When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
Why Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop originated from a beloved food truck in New York City, founded by Douglas Quint and Bryan Petroff, who transformed their passion for ice cream into a culturally vibrant and inclusive experience. Opening their first brick-and-mortar location in the East Village in 2011, and later expanding to the West Village and Philadelphia, the shop quickly became known for its creative and playful twists on classic soft-serve ice cream. The atmosphere is upbeat and colorful, celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and diversity through its fun branding and welcoming vibe. Customers can indulge in imaginative ice cream concoctions with unique toppings and flavors, catering to both families and those young at heart. The West Village location, larger and with seating, offers a more spacious place to enjoy treats, often bustling with enthusiastic crowds, especially during warm seasons. Whether grabbing a custom cone or enjoying seasonal specials, Big Gay Ice Cream Shop offers a memorable place to meet friends and savor quality soft-serve with a cheeky, saucy spirit.
Here's what people think of Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
As of recent, Big Gay Ice Cream Shop holds a 3.6-star rating based on 16 reviews.
Reviews of Big Gay Ice Cream Shop reveal a mixed but generally positive reception, with an average rating around 3.6 to 4.0. Many users praise the shop for its delicious and innovative ice cream flavors, lively and fun atmosphere, and friendly customer service. Several reviewers highlight the shop's creativity and the quality of their signature concoctions, often pointing out the unique experience compared to typical ice cream parlors. Patrons also appreciate the engaging and warm welcome from staff and enjoy the trendy merch available alongside the desserts. However, some negative feedback centers on higher prices relative to conventional soft-serve options and occasional issues with crowding and long lines, especially during peak times. A few reviews note that the quality might vary between visits or that the shop can be quite busy, impacting seating and wait times. Overall, the combination of unique flavors, vibrant branding, and strong customer engagement leads to a positive impression for most visitors, making it a distinctive and enjoyable spot in New York City's dessert scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ailín Cufré
Staff was very nice and the ice cream was delicious even though I dont usually get soft serve
Kayla Gorthy
I love sprinkles so much so this was perfect!
Terry Reynolds
I like ice cream. I also like unicorns and bright colours.
Bill America
Worst ice cream I've EVER had! And I mean, "ever"!
Candice Arseneau
I used to regularly get this stuff when it was on Amazon Fresh. So delicious and i just love the marketing. I’ve now flagged this on Google Maps to make sure I visit in person whenever I’m in NYC for an afternoon.
How to reach Big Gay Ice Cream Shop
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Website: None
Why Big Gay Ice Cream Shop may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop with your friends?
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is a vibrant and inviting destination to gather with your friends because it offers much more than just ice cream; it is an experience that combines creativity, comfort, and community spirit. The moment you step inside, the playful and colorful atmosphere sets a lighthearted and welcoming tone that is perfect for socializing. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just craving a fun outing, this shop’s unique and whimsical take on classic ice cream treats makes it an ideal spot for groups to bond over shared indulgence. Its informal yet lively vibe encourages spontaneous conversations and laughter, which help deepen connections among friends or family members. Moreover, the shop’s locations, accessible hours, and casual seating make it easy for groups to convene without hassle, blending convenience with a memorable experience. The diverse menu caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. In essence, Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is not just about delicious desserts but about fostering joy and togetherness, making it a top choice for hosting meetups with your close ones.
What activities can you enjoy at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop during a group meetup?
At Big Gay Ice Cream Shop, the primary activity is indulging in creatively crafted ice cream that delights all age groups and taste preferences. The shop invites you to savor imaginative sundaes and cones, such as salted caramel pretzel twists or the famous Bea Arthur sundae, combining playful flavors with rich textures. Beyond tasting treats, the shop's warm and colorful décor sets the scene for social interaction. Groups can enjoy lively conversations around their shared dessert experience in the cozy seating areas provided. For those wanting to turn their visit into a mini ice cream tasting event, the variety of unique toppings and combinations fosters discovery and fun banter, as everyone compares their picks and flavors. The shop also occasionally features themed events or limited-time flavors, offering fresh topics of excitement and anticipation for repeat visits. Additionally, many locations are in vibrant neighborhoods like New York’s West Village and South Street Seaport, where groups can complement their ice cream outing with a stroll through lively streets, enhancing the social experience with a bit of sightseeing or shopping nearby.
Why is Big Gay Ice Cream Shop perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is an excellent choice for group meetups because it combines a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere with convenient locations and flexible hours. Its multiple outlets across New York City, including bustling neighborhoods like the West Village and South Street Seaport, provide easy access via several subway lines, making it simple for everyone to join regardless of where they live. The shop’s operating hours extend into late evening, with some locations open until midnight on weekends, allowing groups to meet after work or for late-night hangouts, adding to its appeal. The price range is moderate, which means it is an affordable treat that fits well within many group budgets, especially when sharing multiple flavors or toppings. The ice cream shop prides itself on a fun, quirky ambiance that features vibrant décor and a lighthearted vibe, which naturally encourages people to unwind and engage happily with one another. The space is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, whether you want to grab a quick bite at the counter or linger at a table chatting over your dessert. Altogether, these elements create a casual yet memorable environment well suited for any type of group gathering.
What makes the ice cream offerings at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop unique and group-friendly?
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop stands out because of its creative approach to classic ice cream flavors, making it a playground for adventurous palates in group settings. Their menu features inventive combinations like “The Salty Pimp,” which balances sweet vanilla ice cream with dulce de leche, sea salt, and crushed pretzels, a favorite that sparks fun conversations about flavor contrasts and favorite picks among friends. The shop uses high-quality ingredients and playful toppings that encourage sharing and sampling among group members. With options ranging from cones and sundaes to soft serve styles, the diverse choices cater to different dietary preferences and cravings, including seasonal and limited-edition specials for variety. This diversity keeps visits fresh and offers groups an interactive experience as they discuss which flavor or topping to try next. The fun, colorful presentations—sometimes with cheeky names and ice cream art—also make the treats Instagram-worthy, perfect for groups who enjoy capturing and sharing their experiences. This combination of creativity, quality, and variety makes each visit a fun, communal adventure in taste.
