When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Amy's Ice Creams
Why Amy's Ice Creams is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Amy's Ice Creams, headquartered in Austin, Texas, has been a cherished destination for ice cream lovers since its founding in 1984 by Amy Simmons. Renowned as a 'quintessentially Austin institution,' Amy's has grown from a single store on Guadalupe Street to over a dozen locations across Texas, including multiple spots in Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. What makes Amy's stand out as a great place to meet up with friends is not only its extensive selection of inventive and locally inspired ice cream flavors—ranging from classic Mexican Vanilla to adventurous options incorporating regional ingredients—but also the vibrant, playful atmosphere cultivated by its staff. The scoopers often sport quirky attire and put on entertaining shows while crafting each order, adding a unique and engaging social experience that fosters camaraderie among visitors. With an emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and community support, Amy's caters to those seeking not only delicious treats but also a convivial and welcoming environment perfect for gathering with friends and family. The brand's dedication to taste, creativity, and local culture has made it a staple social hub in Austin and beyond.
Here's what people think of Amy's Ice Creams
As of recent, Amy's Ice Creams holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1037 reviews.
Reviews of Amy's Ice Creams consistently reflect a strong appreciation from patrons who emphasize the exceptional quality and variety of ice cream flavors offered. Positive feedback highlights the standout Mexican Vanilla flavor and the innovative mix-ins that keep customers returning to try new seasonal varieties. Many reviewers praise the friendly and lively staff who enhance the experience with their engaging personalities and entertaining service style. The reasonable pricing compared to competitors and the enjoyment of watching the creative ice cream assembly process add to the charm noted by happy customers. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on the limited availability or quality of toppings despite a broad selection, as noted by a few reviewers who felt the toppings did not always match the premium standard of the ice cream itself. Parking can sometimes be challenging near some locations, which detracts slightly from convenience according to some visitors. Overall, however, the overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore Amy's status as a beloved local institution that excels in both product and atmosphere. Its reputation for community involvement and support of local producers also enhances its appeal, making Amy's Ice Creams a well-rounded destination for both taste and social enjoyment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Santiago
I ordered the Mexican vanilla ice-cream cone. I really liked the ice cream. It had a very good flavor, not overly sweet. I really liked the atmosphere of the place. It shares space with another restaurant. Great place for families with kids.
Steve Takata
I’ve been coming to Ami‘s since they first opened in the early 1980s at 34th and Guadalupe, about a 30 second walk from my house at the time. I used to bring my dog here and they would give her free ice cream. I think they still give free ice cream to dogs if you ask. They have a shared indoor dining space with Phil‘s, and a big outdoor dining space with a lot of playground equipment for kids.
Amber Lee
This review is a bit confusing to write because all ice cream is good ice cream, right? Amy’s is typically VERY good but the Oreo ice cream we had here was just flat out bad. It was almost as if someone took vanilla ice cream and thought about putting Oreos in it but they forget to actually put the Oreos in it since the taste just wasn’t there. The dark chocolate ice cream was absolutely great and the white chocolate cheesecake was delicious too. The parking is good for the area and the service was very quick despite the small area the shop has indoors. The outdoor area is very nice to spend time at on a hot day with tables with umbrellas. One thing I will preface that last part with is the fact that this is a VERY kid friendly location, they even have a playground there. We brought our dog with us to sit outside and with a bunch of kids running around, you can guess where I’m going with this. This obviously is no fault of the ice cream parlor, just potentially something to be aware of. Maybe it’s this location or maybe we’ve been riding the eternal high of being reviewers for far too long but we were left disappointed by this trip to Amy’s, hopefully yours won’t follow suit.
Mckenzie Smoak
Amy’s is typically my go to for ice-cream but this location employs dirty lazy teenagers. The teenager girl got mad when I requested that she clean the surface before starting on my ice cream. Clearly from the pictures there was no where to put my ice cream without someone else’s flavor getting mixed in. Ridiculous that I got push back for requesting to clean the area where food is placed. Disgusting.
Reviewer-1
Amy's Ice Creams is the perfect spot for a family treat! The playground is a hit with the kids, giving them space to play while you enjoy some of the best ice cream around. The staff is friendly and helpful, making the experience even more enjoyable. Plus, with ample parking available, it's easy to pop in anytime for a sweet treat!
How to reach Amy's Ice Creams
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Why rally at Amy's Ice Creams with your friends? Because it offers an exceptional blend of delicious, artisanal ice cream and a uniquely vibrant atmosphere that is perfectly suited for social gatherings. Amy's Ice Creams, with its 4.6-star rating from over a thousand reviews, stands out as a beloved local icon in Austin and beyond. The experience goes beyond just eating ice cream; it’s about sharing moments of joy over high-quality, creative flavors served with flair. Whether you're seeking a casual hangout spot or a festive meeting place, Amy’s provides the kind of energetic vibe that fosters laughter, conversation, and lasting memories. The staff are known for their playful acrobatics during scooping, engaging those waiting in line with an entertaining show that adds an extra layer of fun to the visit. Its warm and welcoming environment makes it an ideal destination for friends or family to catch up, celebrate, or simply unwind over a memorable treat.
What makes Amy’s Ice Creams perfect for group meetups? Its combination of top-notch ice cream, laid-back vibe, and group-friendly features make it a natural choice for social gatherings. The numerous locations around Austin and Texas provide convenient options wherever your group may be. Amy's offers a rotating selection of over 350 flavors, including their famous Mexican Vanilla, which means there is something for every palate. The interactive nature of the service, where ice cream is customized with mix-ins performed right before your eyes, invites conversation and shared delight. Additionally, the quirky and fun atmosphere—accentuated by decor such as cow statues where you can sit and eat—encourages groups to linger and enjoy their time together. The shop’s community-rooted character and reputation for quality have made it a staple spot where gatherings feel both special and informal.
