When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh 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 company founded in 1978 by childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in Burlington, Vermont. What makes Ben & Jerry's a fantastic place to meet up with friends is not only their rich history but also their community-oriented culture and diverse range of ice cream flavors. From classic staples like chocolate and vanilla to adventurous blends featuring chunks and swirls, the variety ensures there is something to satisfy any craving. Ben & Jerry's ice cream parlors provide a cozy and friendly atmosphere, making them ideal for social gatherings or casual hangouts. Their annual "Free Cone Day"—a tradition started in 1979—adds to the experience, inviting customers to enjoy free ice cream and celebrate together. Beyond great taste, the brand is known for ethical sourcing, activism, and a commitment to quality ingredients with pasteurized dairy and eggs, making it a trusted choice for many. All these factors combine to make Ben & Jerry's not just an ice cream spot, but a memorable social destination with a strong sense of community and fun.
Here's what people think of Ben & Jerry’s
As of recent, Ben & Jerry’s holds a 4.2-star rating based on 548 reviews.
Customer reviews of Ben & Jerry's reveal a generally positive experience with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 across 548 reviews. Many customers praise the rich, creamy texture and the inventive mix-ins that make each flavor unique. The friendly service and vibrant atmosphere in the scoop shops enhance the overall visit, making it a popular spot for friends and families alike. Reviewers also commend the company's strong ethical stance, including their use of high-quality, pasteurized ingredients and their socially responsible initiatives. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in scoop shop service, pricing that some find on the higher side, and limited availability of certain flavors depending on location. These criticisms tend to be isolated incidents but are noted by some customers. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong affection for the brand and a desire for continued innovation and quality. Customers generally leave with a positive impression, viewing Ben & Jerry's as a special place to enjoy creative ice cream flavors and share joyful moments with others.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vonti McRae
Cheyenne was so nice to help me find flavors that compliment each other. The ice cream was smooth and not hard or freezer burned. After the lunch rush in North Hills is nice and quiet. I’ll be back!
Keegan
Yummy yummy sorbet, The employee serving us was really nice. Great to beat the heat because we’re used to Wisconsin summers being lower than 90°
Mary Ann Olsen
My 6 yr old grandson and I are just leaving a trip for an ice cream treat for good behavior. The server (Gavin) was terrific letting him try several flavors before finally settling on his choice. He saved was had been a difficult day. This is a kid- friendly ice cream shop! We recommend it!
Natanael Hernandez
Should have gotten his name but the young man behind the counter should give classes on Customer service. There was a line out the door the whole time I was there and at no point did he lose pace or looked overwhelmed. He took and did everyones order perfectly. I was truly impressed. The Caramel macchiato wasnt too sweet and hit the spot 👌🏽
Deric King
Decided to stroll around the north hills area and ran across this fine establishment. Who knew they had ice cream and then it was free come day. Cheyenne was a gracious lady who even gave me a coupon!!
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 this place with your friends?
Ben & Jerry’s is not just an ice cream shop; it’s a destination where fun, flavor, and friendship blend seamlessly. When you step into a Ben & Jerry’s scoop shop, you’re stepping into decades of rich history, community spirit, and a shared love for indulgent ice cream crafted with care. Founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, by two lifelong friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, the company has grown from one quirky renovated gas station to an internationally beloved brand that continues to champion social justice, environmental causes, and community well-being alongside delicious treats. This makes it a fantastic rendezvous point if you want more than just a tasty dessert stop; it’s a place where your gathering is infused with purpose and joy.
The atmosphere itself encourages sociability—bright, colorful interiors filled with playful artwork and memorable flavors spark conversations and smiles. And the ice cream offerings, known for their rich chunks and inventive ingredients, satisfy all tastes, from classic vanilla to wonderfully wild spins like Cherry Garcia or Chunky Monkey. Beyond the ice cream, Ben & Jerry’s actively engages in community outreach and promotes values that many find inspiring, creating a socially conscious vibe that feels good to support. Whether catching up with long-time friends or celebrating family milestones, Ben & Jerry’s offers a warm, inviting space rooted in tradition and innovation, making it an ideal spot to create lasting memories with the people you care about.
What activities can you enjoy at Ben & Jerry’s?
