You can enter the warehouse directly through the register area. No one is stopping you.

Oh, that's a neat hack. I will definitely try that next time. I have a bad leg (bike accident) and the extra walking really pisses me off. I don't need a stick or other help but I do economize on unnecessary walking on hard surfaces. Thank you. Ikea has killed all viable competition here so you can't really get around them.

Another tip, there's usually an "offramp" in the later part of the showroom grand tour that goes to the cafeteria section. You can also jump straight to the cafeteria from the entrance at most ikeas I've been to and enter the showroom there to get a shortcut to the lamps and things.

The IKEA near me also has shortcuts, but if you go in through the “loading dock” you should be golden. We also have an even closer IKEA mini location where you can order from a tablet and have orders brought from other stores.

Every IKEA around here also has various shortcuts that you can take at any time. Even from entrance almost directly to the warehouse. These are also indicated. So it is a choice whether you want follow the whole route for inspiration or not.

> No, they don't guide you to the exit, they guide you past the collection.

I did not claim they guide you to the exit. What I said is that you don't get lost if you stay on the path. A scenic route to the exit is still a route to the exit.

Also: if you want to get to an actual exit it is mandatory (at least over here) to have clearly visible, emergency exit signs so people can get out in case of fire.

I am not afraid of getting lost. I'm annoyed at having to walk more than strictly necessary on account of a less-than-perfect leg.

I mean IKEA offers a service where you can pick stuff online and collect a d does even do home deliveries. Meaning if you have to avoid walking it is certainly possible with them.