When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Sam's Club
Why Sam's Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sam's Club is a leading membership-only warehouse club retail chain owned by Walmart, founded in 1983 by Sam Walton to offer quality products at affordable prices. With nearly 600 locations across 44 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, it offers spacious stores averaging around 136,000 square feet designed with sustainable features like skylights and energy management systems. Sam's Club focuses on providing a comprehensive shopping experience that appeals both to middle-income families and small business owners, helping them access both everyday essentials and specialty items at competitive prices.
What makes Sam's Club a great place to meet up with friends is not only its vast selection of products — including fresh food, premium brands, and the exclusive Member's Mark private label — but also its member services such as curbside pickup, delivery from club, pharmacy, fuel savings, and more. The stores often include service amenities like car washes and expansive shopping environments that encourage leisurely browsing. The combination of quality products, exclusive savings, and convenient shopping options makes Sam's Club a valued destination for social and shopping needs.
Here's what people think of Sam's Club
As of recent, Sam's Club holds a 4.2-star rating based on 1663 reviews.
Reviews of Sam's Club reflect a generally positive experience, evidenced by a solid 4.2 rating from over 1600 reviewers. Positive feedback highlights the store's wide variety of high-quality merchandise, excellent value for money, and efficient member services such as curbside pickup and delivery. Many customers appreciate the convenience of bulk buying and the availability of exclusive Member's Mark products known for quality and innovation. Reviewers also commend the spacious layout, sustainability efforts, and friendly staff, which combine to create an enjoyable shopping environment.
On the other hand, some critical reviews point out issues such as occasional difficulty in finding specific items, long checkout lines during peak times, and inconsistencies with stock availability. A few reviewers mention that membership fees may not seem justified by savings in all cases, and some express dissatisfaction with customer service in certain locations. Despite these concerns, the positive experiences by the majority tend to outweigh negative points.
Overall, Sam's Club reviews suggest it is a dependable and value-oriented membership club that offers a robust shopping experience. Its focus on quality products, member benefits, and expansive club amenities largely fulfills customer expectations and positions it as a favored choice among warehouse clubs.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Liz Aragon
(6-26-25) We placed an order early on in the day for a pick up at 7-8pm. We waited in line to even get a spot at pick up. We stayed nearly until the store closed and nothing. Not a lot of people weren’t getting their order either. We were told that the system was down and they didn’t even have our stuff picked out. Keep in mind no one was checking in or letting us know. It was a waste of time and a shame no one was properly communicating. (6-27-25 Today) My husband went to check in on the order again. Same as yesterday waiting in line. Went inside and showed the order. Despite the app saying our order was ready according to the workers, it wasn’t. 🫠Again!
Momo Zhang
I have been to many Sam's Club stores in China, but this is my first time visiting one in San Diego, USA. I found that the items sold here are completely different from those in China. The food sections, such as hot dogs and pizzas, were a bit cheaper than Costco. My Sam's Club membership card from China can be used here, but since the store is quite far away and the items sold are not suitable for us, I probably won't go there often
Frankie Ocasio
This is one of the very few Sam's Clubs in the area and lacking a gas station for members. The best directions to locate the store, avoid any entry in the plaza, and drive on College Grove Drive until you see in either direction. There's enough parking and shopping carts ready for use. It is a decent size store to maneuver, offering your essentials and at a reasonable price. One of the few things this location is lacking is a warm customer service from the associate monitoring the self checkout and the cooler storing the eggs needs additional space.
DeEll H
Just had the most frustrating experience at Sam’s Club. On 24Nov2024, I placed an online cake order which I had to go into the store to figure out how to place the order for a digital picture on the cake because the website is NOT user friendly and does NOT offer all the options in the book catalog in store. I placed the order verifying with the cake team before submission that I submitted it correctly. The day before pick up 26Nov, I call to verify the order and digital picture code. To my surprise the woman who answered the phone tells me that it’s a Mickey Mouse cake which is NOT the code I put, she then goes to tell me that I ordered a plan cake. I inform her that it is a digital print with the code in the message. She tells me that she needs to get the cake designer because that is not her area. Cake designer gets on the phone to confirm the order and digital picture. 27Nov at 3pm I go to pick up the cake and guess what? It’s a Lilo & Stitch print on my son’s 3rd birthday cake. I ask if they can fix it because my son’s birthday is on Thanksgiving and the store will be closed so I cannot wait till the next day. She tells me it’s her but she’s leaving and that she can print out the picture and give it to me to put on top of the cake. I tell her no, that I feel comfortable with her correcting the cake that they did wrong in the first place. While it’s printing off she finish cleaning up, then goes to place the print with no gloves or washing her hands till I stop her and ask her wear gloves. What I do not understand is if you’re going to make changes like this it should be clear directions and the staff should have been trained on the process. Also, why does the cake designers get off work at 2pm when majority of the working class people who shop at Sam’s Club gets off work after 3pm? So if there’s errors with the cake no one is there to fix the orders! Now, here is my son’s birthday and guess what I find out? The print is still on the paper? NOT edible! I am very upset and extremely dissatisfied. Would never recommend or will order a cake from Sam’s Club again.
