When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Ben & Jerry's
Why Ben & Jerry's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ben & Jerry's stands out as a quintessential meeting spot for friends, family, and ice cream lovers alike. Founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, this ice cream parlor quickly evolved from a single renovated gas station into a beloved multinational brand known for its super-premium ice cream packed with chunky mix-ins. What makes Ben & Jerry’s a great place to gather is not only the fun and inviting shop atmosphere but also the unique, creatively named flavors loaded with memorable chunks and swirls crafted to delight the palate. The company’s founders put texture and mouthfeel at the forefront of their recipes—an approach influenced by Cohen’s anosmia—ensuring that every spoonful offers an indulgent experience full of mix-ins like cookie dough, chocolate chunks, and nuts. Highlights include their famous flavors such as Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey, plus an annual tradition that started in 1979 called Free Cone Day, where customers can enjoy a free scoop, making it a perfect occasion to meet up and celebrate. Additionally, with options ranging from classic dairy ice cream to non-dairy frozen desserts, Ben & Jerry’s caters to a wide array of preferences. The bright, community-oriented vibe combined with delicious, inventive flavors makes it a lively and welcoming locale to gather and enjoy quality time over exceptional ice cream.
Here's what people think of Ben & Jerry's
As of recent, Ben & Jerry's holds a 4.1-star rating based on 125 reviews.
User reviews for Ben & Jerry's ice cream parlor generally reflect a strong appreciation for the brand's commitment to quality and flavor variety. Positive reviews often highlight the distinctive, indulgent mix-ins and the rich texture that come from their unique chunk-filled approach to ice cream. Many patrons praise the classic flavors like Cherry Garcia, noting that even the non-dairy alternatives capture much of the original’s taste and enjoyment, making the brand inclusive for those with dietary restrictions. Customers also value the friendly, nostalgic atmosphere of the shops and the tradition of Free Cone Day, which fosters a sense of community and generosity. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional concerns such as pricing being on the higher side compared to competitors, and variability in service quality between different locations. A few consumers find certain flavors overly rich or too sweet, which can be subjective based on individual taste. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus is that Ben & Jerry’s remains a leader in innovative, high-quality ice cream experiences. Its strong brand identity, creative flavors, and community-engaging events outweigh the downsides, leaving the majority of customers satisfied and willing to return. Overall, the reviews portray Ben & Jerry’s as a popular and dependable destination to enjoy ice cream with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jaye Aster Broder
The Ben & Jerry’s is open despite construction along the building. There are many flavors. The children’s cup with a topping is $7.25, the same price as an adult small. The cones looked very good but are largely premade and not warm. There is no seating inside. It was not crowded when I went but I imagine it could get crowded very quickly.
Chad Klinefelter
Ben & Jerry’s hits different at a scoop shop. They have some flavors that you can’t get in the freezer aisle. However, if you will be upset paying $10 for a cone, skip the scoop shop and go to the grocery store. Staff is friendly and they have a nice mural.
Cool Christiangirl
I ordered the cookie cookie sundae from Ben and Jerry’s and the woman there was nice. In regards to the sundae itself, I was excited to have ice cream with two warm chocolate chip cookies but they turned out to be hard. Even after letting the ice cream soak into them they were still hard and I ended up throwing it away.
Mich Bartolo
May 2024: Commercial ice cream is a go if you need some cold sweetness. Although will be supporting local joints next time.
Dalia Fares
Awesomeness in a cone. The staff is so cheerful and extremely helpful. Allowed me to borrow their coolers for an event and it was extremely helpful. They’re just nice and the ice cream is delicious
How to reach Ben & Jerry's
None
Website: None
Why rally at Ben & Jerry's with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Ben & Jerry’s is a celebration of more than just ice cream—it’s an experience that delights all the senses and fuels memorable moments. With a solid 4.1-star rating from 125 reviews, this iconic ice cream parlor offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere perfect for group meetups. Whether you’re reconnecting after a long time or celebrating a special occasion, Ben & Jerry’s is more than just a dessert stop; it’s a social hub where laughter, nostalgia, and indulgence come together. The brand’s quirky personality and commitment to quality create an inviting environment where conversations flow as naturally as the generous scoops of ice cream. Their wide variety of unique, chunky flavors ensures that everyone in your group can find a favorite treat, making it easy to share and bond over your choices. Plus, with its roots deeply embedded in community values and a passion for fun, Ben & Jerry’s is an ideal venue to create joyful memories with friends and family alike.
