When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Cold Stone Creamery
Why Cold Stone Creamery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cold Stone Creamery offers a unique venue to gather with friends and family around high-quality, fresh-made ice cream. Founded in 1988 in Arizona, this international chain is renowned for its artisanal ice cream made daily on-site, which sets it apart from typical pre-packaged options. Each serving is highly customizable; customers select from a variety of mix-ins such as candy, cakes, fruits, and nuts that are then blended into the ice cream on a frozen granite stone, providing an interactive and personalized experience. The atmosphere is inviting and cheerful, often enhanced by songs and smiles from attentive staff, creating a memorable social outing. Beyond just ice cream, Cold Stone Creamery also offers related treats like ice cream cakes, pies, cookie sandwiches, shakes, and smoothies, catering to a broad range of tastes. Their commitment to freshness and customization makes Cold Stone Creamery a vibrant, fun, and indulgent destination for meetups, celebrations, or a simple sweet treat any day of the week.
Here's what people think of Cold Stone Creamery
As of recent, Cold Stone Creamery holds a 4.3-star rating based on 99 reviews.
Reviews of Cold Stone Creamery reveal a mixed customer experience. On one hand, many reviewers praise the quality of the ice cream and the employees, appreciating the freshness and creative mix-in options that make each visit enjoyable. Positive feedback often highlights the taste and artisanal quality of the ice cream, noting it as a significant draw for repeat visits. However, there is considerable criticism, particularly regarding food safety concerns, management issues, and inconsistent or poor customer service. Some customers express dissatisfaction with rude staff and pricing that feels high for the quality of service received. Despite these complaints, the brand maintains a loyal customer base attracted by its product uniqueness and in-store experience. The overall conclusion from reviews suggests that while Cold Stone Creamery excels in delivering premium ice cream and fun customization, improvements in service and management could enhance customer satisfaction further. This blend of high-quality product and variable service creates a nuanced reputation among patrons.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bonnie Gagnon
I've been a fan of Cold Stone Creamery for 20 years. Always delicious. Friendly staff, great selection, fresh ice cream. My favorite: German Chocolate Cake. Check it out!
Scott
Good but not great. What makes Cold Stone creamery great is when they thoroughly mix in the fruit and other toppings. Here, apparently the ice cream is too frozen for them to thoroughly mix it or they just don't put enough muscle into it.
Ljubica Banic
Lovely place for ice cream the have a lot of variety of flavours, you can pick to be serve in a waffle, cone or cup, you can add different toppings. They do as well ice cream cakes they look delicious. The portions of the ice creams are small, medium or large. Prices are middle range. The service was nice and polite, they have few tables to seat indoors. You are required a mask to enter to the store.
Bob Richardson
Do yourself a favor and avoid this Coldstone location!!! Last night the tables outside were covered with ice cream drips. When I asked the employees, two high school girls, they said they would come out and wipe them off. They never did for the 30 minutes we were there; even though there was no one in line inside! When I requested to wash my hands to remove the ice cream drips, the employee stated the bathroom was out of order. Based on other reviews, the bathroom "out of order" appears to be a permanent condition. I've been "spoiled" by Sweet Cow's two Boulder locations where the facility is clean, the bathrooms are clean and working and the employees provide excellent customer service. Let's all "vote with our feet" and send a clear message to this Coldstone franchise owner.
Adam Fortin
I went here because I got a birthday coupon for an ice cream and I decided to treat myself. I ordered using the Cold Stone app, which was absolutely flawless. When I arrive, I'm told they are out of BOTH flavors I had requested in my creation. I accept their substitutions and go on my way. (The guys at the counter made me a little extra to make up for having to substitute.) Anyway, I got my follow-up email from the restaurant manager and I let her know about my experience. She wasted no time in acknowledging the problem, apologizing for the error, and making sure they made it right but giving me my next creation free. This is the kind of customer service that is absolutely disappearing from the marketplace. Once upon a time, this was how ALL businesses resolved their customer issues. I don't know who decided this practice was a bad idea and should be phased out, but they should be shot! In my opinion, there is nothing that makes a business really shine to me other than the level of customer service they are willing to commit to. What you will find here is that level of customer service from way back when it was still a valued and appreciated part of any business interaction. Thank you Kelli and everyone else down there for really preserving what matters!! 😀😀
How to reach Cold Stone Creamery
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Why Cold Stone Creamery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cold Stone Creamery with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Cold Stone Creamery is an excellent choice because it offers a uniquely delicious and engaging experience that goes beyond just enjoying ice cream. Founded in 1988 by Donald and Susan Sutherland, Cold Stone Creamery is renowned for its freshly made, super-premium ice cream created right in the store on a frozen granite stone. This freshness ensures every scoop is rich, creamy, and flavorful, setting it apart from typical pre-packaged ice cream options. When you bring your group to Cold Stone, you're not just going for a treat but for an element of fun and customization that everyone can participate in. The process of choosing flavors, mix-ins like fruit, nuts, or candies, and watching your ice cream masterpiece being made right in front of you makes it a social, interactive event. A group meetup here becomes about shared indulgence and collective enjoyment, perfectly suited for conversations, celebrations, and making memories over high-quality, customized desserts. The inviting atmosphere and the wide variety of choices also ensure there's something for everyone's taste buds, making Cold Stone a natural place for any gathering.