FiliMerican Vacacionista
I may not have a green thumb, but fresh flowers are a weekly must for me—and this is my favorite spot for stunning bouquets at a great price. They’re cupcakes also good ( costco don’t carry) They have lots of option for custom cake and can even order a plain layered cake where you can design it your own. Also, my Sam’s Club Plus membership is absolutely worth it; I love being able to shop as early as 8 AM! Parking here is also not as bad compared to Costco.
How to reach Sam's Club
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Why Sam's Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Sam's Club with your friends might seem unconventional at first, but this warehouse club offers a unique blend of entertainment, convenience, and savings that makes it an excellent spot for a group meetup. For those who enjoy shopping in bulk, Sam's Club provides an economical way to stock up on groceries, household items, and electronics. Additionally, the club's layout allows for an engaging shopping experience, complete with in-store amenities like cafes where you can grab a quick snack or meal. The café, famously known for its hot dog combo, is a great place to pause and socialize while you're browsing. Furthermore, Sam's Club offers various services and discounts that cater to different interests, making it a versatile location for meetups.
What Activities Can You Do at Sam's Club?
Sam's Club offers a variety of activities that make it an ideal location for a group meetup. For instance, Sampling Events are frequently held, allowing members to taste new products and share opinions with friends. These events are a great way to discover new brands and flavors together. Additionally, the club provides exclusive savings on a wide range of products, from groceries to electronics, making it a great place to shop together and split bulk purchases. The Scan & Go checkout system is also available, allowing members to shop quickly and efficiently, even during busy meetups. After shopping, you can enjoy a meal at the in-store café, where options like the famous hot dog combo offer a fun and casual dining experience. Sam's Club also offers free curbside pickup for Plus members, which can be convenient for groups who prefer to shop without the hassle of loading items into their cars.
Another activity that groups might enjoy is taking advantage of the pharmacy services. Sam's Club offers significant discounts on prescription medications, with Plus members qualifying for zero-dollar prescriptions on select generics. This can be especially beneficial for families or friends looking to save on healthcare costs. Furthermore, the club provides optical savings for members, offering discounts on designer glasses and frames. For those interested in technology and gadgets, Sam's Club features a broad selection of electronics, including the latest smart devices and gaming consoles, often at competitive prices.
Why Is Sam's Club Perfect for a Group Meetup?
Sam's Club is perfect for a group meetup due to its numerous amenities and services tailored to enhance the shopping experience. One of the key benefits for groups is the free shipping offered to Plus members, which can be a significant cost-saver for bulk purchases. Additionally, Sam's Club provides exclusive discounts on home services like water delivery and assembly/installation of furniture, making it a great resource for groups or families setting up new homes. The club also offers travel and entertainment savings, which can be beneficial for groups planning vacations or outings. This includes discounts on hotel stays, theme park tickets, and movie tickets, making it easier to plan group events and trips. Overall, Sam's Club integrates shopping, dining, and entertainment in a single location, making it a convenient spot for meetups.
Moreover, Sam's Club offers White Glove delivery services for mattresses and select electronics, which can be especially helpful for groups moving into new spaces or upgrading their homes. The club's home warranty plans also provide peace of mind for homeowners, offering discounted maintenance and repair services. For automotive needs, Sam's Club members can enjoy tire installation services and battery replacements at competitive prices, making it a practical stop for car owners. The club's membership benefits extend to pet prescription savings as well, showing that Sam's Club considers the needs of both humans and pets.
How Does Sam's Club Enhance Shopping Experience?
Sam's Club enhances the shopping experience through several innovative features and services. For instance, the Scan & Go checkout system allows members to quickly scan their items and pay using their mobile devices, reducing wait times and making shopping more efficient. This is particularly useful for groups who want to spend more time socializing rather than waiting in checkout lines. Additionally, Sam's Club offers a Digital Membership Card, which can be accessed via the Sam's Club app, allowing a seamless and convenient shopping experience.
The club also features exclusive brands like Member's Mark, which offers high-quality products at compelling prices. This brand is available only to members, providing another layer of exclusivity and value. Furthermore, Sam's Club hosts sampling events and other in-store activities that encourage interaction among members. These events foster a sense of community and can be an enjoyable part of a group meetup. With its emphasis on both savings and social interaction, Sam's Club is well-suited for group gatherings.
What Are the Benefits of Different Membership Tiers at Sam's Club?
Sam's Club offers two main membership tiers: the Club Membership and the Plus Membership. Each tier provides distinct benefits tailored to different shopping needs and preferences. The Club Membership is the basic tier, offering essential benefits such as access to warehouse locations, curbside pickup, and fuel savings at Sam's Club gas stations. It also includes access to the Sam's Club app and digital membership card. Additionally, Club members can earn Sam's Cash through a Sam's Club Mastercard, though at a lower rate compared to Plus members.