What activities can you enjoy at Ben & Jerry’s for a group meetup?
Ben & Jerry’s is not only about scooping ice cream; it offers a range of engaging activities that make group visits lively and interactive. First and foremost, the core attraction is, of course, sampling their famous ice cream flavors. Their menu is diverse, featuring classics and innovative concoctions with large chunks of nuts, fruits, candies, and cookies that invite sharing and conversation. This makes tasting a communal activity perfect for groups who enjoy trying different flavors together. Beyond savoring ice cream, many Ben & Jerry’s locations organize special events such as “Free Cone Day,” a beloved annual tradition where guests can enjoy a free scoop, adding an element of festivity and generosity. The shops often feature themed décor and sometimes host ice cream socials or local community gatherings, providing a lively ambiance suited to groups. Additionally, some locations offer ice cream cake orders and customized treats, ideal for group celebrations like birthdays or reunions. This combination of communal tastings, events, and celebrations makes Ben & Jerry’s a dynamic destination for any meetup.
Why is Ben & Jerry’s the perfect place for a group meetup?
Ben & Jerry’s uniqueness lies in the combination of its friendly environment, quality product range, and community-oriented philosophy—all of which make it highly suited for group gatherings. The ice cream parlors are designed with informal seating arrangements, encouraging relaxed socializing among groups of friends or families. The store’s colorful, quirky interior aesthetics and fun branding elements provide a backdrop that sparks conversation and shared enjoyment. The variety of flavors means people with different tastes can all find something they love, which is essential in group settings. Beyond the ice cream, Ben & Jerry’s is also known for its progressive values, supporting sustainable sourcing and social causes, which adds an element of meaning and shared values that groups can appreciate and discuss. The company’s reputation for excellent customer service ensures visits are hassle-free and enjoyable. Moreover, with locations commonly situated in convenient, accessible areas, it’s an easy choice for groups wanting casual, fuss-free fun. All these factors create an inviting space where groups can connect over delicious ice cream and good vibes.
What makes Ben & Jerry’s ice cream experience unique in a social setting?
One of the key reasons Ben & Jerry’s is a top choice for social meetups is its signature ice cream experience. Unlike generic options, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is famous for its rich textures and “chunky” add-ins, a feature born out of co-founder Ben Cohen’s anosmia—an inability to smell—leading him to focus on mouthfeel and texture. This results in a sensory delight where the large pieces of nuts, cookies, or candies incorporated into each flavor make sharing tantalizing and fun. Sampling multiple flavors becomes a communal activity, sparking discussions on favorite tastes and combinations that can bond friends and families together. The quirky flavor names and playful branding enhance the social atmosphere, often leading to smiles, photos, and social media sharing, which help capture the fun moments. Additionally, Ben & Jerry’s commitment to using premium, fresh ingredients enhances the quality of the gathering, making it feel like a special treat. This emphasis on both quality and experience elevates the social interaction from a simple snack run to a memorable outing.
How does Ben & Jerry’s community commitment enhance group visits?
Ben & Jerry’s ethos goes beyond ice cream; its dedication to social justice, environmental sustainability, and fair trade enhances the group's sense of connection to a larger purpose when visiting. Knowing that the brand pioneered the use of Fairtrade-certified ingredients and commits substantial resources to philanthropy adds a feel-good dimension to meetups. Groups visiting Ben & Jerry’s can appreciate that their choice supports ethical sourcing and community welfare, creating shared values that deepen the social experience. The company’s tradition of giving back to employees and local communities means many locations foster a warm, friendly atmosphere that makes groups feel truly welcome. Particularly for groups with socially conscious members, this commitment can provoke meaningful conversations and enhance the quality of time spent together. The annual “Free Cone Day” and other community-centric events also provide opportunities for groups to join in wider local celebrations, reinforcing a sense of belonging. This philosophy of social engagement makes Ben & Jerry’s not just a place to eat ice cream but a venue to connect on multiple levels.
What kinds of group celebrations are ideal at Ben & Jerry’s?
Ben & Jerry’s ambiance and offerings lend themselves perfectly to a variety of group celebrations, including birthdays, casual reunions, or even small milestone anniversaries. Their ice cream cakes and customized dessert options offer festive centerpieces that make celebrations distinctly sweet and memorable. The fun and relaxed environment encourages laughter and shared joy among guests, helping mark special occasions in an informal but heartfelt manner. With attention to dietary preferences and creative flavors, the venue suits diverse groups, including families with children and friends with adventurous taste buds. The availability of scoop shops in busy neighborhoods or malls also makes spontaneous meetups easy to arrange without complex planning. For groups aiming for a low-stress, joy-filled gathering spot where good food and good company come first, Ben & Jerry’s is an excellent choice that blends celebration with everyday delight.
