When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel
Why Real Irish - Gifts & Travel is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel, located in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers an inviting destination for those looking to connect with authentic Irish culture. Established originally in 1998 and opening a storefront in 2014, this business excels in curating a wide range of traditionally made and handcrafted Irish products that are not just gifts but stories of Ireland’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore a handcrafted collection that includes clothing, jewelry, fragrances, home goods, and authentic food and candy imported directly from Ireland and the UK. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal place for friends to meet, share stories, and discover unique treasures rooted in Irish craftsmanship. Moreover, the business extends beyond merchandise by offering small group tours to Ireland, providing an immersive travel experience that deepens the connection to the land and culture. This unique combination of boutique shopping and travel planning makes Real Irish - Gifts & Travel a special hub for anyone wanting to celebrate and share the Irish spirit locally in Ann Arbor or through exciting journeys abroad.
Here's what people think of Real Irish - Gifts & Travel
As of recent, Real Irish - Gifts & Travel holds a 5-star rating based on 459 reviews.
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel boasts an impressive 5.0 rating based on 459 reviews, reflecting a highly satisfied customer base. Reviewers consistently praise the store for its exceptional customer service and wide selection of authentic Irish products. Many highlight the quality and uniqueness of items, noting how the curated gifts make perfect presents that carry genuine cultural significance. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide personalized recommendations, creating a memorable shopping experience that goes beyond the typical retail interaction. Customers also appreciate the hassle-free return policy and timely shipping, especially when ordering online from their Ann Arbor location. On the other hand, a few less favorable reviews focus on occasional inventory shortages and the limited physical store hours, which can be challenging for some shoppers. However, these concerns are rare and often outweighed by the overall positive experiences customers report. In conclusion, the reviews solidly establish Real Irish as a beloved local shop known for its authenticity, quality, and excellent customer care — making it a dependable choice for Irish gifts and travel planning.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Schmidt
Thank you, Stuart, for 12 wonderful days on Real Irish Travel’s Emerald Isle discovery tour! This trip was expertly researched, planned, and executed! We had an amazing group of fellow travelers (20) on the tour. Stuart and Keith (our coach driver/guide) shared the Irish history and culture on our bus and we enjoyed gracious hotel stays, delicious Irish food, drink, traditional Irish music and folklore. This is our second most excellent Real Irish adventure with Stuart. He strives to please those who travel with him and he does not disappoint! This is a 5 star trip of a lifetime!
Fred Stults
My wife and I joined a group of friends on a tour of Ireland with Stuart of Real Irish Tours. I can honestly say that this was the best organized and most enjoyable tour that we have ever taken. Stuart had everything superbly organized and his knowledge of Irish geography and history made the experience quite special. His tours are small so that everyone on tour gets to know everyone else. I can also say that the accommodations and food on the trip were well above expectation. We really hope to take additional tours with Stuart as soon as this virus is behind us. We recommend Stuart and Real Irish Tours without hesitation.
Cynthia Boal Janssens
I have been writing about travel...and traveling...for over 30 years. So I know how tricky it is to bring all the components of a land tour together. Stuart did a fantastic job in all aspects -- not a easy feat. Not only does he design his tours, he accompanies them. He was always cheerful, even when presented with a challenge. And so hospitable, buying the first drink for everyone at our many group dinners. If you have always wanted to see Ireland, then GO now... And go with Real Irish Tours. You won't be disappointed. We are already considering doing another tour with Stuart next year. Maybe to Scotland and Wales. Maybe to the south of Ireland. Oh, and did I say that I finally learned to love Guinness Stout? P.S. John is enjoying his new tweed vest and Hanna hat!
Bryce Kelley
Real Irish Travel took my wife and I to Ireland. Stuart and our Irish guides and drivers introduced us to Ireland. We toured and learned about Ireland’s rich histories and ever-visible legacies. We met the people, experienced the culture, viewed and touched beautiful vistas. We saw the cliffs, the shores, the pastures, and never tired of the color green. We toured and watched ship builders, woolen mill workers, and ironworkers. We tasted incredible food, were treated to first class hospitality venues, and of course we drank Guinness, Irish whiskeys & ales & beers. We enjoyed it all. Stuart is much more than a guide. He delivers the Island of Eire to you. During our entire stay every part of was personable and very friendly. Our group, all seventeen of us, became close and still stay in touch, due in no small part to our experiences and Stuart’s connection to Ireland and people.
