When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Out of the Closet - Ansley
Why Out of the Closet - Ansley is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Out of the Closet - Ansley, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Atlanta's Ansley area, offers a distinctive thrift shopping experience that is both stylish and socially conscious. The store features a well-curated selection of vintage and secondhand items, from fashionable clothing to unique household goods, appealing especially to those who appreciate both quality and sustainability. Despite not being very large, the store’s atmosphere is welcoming with clean facilities and ample parking, making it convenient for visitors. What truly sets Out of the Closet - Ansley apart is its commitment to the community: approximately 96 cents of every dollar generated goes toward HIV care and community support programs, amplifying the impact of every purchase. The store also offers free HIV testing, providing a stigma-free, safe space to support public health. Friendly and helpful staff enhance the shopping experience, often adding a personable touch. Out of the Closet - Ansley is not just a place to find unique treasures, but also a meaningful destination to meet up with friends and support important causes while enjoying thrift shopping in a welcoming and community-driven environment.
Here's what people think of Out of the Closet - Ansley
As of recent, Out of the Closet - Ansley holds a 4.5-star rating based on 177 reviews.
Customer reviews for Out of the Closet - Ansley reflect a generally positive sentiment, with an overall rating of approximately 4.5 stars based on 177 reviews. Many users appreciated the store's well-curated vintage items and unique clothing options, which stood out as cooler and more interesting than typical thrift store finds. Shoppers noted the warmth and friendliness of the staff, who often go above and beyond in customer service, helping with carrying items and making helpful recommendations in a lighthearted manner. The store’s clean, organized layout and convenient parking were also praised, which contributes to a pleasant shopping experience. On the positive side, reviewers consistently appreciated that shopping here supports a worthy cause, with proceeds helping HIV care and community programs, reinforcing a sense of contribution with each purchase or donation. However, some negative feedback included the limited variety in stock, making it sometimes challenging for customers to find multiple items they liked during a single visit. The absence of fitting rooms was another point of criticism, as customers cannot try on clothes in-store and must rely on a short return policy that only offers store credit. Despite these drawbacks, the store remains a beloved community resource, with reviews concluding that the benefits of the service, the charitable mission, and the friendly atmosphere outweigh the minor inconveniences, making it a recommended stop for thrift shopping in Atlanta’s Ansley neighborhood.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Logan Blackstad
1st visit to the new location. Much nicer and larger space. Was greeted by the friendly staff. I donated and bought items. Great experience, just like the last location! As of today (Dec 20 2023), the pharmacy and free HIV/STI testing area is still under construction and expected to be completed some time in 2024.
Brenda Newman
My favorite thrift store in Atlanta! All the staff is so warm and welcoming! Great selection of items and prices. One of the cashier's, Brandon is absolutely knowledgeable on every item in the store, I'm not sure how he knows it all! Very kind to everyone, and works efficiently; always willing to lend a helping hand.
Jennifer Simmons
I’m not one to usually do reviews however I’m so completely blown away by the customer service and new management at on of my favorite places to support I had to take a moment to send a huge welcome to the new manager Carmie at AFH resale shop. We are always taking in our donations and also supporting this amazing organization but in the past months we had not been so happy with the past experience however we stopped in this past weekend and oh my the way we were greeted and the extra help she offered to help us even though she was the only one in the store full of shoppers was hands down one of the most pleasant experiences I’ve ever had there she was on top of everything while her beautiful smile was refreshing her abilities restored my faith in top tier service!!
Kai Cooper
Came to the store location met the owner my first time ever shopping here was beautiful experience the other employees was so nice. Fast forward to today on coming in the store I encountered Junior who was very pleasant loving had put some accessories to the side for me while shopping. Upon checking out Brandon was the one that checked me out came across very rude. He definitely needs to work on having better customers service. At an all time low poor performance. So you have to treat everyone good you never know who you're entertaining.
Jessica Palmore-Amos
Out of the Closet Thrift Store – Atlanta, GA Me and my family stopped by Out of the Closet on a Saturday morning, and let me tell you—it did NOT disappoint! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by Junior, who was absolutely amazing. He checked in on us, made sure we were good, and his energy was everything! We also witnessed him freshening up to spot by cleaning and just making sure the environment was inviting. The store itself? Super clean, well-organized, and had some vibes—great music playing that made shopping feel fun and easy. One thing I LOVED was the makeshift dressing room so we could try on our finds—game changer! I hit up the dollar rack and scored some deals, honey. Everyone there was kind and welcoming, and we’re already planning our next trip back. Highly
How to reach Out of the Closet - Ansley
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Why Out of the Closet - Ansley may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Out of the Closet - Ansley with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley promises an experience that goes beyond the usual outing. This vibrant thrift store, located in the heart of Atlanta at 1512 Piedmont Avenue Northeast, is a hub where community spirit, philanthropy, and fun converge. With a strong mission dedicated to supporting HIV care, 96 cents of every dollar spent here directly funds life-saving programs and services, making every visit impactful. Rallying at this location means engaging in more than just shopping; it’s about connecting over a shared cause and contributing meaningfully to the community. Friends can enjoy a relaxed, stigma-free environment where they can explore unique, affordable clothing, furniture, and handmade items, all while knowing their purchases support health and wellness initiatives. The welcoming atmosphere invites laughter, discovery, and meaningful conversations, transforming a simple thrift store visit into a purposeful day out with those you care about. With a stellar 4.5-star rating from 177 reviews, Out of the Closet - Ansley combines great value, social good, and a community-first vibe that makes it an ideal spot to gather with friends for an inspiring and enjoyable outing.
