When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix 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 the leading arts and crafts retail chain in North America, offering an extensive variety of products for makers, artists, and DIY home decorators. With over 1,250 stores across the United States and Canada, Michaels provides an unmatched shopping experience for individuals looking to explore their creativity or gather supplies for their projects. Beyond selling craft supplies, framing, floral, and wall décor, Michaels has cultivated a strong community-building ethos through in-store and online classes, events, and initiatives like Michaels Resource Groups which promote inclusivity and diversity. Customers can participate in free weekly "make" sessions, take-and-make kits for kids, or engage with thousands of online tutorials. The company also supports aspiring makerpreneurs through MichaelsPRO, offering bulk purchase discounts, and will soon launch Michaels Marketplace, an ecosystem designed to help crafters sell their creations and collaborate with others. Whether meeting friends for a crafting session, attending a class, or simply browsing for inspiration, Michaels offers a welcoming environment that nurtures creativity and connection among its customers.
Here's what people think of Michaels
As of recent, Michaels holds a 4.4-star rating based on 801 reviews.
Customer reviews of Michaels reflect a mix of experiences with an overall positive rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 800 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the knowledgeable and friendly staff, variety and quality of products, and the helpfulness of in-store associates who enhance the shopping experience. Many reviewers express appreciation for the creative classes and community events that make Michaels more than just a retail store, positioning it as a hub for arts and crafts enthusiasts. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on occasional issues with online orders, product availability inconsistencies, or customer service difficulties, especially around resolving order problems. Complaints about advertising discrepancies and frustration with support responsiveness appear in some reviews. Despite these occasional criticisms, the majority of customers recommend Michaels for its extensive product selection, community building efforts, and helpful staff. In summary, reviews suggest that while there are areas for improvement, Michaels remains a preferred destination for craft lovers looking to gather supplies, take classes, and enjoy a creative outlet with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennifer Bradshaw
I don't come here often, but they have a decent selection of jewelry which was on sale so I bought a few things; I realized I didn't need everything so I came back about a week later early in the morning for a return. I guess they don't expect customers in the store right when they open because there was no one at the registers. They do have self-checkouts, but if you want to do a return, you have to walk all over the store to find a salesperson. They don't have a bell at the register, and on the self-checkout screen there is an option to request assistance, which I did, but nobody came. Just an FYI to the managers, you are making it super easy for people to shoplift since nobody is watching the front of the store.
Amanda Bradbury
Kristen was amazing at helping me. She had a lot of patience, and understood exactly what I needed. I was looking for affordable supplies for a memory station for my Mom's services.
harmony
Rose was so informative and had great hospitality!! Beautiful store. Had all the things I need. Will be coming back!!🎨
Hunter Luck
Went to the store two times to get a custom frame done because they got a 70% off sale, and both times I was turned away for there was no one in framing to help. I was expecting to spend about $400 even after the sale. The second time I hired the sales associate talk to the manager on the walky-talky and said she is on a conference call and come back another day. Not going to give this location a third try. Very disappointed in the customer service, and how they treat their customers.
Holly Blackburn
I had such a wonderful experience at this Michaels location today! Jessica was AMAZING—so kind, patient, and helpful. I had to ask her for help multiple times (even though some of the items I was looking for were probably in plain sight 🙈), but she never made me feel like a bother. She stayed pleasant and cheerful the whole time, which made my shopping trip so much more enjoyable. She even helped us at checkout since we were paying with a combination of gift cards and cash, and she handled everything so smoothly. Jessica is a total gem, and this store is lucky to have her! 💕 Thank you, Michaels, at Moon Valley Towne Center, for the wonderful service. I’ll definitely be back! 😊
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? Michaels stands out as an ideal meetup spot for groups seeking a creative and engaging environment. Unlike typical hangouts, Michaels offers a vibrant space dedicated to crafts and artistic expression that can turn a simple gathering into a memorable event. Friends and family can bond over shared projects, explore new hobbies together, and enjoy hands-on activities that inspire imagination. Whether you’re looking to create seasonal decorations, work on scrapbooking, or engage in painting and drawing, Michaels provides the resources and atmosphere to make it happen. The store’s extensive range of supplies, from yarns and paints to floral arrangements and framing, means there’s something for every group’s interest to explore. Gathering here is not just about shopping—it’s about interaction, discovery, and creating lasting memories through art. This shared creative experience can deepen friendships by fostering teamwork and providing fun challenges that everyone can enjoy in a relaxed setting. In addition, Michaels often features workshops and craft classes that groups can join, providing guided opportunities for learning new skills together. For groups that appreciate a hands-on, interactive experience instead of typical dining or movie outings, Michaels offers a fresh, enriching alternative.
