When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Jim Jim's Water Ice
Why Jim Jim's Water Ice is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jim Jim's Water Ice has been a cherished destination in Austin, Texas, for over three decades, offering an authentic taste of Italian water ice alongside homemade premium ice cream. Founded in 1994 by Jim Moy, a Philadelphia native, this mom-and-pop shop became a go-to spot for locals and visitors seeking a refreshing and unique dessert experience. What makes Jim Jim's stand out is its commitment to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. The water ice is velvety smooth and made fresh daily using pureed fruits, providing a gluten-free, fat and cholesterol-free alternative to traditional ice cream, perfect for those who are lactose intolerant. The variety is impressive, with over 40 fresh water ice flavors like Dragon’s Blood, Horchata, Passionfruit, Watermelon, and Melon Ball. To complement these, Jim Jim's also crafts homemade premium ice cream using local Texas dairy and recipes inspired by Jim's training at Penn State University's prestigious ice cream short course. The shop's downtown Austin location on 6th Street is a vibrant hub where people enjoy grab-and-go treats, perfect for beating the Texas heat. Besides the flagship store, Jim Jim's presence at local pools and community events makes it an accessible and beloved fixture in Austin's summer culture. Their catering services further extend their reach, bringing refreshing water ice to birthdays, corporate events, and festivals, enhancing social gatherings with their delightful offerings.
Here's what people think of Jim Jim's Water Ice
As of recent, Jim Jim's Water Ice holds a 4.7-star rating based on 457 reviews.
Reviews of Jim Jim's Water Ice highlight its authenticity and quality, with a strong average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 450 reviews. Customers frequently praise the authentic taste reminiscent of Italian water ice traditions from the Northeast, attributing much of their gratitude to Jim Moy’s Philadelphia roots and his dedication to genuine flavors. Positive feedback often focuses on the large variety of fresh flavors, the friendly and helpful service, reasonably priced portions, and the unique offering that stood out from other ice cream or frozen treats in Austin. Many appreciate the ability to combine flavors even in small sizes, adding to the customization appeal. Moreover, the homemade premium ice cream receives compliments for its creamy texture and richness, reflecting Jim’s training at Penn State's ice cream college. On the other hand, the limited seating and small size of the shop can be a drawback for some visitors looking for a place to sit and relax, as it is primarily designed for takeout. A few reviews mention that the shop's existence is seasonal and note the bittersweet closure announcement in 2025 after 31 years, which caused concern among longtime fans. However, this does not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive reputation Jim Jim's built over the years. In conclusion, the reviews celebrate Jim Jim's Water Ice as a beloved Austin institution known for its authentic, refreshing frozen desserts and community presence, creating lasting memories for many customers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shyan Fortuna
Great bang for your buck. So many flavors to choose from. Paid $25 for two larges, a small, and a freshly baked salt pretzel. In Austin??Awesome! Lady at the window was so friendly and kind. I asked for a “cherry” ice and she took the time to explain what makes up the THREE different kinds they have (black cherry, cherry, sour cherry) and offered samples for each one. Lovely little establishment. I will absolutely be coming back before they close :’( was sad to hear this news. My husband and I loved the ice and the customer service.
syd !
absolutely impressed!!! the staff is SO kind and helpful. everything we tried was delicious! we hope to come back to austin asap just to visit jim jims again!!! cant recommend them enough.
Sara Fizzetts
So many flavors! The service was fast. The price is reasonable. The taste is delicious. I had the strawberry lemonade in a small. It was the perfect treat on my first night in Austin.
Texas Protax, LLC
Awesome, Local spot in Austin is a must try. We ordered birthday celebrations for our staff. We did snow cones & ice cream. It was a great treat for a hot summer day. Thank you for the perfect serving size.
Josh Olberding
I had an amazing experience here. The lady serving us was very sweet and consulted us on the best flavors, opened us up to options/samples that we would enjoy best. It’s a fair price and service above and beyond. The reviews were very well aligned with our experience.
How to reach Jim Jim's Water Ice
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Why rally at Jim Jim's Water Ice with your friends?
Jim Jim’s Water Ice is the perfect rallying spot for friends thanks to its unique blend of authentic Italian water ice, warm atmosphere, and unbeatable location in the heart of Austin. When you gather here, you’re not just getting a frozen treat – you’re stepping into a communal experience that’s as refreshing as it is nostalgic. The shop boasts a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 450 reviews, which speaks volumes about its popularity and quality. Unlike typical ice cream shops, Jim Jim’s specializes in Italian water ice—smoother and more velvety than snow cones, made with real fruit and no artificial flavors. This unique treat is excellent for cooling off on a hot Texas day while fueling good conversation among friends. The affordability and generous portion sizes, such as their “tiny” size that’s anything but, enable everyone to sample multiple flavors without breaking the bank. Its location on East 6th Street places it near the vibrant nightlife and cultural hubs, making it an ideal first or final stop for a group outing. Finally, the friendly, welcoming staff who are always ready to offer samples help ensure a personalized, memorable meetup. All these factors combine to create an inviting, authentic experience that makes Jim Jim’s Water Ice a top contender for hosting a fun, laid-back gathering with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Jim Jim’s Water Ice, and why is it ideal for group meetups?
