When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Nuggs Ice Cream

Why Nuggs Ice Cream is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nuggs Ice Cream is a standout destination in East Denver's Park Hill neighborhood, known for its commitment to quality and community. Founded in 2014 by brothers Chris and Nick O’Sullivan, who were inspired by a gap in local ice cream offerings and their love for handmade cream, Nuggs prioritizes locally sourced, fresh, and all-natural ingredients in every scoop. This dedication to quality has helped Nuggs become a beloved spot for friends and families to gather and enjoy handcrafted ice cream in a welcoming setting. Beyond simply serving ice cream, Nuggs offers an authentic experience rooted in family tradition and neighborhood spirit, perfect for meetups and celebrations. The shop boasts a diverse menu of creative flavors developed meticulously over months to achieve unique and satisfying tastes, ranging from honey-infused varieties to classic cookies and cream. Located at the corner of East Colfax and Fairfax Street, Nuggs is not only a place for indulgence but also a community hub where excellent service and a passion for dessert shine through, making it an excellent, sweet meeting point in Denver.
Here's what people think of Nuggs Ice Cream
As of recent, Nuggs Ice Cream holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1374 reviews.
Customer reviews for Nuggs Ice Cream consistently highlight its exceptional quality and friendly atmosphere, culminating in an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 1,300 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the rich, authentic flavors of the ice cream, noting the dedication to craft and use of all-natural ingredients that set Nuggs apart from typical creamery options. The staff's warmth and helpfulness also receive high marks, enhancing the overall customer experience with attentive, cheerful service that invites repeat visits. Positive feedback emphasizes the in-house production of ice cream, which customers perceive as a signal of superior quality and freshness, along with a flavor variety that appeals to different palates. Conversely, negative reviews, though few, sometimes mention issues like occasional wait times or limited seating during busy periods. Some customers wish for a greater variety of vegan options, though this is not a common critique. In summary, the overwhelming sentiment from reviews is that Nuggs Ice Cream delivers excellent products and service in a community-focused shop, making it a must-visit spot in Denver.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jordyn Reed
My all time favorite ice cream spot in/near Denver! So underrated! Have been coming for years and the staff is always great, super efficient and the prices are affordable!
Adam J Hamersky
Nugg’s Ice Cream is hands down one of the best ice cream spots in Denver, and I was really excited to check it out based on all the great reviews. The quality of their ice cream is fantastic—super creamy, rich flavors, and clearly made with care. The atmosphere is fun and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and efficient. They’ve got a solid selection of flavors, from the classics to more creative options, and I appreciate the variety of toppings they offer. But here’s the deal: they don’t have Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups as a candy add-on. I honestly can’t wrap my head around this. Reese’s is one of the most popular ice cream toppings out there, and somehow, it’s missing from their menu? Every time I go to an ice cream shop, I’m hoping to see it as an option, and time and time again in Denver, I’m disappointed. It’s absolutely frustrating. I’m not saying this is a dealbreaker for everyone, but for me, it’s a big miss. Peanut butter and chocolate are a classic combo, and plenty of other ice cream places across the country recognize that. Why not here? It’s such a simple fix—just add Reese’s to the topping menu, and this place would be an easy 5-star spot for me. I really want to love Nugg’s completely, and I’d be more than happy to update my review if they fix this oversight. Until then, I’m sticking with 3 stars—great ice cream, great shop, but missing a key topping that should absolutely be available. If you don’t care about Reese’s as much as I do, you’ll probably love it. But if you’re like me and want that peanut butter-chocolate combo, just be aware you won’t find it here.
Bryson Creighton
Nuggs Ice Cream is a family friendly local business with a great flavor selection, phenomenal ice cream quality, solid music, and great service! Help keep local Colorado businesses thriving!
Marie Peterson
I love icecream and seek it out when I travel. This place is a gem! Generous portions of tasty goodness, served by friendly, smiling staff. Went there 2x's during my week in Colorado. Tried the blueberry, toasted coconut, chocolate cherry and peach. Blueberry and chocolate cherry were my faves. But I liked then all.