What fun activities can you enjoy at Cold Stone Creamery?
At Cold Stone Creamery, the primary activity revolves around crafting your personalized ice cream creation, known as a "Creation," which is blended fresh on the cold stone. This interactive experience is engaging for groups as everyone can experiment with different flavor combinations or suggest mix-ins for others to try, encouraging a playful and creative vibe. Watching the staff skillfully fold in toppings like brownies, cookie dough, or fresh fruits in front of you turns the visit into a mini performance. Beyond that, socializing over these delicious treats creates a lively environment perfect for laughter, shared stories, and bonding moments. Many locations also provide seating arrangements suitable for groups, from cozy booths to communal tables, enabling easy conversation. Seasonal promotions and limited-time offerings add an element of excitement and encourage repeat visits to discover new favorites. The ability to customize every cup or cone means that no two visits are the same, keeping the experience fresh and fun every time your group returns.
Why is Cold Stone Creamery perfect for group meetups?
Cold Stone Creamery’s layout and concept are inherently group-friendly. Their stores typically have ample seating areas designed for mingling, allowing groups large and small to find a comfortable spot to settle in. The collaborative aspect of choosing and sharing ice cream blends makes it an excellent social occasion. The staff’s welcoming and upbeat service further enhances the experience, ensuring everyone feels included and catered to, regardless of their ice cream preferences or dietary needs. Moreover, the brand’s strong reputation for quality and consistency means you can expect the same delicious experience whether it’s your first time or hundredth, which builds trust for hosting special meetups. Whether you're planning a casual hangout, a birthday party, or a family outing, Cold Stone’s atmosphere is inviting enough to make each gathering feel special. For those who enjoy celebrating milestones or just catching up, the ritual of indulging in a cold, sweet treat together creates an easy, joyful environment that's perfect for making memories.
How does Cold Stone’s ice cream selection accommodate different tastes?
Cold Stone Creamery’s strength lies in its wide variety of premium ice cream bases and endless possibilities of mix-ins, making it easy to satisfy diverse taste preferences in any group. With the signature ice cream made fresh daily, flavors range from classic vanilla and chocolate to creative options like cake batter and peanut butter cup. This broad selection lets everyone find a favorite. On top of that, customers can enhance their ice cream with a plethora of mix-ins including chewy candies, crunchy nuts, fresh fruits, and rich sauces, allowing complete customization to dietary preferences or cravings. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, many locations offer options such as dairy-free or lower-fat ice creams to ensure inclusiveness. The custom blend approach encourages experimentation, which can spark fun discussions and friendly sharing among group members as they trade favorite combinations or recommend new ones. This inclusive and creative flexibility makes Cold Stone a hotspot for groups with varying tastes, ensuring no one leaves unsatisfied.
What makes the Cold Stone Creamery experience unique compared to other ice cream spots?
Cold Stone Creamery’s uniqueness stems primarily from its process of making ice cream fresh in-store each day and its signature mix-in technique on a frozen granite stone. Unlike many ice cream parlors that store pre-made tubs of ice cream, Cold Stone’s ice cream base is churned daily, resulting in a fresher, creamier, and more flavorful product. When customers place their order, staff spreads the ice cream on the cold stone and blends in chosen mix-ins right before your eyes, making the creation process a theatrical and interactive event. This hands-on approach sets Cold Stone apart and helps build excitement that’s contagious within groups. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients—like using high-fat content dairy for a richer taste—reinforces the premium experience. Beyond product quality, Cold Stone Creamery positions itself as a community hub where celebrations and gatherings revolve around shared treats, making it an experiential dessert destination rather than just a quick stop for ice cream. This combination of fresh product, customization, and experience ensures Cold Stone Creamery remains a beloved choice among friends and family gatherings.