While Jim Jim’s Water Ice itself does not offer extensive indoor space or seating, the experience revolves around its flavorful offerings and the dynamic neighborhood setting. The primary activity is indulging in a variety of Italian water ice and soft serve combinations. Guests can mix and match from over 34 unique flavors, including natural fruit and sugar-free options, making it perfect for groups with different tastes and dietary preferences. Sampling different icy delights together encourages shared experiences and lively discussions about favorite flavors and creative combos. Beyond the treats themselves, Jim Jim's location on Austin’s bustling East 6th Street, known locally as “Dirty Sixth,” provides an energetic backdrop where groups can socialize outdoors, explore local nearby venues, or simply enjoy people-watching while savoring their refreshments. It’s a lively urban area where food trucks, live music, and street art often enrich the atmosphere. Additionally, Jim Jim’s mobile carts appear at popular outdoor locations—like Barton Springs Pool and various farmer’s markets—allowing groups to enjoy water ice as part of broader social outings, making it flexible and accessible for different types of meetups. The store also offers catering services for special group events such as birthdays and office parties, allowing larger groups to enjoy their favorites together beyond the typical storefront visit. This mix of quality treats, social atmosphere, and community-friendly services makes Jim Jim’s Water Ice a dynamic choice for informal gatherings or planned celebrations.
How does Jim Jim’s Water Ice maintain authenticity and quality that appeals to groups?
Jim Jim’s Water Ice stands out by staying true to the authentic Italian water ice tradition, deeply rooted in the owner's background from Philadelphia, a city famous for this frozen treat. The level of authenticity is evident in their recipe, which uses a quick freeze process to create a smooth, velvety texture distinct from typical snow cones. Because they use real fruit and avoid artificial flavors and colors, the taste is bright, fresh, and genuinely satisfying. The homemade nature of their ice cream options adds another layer of quality that attracts repeat customers. The owner’s knowledge, honed at Penn State University’s ice cream college, ensures a precise mastery over flavor balance and texture, which groups and families quickly notice and appreciate. The generous sizing and reasonable pricing make it easy for groups to sample multiple flavors and share without worry. The commitment to quality ingredients and preparation resonates with customers seeking an elevated frozen treat experience, particularly in a social setting where everyone’s preferences matter. This focus on authenticity not only satisfies taste buds but also fosters a sense of trust and tradition among patrons who want a dependable spot for special outings.
What makes the location and environment of Jim Jim’s Water Ice especially attractive for friends and families?
Situated on East 6th Street, Jim Jim’s Water Ice benefits immensely from being at the center of one of Austin’s most vibrant, walkable neighborhoods. This locale means visitors can combine their stop at Jim Jim’s with many other nearby activities—be it dining, shopping, or entertainment—which is ideal for groups planning a full day out. Since the shop operates primarily as a grab-and-go window without indoor seating, it encourages visitors to soak up the lively street ambiance. This makes it great for groups who want to mingle in an energetic, urban setting rather than a formal sit-down environment. Also near the store are several parks, music venues, and theaters, allowing groups to plan flexible itineraries that include ice-cold water ice breaks. Additionally, the presence of mobile carts at Barton Springs Pool and local farmers’ markets adds to accessibility, giving families and friends multiple convenient places to meet and enjoy treats together. The casual, no-frills setup of Jim Jim’s promotes a laid-back, spontaneous vibe—perfect for catching up over a shared dessert without pressure. Whether you’re an Austin local or a visitor exploring the downtown scene, the location adds a layer of excitement and convenience unparalleled by more isolated dessert shops.
How can Jim Jim’s Water Ice accommodate special events and larger group meetups?
Beyond casual walk-up visits, Jim Jim’s Water Ice offers full catering services, making it an excellent choice for birthdays, weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, office parties, and school functions. Their catering extends the unique experience to any event, providing freshly made Italian water ice delivered directly to your gathering spot. This flexibility means groups don’t have to be confined to the storefront or public spaces; they can enjoy Jim Jim’s signature flavors in any chosen venue, from backyards to banquet halls. Catering is especially advantageous for family reunions or corporate events where diverse tastes and dietary needs must be met. The availability of over 34 flavors, including sugar-free and natural fruit options, ensures that everyone finds something they enjoy. Many customers praise the friendly professionalism of the team in handling these events smoothly, highlighting how Jim Jim’s service balances quality with reliability. Having a dedicated catering option lets organizers elevate their events with a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat that’s both colorful and refreshing, perfect for making memories with loved ones or colleagues. This feature significantly enhances the suitability of Jim Jim’s Water Ice as a venue and vendor for group-oriented occasions.
What should groups expect from the menu and flavor experience at Jim Jim’s Water Ice?
When visiting Jim Jim’s Water Ice, groups can anticipate an exciting variety of flavors that go well beyond standard frozen desserts. The menu features over 34 daily-made flavors, ranging from classic fruit options like lemon and cherry to inventive combinations that encourage sharing and sampling. Unlike typical snow cones, Jim Jim’s water ice is smooth, with a richer texture that enhances flavor depth. Groups can also try the “creamsicle” — an inspired layer of soft serve beneath the water ice that offers a creamy contrast and customizes the experience further. This menu diversity makes it perfect for groups with varied palates, from children to adults and those seeking sugar-free options. The ability to combine flavors in even smaller sizes encourages exploration without commitment to just one taste. Ordering is straightforward through the walk-up window, and staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to offer samples, helping guests decide collectively what to try. This interaction fosters a fun, communal atmosphere that’s especially suitable for meetups where everyone’s opinion matters and trying something new together becomes part of the bonding experience.
In sum, Jim Jim’s Water Ice offers an unbeatable combination of authentic, high-quality frozen treats, a lively and convenient Austin location, and group-friendly features such as catering and diverse menus. This makes it an exceptional venue to rally friends or family for refreshing, flavorful moments that enhance any meetup, whether casual or celebratory.