When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor 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 distinctive specialty retailer with a rich heritage dating back to 1958, founded in San Francisco. It is widely recognized for its eclectic and globally inspired assortment of stylish furniture, home decor, and thoughtful gifts, making it an exceptional destination for friends to meet and explore together. What sets World Market apart is its merchants’ dedication to sourcing authentic design inspirations and handcrafted goods from cultures around the world, ensuring an ever-changing and unique marketplace that invites discovery and conversation. Beyond furniture and décor, the store boasts one of the largest collections of international food and beverages, including a celebrated Christmas Marketplace offering traditional European holiday treats and decorations that range from whimsical to classic styles. With over 240 stores nationwide and a comprehensive online presence, World Market offers a spirited shopping environment where visitors can enjoy browsing a curated selection of exclusive private-label items, exotic foods, and beverages alongside distinctive home furnishings. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for social gatherings, gift shopping, or simply indulging in the joy of finding unique treasures from across the globe.
Here's what people think of World Market
As of recent, World Market holds a 4.5-star rating based on 661 reviews.
User reviews of World Market reveal a mixed but generally positive customer experience. Many customers appreciate the store's wide variety of unique and stylish home decor items and international foods, highlighting the quality and the exciting selection that makes each visit enjoyable. Positive feedback often focuses on the store’s inviting atmosphere, the discovery of global goods that are not found elsewhere, and the appeal of their holiday-themed products, particularly during the Christmas season. However, some negative reviews point to customer service challenges, issues with online order fulfillment, and occasional concerns about product availability or quality consistency. Despite these criticisms, the overall rating sits strongly at 4.5 stars from 661 reviews, indicating that most shoppers find World Market to be a rewarding place to shop. In conclusion, while some customers experience occasional disappointments, the majority value World Market for its unique offerings, global inspiration, and the pleasurable environment it creates for gathering and shopping with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shinya
Amazing store!! Has ALL kinds of things from furniture to world foods & snacks. Great selection of items and merchandise at fairly decent prices. I’d shop here much more often if I lived closer.
Kelly Tichenor
The lovely lady named Traci (I think that was her name- blonde hair & glasses) working the register on a busy Saturday Afternoon was so friendly and helpful, she greeted us with a smile and made sure we used our member rewards. We left the store with smiles ourselves because of her. She definitely deserves a raise!!
Rohit Uttam
Nice place for various kinds of products from other countries. You need to spend some time to look for what you want. Perfect place for home decor items and more. They have furniture section with cool stylish products. You can also do grocery shopping here and they have got wine too. Overall a good experience.
Jacqueline A
I forgot how much I love World Market. Just popped into the store recently and was so happy with my awesome experience. The store and products were beautifully displayed. Everything was very well organized and laid out. They even had tea to sample -it was beyond refreshing. The cashier was very friendly. I couldn't believe how well stocked everything was. I'll definitely be back soon!!
Karen Cayce
It was very quiet in the store, and all of the staff was congested at the front. They were all annoyed when I wanted to check out.
How to reach World Market
None
Website: None
Why World Market may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at World Market with your friends? Because it offers a unique and vibrant experience that blends shopping, cultural discovery, and inspiration all under one roof. Gathering here with friends is not just about making purchases; it’s an immersive adventure through global goods that spark conversation and connection. From eclectic home décor to gourmet treats from around the world, World Market’s carefully curated collection encourages exploration and shared delight. The ambiance is inviting and colorful, setting the perfect scene for relaxed socializing while discovering one-of-a-kind items that reflect diverse cultures and styles. Whether you and your friends are lovers of unique furniture, passionate about international flavors, or simply looking for an engaging way to spend time together, this place invites a collective journey. The sense of discovery, combined with an eclectic marketplace vibe, makes World Market an excellent choice to host memorable group meetups where everyone can find something that resonates with their interests and tastes.
What activities are available at World Market that make it ideal for group meetups? World Market specializes in providing a broad range of activities centered around its diverse offerings. Visitors can browse an extensive selection of globally inspired furniture and décor, perfect for those looking to redesign their living spaces or find unique gift ideas. This shopping excursion becomes a shared quest as friends debate styles, textures, and colors, turning the experience into a friendly and fun design consultation. Beyond décor, World Market features sections dedicated to international snacks, beverages, and gourmet foods, offering tasting opportunities and discoveries of new flavors. Groups can sample artisanal chocolates, exotic teas, or rare spices, fueling lively discussions about travel experiences and culinary preferences. The store’s layout encourages incremental exploration, with thematic displays and seasonal collections that invite customers to immerse themselves continuously. This makes it not only a shopping trip but also an event filled with sensory engagement that friends can enjoy together.