What activities can you do at Michaels that are perfect for a group meetup? One of the primary draws is the wide variety of craft projects available that are naturally suited for group participation. You can collectively tackle DIY home décor projects using the store’s extensive supplies like wood, paint, stencils, and adhesives. Handmade cards and scrapbooking are also favorites for groups, where everyone can express personal creativity while sharing ideas and tips with each other. Michaels regularly hosts seasonal workshops—like wreath making during holidays or canvas painting classes—that accommodate small groups, offering structured activities that ensure everyone is involved. Moreover, the store stocks kits for different skill levels, so whether your group includes beginners or expert crafters, each person can find a project to match their experience and interest. These activities not only engage each individual creatively but also naturally encourage conversation and camaraderie, making the meetups feel collaborative and fun. The physical space usually includes areas where friends can gather, work alongside one another, and immediately use the supplies they purchase. This makes Michaels far more than just a retail store; it's a community hub for creative expression and group bonding.
Why is Michaels the perfect place to host a meetup with friends or family? Michaels excels as a meetup location because of the unique combination of accessibility, variety, and inspiration it offers. Unlike many venues where group reunions focus solely on socializing or eating, Michaels provides a meaningful way to connect through shared creative experiences. The store’s large inventory includes everything needed to support varied interests, from painting and knitting to floral design and framing, making it easy to find something for everyone in your group to enjoy. The staff is knowledgeable and often willing to assist with project ideas or finding specific materials, which can help groups get started quickly and feel more confident about their crafts. Many Michaels locations are spacious, allowing for comfortable browsing and room for small groups to spread out and engage with their projects. Additionally, the store structure encourages spontaneity—friends can shop and then immediately begin crafting, turning a typical outing into an interactive event. For families, especially those with children, the hands-on nature of activities at Michaels is educational and fun, encouraging creativity and motor skills development in a relaxed setting. The welcoming and creative atmosphere makes it a productive and inspiring place for group connections.
What makes Michaels a versatile venue for different types of group meetups? Michaels’ versatility lies in the sheer breadth of their product range and the types of creative projects they support. Whether your meetup is casual or you want to celebrate a special occasion through crafting, Michaels has the supplies and space to accommodate various group dynamics. For example, a group of friends looking for a calm, quiet way to connect might enjoy painting or assembly crafts, while another group seeking a playful family weekend activity could immerse themselves in seasonal DIY kits. The store also caters to hobbyists who might want to focus on serious craftwork such as jewelry making, fabric arts, or custom framing, providing a professional-quality selection of materials. For event planners or party hosts, Michaels can serve as a source for decorations and personalized items, as well as a social place to share the decorating process in person. Because Michaels often runs promotions and provides coupons, it can be a budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon creating something meaningful together. This flexibility means that groups of all ages and interests will find suitable activities and supplies, making every visit feel tailored and special.
How does Michaels foster a creative and supportive community atmosphere for meetup groups? Michaels encourages community by offering more than just products—they offer experiences. Through scheduled classes and workshops, customers have the chance to learn new skills in a supportive environment alongside friends or new acquaintances. These events are often led by skilled instructors who provide guidance, which helps participants of all levels feel included and successful. By promoting seasonal and trending crafts, Michaels keeps its community engaged with fresh ideas that groups can try together. The store's layout and design also encourage browsing and interaction, with visually inspiring displays and craft examples that stir creativity and conversation. Many customers report that Michaels is a great place to get inspired because of this supportive and artistic atmosphere. Even outside formal classes, staff members are typically ready to offer project suggestions or advice, helping groups overcome challenges and achieve their creative goals. This collaborative environment is particularly beneficial for groups, where the mix of shared energy and professional support can elevate the entire meetup experience.
What should you consider for planning your group meetup at Michaels? To optimize your experience, it’s a good idea to consider the interests and skill levels of your group upfront, choosing projects that will be engaging for everyone involved. Checking Michaels’ class schedules in advance can help you join a guided activity that matches your group’s interests. It’s also useful to set a budget ahead of time, as the variety of supplies ranges widely in price, and occasional promotions might let you get more for less. Bringing your own snacks or preparing to visit nearby eateries can be a good plan since Michaels is primarily a craft supply store with limited amenities for dining. Make sure to allocate enough time; crafting sessions can take longer than expected when people are fully engaged in their projects. Lastly, communicating about what to bring or dress for (comfortable clothing for crafting) can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable meetup. Planning with these points in mind will help your group maximize the creative benefits and fun Michaels has to offer.
In summary, Michaels offers a rich, creative gathering spot where groups of friends or family can rally around shared artistic activities. From crafting workshops to DIY projects, its extensive product range and welcoming environment make it a highly versatile destination for all ages and interests. Whether you want a peaceful space to create, a guided class experience, or a lively project-building session, Michaels can accommodate and inspire your group to make meaningful memories together. The unique blend of artistry, community, and hands-on engagement distinguishes Michaels as an outstanding meetup choice well beyond ordinary social venues.