Wendy Piepenburg
An experience of a lifetime! Without hesitation, book away! Stuart is an amazing guide, experienced in both the culture and history of the wonderful places you’ll visit. Whatever tour you choose, he arranges with great care the best hotels, restaurants, transportation, and awe inspiring cities, towns, and natural landscapes you’ll love to experience. From your departure to arrival home every detail is taken care of for you so that you can relax and thoroughly enjoy your holiday abroad. My mom and I absolutely loved our tour with Real Irish Tours. We made new friends, explored new places, learned so much about Ireland and Wales, and created long lasting memories. Thank you, Stuart, and Real Irish!
How to reach Real Irish - Gifts & Travel
None
Website: None
Why Real Irish - Gifts & Travel may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Real Irish - Gifts & Travel with your friends?
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is an exceptional destination to gather with friends because it offers a unique cultural experience that transcends the ordinary meetups. This store provides a curated selection of authentic Irish goods, handmade by craftsmen in Ireland, which instantly transports visitors into the heart of Irish heritage and tradition. For groups of friends looking to bond over something different, Real Irish offers not just shopping but a shared explorative journey through Irish culture right in their local community. The store’s intimate ambiance and genuine connection to Ireland's rich history present countless conversational starters and opportunities for discovery. Whether you are fans of elegant Harris Tweed accessories, artisanal fragrances, or authentic Irish food and candies, the shared delight of uncovering high-quality products together creates memorable social moments. Beyond gifting, the business also organizes small group tours to Ireland, which can further deepen friendships through travel and immersive cultural experiences. This blend of retail and travel makes Real Irish an ideal rallying point for friends who enjoy meaningful, authentic experiences combined with the joy of unique shopping and the prospect of future adventure planning.
What activities can you enjoy at Real Irish - Gifts & Travel and why is it perfect for group meetups?
At Real Irish - Gifts & Travel, the primary activity is exploring a thoughtfully curated collection of Irish-made products that range from clothing, jewelry, and fragrances to home goods and traditional Irish food items. This diverse inventory offers friends a chance to discover gifts or souvenirs that are not commonly found elsewhere, adding a special touch to group gatherings. Shopping together in this environment is more than just browsing—it’s about learning the stories behind each handcrafted piece and sharing appreciation for craftsmanship and heritage. Customers can also indulge in sampling authentic Irish sweets and snacks, which introduces a fun, interactive tasting experience that groups can enjoy together. The staff's knowledgeable and friendly approach further enriches the experience, as they provide insights into the origins and cultural significance of various items. Additionally, the business’s travel component offers an exciting option for groups inclined to explore: booking personalized, small-group tours to Ireland and Wales. Planning such a trip can turn a simple meetup into a multi-layered communal event, fostering lasting bonds through shared anticipation and eventual travel memories. Overall, the combination of sensory shopping, cultural discovery, and travel planning makes Real Irish a perfect venue for friends seeking an engaging and cohesive group experience.
How does Real Irish - Gifts & Travel’s product selection enhance group gatherings?
The products you find at Real Irish - Gifts & Travel serve as catalysts for conversation and connection, enhancing the social dynamics of any group outing. The store’s selection of authentic Harris Tweed bags, gloves, and hats showcases tradition through style, offering group members the chance to try on or admire luxurious, handcrafted textiles that tell stories of Irish heritage. The fragrances from brands like Inis and Connemara introduce customers to evocative scents inspired by the Irish landscape, a unique sensory dimension that friends can discuss and share opinions on, making shopping a shared experience rather than a solitary task. For food and candy enthusiasts, tasting Irish treats together invites moments of laughter and nostalgia, often inspiring storytelling and shared enjoyment. Gifts available at Real Irish also make for excellent tokens to exchange among friends during visits, reinforcing bonds through thoughtful, culturally rich gestures. The curated nature of the store ensures that every item holds meaning, fostering an atmosphere where group members not only shop but also engage deeply with Irish culture as they interact with each other. This collective experience is why Real Irish’s products stand out as perfect facilitators of memorable group meetups.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Real Irish - Gifts & Travel ideal for hosting meetups?