Why do reviews highlight Ben & Jerry’s as a meetup spot despite some mixed ratings?
With a rating of 4.1 from 125 reviews, Ben & Jerry’s generally receives positive feedback highlighting its friendly service, variety of flavors, and upbeat atmosphere. Reviewers often praise the brand’s consistent quality and how it caters well to groups looking for a casual place to socialize. The slightly mixed ratings might reflect variations across different franchise locations rather than the brand experience as a whole, which is common in popular chains. However, the overall sentiment is that Ben & Jerry’s provides a reliable, enjoyable venue with enough unique elements—such as their signature mix-ins and community events—to stand out as a meetup destination. Customers often note the welcoming staff and the ability for groups to linger comfortably, which is crucial for meetups focused on social connection rather than just quick service. Hence, despite occasional critiques, the place maintains a strong reputation as a vibrant and accommodating social hub.
What practical considerations make Ben & Jerry’s convenient for friend and family meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s locations tend to be easily accessible in urban centers, shopping malls, and community hubs, which facilitates convenient rendezvous points for groups. Their flexible hours mean you can plan meetups during the day or evening, accommodating different schedules. The informal seating arrangements allow groups of various sizes to gather without feeling cramped. The relatively affordable price point of ice cream compared to full meals means people can drop by for a treat and socializing without financial strain. The availability of to-go options also suits groups who want to bring the fun home or to a park nearby, extending the meetup beyond the store. Additionally, the recognizable brand makes it an easy meeting landmark to describe and find, reducing logistical headaches for group organizers. All these practical factors combine with the brand’s fun offerings to make Ben & Jerry’s a smart and enjoyable choice for group outings.
How does the history and story of Ben & Jerry’s add to the meetup appeal?
Ben & Jerry’s origin story—two best friends turning a small investment into a beloved global brand—adds a heartfelt narrative to every visit. Knowing that Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield met in junior high, took a correspondence course on ice cream making, and started their first shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont, makes the experience feel personal and inspiring. Their story of friendship, creativity, and community engagement resonates well with groups looking for more than just a place to eat. It fosters a sense of connection with the brand’s core values of quality, fun, and social responsibility. Sharing this story with friends can enrich meetups by providing conversation fodder and a backdrop of shared appreciation. Visiting Ben & Jerry’s then becomes a celebration of friendship and entrepreneurial spirit, mirroring the very purpose of group gatherings.
What makes the Ben & Jerry’s flavor range ideal for groups with diverse tastes?
Ben & Jerry’s flavor lineup is famously eclectic, featuring everything from classic chocolate and vanilla to wildly inventive blends with chunks of cookies, candy bars, and organic fruits. This variety caters exceptionally well to groups where preferences differ widely, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy. The large, chunky mix-ins also encourage sharing and tasting among friends, making it a playful experience rather than simply individual consumption. Seasonal and limited-edition flavors add excitement and a reason to visit regularly with a group, keeping the meetup experience fresh over time. The brand also offers non-dairy and vegan options, broadening accessibility for those with dietary restrictions. This inclusiveness through flavor diversity supports social cohesion and enhances the pleasure of eating together.
How does the brand's commitment to fun and quirkiness contribute to the group vibe?
Ben & Jerry’s has long cultivated a brand personality that is playful, quirky, and socially aware. The creative flavor names, colorful packaging, and whimsical store designs create a cheerful environment where groups feel free to relax and enjoy themselves. This lightheartedness helps break the ice in new or mixed company and amplifies the joy of shared indulgence. Activities like sampling unusual flavors or participating in "Free Cone Day" add participatory fun to visits, making Ben & Jerry’s feel less like a retail shop and more like a social destination. The company’s bold engagement in social causes also infuses gatherings with a sense of purpose, fostering connections beyond just food. Overall, the playful identity of Ben & Jerry’s makes group meetups lively, engaging, and memorable events.
By combining top-quality, innovative ice cream with a fun atmosphere, strong community values, and a commitment to group-friendly amenities, Ben & Jerry’s stands out as an exceptional place to rally your friends or family. Whether indulging in their legendary chunks, celebrating with ice cream cakes, or just enjoying the vibrant setting, Ben & Jerry’s offers a multi-dimensional experience guaranteed to satisfy both your palate and social spirit.