When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland 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 is a beloved ice cream brand that originated in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, when childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield opened their first shop with a $12,000 investment. Known for its rich, creative, and chunk-filled ice cream flavors, the brand quickly transitioned from a local parlor to an international sensation with a 4.4-star rating from over 160 reviews. The founders famously incorporated chunks and swirls into their ice cream inspired by Ben’s unique lack of sense of smell, focusing on texture and mouthfeel. Ben & Jerry’s became well-known not just for their quality but also for community events like their annual Free Cone Day, which started in 1979 and has become a long-standing tradition to give back to customers. The shop offers a wide range of flavors, including classics like chocolate and vanilla as well as innovative, non-dairy vegan options made with almond milk, catering to diverse dietary preferences. With its funky packaging featuring cows and its commitment to quality ingredients, Ben & Jerry’s is a great place to meet friends for a fun, indulgent treat while enjoying a cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Ben & Jerry’s
As of recent, Ben & Jerry’s holds a 4.4-star rating based on 168 reviews.
Reviews of Ben & Jerry’s overwhelmingly praise the brand for its delicious, high-quality ice cream and its unique variety of flavors loaded with chunks and swirls. Customers often highlight the creativity of the flavor combinations and the satisfaction from the generous mix-ins. Many reviewers appreciate the commitment to non-dairy and vegan flavors, which makes Ben & Jerry’s inclusive for various dietary needs. The friendly service at scoop shops and the nostalgic, community-oriented events like Free Cone Day also receive positive mentions, enhancing the overall experience. On the downside, some customers mention occasional inconsistency in flavor availability or stock at different locations, and a few reviews note that prices can be slightly higher than average ice cream shops, reflecting the premium quality and brand reputation. A small number of critiques concern specific scoop shop locations varying in cleanliness or speed of service. Overall, however, the reviews confirm Ben & Jerry’s as a top choice for delightful ice cream outings, balancing quality, variety, and community spirit effectively.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Beth
Good ice cream.. three dairy free and vegan choices
Abe
Good ice cream (hard to make bad ice cream), they have flavors you can’t get in stores, store is super clean and friendly staff. You can taste ice cream you want. However a little pricey for me.
Audrey Webster
It's like the Ben & Jerry's you buy in pints but even better. There are several types of dipped cones (waffle and sugar). There isn't really any parking and no bathroom, so don't come on foot and don't get too messy. I recommend the bourbon butter ice cream. It's amazing.
K. Ching
Good ice cream great choices and lots of flavors
Jordan Enright Schulz (Jordie)
I don't get ice cream enough. I had a small two scoop on a waffle cone and it was so delicious! I can't remember the exact flavors I got, but they involved chocolate and vanilla and caramel and chocolate chip cookies. And I sat at a table that had a bunch of B & J history on it which I had fun reading. I'll be back! 🍨😊
How to reach Ben & Jerry’s
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Website: None
Why Ben & Jerry’s may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ben & Jerry’s with your friends?
Ben & Jerry’s is more than just an ice cream shop—it’s a vibrant gathering place that invites you and your friends to savor not only delicious flavors but also moments of joy and connection. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 168 reviews, this brand delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience. The welcoming, quirky ambiance is ideal for socializing; it captures the spirit of fun and community that Ben & Jerry’s has cultivated since its founding in 1978. The unique story of Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield — two childhood friends who opened their first shop with just $12,000 in a renovated Vermont gas station — adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the visit. You are not just meeting to eat ice cream; you are participating in a tradition of creativity, friendship, and social commitment. Their flavors are renowned for big chunks and surprising textures, designed originally to please Ben Cohen, who has anosmia but enjoys mouthfeel. Sharing scoops here feels like sharing a piece of that joyful history, making Ben & Jerry’s a perfect rally point to create happy memories with your group.
What activities and experiences make Ben & Jerry’s perfect for group meetups?
Visiting Ben & Jerry's offers multiple activities beyond just eating ice cream, making it a versatile spot for groups seeking both fun and meaningful interaction. The primary draw is obviously the extensive menu of inventive ice cream flavors featuring large chunks of cookies, nuts, and other mix-ins—something to satisfy every palate in your group. Whether your friends prefer classics or unusual seasonal specials, there is an option for everyone. Additionally, many Ben & Jerry’s locations host special events, such as their iconic “Free Cone Day,” which began in 1979 and encourages community participation and generosity. Groups can engage in a relaxed but lively atmosphere, often with music, colorful decor, and even opportunities to learn about the company’s commitment to social causes. This makes meetups feel productive and fun at the same time, as guests can chat about flavors while appreciating the brand’s larger mission. Many locations also provide spaces that accommodate group seating, facilitating easy conversation and shared enjoyment.
Why is the Ben & Jerry’s environment ideal for social gatherings?
Ben & Jerry’s creates a welcoming environment designed to foster social connection and uplift spirits. The stores often feature vibrant, playful decor inspired by their cow-themed packaging and quirky brand persona, creating an atmosphere that invites laughter and lightheartedness. This friendly setting lowers barriers for conversation and sharing. Large tables or communal seating allow groups to spread out comfortably, encourage mingling, and make it easy to pass around shared ice cream treats. The staff is generally enthusiastic and knowledgeable, often engaging with customers to explain flavor profiles or suggest pairings, which adds a personal touch to the outing. Furthermore, the brand’s dedication to community involvement and sustainability gives social gatherings deeper purpose — friends can feel good about supporting a business that invests in Fairtrade ingredients and philanthropy. This combination of comfort, engagement, and conscientiousness makes Ben & Jerry’s a highly attractive location for group meetups.
