When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
World Market
Why World Market is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
World Market is a beloved national specialty retailer that has been inspiring shoppers since its founding in San Francisco in 1958. Known for its wide assortment of stylish furniture, home decor, and thoughtful gifts, World Market stands out as a vibrant place to meetup and explore unique items sourced from around the globe. The store offers an eclectic mix of quality home furnishings, textiles, kitchenware, and tabletop essentials, making it an excellent destination for friends who want to browse and discover together. Beyond decor, World Market also features one of the largest selections of international food and beverages, including specialty candies and treats, creating a lively atmosphere that appeals to diverse tastes. Their unparalleled Christmas Marketplace is especially popular, offering traditional European cakes, cookies, and holiday decorations that range from whimsical to classic. With over 246 stores nationwide and a growing presence through e-commerce, World Market provides a spirited and ever-changing market experience that encourages shoppers to celebrate diverse cultures and emerging trends. The cozy, market-style store setup fosters a relaxed and engaging environment, perfect for gathering with friends to explore new design inspirations and enjoy the tangible excitement of discovering global treasures.
Here's what people think of World Market
As of recent, World Market holds a 4.5-star rating based on 442 reviews.
Customer reviews of World Market consistently highlight the store’s unique and diverse product range, with many shoppers appreciating the carefully curated items that blend style and quality. Positive feedback often focuses on the store's inviting atmosphere, the discovery of interesting furniture and decor pieces, and especially the international food section, which offers rare treats and beverages from around the world. The Christmas Marketplace receives particular praise for its festive selection and the joyful holiday spirit it brings to visitors. Reviewers also note the helpful and friendly staff, which enhances the shopping experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited stock on popular items, variability in store layout between locations, and slightly higher prices compared to other retailers. A few customers have noted the need for better organization in some stores to improve the shopping flow. Overall, the reviews indicate that World Market holds a strong reputation for delivering a unique, culturally rich shopping experience with a solid balance of product quality and value. The positives about product variety and atmosphere appear to outweigh the negatives, making it a favored destination among its loyal customer base.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Warrior Knight of Christ
This is a well kept store, it's very clean and organized inside. The staff are nice, and will gladly assist on anything needed. They have utensils, some appliances, furniture, and imported food international. The only thing is way too pricey and not an economic wise shopping place for regular, general visits. Double the price for other grocery store chains on many of items. If there's something you desire to taste or experience for the first time, this place has many unique options that will open up your "tastexperience".
Your Neighbor
Nice store. They have furniture, cookware, home decor, jewelry and more. Interesting food and drink items from other cultures and lots of things you can't find locally. Prices are average to more than average.
Phil 77
Fun spot to walk around a discover stuff. The imported food stuffs especially. Always something that reminds me of my travels. Some good wine deals too, and love the unique candle scents. A Tomato Leaf candle? Awesome. Smells like being in the garden… And there’s always coffee and tea samples while you shop!
Madelyn Arion
World Market in Raleigh has some nice home decor and furniture pieces, but overall, nothing really stood out as unique or must-have. The selection felt like a small step up from what you’d find at places like TJ Maxx or HomeGoods — slightly more curated, maybe a bit trendier, but not dramatically different in terms of style or quality. The store was clean and well-organized, and the staff were helpful enough, but I was hoping for more distinctive finds or standout items. It’s a decent spot if you’re in the area and looking for some affordable accent pieces or global-inspired decor, but not necessarily worth going out of your way for.
Sandra Dangler
I love to go to World Market to make up 'get well' baskets and other presents. They have wines and teas, all sorts of foods and beverages, fancy soaps and many other cool things. Usually I get a pretty basket to put everything in while I am there but the basket area was full of boxes to unload. Ask about coupons while you are there.