What activities can you do at Out of the Closet - Ansley?
Out of the Closet - Ansley offers a multitude of engaging activities perfectly suited for groups seeking a unique and meaningful meetup. First, the core activity is thrift shopping: the store houses an eclectic and constantly refreshed inventory of stylish, affordable apparel, accessories, and furniture. This diversity ensures everyone in your group finds something that suits their tastes and personalities, making the shopping experience both fun and social. Beyond browsing, the store provides dressing rooms, encouraging friends to try on clothes and share opinions, turning shopping into a playful and interactive event. Furthermore, the location hosts free HIV testing services by trained clinicians in a casual, stigma-free environment, integrating community health support into its offerings — your meetup can spark awareness and conversations about wellness in a relaxed setting. The store’s strong community vibe invites interactions not only among friends but also with staff and shoppers, building connection through shared values. Additionally, groups can bring donations of clothes or furniture, turning the visit into a day of giving back, which makes the experience all the more rewarding. Overall, the blend of thrift shopping, health services, and philanthropy creates a well-rounded, engaging day for friends to connect, explore, and contribute together.
Why is Out of the Closet - Ansley perfect for group meetups?
Out of the Closet - Ansley stands out as an ideal destination for group meetups because it combines social, casual, and meaningful elements in one welcoming space. The store’s layout facilitates easy browsing and mingling, with enough room for groups to explore different sections without feeling cramped or rushed. Its community-first ethos means everyone feels safe, respected, and valued, creating an atmosphere conducive to open conversation and bonding. As thrift shopping can be both a treasure hunt and a style exploration, groups enjoy shared discovery, exchanging fashion ideas and helping each other pick out unique finds. The presence of free health services elevates the meetup beyond leisure to community impact, allowing group members to support each other’s well-being in a normalized way. Moreover, the store’s location in the Ansley area provides convenient access and is part of a lively neighborhood inviting further social activities after the visit. Friends can also plan a donation drive together, making the event not only about fun but also about giving and making a tangible difference. All these factors make Out of the Closet - Ansley an exceptionally well-rounded and appealing spot for groups seeking a day that balances enjoyment, connection, and community support.
How does supporting Out of the Closet - Ansley benefit the community?
Supporting Out of the Closet - Ansley directly benefits the community in significant, tangible ways. The store’s business model channels 96 cents of every dollar made back into HIV care and critical social services, sustaining programs that provide free HIV testing, healthcare access, and education. By shopping or donating here, community members actively help improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations in Atlanta and beyond. The affordable clothing and furniture options also contribute to sustainability by promoting reuse and reducing waste, aligning with broader environmental goals. Additionally, the store fosters a stigma-free environment particularly welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community and others affected by HIV, helping break down barriers and promote inclusivity. Importantly, Out of the Closet - Ansley serves as a community hub where people can engage in dialogue, receive vital services, and feel seen and supported. This multifaceted impact makes every visit a vote for greater social good, turning everyday activities like shopping and donating into powerful acts of community care and solidarity.
What can groups expect in terms of amenities and convenience at Out of the Closet - Ansley?
Groups visiting Out of the Closet - Ansley can expect a well-organized, accessible, and convenient environment designed to enhance their experience. The store offers spacious dressing rooms, enabling friends to comfortably try on apparel together and discuss styles candidly, adding a layer of fun and engagement to the shopping trip. For those with items to donate, the store provides easy drop-off services for clothing and furniture, with options for donation pick-up to simplify giving. The location is easily found within the bustling Ansley Mall area, complete with ample parking and close proximity to other local shops and eateries, enabling friends to extend their outing beyond the thrift store. Staff are known to be friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing customer service and helping groups navigate the store’s offerings efficiently. Moreover, the presence of on-site free HIV testing ensures that health needs can be addressed seamlessly without needing to leave the premises. These thoughtful amenities and conveniences make the venue extremely user-friendly and welcoming for groups planning to spend a few hours exploring, shopping, and bonding in a hassle-free way.
What makes Out of the Closet - Ansley unique compared to other thrift stores?
