If you live nearby one of these huge stores it's a different feeling than having to drive a fairly good distance to get to it. I once took a road trip from where I live in N. Calif to Sisters, Ore for the big quilt show. My friends and I stopped at a total of 39 shops and after a while all shops looked alike and it was difficult finding something to really get excited about. But I think stopping at Fabric Depot was a favorite. Yes it was a huge store but we really took our time to see everything and we all went home with lots and lots of good stuff. I think it's all in your mood, how much time you have to look and how much money you're willing to spend. The less money you have, the pickier you're going to be because you want to get the best and most you can for your dollars.