What kinds of flavors and menu options can groups enjoy together?
The selection of ice cream flavors at Ben & Jerry’s is famously diverse, catering to all sorts of tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring each group member finds something to enjoy. Classic favorites like Cherry Garcia and Chocolate Fudge Brownie stand alongside newer innovations or limited editions, so there’s always a sense of anticipation and discovery. The use of large, chunky mix-ins creates a satisfying texture that sparks conversation and delight when sharing. Beyond ice cream cones and pints, many locations offer sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream sandwiches, providing versatile options for different cravings and shareability. The company also increasingly emphasizes including dairy-free and vegan options, making the venue inclusive for all. Sharing different flavors among a group can become a joyous tasting game, turning the meetup into both a social event and a flavor exploration adventure. This range and variety contribute to why Ben & Jerry’s serves as an ideal location for friend and family gatherings.
How does Ben & Jerry’s commitment to social causes enhance the meetup experience?
Ben & Jerry’s stands out as a socially responsible business that integrates activism into its brand identity, adding meaningful value to your visit with friends. From using Fairtrade-certified ingredients to supporting environmental causes and promoting social justice, the company’s mission goes beyond ice cream. This ethos often permeates the store atmosphere through art, informational materials, and events that raise awareness. Meeting here can inspire conversations about important issues, making it not just fun but thought-provoking. Groups who gather at Ben & Jerry’s can take pride in supporting a brand committed to positive change, which can deepen the sense of community among participants. This socially conscious aspect aligns well with modern consumers’ values, transforming a simple ice cream outing into an opportunity to engage with broader causes collectively.
What additional amenities and services support comfortable group meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s locations are generally designed to offer convenience and comfort that enhance group experiences. Many shops feature indoor seating with enough room for parties to sit together and socialize without feeling cramped. Some shops have outdoor patios, perfect for warm weather, allowing space to spread out and enjoy fresh air while savoring ice cream. The staff is experienced in handling larger orders and can assist with recommendations for shareable desserts. Furthermore, Ben & Jerry’s provides merchandise and fun branded memorabilia, such as t-shirts and reusable bowls, which can be enjoyed as souvenirs or gifts within your group. For those planning events, some locations offer catering or special party services, catering to birthdays and celebrations. These amenities underscore how Ben & Jerry’s is prepared not just to serve ice cream but to facilitate memorable social occasions.
Why is Ben & Jerry’s ice cream an experience worth sharing?
Ben & Jerry’s ice cream is crafted to be more than a sweet treat; it’s an experience rich with texture, flavor, and history, perfect for sharing with others. The huge chunks of nuts, cookies, and other goodies were originally introduced to make ice cream varied and interesting for Ben Cohen, who can’t smell but experiences food largely through texture. This unique approach makes every spoonful a layered experience, sparking delight and conversation with friends. The creative flavor combinations range from indulgent to whimsical, often encouraging people to try something new together. Sharing scoops or sampling multiple flavors fosters bonding and laughter, turning the simple act of eating ice cream into a joyous social ritual. This shared sensory adventure helps explain why groups repeatedly choose Ben & Jerry’s as a meetup destination.
How does the company's history and brand story add to the appeal?
Ben & Jerry’s compelling origin story enhances its charm as a meetup spot. Founded by two friends who met in junior high gym class, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield took a leap to create their own business after a correspondence course in ice cream making. The humble start—from a renovated gas station in Vermont—reflects passion, friendship, and entrepreneurship that resonate with customers. Knowing the founders’ commitment to quality ingredients, community involvement, and quirky branding adds layers of meaning to the visit. Patrons don’t just buy ice cream; they participate in a legacy rooted in friendship and social values. This narrative provides a meaningful backdrop that can spark conversations and create shared memories, making each visit feel special and distinctive.
What makes Ben & Jerry’s a standout choice for group celebrations and special occasions?
Ben & Jerry’s offers an inviting, festive atmosphere that naturally suits celebrations and group milestones. The colorful interior designs, unique flavor names, and friendly vibe create an environment of cheerfulness. Whether you’re marking a birthday, reunion, or casual get-together, Ben & Jerry’s can accommodate groups with plenty of shared dessert options and ample seating. Their “Free Cone Day” and other special promotions add excitement and community spirit, elevating ordinary days to memorable events. Moreover, the company’s willingness to customize orders for parties or provide catering services makes planning hassle-free. The social and interactive nature of ice cream sharing aligns perfectly with celebration, helping guests relax, mingle, and enjoy each other’s company. This combination of atmosphere, service, and menu variety makes Ben & Jerry’s a go-to destination for festive group occasions.
How accessible and convenient is Ben & Jerry’s for group meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s stores are typically located in easily accessible urban and suburban areas, making them convenient for groups coming from different places. Many shops offer parking options as well as proximity to public transit. The company’s widespread presence in numerous cities and countries also means that finding a location near you is usually simple. Their commitment to quick, friendly service ensures that wait times are minimized even with larger groups, and many outlets facilitate mobile ordering or pickups to streamline meetups. This accessibility and convenience make Ben & Jerry’s a practical choice for spontaneous social gatherings, ensuring that your plans can come together smoothly without logistical hassles.
In summary, Ben & Jerry’s is an excellent venue for meetups with friends or family because it combines an inviting environment, a wide variety of delicious and shareable ice cream flavors, and a strong social mission that enhances every visit. Its rich history and community engagement create a unique atmosphere where fun, flavor, and friendship come together, making it an ideal place to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories.