When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh 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 stands out as America’s largest and most comprehensive outdoor retailer, dedicated not just to selling high-quality gear but also fostering an immersive community experience. With 181 stores across 41 states, each REI location typically spans about 25,000 square feet, dedicating a third of that space to experiential public areas where friends and outdoor enthusiasts can gather, share stories, plan adventures, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee. This unique store layout emphasizes education, consultation, and community over mere sales. Beyond the physical stores, REI offers an extensive range of products, including their own REI Co-op and Co-op Cycles branded gear, as well as 1,000 cooperative brand products from well-known names such as Adidas, The North Face, Columbia, and Arc'teryx. Their product categories span outdoor clothing, shoes, equipment, tents, and accessories tailored for cycling, mountaineering, skiing, running, and more, making it a one-stop hub for outdoor lifestyle needs.
REI’s mission strongly emphasizes sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices, setting comprehensive product sustainability standards that guide both their in-house lines and partnerships globally. This approach not only ensures quality but also gives customers confidence that their purchases support fair trade and environmental stewardship. The company also offers a variety of services such as gear rentals, local classes, and expert advice, designed to empower and connect outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. These services cater to making outdoor activities more accessible and enjoyable, reinforcing REI’s reputation as more than a retailer — it’s a vibrant community and resource hub.
Here's what people think of REI
As of recent, REI holds a 4.6-star rating based on 436 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction with REI’s comprehensive product range, knowledgeable staff, and welcoming in-store community spaces. Positive reviewers praise the quality of both in-house and partnered brands, noting that REI provides reliable gear for serious outdoor enthusiasts as well as casual adventurers. Many highlight the value of the hands-on classes and expert advice offered, emphasizing how these resources help them get the most out of their outdoor experiences. The community atmosphere within stores, where people can share plans and connect, also receives frequent commendation for making REI a unique and inviting destination beyond traditional retail.
On the other hand, some of the less favorable reviews mention occasional issues with pricing compared to other retailers and variable availability of certain specialty items depending on the store location. A few customers express frustration with limited stock or waiting times, particularly during peak seasons. However, these critiques are relatively minor in volume compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Overall, REI is widely viewed as a trusted and customer-centered retailer that excels at blending product quality, community engagement, expert guidance, and sustainability. The reviews suggest that most visitors find great value in the company’s combination of goods and experiences, reaffirming why REI maintains a strong 4.6-star rating from hundreds of users.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
James Hucke
Great customer experience at REI in North Hills Raleigh. My recent experiences have been great. Today Tyler and Mike were very helpful. I had a return and purchased new cycling shoes.
Ryly Mitchell
Kayitlyn was an amazing help in picking out my new boots for hiking. The store also has Ruffwear an amazing dog gear brand
Scott Yun
Shannon was really nice and very helpful. Though this store didn’t have the size of shoes in a color I wanted, she helped choosing the right size using different color, and directed me to other REI stores with availability. So impressed with REI’s customer service and highly appreciate her help!
Will Drake
I love the store and REI. However, Tyler made my return experience less than stellar. Even after a couple of days later, I find myself bothered by the whole interaction. I purchased a really nice, expensive tent and after setting it up in the yard, decided we didn't like the bright colors. I ordered a darker color from the website and returned the bright one to the store. Tyler handled the whole return incredulously and at times seemed as if he wasn't going to accept the return. It was very off putting. Maybe he was just having a bad day, but two days later I'm still bothered by his hesitation to be accept the return and the way he interacted with me about the return. I hope he has a better day with the next customer.
Clifton Harper
Great outdoor outfitters store, with awesome customer service personnel experience. I am a member, but I don't find myself shopping this great store with awesome outdoor activities selections. They offer camping supplies as we'll as clothing and cycling products. I was there after visiting another store in the same location and found exactly what I needed in a collapsible dog water bowl.
How to reach REI
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Website: None
Why REI may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at REI with your friends?
REI stands out as a premier destination for groups of friends or family members looking to gather and enjoy the great outdoors together. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 400 reviews, REI has built a trusted reputation as a hub for outdoor gear and community connection. The moment you enter one of their stores, such as their iconic Denver Flagship located in a beautifully restored historic building, you are immersed in a world dedicated to adventure and quality outdoor experiences. Beyond just shopping, REI offers an inviting atmosphere where people with shared interests in hiking, cycling, climbing, and other activities can come together to explore, learn, and plan their next journeys. The expert staff provide personalized advice, helping group members of all experience levels find the right gear and plan activities suited to their preferences and skillsets. For a group, this creates a unique bonding opportunity — sharing knowledge, gearing up for a trip, or simply enjoying a community event hosted by REI. It’s a place where enthusiasm for outdoor living becomes a collective celebration of friendship and exploration.
What activities does REI offer that are perfect for groups?
REI goes far beyond a typical retail experience by offering a broad spectrum of activities and services that cater especially well to groups of outdoor enthusiasts. One of the highlights is their in-store workshops and classes designed to teach essential outdoor skills, such as bike repair, navigation, and backpacking. These hands-on sessions foster interactive learning and teamwork, making them ideal for friends or family looking to build capabilities together before venturing outdoors. Additionally, REI hosts inspiring presentations and seminars led by experts that introduce group members to new outdoor disciplines or exciting travel destinations. These events encourage discussion and shared enthusiasm, perfect for sparking group adventures.
