When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach 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, founded in 1978 in Burlington, Vermont, by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, offers much more than just ice cream; it is a vibrant social and community hub ideal for meeting friends and indulging in rich, creative flavors. The original ice cream shop was started with a modest $12,000 investment in a renovated gas station, quickly gaining cult status for its rich, chunky ice cream varieties made from fresh Vermont cream and big chunks of nuts, fruits, candies, and cookies. Known for its unconventional and innovatively named flavors like Cherry Garcia, Phish Food, and Chunky Monkey, Ben & Jerry’s creates an inviting atmosphere where people can enjoy classic favorites or explore new taste adventures. Their stores themselves embody a fun, quirky vibe—perfect for casual gatherings or family outings. Beyond the delicious desserts, Ben & Jerry’s commitment to social mission and community engagement adds a unique layer of meaning to visits, making it a great place not only for indulgence but also for supporting ethical and sustainable practices. Whether it’s their iconic Free Cone Day or new oversized Scoop-apalooza pint offerings, Ben & Jerry’s continues to create memorable experiences around ice cream that bring people together.
Here's what people think of Ben & Jerry’s
As of recent, Ben & Jerry’s holds a 4-star rating based on 197 reviews.
User reviews of Ben & Jerry’s frequently praise the brand for its high-quality ingredients and imaginative ice cream flavors, which offer a pleasurable and indulgent experience. Positive comments often highlight favorites such as Cherry Garcia and Phish Food for their perfect balance of ingredients and nostalgia. Reviewers also appreciate the generous chunks and swirls in the ice cream, which enhance the texture and taste. The brand’s commitment to ethical sourcing and social responsibility adds to customers’ positive perception, creating a sense of community and shared values. In contrast, some negative reviews mention inconsistency in flavor availability or occasionally find certain newer or more experimental flavors less appealing than the classics. A few users comment on the price point as slightly higher than average for ice cream, which can be a discouragement for some. Others cite occasional texture issues or melting concerns in warmer climates. Overall, however, the positive sentiments outweigh the negatives, with many customers returning specifically for the unique, premium quality Ben & Jerry’s delivers. The reviews show a passionate fan base that values both the product excellence and the brand’s ingrained ethics, making Ben & Jerry’s not just a place to eat ice cream, but a place to engage with a beloved community tradition.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
George
Simple but nice small commercial ice cream shop. It’s Ben & Jerry’s so the ice cream is consistently good. Inside is clean and comfortable environment with low volume pop music playing. Sunday night 8:30 pm, not busy at all. Only 4 tables inside, but all full since there’s so little room. Several combinations of flavors to choose from, so if you just want plain flavors like vanilla or chocolate, this isn’t the place. But there’s a walk through plaza just outside so every night basically it’s a nice place to just walk up and down seeing all the sights eating your ice cream. I recommend and will be back :)
Kaishon Holloway
Every time I treat myself to Ben & Jerry’s, it’s not just the delicious non-dairy ice cream that keeps me coming back — it’s the exceptional service, especially from the incredible Victor. I pop in from time to time for a sweet escape, and more often than not, I have the pleasure of being helped by him. Victor is consistently warm, friendly, and genuinely kind — the kind of person who turns a simple ice cream run into a feel-good experience. His energy is infectious, and his attention to detail makes every visit a delight. The non-dairy options are always top-tier (seriously, you’d never know they’re dairy-free!), and having someone like Victor behind the counter adds the perfect cherry on top — no pun intended. I truly hope his leadership team knows what a gem they have. Thank you for everything, Victor! For your consistently great vibes and outstanding service. You are so appreciated — keep being amazing! 🙂
Jaime Domingues
Visited Ben & Jerry's, awesome colourful store with many of the classic B&J flavours to pick from. The waffle cup is very cool, more places should have that option! The flavours and quality were typically delicious The service was weird. We walked in and weren't acknowledged by either of the assistants, had to wait for them to finish their tasks before taking our order (we were the only ones in the store) and not more than three words were said by the guy who took our order. It was at odds with the vibe one expects a Ben&Jerry's store to have....
Miami Beach Notary 305
My favorite local ice cream shop! Please restock the CHURRO!
YuriY Kudinov
Finally, visit Ben & Jerry's after a long time. It was great service and fresh, tasty ice cream. Best butter pecan I ever eat, especially at hot sunny Miami days! Host Viktor was friendly and smiling. Thank you for your great service!