What activities can you enjoy at Amy’s Ice Creams? Beyond tasting their diverse range of flavors, Amy’s serves up an interactive experience that is perfect for group entertainment. Watching the servers execute daring ice cream scooping tricks adds a whimsical performance element to your visit, sparking smiles and intermixed playfulness among friends. Groups can indulge in ice cream flights or share samplers, enabling everyone to try multiple flavors and discuss favorites. Amy’s ice cream isn’t just dessert—it’s a conversation starter and a way to bond over trying new flavor combinations. The space encourages socializing whether it’s inside the shop, at outdoor seating, or by relaxing on the iconic cow statues just outside. For special occasions, some locations might even accommodate cake or party orders, further elevating the meetup experience with a bespoke sweet celebration.
Why is Amy’s Ice Creams a family-friendly destination? Families of all sizes find comfort and joy at Amy’s because it caters to diverse tastes and creates a welcoming space for kids and adults alike. The ever-changing flavor lineup means kids can discover exciting new tastes while adults enjoy classic favorites. The engaging atmosphere, friendly staff, and colorful, playful decor make it a sensory delight for youngsters, turning their visit into a mini adventure. Group visits with family can transform simply having dessert into a memorable outing with a relaxed pace, where everyone feels included. Special attention to quality and service ensures dietary needs and preferences can be accommodated, making it easier for families to enjoy a worry-free treat together.
How does Amy’s Ice Creams stand out compared to other dessert spots for meetups? Amy's uniquely combines quality, creativity, and personality in a way few dessert places can match. Unlike standard ice cream shops, Amy's rotates an astounding variety of flavors—over 350—inviting repeat visits and exciting discoveries. The combination of rich, creamy ice cream with unexpected mix-ins creates custom experiences tailored to each guest’s tastes, making meetups feel personalized and special. The elevated service, including the well-known “scooping flip” acrobatics, adds a layer of entertainment that sparks conversation and photo opportunities. Its reputation as a cherished Austin institution is reflected in consistent high ratings and a loyal culture that embraces community connection. For groups seeking a casual, lively, and delicious gathering point, Amy’s delivers value well beyond just its product.
What can you expect from the service and ambiance during your visit? Amy’s Ice Creams prides itself on a staff that is not only skilled but also personable and playful. The famous “service with a flip” means that your ice cream is presented with a flair reminiscent of a performance, engaging customers and creating a lighthearted ambiance. The décor reflects Austin’s quirky, artistic spirit, with bright colors, cow statues, and creative signage setting a fun tone. This ambiance invites groups to hang out comfortably, talk, and enjoy the shared experience of ordering and savoring unique ice creams. Staff members are helpful and enthusiastic about sharing flavor recommendations and making special requests come true, which enhances the social and interactive nature of group visits. Expect to leave with more than just a cold sweet treat—Amy’s offers a memorable outing experience.
How accessible and convenient is Amy's Ice Creams for group outings? With multiple locations throughout Austin and other Texas cities like Houston and San Antonio, Amy's offers easy access whether your group members come from different parts of town. There is even a location at the Austin airport for travelers wanting to grab a quick meetup treat. Many locations provide both indoor and outdoor seating, which accommodates varying group sizes and preferences for ambiance. The central locations make it easy to combine a visit with other activities such as shopping or dining in the neighborhood. Because Amy's has grown thoughtfully and not rushed into rapid expansion, it maintains quality and service standards that larger chains might struggle with, ensuring your group's visit is smooth and enjoyable.
What special offerings or events at Amy’s Ice Creams enhance group visits? Amy’s occasionally offers seasonal and limited-time flavors, giving groups reasons to gather frequently and explore new tastes together. This rotation keeps the experience fresh and exciting, perfect for groups who enjoy culinary adventure. While the primary focus is on ice cream, Amy’s also accommodates larger orders and celebrations like birthday parties, making it a versatile spot for milestones. Their commitment to community and fun can extend into group events with customized ice cream cakes or private meetups arranged by request. The overall ambiance and engaging staff ensure that events at Amy’s aren’t just about the product but also about the connections and memories formed during the visit.
What is the cultural significance of Amy's Ice Creams in Austin and Texas? Amy’s Ice Creams has a storied history dating back to 1984 when Amy Simmons founded the business after gaining experience at Steve’s Ice Cream in Boston. It has since become a “quintessentially Austin institution,” deeply embedded in the city's identity. The local community has repeatedly honored Amy’s as their favorite ice cream spot, voting it best “reader’s ice cream” eight years in a row. Its success stems not only from great product quality but also from consistently delivering a unique, engaging experience that embodies Austin’s eclectic and friendly spirit. Hosting a meetup here is more than sharing dessert—it’s participating in a cultural tradition beloved across generations. This makes Amy’s a meaningful and memorable choice when gathering friends or family for fun and flavor.
Why do customers keep coming back to Amy’s Ice Creams for their social outings? The primary reason is the perfect combination of quality, creativity, and community-oriented atmosphere. Customers consistently praise the rich, diverse, and delicious range of flavors, from their signature Mexican Vanilla to eclectic seasonal specials. The engaging service style provides entertainment that transforms a simple ice cream run into a social event. The welcoming environment encourages hanging out, relaxing, and catching up, which is ideal for groups of friends and families wanting more than just fast food. The sense of belonging to a local Austin treasure fosters loyalty and repeat visits, ensuring that Amy’s remains the go-to spot for those seeking both exceptional ice cream and a convivial meeting place.