How does Cold Stone Creamery cater to celebrations and special occasions?
Cold Stone Creamery is a go-to destination for celebrating birthdays, reunions, or any special occasion with friends and family due to its festive environment and customizable ice cream offerings. Many locations offer special options such as ice cream cakes that are beautifully designed and easy to share, perfect for marking milestones. The ability to fully customize toppings and flavors makes it straightforward to create unique treats tailored to the guest of honor’s preferences. Group orders can be accommodated smoothly, and the friendly staff are experienced in helping organize orders that are large or customized, easing the coordination effort for hosts. The bright, fun decor and often lively store atmosphere naturally boost celebratory moods, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the moment. Some Cold Stone stores also participate in community events or charitable fundraisers, adding an extra layer of meaningfulness to celebrations held there. This combination of product versatility and welcoming ambiance makes Cold Stone Creamery a fitting venue for gatherings that deserve something special.
What additional amenities make Cold Stone Creamery inviting for groups?
Cold Stone Creamery locations often include amenities that enhance the group meetup experience, such as ample seating and sometimes even music or visually appealing decor that add to a welcoming ambiance. The layout often caters to customers who like to linger and socialize rather than just grab-and-go, which is ideal for groups wanting to spend quality time together. Many stores provide an accessible environment suitable for all ages and mobility levels, ensuring everyone in your group can comfortably participate. Friendly and efficient service also means large orders or group requests are handled quickly, minimizing wait times. In some locations, you may find options for catering or pre-ordering large quantities, which simplifies gathering logistics. Some stores might also have promotional events or games that can further entertain groups, making each visit feel like an outing rather than just a dessert stop. These thoughtful details support Cold Stone Creamery’s reputation as a social hub designed for enjoyable, shared moments.
Why is Cold Stone Creamery a reliable choice for consistent quality?
Cold Stone Creamery’s emphasis on quality control and fresh production guarantees a consistently delightful experience on every visit. Since the ice cream is made fresh daily in each store, customers can rely on a premium taste and creaminess that do not degrade over time as is common with some frozen products from other retailers. The company’s founders initially built the brand to address the shortcomings they found in existing ice creams, focusing on superior milk fat content and lower air content in the ice cream, which directly contributes to its rich and creamy texture. Staff training and franchise standards maintain this level of quality across all locations, which builds confidence for group hosts that their guests will receive the best possible product. This reliability makes Cold Stone Creamery not just a fun place to visit but a trusted destination where expectations of taste and service are always met. For groups, this means that it’s easy to plan meetups without worrying about beverage or dessert quality fluctuations.
How does Cold Stone Creamery promote social interaction among visitors?
Cold Stone Creamery’s unique ice cream creation process naturally fosters social interaction, making it an ideal place for groups. The activity of choosing flavors, mix-ins, and watching the interactive mixing on the frozen stone encourages conversation and laughter. Groups often share their “Creations,” recommend favorite combinations, or challenge each other to try new tastes, which builds a playful and communal atmosphere. The shop’s inviting design with accessible seating allows friends and families to comfortably gather, chat, and enjoy their desserts together. Seasonal specials and occasional contests or promotions invite customers to return regularly, providing additional topics for group interaction and shared experiences. Altogether, Cold Stone Creamery provides an environment that blends great food with social engagement, making it more than just a dessert spot but a place that encourages connection and fun within any meetup.
What makes Cold Stone Creamery a great option for families?
Families find Cold Stone Creamery a welcoming destination due to its kid-friendly menu options, engaging service, and accommodating environment. Children especially enjoy the hands-on aspect of customizing their ice cream with variety of fun toppings and flavors under the guidance of friendly staff. The bright and cheerful store designs create a safe and enjoyable setting for all ages. The ability to get ice cream cakes and larger party-sized options makes it convenient for family celebrations. Additionally, many locations accommodate dietary needs, such as dairy-free options for lactose-conscious family members, ensuring everyone can partake in the treat. The combination of interactive experience, quality product, and family-friendly atmosphere makes Cold Stone Creamery a dependable and enjoyable venue for families looking for a fun outing or a sweet reward.
With its fresh, customizable ice cream and vibrant social atmosphere, Cold Stone Creamery stands out as an ideal spot to meet, celebrate, and create memories with friends and family. Whether your group is small or large, a casual gathering or a special occasion, Cold Stone’s rich flavors and interactive experience make it a top choice for an enjoyable meetup.