How to reach Ben & Jerry’s
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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?
Choosing Ben & Jerry’s as the gathering spot for a meetup with friends or family promises an enjoyable experience filled with flavor, fun, and community spirit. Founded in 1978 in a quaint renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont, Ben & Jerry’s has grown far beyond a simple ice cream shop to become an icon of indulgence and social responsibility. When you rally here, you’re not just enjoying a scoop of premium ice cream—you’re immersing yourself in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere that invites sharing and connection. The unique ice cream flavors, imaginative combinations, and generous portions make for delightful tasting moments that spark conversation and create lasting memories. The space itself typically exudes warmth and welcoming vibes, perfect for both casual and celebratory occasions. Ben & Jerry’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and its ethos of fairness and community add to the feeling that you’re supporting a business that cares. Whether it’s a spontaneous craving break or a planned social outing, Ben & Jerry’s serves as a sweet retreat where people come together to enjoy simple pleasures in a place that inspires happiness and togetherness.
What fun activities can you do at Ben & Jerry’s?
Ben & Jerry’s offers more than just ice cream; the experience is as much about enjoyment and engagement as it is about savoring treats. First and foremost, the joy of trying assorted ice cream flavors—ranging from perennial favorites like Cherry Garcia® to dynamic seasonal offerings—serves as an activity all its own. Groups can partake in "flavor tasting," sampling spoonfuls from various tubs to compare and debate favorites, which turns eating into a social event. Many locations also host special events such as Free Cone Day, where guests receive free ice cream—a perfect opportunity for an impromptu celebration. Beyond eating, some Ben & Jerry’s shops host ice cream making demonstrations, where visitors can learn about the craftsmanship behind each flavorful batch, deepening their appreciation. On the community front, the brand is known for its activism and philanthropy, often reflecting this in displays and partnerships with causes important to their customers, encouraging discussions around social justice and environmental responsibility while sharing a sweet moment.
Why is Ben & Jerry’s ideal for group meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s is an excellent venue for group meetups due to its inviting environment, diverse offerings, and shared cultural appeal. The friendly seating arrangements typically found in scoop shops encourage interaction, facilitating conversations and bonding. Groups with differing tastes can easily find something to love thanks to their wide range of flavors that cater to various preferences, including vegan options and low-fat varieties, making it inclusive for all dietary needs. The novelty and nostalgia of their unique, creatively named ice cream varieties provide a fun talking point that adds an element of playfulness to any gathering. Ben & Jerry’s also fosters a community feel; many fans appreciate its open stance on political and social causes, creating a like-minded atmosphere conducive for meaningful conversations among friends and family. The combination of comfort food and conscience-based business creates a unique social space—whether you want to indulge in a sweet treat, catch up, or discuss bigger ideas, it’s a place that accommodates all.
How does the Ben & Jerry’s brand philosophy enhance your meetup experience?
Meeting at Ben & Jerry’s means you’re supporting a company whose values resonate beyond the ice cream. Their three-part mission focuses not only on product quality but also on economic fairness and community impacted by social justice initiatives. This philosophy permeates the atmosphere, making visitors feel they are contributing to a greater cause while simply enjoying dessert. The company’s ongoing philanthropic efforts, which direct over a million dollars annually into causes like environmental restoration and economic justice, create an experience that blends fun with purpose. This adds meaning to gatherings, turning them into moments of celebration and awareness. Knowing the company’s founders started with modest means and built an internationally beloved brand grounded in activism and sustainability lends your meetup a narrative of hope and positive impact. Such a backdrop makes spending time here feel more enriching than just visiting an ordinary ice cream shop.
What unique offerings and flavors will excite your group at Ben & Jerry’s?
Ben & Jerry’s stands out distinctly with its inventive and indulgent flavors, each crafted to deliver a memorable taste experience. From classics like Chunky Monkey and Phish Food to special edition and seasonal flavors, there’s a scoop to excite nearly every palate. Many flavors incorporate large chunks of cookies, candies, and nuts—true to the company’s hallmark “big chunks” style. The brand has also been a pioneer in offering non-dairy options, ensuring vegans and those with lactose intolerance can join the fun without compromise. This variety makes choosing flavors a group event in itself, encouraging sharing and sampling that heightens the social experience. The packaging and flavor names also often reflect a playful and whimsical character that adds to the joyful vibe. For example, Cherry Garcia® is named after a rock legend, blending pop culture with ice cream enjoyment, which can spark fun conversations and shared enthusiasm among group members.