On the other hand, the Plus Membership offers a more comprehensive set of benefits. Plus members enjoy free shipping on eligible orders, free curbside pickup without additional fees, and access to pharmacy and optical savings. They also receive early shopping hours, which can be beneficial for groups who prefer to shop before the crowds arrive. Plus members can earn 2% Sam's Cash on qualifying purchases, offering more substantial rewards compared to the Club Membership. This tier is ideal for frequent shoppers who want to maximize their savings and convenience.
How Does Sam's Club Support Savings and Discounts?
Sam's Club supports savings and discounts through various programs and services designed to benefit members. One of the key ways it does this is by offering members-only pricing on a wide range of products, from groceries and household items to electronics and furniture. Additionally, Sam's Club periodically hosts savings events where members can enjoy significant discounts on products across different categories. These events are often advertised in advance, allowing groups to plan their shopping trips accordingly.
Furthermore, the club provides exclusive discounts on services like home delivery and installation, which can be particularly beneficial for groups setting up new homes or offices. The Humana Dental Savings Plan is another perk, offering members an average of 20%-40% savings on dental care. This emphasis on comprehensive savings makes Sam's Club an attractive option for groups looking to economize on everyday expenses. Sam's Club also partners with leading brands to offer special deals and promotions, further enhancing the savings experience for its members.
Can You Use Sam's Club for Planning Group Outings?
Sam's Club can be a valuable resource when planning group outings due to its extensive range of services and discounts on travel and entertainment. For instance, members can enjoy savings on hotel stays at popular destinations, making it easier to plan group vacations. The club also offers theme park ticket discounts, which can be a great way to save money on outings to attractions like Disney or Universal Studios. Additionally, Sam's Club provides rental car discounts with major rental companies, which is beneficial for groups traveling together.
Moreover, Sam's Club offers discounts on movie tickets for popular theaters like AMC and Regal, allowing groups to enjoy a night out at the movies without breaking the bank. The club's show and event tickets include discounted entry to Broadway shows, concerts, and sports events, making it a go-to resource for planning group outings to these events. Overall, Sam's Club's travel and entertainment savings can significantly reduce the cost of group activities, making it an ideal partner for planning social events.
Does Sam's Club Offer Any Special Membership Discounts?
Sam's Club offers special membership discounts for certain groups, aiming to make its services more accessible and affordable. For example, educators can qualify for a discounted membership, which is a great way for teachers and school staff to save on their membership fees. Sam's Club partners with ID.me to verify eligibility for these discounts, ensuring a streamlined process for those who qualify. Similarly, students and alumni can also enjoy discounted membership rates, making it easier for them to take advantage of Sam's Club's savings and services.
These special discounts not only reduce the cost of membership but also provide eligible groups with access to all the benefits Sam's Club offers, including exclusive savings on groceries, electronics, and more. By offering these discounts, Sam's Club demonstrates its commitment to supporting its community members, whether they are educators helping students or students themselves looking to save on their household expenses. This inclusive approach makes Sam's Club an attractive option for a wide range of individuals and groups.
How Does Sam's Club Support Community Involvement?
Sam's Club supports community involvement through its various membership benefits and services that cater to different segments of the community. For instance, by offering discounted membership rates to educators, Sam's Club supports those who are shaping the future generation. This support extends to students and alumni as well, providing them with access to affordable essentials and savings on educational resources. Additionally, the club's discounts on health and wellness services—such as pharmacy and optical savings—help members maintain their health and well-being, which is crucial for community involvement.
Moreover, Sam's Club hosts sampling events and other in-store activities that encourage interaction among members, fostering a sense of community within its clubs. These events not only promote new products but also provide a platform for members to share experiences and socialize, which is essential for building community ties. By offering these services and discounts, Sam's Club plays a significant role in supporting the broader community, both financially and socially.
Can You Use Sam's Club for Business Purposes?
Sam's Club can be an excellent resource for small businesses or entrepreneurs looking to save on operational costs. The club offers bulk purchasing options on a wide range of products, from office supplies to electronics, which can significantly reduce the cost of running a business. Additionally, Sam's Club provides discounted services like home delivery and installation for furniture and electronics, which can be beneficial for businesses setting up new offices or expanding their operations.
The Plus Membership tier is particularly beneficial for businesses, offering free shipping and curbside pickup, which can streamline the procurement process and save on logistics costs. Furthermore, the club's exclusive discounts on travel and entertainment can be useful for businesses planning corporate events or travel for employees. Overall, Sam's Club's membership benefits and services are designed to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in managing their expenses effectively.
In conclusion, Sam's Club offers a unique combination of shopping convenience, exclusive savings, and community engagement that makes it an excellent choice for group meetups. Whether you're looking for a place to shop together, plan outings, or simply enjoy a casual meal, Sam's Club provides a versatile and welcoming environment. Its membership tiers cater to different needs, ensuring that everyone can find benefits tailored to their preferences. By integrating shopping, entertainment, and community involvement, Sam's Club stands out as a holistic destination for social gatherings and business purposes alike.