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel is conveniently located at 213 S Fourth Avenue in Ann Arbor, Michigan, a lively area that is accessible and welcoming for groups. The store’s intimate and cozy setup invites lingering and conversation, unlike larger retail chain stores that can feel rushed or impersonal. This atmosphere allows groups to explore items at their own pace, fostering unhurried discussions about the craftsmanship, heritage, and possible stories behind each piece. The staff’s passion for Irish culture ensures guests feel welcomed and informed, creating a warm, community-centric environment that encourages interaction not only within the group but also with the store’s team. Hosting a meetup here means embracing authenticity and quality in a setting designed to celebrate culture, which adds depth and enjoyment to social gatherings. The location’s blend of cultural immersion, friendly service, and comfortable space makes it an unmatched venue for anyone looking to enjoy meaningful time with friends or family. Thus, Real Irish becomes more than a store—it is a social hub, perfect for meetups centered on discovery, cultural appreciation, and fun.
How can small group tours to Ireland complement your Real Irish - Gifts & Travel experience?
One of the most compelling reasons to rally at Real Irish - Gifts & Travel is their unique offering of small-group, personalized tours to Ireland and Wales. For a group of friends, this service transforms a simple gathering into an immersive cultural adventure waiting to be planned together. These tours are led by passionate guides familiar with the land’s rich history, ensuring that travelers receive an authentic experience beyond typical tourism. Planning such a trip as a group fosters excitement and camaraderie from the outset, as everyone contributes to choosing destinations, activities, and the kind of Irish experiences they want to have. Post-visit, the shared memories create lifelong bonds and stories to retell. Even if the trip is not immediate, the opportunity to engage with travel experts at the store who can provide insights and answer questions adds another layer of interaction during meetups. This travel option perfectly complements the store’s physical products by offering a route to live the culture firsthand, reinforcing Real Irish as an ideal place to plan and celebrate friendship through discovery and adventure.
What unique Irish cultural experiences does Real Irish - Gifts & Travel bring to its visitors?
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel goes beyond retail by offering an authentic slice of Irish cultural heritage through its products, storytelling, and travel opportunities. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Irish craftsmanship found in genuine Harris Tweed goods, locally made jewelry, and fragrances inspired by Ireland’s natural beauty. These items aren’t just decorative; each has a story that reflects Ireland’s history, landscape, or traditions, making every visit an educational and intriguing cultural encounter. The shop also brings tastes of Ireland to Michigan through carefully selected food and confectionery, allowing visitors to experience Irish flavors in a convivial setting. Moreover, the store owners’ deep ties to Ireland and their passion for sharing its culture shine through in the personalized service and storytelling that enrich every visit. This authentic cultural window creates an engaging environment for friends and family meetups, turning ordinary social gatherings into cultural celebrations. Real Irish becomes a bridge connecting its visitors to the warmth and uniqueness of Irish heritage, making every visit both meaningful and memorable.
Why is Real Irish - Gifts & Travel rated so highly by its customers?
Real Irish - Gifts & Travel holds an outstanding 5.0-star rating from 459 reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction and loyalty. This high rating is a testament to the quality of both their products and their customer service. Shoppers repeatedly praise the authenticity and craftsmanship of the Irish goods, remarking on the care put into selecting items that truly represent Ireland’s cultural heritage. Customers also highlight the welcoming and knowledgeable staff who enhance the shopping experience with expertise and genuine warmth. The personalized attention and passion for Irish culture create a strong emotional connection with visitors, encouraging repeat patronage and positive word-of-mouth. Additionally, the store’s unique combination of retail and travel services distinguishes it from typical gift shops, offering a broader experience that customers deeply appreciate. This stellar reputation makes Real Irish a trusted and beloved destination, especially for groups looking to host special, culturally rich meetups that leave everyone feeling valued and inspired.