Why is World Market a perfect place for group meetups? The environment at World Market is curated to inspire interaction and leisure, creating a relaxed atmosphere conducive for groups. The store’s attractive and neatly organized displays make navigation easy, enabling groups to move comfortably through different sections without feeling cramped. Its variety of products from around the world complements diverse tastes, ensuring each member finds something appealing, which is essential for cohesive group enjoyment. Often, groups can be seen sharing opinions on furniture selections, planning themed parties inspired by the exotic goods, or exchanging decor ideas sparked by the store’s unique offerings. Additionally, the pricing strategy which emphasizes value while offering exclusive and artisan items strikes a good balance between quality and affordability, making it accessible for groups on multiple budgets. The combination of these factors contributes to a venue where social bonds are strengthened through shared discoveries and creative inspiration.
How does World Market facilitate memorable experiences for family and friend gatherings? Hosting a meetup here offers more than typical shopping; it fosters a communal and enjoyable social experience by blending diversity in merchandise with an inviting ambiance. The tactile nature of the products—be it textiles, handcrafted tableware, or ethnic ornaments—invites group members to engage with items physically, spurring conversations and laughter. The chance to sample international foods and beverages can be turned into informal tasting sessions or planned snack breaks, adding a flavorful dimension to the outing. Seasonal displays and holiday themes also provide opportunities for groups to find unique decorations or gifts, turning a shopping trip into a festive group activity. For families with children, World Market offers visual and sensory stimulation through colorful artifacts and interesting textures, keeping younger members intrigued. Such experiences encourage extended visits, making gatherings more memorable and enjoyable for participants of all ages.
What special features make World Market unique for social visits? Unlike typical retail stores, World Market’s global assortment creates a cultural marketplace atmosphere. This international flair encourages groups to share stories connected to the origins of the items displayed, transforming simple shopping into cultural discovery. Its frequent rotation of merchandise based on seasons and global festivals means there is always something new for return visits and repeat meetups. Customers can plan their visits around themed product launches or limited-time offers, turning a group trip into a small event to anticipate. The store also often highlights artisanal producers and fair-trade goods, appealing to socially conscious groups interested in ethical consumerism, sparking discussions on sustainability and global economics. Moreover, the staff’s generally helpful and knowledgeable approach adds to the positive social environment, as they assist with questions and share product insights, enhancing the group experience.
How accessible and convenient is World Market for a group outing? World Market locations are typically situated in accessible shopping centers with ample parking, which simplifies arrival and departure logistics for groups. The spacious store layouts allow for easy movement even with several people shopping simultaneously, accommodating groups without overcrowding. The inclusion of in-store pickup options for online orders adds a layer of convenience for those who want to coordinate gift buying or pre-select items to see in person with friends. Payment flexibility and occasional promotions or discounts increase affordability for groups, allowing multiple individuals to shop without financial strain. For group organizers, the ability to coordinate visits during less busy hours or special sales periods can make the experience even more comfortable and personalized, reducing wait times and maximizing enjoyment.
What customer feedback and reputation does World Market have that affect the group experience? While World Market enjoys a robust overall rating of 4.5 stars based on over 660 reviews, reflecting general customer satisfaction, it is important to acknowledge that experiences vary. Many customers praise the uniqueness and quality of products, the variety offered, and the enjoyable shopping atmosphere, which benefits group outings. However, some reviews highlight issues such as customer service challenges or stock availability, which could impact a group's experience, especially for time-sensitive or coordinated shopping trips. Knowing this, groups can enhance their experience by planning visits during off-peak times and communicating clearly with staff about their needs. Overall, the high rating and positive word-of-mouth suggest that World Market remains a favored destination for many seeking a vibrant and enjoyable group shopping and social outing.
In summary, World Market stands out as an excellent venue for meetups with friends or family due to its distinctive global merchandise, inviting atmosphere, and variety of activities that promote shared discovery and social interaction. From exploring exotic home décor and sampling international delicacies to engaging in culturally rich conversations, World Market offers a multifaceted experience tailored for groups. Its balance of quality, affordability, and cultural variety makes it a memorable and practical choice for those wanting to rally together in a space that celebrates diversity and creativity. Whether for casual hangouts, special occasion shopping, or just a day out exploring global treasures, World Market creates a unique social environment that transforms shopping into a celebration of friendship and culture.