When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale with a group of friends or family, consider
REI
Why REI is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
REI, or Recreational Equipment, Inc., is a premier American retail cooperative known for its extensive range of high-quality outdoor gear, clothing, and equipment. Catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, REI is a great place to meet up with friends who share a passion for adventure and nature. With over 181 retail stores across 41 states, REI offers a welcoming environment that encourages exploration and active lifestyles. Many locations feature interactive elements such as bike trails and rock climbing walls, allowing customers to test gear before purchasing, enhancing the shopping experience.
REI's product offerings cover a broad spectrum of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, climbing, cycling, water sports, running, fitness, snow sports, and travel. Unlike some competitors, REI focuses on recreational equipment rather than hunting or fishing gear, appealing to those focused on fitness and adventure activities. The company also places a strong emphasis on sustainable and durable products, making it a leader in eco-conscious retail.
Moreover, REI operates as a consumer cooperative, meaning members receive a share of profits based on their purchases, which fosters a strong sense of community and loyalty. The blend of expert advice, quality products, and customer-focused policies like a 100% satisfaction guarantee makes REI a trusted destination for outdoor gear shopping and social gatherings with like-minded adventurers.
Here's what people think of REI
As of recent, REI holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1177 reviews.
Customer reviews of REI reflect a generally positive experience, highlighting the store as a reliable source for outdoor gear with excellent customer service and knowledgeable staff. Reviewers appreciate the cooperative business model, which provides members with dividends and special benefits, reinforcing loyalty and community connection. Many positive remarks focus on the quality and diversity of products available, as well as the interactive store features like climbing walls and bike trails that enhance the shopping experience.
Positive reviews frequently mention the helpfulness of REI's staff, the ease of making returns or exchanges with their satisfaction guarantee, and the convenience of their online and mobile shopping platforms. Customers feel that REI’s commitment to sustainability and responsible outdoor practices aligns well with their values.
Some negative reviews, however, cite occasional issues such as higher prices compared to other retailers and inventory limitations at certain locations. A few customers have noted that the cooperative membership model might not provide immediate benefits for infrequent shoppers. Despite these points, the consistent emphasis on customer service and quality generally outweighs the negatives.
In conclusion, REI maintains a strong reputation among its customers for providing a well-rounded shopping experience centered on quality products, ethical business practices, and community engagement, making it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alex Le
Almost all options for freeze dried meals are available. Sunnyvale location, the store layout is very well laid out and intuitive to navigate
François-Olivier Grisel
[edited from 1 star to 3 stars after leadership reached out to apologize and took concrete steps to prevent this situation from happening again] I rarely post negative reviews but here we go. I brought my bike to the REI bike shop in Sunnyvale because the rear derailleur barrel adjuster was stuck and I couldn't do indexing adjustments anymore. A couple of days later I received a call that they had accidentally broken my derailleur hanger and that it would take a few days to fix... I was not so happy but mistakes happen. Finally after a week I was advised that my bike was ready for pick up. To my surprise, the barrel adjuster issue had not been fixed - but the technician had instead decided to cut the chain which he said was too long and prevented good shifting. You can see on the picture that the chain was cut clearly too short. To their credit, they provided a new chain free of charge and settled the bill at no cost so that I could bring the bike to another shop. However I was quite shocked by the lack of skill of the team and wanted to share my experience.
Paulius Pace
Went into this location today looking for a bike. All the bikes were locked up, hung on racks and didn’t have prices listed on them. I saw one I was interested in, so I lifted it off the rack to feel its weight and try and sit on it to help decide if I should get a medium or large. One of the representatives came up to me and was very upset and started to claim that I was breaking the bike. He got another representative to come to try and help out but was useless as he did not let me test the bike, due to my height being out of the range for a medium size. Bikes are overpriced even with a 20% discount. Staff are pompous, and not looking to help the customers. Merchandise is setup in a way where customers cannot even test out the equipment they are looking to purchase. Very disappointed. Will not be shopping at REI moving forward.
Stinger GT2 tv
🌲⛺🏞️🛒😃 I had an amazing experience at the REI store! The store had a wide selection of outdoor gear and equipment, and the staff were very helpful and knowledgeable. I found everything I needed for my camping trip and more. The store was well-organized, making it easy to find what I was looking for. Plus, the friendly and passionate staff made the shopping experience even better. I left the store with a big smile on my face and all the gear I needed for my outdoor adventure.👍🏕️🚵♂️🏔️
Lilia Castro
I want to review this store because I had an excellent experience. Larry in backpacks fitting went into details in making sure the fit was perfect. He also made sure not to make you feel uncomfortable by touching you, in other words he did not touch you. Thank you Larry for your knowledge and kindness. The shoe section could use more staff. It was quite busy on a Saturday afternoon. It took a long time to get our shoes.
How to reach REI
None
Website: None
Why REI may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family for a meetup is all about sharing experiences, creating memories, and enjoying quality time together. REI stands out as an exceptional venue for such gatherings because it combines the excitement of the outdoors with expert support and a welcoming atmosphere designed for groups of all interests and activity levels. Whether you're seasoned outdoor enthusiasts or newcomers eager to explore nature, REI offers a unique blend of resources—from top-brand gear and clothing to hands-on classes and community events—that inspire and equip you for adventure. Meeting at REI means you’re not just convening in a retail space; you're entering a hub of knowledge, inspiration, and opportunity where everyone can learn, gear up, and embark on their next adventure together. This cooperative store goes beyond shopping by fostering connections among outdoor lovers, making it an ideal spot to spark plans, bond over shared interests, and even try new activities alongside friends or family. Plus, with multiple locations open late, it accommodates your schedule comfortably, turning your meetup into a full experience focused on fun, fitness, and friendship.
What activities does REI offer for groups looking to have fun together?
REI hosts a broad range of activities perfect for groups wanting to engage and learn together. One of the highlights is the regular in-store classes and workshops that cover essential outdoor skills like bike repairs, backpacking, navigation, and even paddling techniques. These sessions are highly interactive and guided by REI’s knowledgeable experts, providing an excellent chance for groups to pick up new skills simultaneously and then apply them in real-world adventures. Beyond skills, REI arranges inspiring presentations and seminars featuring outdoor experts and adventurers who share stories, tips, and stunning travel destinations. These events ignite imagination and encourage group discussions about future excursions. For those who love running or cycling, REI organizes run clubs and biking groups where friends can join together in fitness and camaraderie. Moreover, the store often hosts service projects and celebrations that foster community spirit, making your meetup not only fun but also meaningful and contributing to environmental stewardship.
Why is REI a perfect place for group gear rental and outfitting?
One of the most practical reasons to meet at REI as a group is the convenience and quality of its rental services. Whether your group wants to try a new outdoor activity without the upfront investment of buying equipment, REI rental gear covers tents, bikes, stand-up paddleboards, snowshoes, climbing gear, and more. This makes it seamless for groups to gear up for trips or practice sessions with trustworthy, high-quality equipment. Planning a large outing? REI accommodates groups of ten or more with advance notice to ensure everyone has what they need. This group rental option removes barriers that can hold back spontaneous or exploratory adventures, making it easy for friends and family to experiment with new activities or prepare for bigger trips. After renting, REI’s expert staff can also offer advice on how to use the gear properly, ensuring your group is safe and confident, which uplifts the overall experience. This shared rental experience builds excitement and gives your meetup a focus, whether it’s preparing for a camping weekend or a day of exploring new terrain.
How does REI support group outdoor adventures and ongoing learning?
