REI: The Premier Outdoor Cooperative for Community and Adventure in New York, New York

REI is more than just a retail store; it’s a community hub for outdoor enthusiasts who want to share their passion with friends and family. Whether you're beginners eager to try new activities or seasoned adventurers looking to gear up, REI offers a welcoming space filled with expert advice, quality gear, and inspiring events. Gathering here with your group means access to top-brand camping, hiking, biking, and climbing gear all under one roof, ensuring everyone finds what they need for their next outdoor adventure. More than shopping, REI provides an opportunity to learn new skills together through hands-on workshops and seminars that are both educational and fun. Above all, REI encourages bonding over shared experiences and an appreciation for the outdoors, making it an ideal rallying point to plan your next outing or get help preparing gear, fostering camaraderie even before you hit the trail.

REI offers an impressive variety of activities perfect for groups looking to connect over outdoor pursuits. First, you and your friends can participate in in-store classes and workshops that teach valuable skills like bike repair, navigation, or backpacking techniques. These sessions are guided by experienced outdoor experts, making them perfect for groups who want to learn and grow together. Secondly, REI hosts inspiring presentations and seminars about outdoor travel and adventures, where you can gain insights into dream-worthy destinations. These events often provide chances to ask questions, share stories, and get inspired as a group. Third, for the cyclists in your party, REI’s full-service bike shops offer professional tune-ups, repairs, and gear customization, so you can prepare for group rides in the city or on trails. Additionally, REI’s ski and snowboard shops provide seasonal services to get your winter gear in optimal condition, ideal for friends planning ski trips. Beyond gear and skills, REI organizes and supports community events such as run clubs, film tours, service projects, and celebrations that foster social connections and teamwork, helping groups bond through shared values and experiences.

One key reason REI stands out as a meetup spot is its strong community vibe backed by knowledgeable, approachable staff who genuinely care about customers’ outdoor experiences. With locations like the SoHo flagship store boasting expansive, three-level layouts, the atmosphere is spacious and accommodating for groups to spread out, explore gear, and chat with staff without feeling rushed or cramped. The stores are outfitted with varied sections, from camping and climbing to fitness and cycling, so everyone in your group finds something engaging. Convenience is another factor — many REI stores, including those in Carle Place, Huntington Station, and SoHo, offer services like curbside pickup and buy-online-pickup-in-store, eliminating hassle for group purchases. Plus, the option to trade in or buy used gear allows your group to be eco-conscious and budget-friendly. REI’s dedication to education also means your gathering isn’t just social; it’s enriching and energizing for everyone's outdoor lifestyle, making it a favorite destination for groups who want to combine shopping, learning, and planning in one go.

REI’s commitment extends far beyond selling outdoor gear; it’s about empowering people to get outside confidently and safely. For groups, this means access to a wide range of rental gear if you want to try activities without investing heavily in equipment upfront, which lowers the barrier for new adventures. Moreover, REI’s extensive event calendar includes group-friendly activities such as guided hikes, kayak trips, run clubs, and conservation projects. These organized events provide an excellent way for friends and family to bond in nature with expert leadership and safety oversight. Beyond activities, REI’s expert advice and community resources help groups plan longer excursions, ensuring everyone is prepared — from first-timers to seasoned explorers. The co-op model also means your participation supports environmental stewardship and sustainable outdoor initiatives, allowing your group to contribute positively to the places you adventure in. This holistic approach builds a sense of shared purpose and deepens connections, making REI an ideal partner for any outdoor-focused meetup.

REI’s specialized services truly enhance any group gathering by ensuring you leave fully equipped and informed. Its professional bike shops provide tune-ups, repairs, and custom fittings that can accommodate groups of cyclists prepping for rides together, while the ski and snowboard shops handle seasonal equipment tuning so groups can hit the slopes without worry. The trade-in and used gear programs offer sustainability-conscious and budget-friendly ways to update your equipment, perfect for groups with diverse needs and price points. REI’s gear rental services let you try camping, paddling, or climbing equipment as a group before committing to purchases, encouraging experimentation and shared learning. Inside the stores, REI’s friendly experts offer personalized advice for gear selection tailored to group plans and skill levels. Additionally, many locations host group events and workshops, meaning you can turn your meetup into an immersive experience combining social interaction, education, and outdoor preparation, all supported by REI’s outstanding customer service culture.

REI is highly accessible for group meetups, with multiple store locations — like Carle Place, Huntington Station, and SoHo in New York — thoughtfully placed near public transit and major roadways. These sites offer services such as curbside pickup and online ordering with in-store pickup, streamlining the shopping experience when you're coordinating with a group. Operating hours often extend into the evening, allowing flexibility for busy schedules. Each store's spacious layout and seating areas make it comfortable for groups to linger, chat, and explore without feeling rushed. Also, REI’s membership benefits, including discounts and exclusive events, add value for groups who frequent the outdoors together regularly. This combination of convenience, accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere helps make REI a natural choice when organizing meetups focused on outdoor gear, education, and community-building.

REI’s unique cooperative business model sets it apart by emphasizing community, sustainability, and education. Unlike typical retailers, REI exists to serve its members and the broader outdoor community, offering dividends based on purchases and investing heavily in outdoor stewardship programs. This focus creates a stronger sense of belonging and shared values, which is especially attractive for groups seeking more than just a shopping trip. REI’s commitment to environmental responsibility can resonate with groups passionate about leaving minimal impact in the wild. The extensive array of hands-on classes and events specifically designed for beginners and experienced adventurers alike fosters learning together — a hallmark that distinguishes it from competitors that largely offer just products. Furthermore, REI’s emphasis on quality equipment paired with customer service ensures you and your friends are not only connecting but doing so with the best tools and expert knowledge available, which elevates the overall experience profoundly.

REI is ideal for families because it offers activities and gear that accommodate all ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone from kids to grandparents finds something enjoyable. Its classes are often family-friendly, making it possible for groups with children to learn new outdoor skills in safe, supervised environments. The stores’ hands-on approach encourages children and adults alike to engage with the gear and environment, fostering a love for outdoor adventure early on. For family reunions or casual meetups, REI provides a safe, educational, and interactive environment that can spark ideas for future family trips and collective outdoor memories. The cooperative’s emphasis on quality and sustainability also means families can invest in products designed to last, promoting responsible outdoor lifestyles they can pass down. Together, these features make REI a trusted and enriching place for families to convene, learn, and plan adventures.

REI acts as a comprehensive adventure planning hub for groups by providing not only the gear but also expert advice, detailed trip planning resources, and skill-building opportunities under one roof. The in-store experts can help tailor recommendations based on the type of trip, group size, and skill levels, ensuring everyone is prepared and excited. Additionally, REI’s events and workshops often include sessions on trip planning topics like navigation, wilderness first aid, and camp cooking, empowering groups to handle challenges proactively. Access to rental gear also reduces investment risk for groups trying new activities. Beyond this, REI’s community provides platforms to meet other outdoor enthusiasts, which can be valuable for groups looking to expand their network for future adventures. By combining equipment access, education, and community, REI helps transform group outdoor experiences from ideas into well-executed adventures everyone will cherish.