At Ben & Jerry’s, the primary activity revolves around sampling an extraordinary array of ice cream flavors, each crafted with chunks of cookies, fruits, nuts, and other delightful mix-ins. It is a sensory adventure where groups can share and compare different flavors, making your meetup as much about discovery and sharing as about indulgence. Many locations host “Free Cone Day” annually—a beloved tradition where customers can enjoy complimentary cones. This event turns the store into a festive gathering hub, perfect for group visits filled with laughter and shared excitement. The shop’s fun and friendly staff often encourage friendly banter and offer insights into their ice cream-making process, making visits both tasty and interactive.
Furthermore, some Ben & Jerry’s scoop shops feature community boards or events that encourage social interaction beyond just eating. You might find trivia nights, charity fundraisers, or local art displays, all reinforcing the brand’s commitment to community engagement. For families, the colorful environment and kid-friendly flavors provide a welcoming atmosphere where children and adults alike can enjoy quality time together. Groups can also indulge in sundaes, shakes, and floats, elevating the ice cream experience into a more varied communal activity. The company’s history of quirky marketing—like the famous Cowmobile ice cream giveaways—echoes the spirit of fun and connection that you and your friends can experience firsthand at any store visit.
Why is Ben & Jerry’s perfect for a group meetup?
Ben & Jerry’s is perfect for groups because it combines great food with a lively environment that fosters conversation and camaraderie. The layout of most shops encourages socializing, with seating arrangements conducive to chatting while savoring ice cream. The variety of flavors and customizable options cater well to diverse preferences within a group, meaning everyone can find something they love. Additionally, the brand’s reputation for using quality, fairtrade-certified ingredients adds a feel-good factor to your outing, giving groups a shared value to appreciate alongside the enjoyment of the product.
Moreover, Ben & Jerry’s has a rich cultural and social background that resonates with many people, creating conversation starters that add depth to your gathering. Whether your group is interested in social justice, sustainability, or simply great ice cream, the company’s mission-driven approach provides common ground for meaningful interaction. The celebratory ethos of the company shines during special events, where group participation in initiatives like Free Cone Day or local charity drives creates a sense of community belonging. This combination of excellent ice cream, a welcoming vibe, and social consciousness makes Ben & Jerry’s more than just a dessert stop—it’s a memorable venue for strengthening friendships and family bonds.
What are some unique traditions or features that enhance the Ben & Jerry’s group experience?
One of the most unique aspects enhancing the group experience at Ben & Jerry’s is the annual Free Cone Day, which started in 1979 and remains a beloved tradition. This day invites everyone, including large groups of friends or families, to enjoy free ice cream cones, turning the visit into a festive event filled with spontaneous fun and community spirit. It’s a chance for groups to partake in a shared celebration while savoring their favorite flavors without worry about cost, making it especially attractive for meetups.
Another distinctive feature is the ice cream itself, packed with Ben & Jerry’s signature chunks—whether it’s cookie dough, brownie bits, or swirls of fudge—engaged eating becomes a collective experience full of delight and discovery. The company’s commitment to Fairtrade ingredients also adds a meaningful dimension, as your group can bond over supporting sustainable and ethical food production. Furthermore, many stores feature colorful, creative decor inspired by local art, music, and the company’s activist roots, creating a vibrant backdrop that enhances the mood and gives groups plenty to admire and discuss while they indulge. Together, these elements create a lively, memorable environment that makes every Ben & Jerry’s meetup feel special and uniquely enjoyable.
How does Ben & Jerry’s reflect community and social values that appeal to groups?
Ben & Jerry’s isn’t just about ice cream; it’s about making a positive impact, which resonates powerfully with groups who value social responsibility. Since its founding, the company has integrated activism into its identity, championing economic justice, environmental restoration, and peace-building through philanthropic efforts. This commitment is evident in the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation, which allocates a significant portion of profits to community-oriented projects, many of which are led by employees. This ethos creates a feel-good atmosphere at every location where you can gather with your friends or family, knowing you are supporting a company that prioritizes social good.
Furthermore, the company’s outspoken stance on environmental and social justice issues provides fertile ground for meaningful conversation among diverse groups. Whether discussing the importance of fairtrade, environmental sustainability, or community empowerment, visits to Ben & Jerry’s often spark connection through shared values. This distinguishes it from ordinary ice cream shops and makes it an appealing meetup spot for groups that want their social time to blend fun with purpose. The sense of community engagement that permeates the brand invites groups not only to enjoy delicious treats but also to be part of a larger movement toward positive change.