How to reach World Market
None
Website: None
Why rally at World Market with your friends? If you’re looking for a unique and engaging place to gather with friends or family, World Market offers an exceptional environment that invites camaraderie, exploration, and discovery. This specialty retail store, known for its eclectic and carefully curated merchandise from around the world, creates a vibrant backdrop for social outings unlike any typical shopping experience. With a strong reputation as a destination that combines home décor, global foods, and one-of-a-kind gifts, World Market stimulates conversation and shared delight in uncovering treasures together. Its welcoming atmosphere encourages leisurely browsing, enabling groups to bond over everything from artisan furniture pieces to exotic spices and craft beverages. Hosting a meetup here isn’t just about shopping; it’s about embarking on a small cultural adventure side-by-side, sparking curiosity and creativity. Whether you’re looking to relax, find inspiration for your home, or simply enjoy some quality time with your favorite people, World Market’s unique blend of offerings makes it an ideal rallying point that suits a wide range of tastes and interests. The combination of global flair and local accessibility ensures a memorable outing that keeps everyone engaged and entertained.
What activities can you enjoy at World Market that make it perfect for a group meetup? World Market offers a variety of activities that cater well to group dynamics, making it a fantastic choice for meetups. First and foremost, the store’s diverse array of international food and beverage selections provides a culinary journey your group can savor together. Sampling unique coffees, teas, craft beers, or specialty wines can turn a simple visit into an enjoyable tasting event, perfect for sparking lively conversation. Additionally, browsing through their extensive collection of global groceries, from spices to sweets, allows friends or family to share insights about cultural flavors while exchanging recipe ideas. Besides food, World Market shines in its home décor and furniture sections, where groups can admire and discuss distinct styles ranging from rustic handmade furniture to vibrant, handwoven rugs. This makes it a great spot for friends considering home makeovers who want to bounce decorating ideas off each other. The store also frequently introduces seasonal collections and themed displays, providing fresh, engaging content to explore on each visit. And for those who appreciate unique gifts, World Market’s assortment of artisan crafts and apparel offers a treasure hunt experience that encourages playful competition or collaboration. These activities collectively create an interactive and social shopping experience that strengthens bonds through shared exploration and enjoyment.
Why is World Market the ideal spot for social gatherings and group events? Beyond its outstanding selection, World Market’s layout and ambiance are designed to facilitate group interaction and enjoyment. The spacious aisles and relaxed pacing invite groups to linger and explore without feeling rushed or confined. Its thoughtfully organized sections ensure that everyone in the group can find something that appeals to their interests, whether that's food lovers, home design enthusiasts, or culture seekers. The store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience by offering insights and assistance that can turn browsing into learning or storytelling moments perfect for groups to engage with each other. Moreover, the eclectic and colorful merchandise from all over the globe creates an exotic and immersive environment that inspires conversation, creativity, and even laughter as groups discover unexpected items and share their stories. For special occasions, such as birthdays or casual celebrations, World Market’s gifting section provides ideal options to find meaningful and unique presents together. Lastly, the store’s culture of discovery encourages groups to make the outing a tradition, fostering anticipation and excitement for each visit. Its combination of cultural richness, thoughtful design, and friendly vibe makes World Market much more than a store—it becomes a social hub that brings people closer together.
How does World Market cater to different interests within a group? One of the greatest strengths of World Market is its broad appeal to varied tastes and interests, making it particularly well-suited for groups of diverse personalities. For art and design aficionados, the store’s collection of home furnishings, textiles, and décor items offers a wealth of inspiration, from mid-century modern accents to globally influenced handcrafted pieces. Foodies and adventurous eaters will appreciate the international food aisles stocked with exotic snacks, spices, sauces, and beverages, enabling culinary experimentation or casual sampling. For those who enjoy casual, fun shopping, the assortment of quirky gifts, apparel, and seasonal decorative items adds a playful dimension to the visit, making it easy for all to find something entertaining. The inclusion of outdoor furniture and garden accessories also appeals to groups interested in outdoor living or landscaping projects. This diversity means that within a single visit, every group member can find products or topics that excite them, supporting natural conversation and shared experiences. The inclusive nature of World Market’s offerings ensures that meetups are dynamic, interactive, and tailored to the varied interests of everyone involved.