REI’s dedication to education and community makes it much more than a gear store — it's a learning center and social hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Groups appreciate this because they can both prepare for and enrich their adventures in one place. The co-op regularly offers hands-on workshops that not only teach practical skills but also encourage teamwork and shared discovery. When friends or family attend these workshops together, they benefit from a collaborative environment that strengthens their bond and mutual confidence in outdoor capabilities. Aside from in-person events, REI provides access to expert advice at the store to help plan and tailor trips to the interests and skill levels of your group, whether you’re planning a short hike, multi-day backpacking, or a cycling expedition. Furthermore, REI’s community events, such as film tours about wilderness adventures or group service projects that support conservation efforts, invite groups to connect over shared values and experiences beyond just the gear and activity. This holistic support nurtures group camaraderie and transforms ordinary outings into lifelong cherished memories.
What makes the in-store environment at REI welcoming for groups?
REI’s stores are carefully designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and engaging for groups looking to spend time together. Friendly, knowledgeable staff create a warm and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable asking questions, learning, and sharing ideas. Each location is a spacious environment where groups can browse together, test gear, talk through equipment choices, and enjoy the excitement of planning new adventures side by side. Facilities like bike shops with professional services and areas devoted to demonstrations add hands-on fun and usability that appeal to people of all ages and interests within your group. The extended store hours, including weekend availability, mean meetups can be planned flexibly around work and personal schedules. Being a co-op, REI cultivates a sense of community ownership and pride, fostering an environment where outdoor lovers come not just to shop but to connect. For families, friends, or mixed-interest groups, this supportive setting makes REI a prime location to gather, laugh, learn, and start your next adventure as a team.
Is REI well-reviewed and trusted by its community?
With an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on over a thousand reviews, REI is broadly trusted and appreciated by its customer base. Users repeatedly praise the quality of the gear, the helpfulness and expertise of staff, and the enriching events and classes offered. The store is recognized for fostering a genuine sense of community and for providing gear that lasts and performs well, critical factors when planning group outdoor activities. Many highlight the empowering nature of the workshops that make outdoor skills accessible even to beginners, which is perfect when meeting with friends who may have mixed experience levels. The positive atmosphere and dedication to customer satisfaction ensure that when you gather at REI, your group is supported not only by quality products but also by a brand committed to your success and enjoyment outdoors. This reliability and community-focus make REI a solid choice for hosting your next meetup.
What locations and store hours make REI convenient for group meetups?
REI is conveniently located with multiple stores in urban areas like Fort Worth, Dallas, and nearby Southlake and Plano, making access easy for groups across metropolitan regions. For example, the Fort Worth location is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm and on Sunday until 6 pm, providing evening hours that accommodate after-work meetups or family outings. The Dallas store similarly keeps extended hours, offering availability seven days a week including Sundays. Having these flexible hours means groups can arrange gatherings that suit everyone’s availability without feeling rushed. Moreover, the proximity of multiple stores ensures that no matter where your group members live, there’s likely an REI store within convenient driving distance. Each location features in-store shopping, expert staff, professional bike shops, and full service, giving groups a consistent and high-quality experience. Whether planning a quick visit to pick up gear or an extended meetup with participating in workshops and events, these accessible locations make REI a practical and inviting hub for groups to rally around.
What makes REI unique compared to other outdoor retailers for a meetup?
Unlike typical outdoor retail chains, REI is a member-owned cooperative, which means its mission is rooted in community, quality, and sustainability rather than profit alone. This cooperative model fosters a unique culture where customers are also members who share a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to environmental stewardship. When groups meet at REI, they tap into a rich ethos of responsible recreation and learning, which enhances the meetup experience with a deeper sense of purpose and connection. The range of expert-led programs and community events goes far beyond what many other retailers offer, transforming the store into a dynamic gathering place for inspiration and skill-building. REI’s dedication to used gear and trade-ins also supports sustainability and accessibility, allowing groups to engage in outdoor activities without excessive cost or environmental impact. This blend of community values, expert support, extensive educational opportunities, and quality products uniquely positions REI as the premier destination for meaningful group meetups centered around the joy of the outdoors.