What variety of flavors and options make Ben & Jerry’s great for sharing?
Ben & Jerry’s is renowned for their imaginative and diverse flavor portfolio, which makes it a joy for groups to explore and share. Flavors like Cherry Garcia, inspired by the Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia, and Chunky Monkey, loaded with banana and walnuts, offer distinctive options that encourage tasting and discussing. Since many flavors have generous chunks of ingredients, each scoop can be a new surprise, perfect for groups that enjoy mixing and matching. Vegan and dairy-free options further expand accessibility, so everyone in your group can enjoy ice cream regardless of dietary preferences.
Besides scoops, Ben & Jerry’s also offers a variety of complementary treats such as sundaes and shakes, which can add variety to your group’s order and fuel more sharing moments. The ability to order pints for take-home means your meetup can continue beyond the store, extending the social experience. This wide array of flavors and formats means there’s something for every taste and occasion, making Ben & Jerry’s an adaptable and inclusive place to host group meetups where sharing and discovery are truly part of the experience.
How accessible and convenient is Ben & Jerry’s for group meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s is highly accessible, with scoop shops and products available both in standalone stores and in groceries nationwide and internationally. Many locations are designed to accommodate groups comfortably, with seating that fosters social interaction. The shops are generally located in areas that are easy to reach by car or public transit, making meetups hassle-free. Whether you want to drop in for a quick cone or plan a longer social outing, the convenience of their locations and hours supports diverse meetup styles.
Additionally, the brand’s strong presence in supermarkets and convenience stores allows for easy group purchases even if a visit to a scoop shop isn’t possible. This flexibility means group members can enjoy Ben & Jerry’s together in various settings, from casual picnics to indoor gatherings. Events and promotions like Free Cone Day are well advertised and easy to participate in, enhancing the coordinated group experience. All these factors combine to make Ben & Jerry’s an effortlessly accessible and convenient choice for bringing friends and family together.
In what ways does Ben & Jerry’s create a lasting memory for groups?
Gathering at Ben & Jerry’s creates lasting memories through its blend of fun, flavor, and social conscience. The unique, chunky ice cream flavors leave not only a delicious aftertaste but also stories to share about favorite picks and new discoveries. The company’s colorful and welcoming environment invites playfulness and warmth, making every visit feel like a mini celebration. Their longstanding traditions, like Free Cone Day, add a cultural richness that groups feel part of, reinforcing bonds over shared rituals.
Moreover, Ben & Jerry’s emphasis on inclusivity and community involvement means groups often leave with a stronger connection not just to each other but to a broader cause. The experience of enjoying ethically sourced, high-quality ice cream while supporting social justice projects turns a simple gathering into something meaningful and memorable. These factors ensure that meetups at Ben & Jerry’s linger in people’s minds as joyful occasions that nurtured both friendships and shared values.
Why does Ben & Jerry’s have such a strong reputation, rated 4.2 stars with over 500 reviews?
Ben & Jerry’s has earned its strong reputation on a foundation of consistent quality, innovation, and principled business practices. With a 4.2-star rating across more than 500 reviews, customers consistently praise the rich, flavorful ice cream and the abundance of mix-ins that provide a satisfying texture and taste. The brand’s quirky personality, commitment to social causes, and fun customer experiences elevate it beyond ordinary dessert shops. Patrons appreciate the friendly atmosphere that welcomes all ages and tastes, making it a dependable choice for groups.
While some reviews might mention occasional waits during busy times or preferences on specific flavors, the overall enthusiasm for the product quality, company values, and engaging store environments is clear. Ben & Jerry’s has successfully blended deliciousness with authenticity and activism, creating a brand and gathering place that people trust and want to return to. This combination of factors helps explain why so many reviewers rate it highly and why it remains a favored spot for group meetups and celebrations.
This comprehensive overview highlights why Ben & Jerry’s is an excellent choice for hosting meetups with friends and family. Its rich history, socially conscious mission, diverse flavor offerings, welcoming environment, and beloved traditions combine to create an experience that’s as rewarding as it is delicious. Whether you’re stopping by to enjoy a scoop or celebrating a special occasion, Ben & Jerry’s offers the perfect blend of flavor, fun, and fellowship.