What makes World Market’s shopping experience uniquely social compared to other retail stores? Unlike typical big-box retailers or chain stores, World Market cultivates a boutique-like atmosphere that feels intimate and personal, which naturally encourages social interaction. The carefully curated selection reflects not just commercial trends but a genuine passion for global culture, history, and craftsmanship, inviting visitors to learn and engage rather than simply purchase. Its layout, designed with distinct thematic sections such as “imported foods” or “authentic artisan furnishings,” organically fosters exploration and group discussion about different countries, cultures, or design philosophies. Moreover, World Market often features specials and promotional events that appeal to groups wanting to discover new tastes or products together. The tactile nature of many items—such as textiles, ceramics, and handcrafted goods—encourages customers to touch, feel, and share impressions in real time. This contrasts with more impersonal online or warehouse-style shopping experiences, making World Market a destination where a group can connect through shared discovery, laughter, and conversation in a lively but comfortable setting.
How does World Market’s history and reputation contribute to its appeal for group meetups? World Market’s roots date back over 50 years, originating as a specialty store focused on handmade furniture and distinctive home décor sold at a fair price. This legacy of authenticity and quality continues to attract a clientèle that values unique finds and cultural authenticity. Its evolution into a broader lifestyle and specialty retail destination has not diluted this core appeal but rather enhanced it through carefully selected product lines that celebrate craftsmanship from around the world. With a strong overall rating of 4.5 across hundreds of reviews, customers consistently praise the quality and distinctiveness of its merchandise, which boosts confidence in gifting and purchasing decisions during group visits. The brand’s ongoing mission to connect consumers with culturally rich and high-quality goods resonates with groups looking for meaningful experiences beyond ordinary shopping. This reputation helps foster a sense of trust and excitement among friends and family, making World Market a preferred meeting spot that offers both fun and fulfillment.
What amenities and practical features support group meetups at World Market? In addition to its product offerings and social atmosphere, World Market also provides practical features that make it easy and convenient for groups to meet and enjoy their time together. The stores are typically located in accessible locations with ample parking, facilitating relaxed arrivals and departures for groups traveling together. The wide aisles and organized layouts allow for comfortable movement even with larger parties, minimizing logistical hassles. Many World Market outlets integrate tasting stations or sample counters where groups can pause and savor foods and beverages, enhancing the social experience. The store’s staff are known for being approachable and helpful, readily assisting groups in finding items or learning about products to keep the visit engaging and smooth. Furthermore, the possibility of sharing and exchanging gift ideas or collaborating on décor finds appeals to groups planning special occasions or seasonal projects. These practical elements combine to create an environment where group meetups flow naturally and enjoyably.
How can a group maximize their World Market experience? To get the most out of a World Market gathering, groups should consider coming with a spirit of curiosity and a flexible agenda that allows for leisurely browsing and spontaneous discoveries. Planning a group tasting or gift exchange can make the visit interactive and memorable. It’s useful to designate “theme leaders” within the group, such as a food enthusiast, a décor expert, or a craft lover, to guide conversations and help highlight the store’s diverse selections. Taking photos and sharing finds on social media with World Market’s hashtag can extend the fun beyond the store visit and build anticipation for future meetups. Setting aside plenty of time—preferably a couple of hours—ensures that the group can fully enjoy the multiple sections, from home accents and furniture to gourmet foods and seasonal décor. Combining your World Market visit with a nearby café or restaurant can also make a complete outing, nicely wrapping up the day with relaxed dining and discussion of your newfound treasures.
In essence, World Market is more than just a retail store—it is a vibrant, culturally rich destination that offers a perfect blend of shopping, tasting, and socializing opportunities. Its compelling combination of unique products, thoughtfully designed spaces, and welcoming atmosphere makes it an exceptional venue for gathering with friends or family, whether you’re seeking inspiration, fun, or simply a memorable place to connect. Its consistent positive ratings and enduring legacy speak to a reliable and enjoyable experience that keeps customers coming back and bringing their groups along. For anyone planning a meetup that goes beyond the ordinary, World Market offers a distinct, global-flavored experience that is as enriching socially as it is aesthetically.