For those not ready to buy, REI’s rental services offer an excellent option for group outings, allowing members to test gear ranging from tents to bikes without commitment. Many REI locations also have full-service bike and ski shops, which can tune and prepare equipment for group excursions, emphasizing convenience and reliability. Beyond these activities, REI organizes or sponsors community events including run clubs, film tours, and environmental service projects. These immersive experiences provide an ideal setting for groups to engage with nature and each other in meaningful ways, all supported by the welcoming and knowledgeable REI community.
How does REI’s environment encourage group meetups?
The layout and culture at REI stores are thoughtfully designed to make meetups and group activities seamless and enjoyable. REI stores, like the Manhattan Beach location, feature ample space for groups to explore gear side by side and interact with staff experts who can provide personalized guidance for the entire party. The friendly and collaborative atmosphere encourages conversation and idea sharing—a vital ingredient when planning group outdoor activities.
REI’s commitment to community is seen through the variety of events they hold that naturally bring groups together. From service projects that foster teamwork to running clubs and film screenings that entertain and inspire, these events provide focal points for gathering. The presence of amenities like cafes or lounge areas at some locations offers a relaxed space to catch up and plan, making the store more than just a shopping stop but a social hub.
Moreover, the accessibility of services such as bike and ski shops means groups can synchronize their preparation efforts, getting all their gear maintained and tuned in one convenient visit. This integration reduces logistical hassles and promotes shared excitement before hitting the trails, slopes, or paths. The overall ambience and offerings at REI thus create an environment not only suitable but optimal for group meetings and collaborative planning.
What makes REI the ideal place to gear up for outdoor adventures?
REI prides itself on carrying top-quality gear and apparel from trusted brands that satisfy even the most discerning outdoor enthusiasts. Their extensive inventory includes everything needed for camping, climbing, cycling, hiking, paddling, skiing, and snowboarding—covering a comprehensive spectrum of outdoor activities suitable for group adventures. The availability of specialized equipment combined with expert advice ensures every group member is well-prepared, enhancing safety and comfort.
Another advantage is REI’s rental program, which allows groups to access high-end gear at a fraction of the cost of buying, perfect for trying out new activities together without upfront investment. This flexibility encourages experimentation and group bonding through shared experiences. Additionally, REI’s gear trade-in and used equipment programs make it easier to equip large groups sustainably and economically.
Expertise is embedded in REI’s service culture; staff provide thorough guidance tailored to group needs, whether advising on multi-day backpacking setups or the best bicycles for local trails. This ensures that each person, from novices to seasoned outdoorspeople, finds appropriate gear, facilitating inclusive group participation. The confidence that comes from having reliable equipment and knowledgeable support is invaluable when planning memorable outdoor excursions with friends or family.
How can REI’s community events enhance your group experience?
REI’s community events transform routine meetups into enriching social and educational experiences. Their calendar includes run clubs, bike rides, film tours, and educational classes that cater to a wide variety of interests and skill levels. Participating in these activities allows groups to connect not only internally but also with a wider outdoor community, deepening bonds and expanding social circles.
Service projects coordinated by REI present unique opportunities for groups to collaborate on meaningful environmental stewardship, fostering a sense of purpose together with physical activity. This can enhance group cohesion by building shared memories around positive contributions to nature preservation.
The inspiring presentations and seminars offered are ideal for group attendance, as they provide fresh ideas and motivation for future trips, sparking collective planning and dreams of new adventures. In-store workshops focusing on practical skills improve group confidence and self-sufficiency outdoors.
Overall, REI’s focus on community engagement enriches the group experience by combining education, adventure, and social connection in a supportive, welcoming setting — a perfect formula for memorable gatherings.
What are the practical benefits of hosting your group meetup at REI?
Hosting a group meetup at REI offers numerous practical advantages that streamline planning and enhance the overall experience. First, most REI stores are conveniently located in accessible urban areas with ample parking and public transport connections, making it easy for every member to attend.
Inside, spacious layouts and well-organized sections make browsing efficient and enjoyable even for large parties. REI’s knowledgeable staff provide attentive service that can speed up the decision-making process for gear, saving valuable time for group outings.
The store also offers curbside pickup and same-day in-store pickup for many items, allowing groups to quickly gather equipment without long waits. This ensures your meetup is productive and hassle-free, especially when timing is critical before a planned adventure.
Additional services such as bike and ski repair shops help prepare equipment professionally in one location, further simplifying logistics for groups that share similar interests. REI’s easy return policies and member rewards programs add financial peace of mind, making the experience more comfortable and economical.
Finally, the possibility to attend educational workshops or community events during your meetup adds value beyond shopping, providing entertainment and learning that can enrich the group dynamic and build long-term outdoor skills.
In summary, REI is much more than a retail store; it is a vibrant community hub designed specifically to elevate group outdoor experiences. Whether you seek expert gear advice, hands-on learning, shared adventures, or inspiring community connections, REI provides the perfect environment and resources for rallying your friends or family around the joys of outdoor living. With its expert staff, broad activity offerings, and welcoming atmosphere, hosting your group meetup at REI promises to be both rewarding and memorable.