Out of the Closet - Ansley distinguishes itself distinctly from other thrift stores through its integrated mission that combines thrift retail with community health activism. Unlike typical thrift stores, each visit here is intimately tied to social good—the store is operated by a nonprofit organization with over thirty years of history in HIV care and support. This gives shoppers and donors a sense of purpose, knowing their involvement funds life-saving services and free HIV testing offered on-site. The store also fosters a stigma-free, welcoming environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity, making it especially significant for marginalized communities. The variety and quality of items—ranging from clothing to furniture and handmade pieces—are curated to appeal to diverse styles and needs, adding a boutique feel to thrift shopping. Moreover, the visible commitment to community well-being encourages customers to engage beyond the point of purchase, interacting with staff and programs promoting health education. This blend of philanthropy, community care, and quality merchandise creates a singular atmosphere that sets Out of the Closet - Ansley apart, turning a simple thrift store visit into an empowering, community-centric experience.
How can hosting a meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley build stronger friendships?
Hosting a meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley offers a unique opportunity to deepen friendships through shared experiences that blend fun, purpose, and learning. Shopping together allows friends to discover new styles and treasures, creating lively conversations and moments of humor that foster closeness. The act of trying on clothes and giving feedback encourages supportive interactions, reinforcing trust and openness. Engaging in the store’s donation process or learning about its HIV testing services can spark meaningful discussions about social issues, health, and community responsibility, helping friends connect intellectually and emotionally. Moreover, participating in a cause together enhances group cohesion, as friends experience the satisfaction that comes from contributing positively to the community. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere reduces any social pressure, enabling everyone to be themselves and enjoy genuine connection. In this way, a meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley is not just a shopping trip—it’s an opportunity to build lasting memories and reinforce meaningful bonds through collective enjoyment and shared values.
What are some tips for planning your group meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley?
To make the most of a group meetup at Out of the Closet - Ansley, some strategic planning can enhance the experience significantly. Start by coordinating arrival times to avoid overcrowding, as this ensures everyone can browse comfortably and try on clothes without feeling rushed. Designate a few friends to lead different activities like donation drop-offs or exploring specific sections to keep the group engaged and organized. Bringing reusable bags or boxes for purchases and donations can streamline handling and transportation. It’s also a good idea to set aside time for a casual group discussion at the store or nearby café to reflect on the impact of your visit and share favorite finds. Lastly, check the store’s hours and any special events or promotions in advance to align your plans accordingly. With thoughtful preparation, your meetup will flow smoothly, allowing your group to enjoy a purposeful and fun day together without logistical hassles.
What should you expect regarding pricing and items at Out of the Closet - Ansley?
Out of the Closet - Ansley offers an economical and varied shopping experience suitable for all budgets. Prices are generally low to moderate, reflecting the thrift store model aimed at accessibility and affordability. The selection includes a wide array of clothing styles ranging from casual wear to vintage-inspired pieces, plus accessories and home furnishings like furniture—all with frequent new arrivals to keep the inventory fresh. Because this is a thrift store, prices vary depending on item type, brand, and condition, but shoppers can find great deals and unique items at irresistible prices. The store also features some handmade jewelry and crafts, adding a distinctive, artisanal touch to the collection. The principle of supporting HIV care means that the value you receive is doubled by the knowledge that your spending has a meaningful social impact. This combination of variety, affordability, and mission-driven purpose makes the pricing at Out of the Closet - Ansley both fair and rewarding for shoppers.
What vibes and atmosphere can you expect at Out of the Closet - Ansley?
Visitors to Out of the Closet - Ansley can expect an inviting, inclusive, and vibrant atmosphere that balances charity with cheerful community spirit. The store’s interior is organized and bright, making it easy and enjoyable to navigate through racks of clothing and shelves filled with eclectic finds. Friendly staff members contribute to a warm environment that emphasizes respect, positivity, and support, welcoming everyone from regulars to first-time visitors. The presence of free HIV testing and community health resources infuses the space with a sense of purpose and solidarity without being clinical or intimidating. Background music and the buzz of people discovering treasures create a lively backdrop for socializing and browsing. This uplifting vibe encourages everyone to relax, express themselves, and enjoy the experience fully, making it an excellent venue for groups to gather, explore, and connect in a meaningful way.
How can you integrate other local experiences when visiting Out of the Closet - Ansley?
After enjoying a fulfilling visit to Out of the Closet - Ansley, groups can extend their meetup by exploring the vibrant Erskine Park and Ansley Mall area where the store is located. The neighborhood features charming cafés, eateries, and bars perfect for casual dining or coffee breaks, adding variety and relaxation to the day’s itinerary. Nearby green spaces offer opportunities for a leisurely stroll or picnic, enhancing social connection amid refreshing natural surroundings. For groups interested in arts and culture, local galleries and shops provide options for further discovery and enjoyment. Planning a visit to Out of the Closet - Ansley as part of a broader day out in Ansley allows a seamless blend of giving back, shopping, dining, and outdoor fun, maximizing the joy and impact of your gathering. This integration makes the meetup richer and more memorable while supporting a range of local businesses and community spaces.