a range of skill levels. This combination of space, support, and affordability creates a welcoming environment conducive to group creativity and makes organizing meetups easy and enjoyable.
What makes Michaels an inspiring place to create together? Michaels stores are designed to inspire art and craft enthusiasts with their extensive inventory and highly visual product displays. When visiting with friends, you are surrounded by vibrant colors, innovative tools, and new crafting trends that can spark your group’s collective imagination. The diversity of supplies—from premium paint brands and specialty papers to unique beads and seasonal décor—enables your group to experiment across different mediums and discover new artistic passions. Additionally, Michaels often features seasonal or themed craft sections, which can provide a timely focus for group projects like holiday wreaths, party decorations, or personalized gifts. This creative atmosphere encourages experimentation and collaboration, making your meetup not only social but also creatively enriching.
How do customer experiences at Michaels enhance the group visit? Many customers appreciate Michaels for its knowledgeable and friendly staff who can guide patrons through choosing materials and crafting techniques. Engaging with the staff as a group can deepen the experience by receiving recommendations tailored to your project’s scope and the skill level of everyone involved. Some customer reviews highlight how staff members go the extra mile to make their visit satisfying and productive. Group members can benefit from this personalized assistance, especially if some are new to crafting and need extra support. Although customer experiences vary by location, many find the environment encouraging and supportive, which helps ensure a positive and smooth group outing.
Why is Michaels suitable for groups with diverse interests and skill levels? Michaels offers a broad spectrum of crafting activities that appeal to novices, hobbyists, and more experienced crafters alike. This inclusivity allows groups with members of varying expertise to find enjoyable projects without feeling overwhelmed or under-challenged. Beginners can opt for simple, guided craft kits or join beginner classes, while advanced crafters benefit from an extensive inventory of specialized art supplies. The store also carries seasonal and themed kits that simplify group projects, making it easier for everyone to contribute meaningfully without prior experience. This adaptability makes Michaels a friendly and accommodating place for mixed groups, ensuring that everyone can participate and have fun.
What logistical benefits does Michaels provide for hosting your gathering? Many Michaels stores offer ample parking, making it convenient for groups arriving separately. The layout typically includes clear signage and organized sections, allowing your group to navigate the store efficiently and find what you need without frustration. For those interested in continuing their projects beyond the meetup, Michaels has an active online presence with ordering and coupon options, enabling easy replenishment of materials. Some locations provide workstations or craft rooms that groups can reserve or use on a walk-in basis, offering a dedicated space to craft together without distractions. These practical amenities contribute to a seamless and comfortable experience when organizing a group outing.
How can Michaels workshops and classes boost your group’s creative skills? Michaels regularly schedules hands-on classes covering a variety of crafting techniques, which are perfect for groups wanting a structured creative experience. Workshops often focus on popular crafts such as acrylic painting, ribbon making, or seasonal decorations and are typically led by experienced instructors. Group participation can foster a team spirit and make learning enjoyable and social. Attending a class is not only interactive but can also inspire fresh ideas and encourage group members to try new methods. Additionally, some stores offer private or customizable classes for groups, which adds a personalized touch to your gathering. These opportunities turn a typical meetup into an enriching event that builds both skills and connections.
What makes Michaels stand out compared to other gathering spots? Unlike traditional social venues such as restaurants or cafes, Michaels offers a dual experience of social interaction and creative productivity. This combination can be more memorable and fulfilling because your group leaves with tangible projects and shared achievements. The store’s focus on creativity encourages collaboration in ways that ordinary gatherings don’t, fostering deeper conversations and shared laughter over crafting mishaps or successes. Michaels also tends to be less noisy and more family-friendly compared to many social venues, making it an inclusive space suited for all ages. This unique blend of social, educational, and artistic elements positions Michaels as a standout choice for hosting meetups that nourish both the mind and the spirit.
How affordable is hosting a group event at Michaels? Michaels frequently offers sales, discounts, and coupons that help make large purchases affordable, particularly when buying supplies for multiple participants. Many of their craft kits and workshop fees are reasonably priced, which helps keep the overall cost of a group outing manageable. The ability to combine purchases with coupons makes it easier to stay on budget while still acquiring quality materials. Additionally, the option to bring your own supplies or mix-and-match from the store’s inventory allows groups to tailor the experience to their financial comfort level. This flexibility in pricing makes Michaels a cost-effective and smart choice for budget-conscious groups wanting to enjoy a creative and engaging activity together.