The store is great but this review is on their classes.
I've taken 3 classes through REI. Wilderness First Aid, Dutch Oven Cooking, and Nighttime Navigation. All 3 were awesome!!
The instructors were great. They were very down to Earth, personable, professional, friendly and willing to take the time to really help and answer questions. I can't say enough good things about the instructors.
The classes were very hands on. For Wilderness First Aid we spent 2 days doing real world scenarios outside with fake blood! For Dutch Oven Cooking we spent several hours using Dutch Ovens over hot coals in the parking lot. We each made a recipe and at the end got to try everyones dish. Once again, very hands on. For Nighttime Navigation we met at a local trailhead and spent 3 hours learning how to use a map and compass during a night hike. I took a navigation class through a competitor before but their class was indoors. Being outside and in a real world environment really helps and makes things more fun.
Also REI goes above and beyond. With each class they provided additional material to use afterwards and the instructors gave out their contact info to answer any questions after the class. At the end of our hike for the Nighttime Navigation class they had root beer floats waiting us. Very nice touch!
If you want to learn more about the outdoors I highly recommend REI's classes!!