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| - The first time I walked into an REI, it was this one. I was in wonderland! For an outdoor enthusiast, specifically a first-time, or novice outdoorsperson, this place helps you realize how much is out there in regards to useful, colorful, intricate, specialized, well-made gear, etc. etc. There's a wide array of various items sold here - bikes, camping gear, clothes, shoes, climbing gear, bike and running wear, travel books and maps. If you need something on the fly, or just want to see what's out there, this is a great place to go. I have to admit, I tend to buy most of my stuff online now since I know specifically what I want. However, most of that stuff still comes from REI. You can have almost anything shipped to the store for free, which is nice. If you do get things shipped to your home, they seem to arrive lickety split. Back to the store, I've always found the staff to be quite helpful, talkative and enthusiastic about what they do. Sometimes a bit pretentious, but that can be overlooked. I think you'll find that in any specialty store. I mean, these people are outdoorspeople typically. They're probably working there so they can get a discount on gear - I would! One thing that kinda stinks about this REI location is parking. Street parking is a bear in the Southside Works, and garage parking is the easiest. So, if you want to stop in quick to exchange, return or pick up something, its easiest to have someone else with you who can drive the car around the block a few times, vs. parking in the garage, possibly having to pay, etc. etc. Another dangerous thing about this place... Sur La Table, an amazing kitchen store, is only a block up, and Cheesecake Factory is across the street. Get your wallets out people!
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