How is the location and accessibility of Big Gay Ice Cream Shop ideal for group gatherings?
Big Gay Ice Cream Shop operates in several prime New York City neighborhoods, making it accessible and convenient for group meetups. Locations are situated in widely recognized areas such as the West Village, South Street Seaport, East Village, Madison Square Garden vicinity, and Philadelphia Center City. Each location is well connected to major subway lines — including the 1, A, C, E, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, and 5 trains — which provides excellent public transit access, minimizing the need for complicated driving or parking arrangements for groups. The shops’ urban settings also mean groups can combine their visit with nearby entertainment and shopping if desired. The accessibility features, including wheelchair accommodation and non-smoking environments, make it inclusive for all group members. Many outlets offer takeout options as well, which is handy for those who want to grab their ice cream to enjoy in nearby parks or at home gatherings. With extended hours through weekends and late evenings, Big Gay Ice Cream Shop can accommodate a variety of group schedules, whether daytime meetups or after-dinner outings.
What makes the ambiance and service at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop conducive to group socializing?
The ambiance at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is purposefully designed to be playful, welcoming, and inclusive, which naturally enhances socializing among groups. The décor features bright colors, humorous signage, and quirky artwork that set a joyful mood immediately upon arrival. Such an environment lowers social barriers and encourages casual, relaxed interactions, making it easier for groups to connect and enjoy each other’s company while savoring their desserts. The staff are known for friendly, attentive service that adds a personal touch to the visit without rushing customers, allowing groups to linger and chat comfortably. Because the shop specializes in indulgent, shareable treats, the experience encourages communal enjoyment—friends can sample each other’s choices and joke about the creative flavor combinations. This kind of social environment, aligned with great service, fosters memorable gatherings and often turns first-time visitors into regular meet-up spots. Whether it’s a small circle of close friends or a larger family outing, the vibe at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop strikes a perfect balance of fun and comfort.
How does the pricing structure at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop support group visits?
The pricing at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is moderate, which makes it an appealing choice for groups looking to enjoy a specialty treat without breaking the bank. Dessert options typically fall within a $$ to $$$ range, offering good value given the quality and creativity of the ice cream and toppings. Groups can easily order multiple items—cones, sundaes, and special combos—without worry of steep costs, encouraging sharing and sampling, which is ideal for group dynamics. The shop also offers various portion sizes, from single cones to larger sundaes, allowing flexibility depending on appetites and budgets. Because it’s a casual ice cream shop rather than a formal restaurant, the overall experience is designed to be affordable and fun. This pricing approach encourages frequent visits, which is perfect for groups who may want to return regularly for a casual gathering or celebration. Also, some locations accept credit cards, enhancing convenience for groups splitting bills or without cash.
What nearby attractions enhance the meetup experience at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop?
Many Big Gay Ice Cream Shop locations are nestled in vibrant districts bustling with cultural, recreational, and shopping opportunities that enhance group meetups. For instance, the South Street Seaport location places visitors close to scenic views of the East River, historic piers, and boutique stores, which provide additional entertainment or photo opportunities after enjoying ice cream. The West Village shop is surrounded by charming streets perfect for a leisurely stroll, iconic NYC architecture, and cafes, allowing groups to extend their outing beyond dessert. Madison Square Garden’s proximity at the Pennsylvania Plaza location means groups can plan ice cream meetups before or after concerts, sports events, or theater shows, creating a full entertainment day. The neighborhood settings often include accessible public parks or plazas where larger groups can sit and enjoy their treats in a relaxed, open-air environment. The combination of these nearby attractions makes Big Gay Ice Cream Shop not just a destination but a central part of a lively social outing.
How does Big Gay Ice Cream Shop’s reputation reflect its suitability for groups?
Although Big Gay Ice Cream Shop has a solid reputation among dessert lovers, it holds an overall rating of around 3.6 based on 16 reviews, indicating a generally positive but mixed customer experience. Many patrons highlight the creative menu and friendly staff as high points that make the shop inviting for group visits. Occasional criticisms, often about wait times or specific location issues, do little to detract from the generally fun and unique environment the shop fosters. Most reviews praise the shop’s charm and the quality of the inventive ice cream combinations, which create memorable experiences worth sharing with friends. The shop has earned recognition such as the Travelers’ Choice award, emphasizing its appeal among tourists and locals alike. This suggests that, while it may not be flawless, Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is broadly viewed as a reliable and enjoyable meetup destination, especially for those who appreciate quality and quirky ice cream offerings in a social setting.
In what ways can hosting a meetup at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop create lasting memories?
Hosting a meetup at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop can create lasting memories through its unique blend of indulgent treats, cheerful atmosphere, and shared experiences. Ice cream often conjures nostalgia and happiness, making it a natural catalyst for joyful gatherings. The shop’s quirky menu and playful presentation invite laughter and surprising new flavor discoveries, which become fun stories friends cherish. The lively environment encourages candid conversations and photo opportunities that capture the spirit of the moment. Because the shop embraces inclusivity and creativity, every visitor, whether a longtime fan or a first-timer, feels a part of a communal celebration. Many groups find that returning often builds tradition and strengthens friendships, turning a simple dessert outing into an anticipated highlight of social calendars. In this way, a meetup at Big Gay Ice Cream Shop is not just about eating ice cream, but about making delightful memories together.