What makes Ben & Jerry’s a socially conscious choice for gatherings?
When you host a meetup at Ben & Jerry’s, you’re engaging with a brand that’s deeply committed to social and environmental causes, making your social outing more meaningful. The company dons a leadership role in using Fairtrade ingredients and sustainable dairy farming practices, ensuring their ice cream is ethically sourced. Moreover, Ben & Jerry’s uses its platform to raise awareness on important social issues such as climate change, racial justice, and equity through campaigns and partnerships. These initiatives often permeate the shop atmosphere through events, its online presence, and informative materials available to customers. This conscious approach attracts community-minded individuals who value responsibility alongside fun. Groups meeting here often appreciate the additional layer of purpose, feeling that their indulgence contributes, however modestly, to a better world. This dimension of engagement creates a progressive, uplifting ambience for meetups, defining a social experience that aligns taste with ethics.
How accessible and convenient is Ben & Jerry’s for group events?
Ben & Jerry’s locations are generally designed to accommodate casual group visits with ease and comfort. Many scoop shops provide seating layouts that support small to medium-sized parties, ideal for birthdays, casual reunions, and family outings. Their broad national and international presence makes it easy to find a nearby location to gather without hassle, and many places offer convenient parking or proximity to public transit. Whether you are planning a last-minute gathering or a planned celebration, the straightforward service and familiar menu streamline group ordering, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Additionally, the brand offers catering options and party packs in some regions, allowing groups to pre-order and customize their ice cream choices. This flexibility supports both spontaneous outings and organized events. Friendly staff and welcoming environments help create an easy-going mood perfect for socializing without stress.
What sensory experiences make Ben & Jerry’s memorable for meetups?
Ben & Jerry’s offers a rich sensory landscape that enhances the social experience by engaging taste, sight, smell, and even sound. The dense, creamy texture of their ice cream, coupled with bursts of mix-in chunks, creates a satisfying mouthfeel that invites slow savoring and conversation. The colorful, quirky packaging and bright store decor stimulate visual interest and photo opportunities, perfect for groups wanting to capture moments together. The sweet aromas of freshly scooped ice cream create an inviting atmosphere that welcomes customers from the moment they enter. Background music often reflects the brand’s fun and eclectic personality, complementing the cheerful environment. Combined, these sensory experiences build a cozy and stimulating space that feels festive, making meetups not just delicious but also delightfully immersive.
Why do people keep coming back to Ben & Jerry’s for group occasions?
The enduring popularity of Ben & Jerry’s for group meetups lies in the perfect blend of quality, variety, community spirit, and socially conscious values. Fans return for the consistently excellent ice cream that never fails to satisfy cravings and delight taste buds. The brand’s commitment to innovation keeps the menu fresh and exciting, encouraging explorations and shared discoveries among groups. The welcoming atmosphere of scoop shops, often buzzing with happy customers and friendly staff, makes gatherings feel easy and joyful. Importantly, many customers appreciate that their choice supports a business model that values fairness, sustainability, and activism. This combination nurtures loyalty and strengthens the sense of belonging among patrons. Friends and families find Ben & Jerry’s a dependable destination where they can relax, celebrate, and connect over something delicious and meaningful.
What is the history behind Ben & Jerry’s that adds to its charm and appeal?
Ben & Jerry’s story begins as a humble start-up with a $12,000 investment by two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, who shared a passion for food and a desire to create something joyful and impactful. Their first shop opened in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont, in May 1978, kick-starting what would become an internationally recognized brand. The founders’ focus on quality—using fresh Vermont cream and generous chunks of mix-ins—and their commitment to ethical business practices quickly earned a devoted following. They pioneered unique flavors and creative naming conventions that capture imagination and personality. Alongside commercial success, Ben & Jerry’s has maintained an emphasis on activism, funding community projects and promoting environmental causes. This rich history infuses every visit with a sense of legacy and purpose, making Ben & Jerry’s more than just a place to get ice cream – it’s a cultural touchstone that celebrates friendship, creativity, and social responsibility.