Jason C
When our friends from Germany are in town, ice cream is a daily occurrence. We decided to try Nuggs as we have tried multiple ice cream parlors in the Denver area. Nuggs was a great find. Lots of seating and parking. Their ice cream was creamy and fresh. The service was on point as we were warned that the sizes were large. I opted for two flavors in a single scoop-salted caramel and butterfinger- and got some Reese’s pieces on top. What a real creamy treat. The gal who served us was truly friendly and was very patient. We will definitely be back
How to reach Nuggs Ice Cream
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Why Nuggs Ice Cream may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nuggs Ice Cream with your friends? Because it offers a perfect blend of charm, flavor, and atmosphere that makes every meetup feel special. Nestled in Denver, Nuggs Ice Cream has earned a stellar 4.7 rating from over 1,300 reviews, reflecting the consistent quality and warmth of this local favorite. Whether you’re craving classic creamy ice cream or something more adventurous, Nuggs delivers with homemade flavors made from fresh, all-natural Colorado ingredients. The inviting, nostalgic ambiance creates a comforting backdrop for friendly conversations and celebrations alike. It’s also a place where everyone is welcomed warmly by friendly staff who add a personal touch to every visit, making your group feel right at home. In addition to scooping sensational ice cream, Nuggs offers exquisite ice cream cakes and catering services that cater flawlessly to group events. If you want to gather your friends and family in a spot that blends delicious treats, excellent service, and a fun, relaxed vibe, Nuggs Ice Cream is the ideal choice.
What activities can you enjoy at Nuggs Ice Cream that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, of course, is the incredible ice cream experience. Nuggs prides itself on handmade ice cream that includes a variety of classic and creative seasonal flavors. This vast selection means everyone in your group finds something to love, whether they favor vegan options, rich creamy classics, or allergy-friendly choices. Sharing multiple flavors while engaging in lively conversation is a great way to bond. The welcoming seating area, featuring cool wall art and nostalgic white chairs and tables, provides a cozy and relaxed environment perfect for conversations that linger over your cones or bowls. Additionally, Nuggs has an impressive menu of ice cream cakes, which can be pre-ordered or grabbed on the fly for celebrations like birthdays, graduations, or impromptu office parties. Their cakes are a crowd favorite, layered with rich hot fudge and crushed Oreo filling, making every bite a delight. Lastly, for larger groups or events, Nuggs offers catering and even a mobile ice cream truck, bringing the sweet celebration right to your doorstep or park – a perfect way to turn any gathering into a memorable occasion.
How does Nuggs Ice Cream’s atmosphere contribute to making it a great spot for groups? The charm of Nuggs lies not just in its ice cream but in the whole sensory experience it offers. Upon entering, your group is greeted by friendly and smiling staff who make everyone feel welcome. The interior decoration combines a nostalgic old-school ice cream parlor vibe with modern touches like vibrant ice cream wall art that creates an upbeat, cheerful environment. This setting naturally encourages relaxation and face-to-face connection, making it easier for groups to feel comfortable and enjoy their time together. The seating arrangements are ideal for groups large and small, with enough space to gather without feeling cramped, which is especially important during busy times. Furthermore, the community-oriented spirit of Nuggs shines through events and seasonal specials, bringing people together and reinforcing the venue as a social hub. All these factors come together to transform a simple ice cream run into a joyful social outing that strengthens bonds and creates cherished memories.
What makes the ice cream and desserts at Nuggs stand out for group sharing? Nuggs Ice Cream is renowned for its homemade, artisan-quality ice cream made from the freshest Colorado-sourced ingredients. The flavors are rich, creamy, and full of depth, ranging from timeless classics like vanilla and chocolate to innovative, seasonal offerings that surprise and delight your palate. This variety allows groups to mix and match tastes, encouraging a playful sharing dynamic. The ice cream cakes at Nuggs are another highlight; they are handcrafted with layers of ice cream, hot fudge, and Oreo crumbs, creating a decadent treat that serves multiple people. These cakes come in different sizes from 6-inch to 10-inch, so there’s an option for intimate groups to large gatherings. Ordering a custom or premade ice cream cake is ideal for parties and celebrations where sharing a memorable dessert becomes a centerpiece of the occasion. Moreover, the availability of diet-friendly and allergy-conscious recipes ensures that even those with dietary restrictions can indulge alongside their friends, enhancing the inclusive spirit of the meetup.
How does Nuggs Ice Cream cater to larger events and what options are available? Beyond serving individual customers and small groups, Nuggs offers extensive catering services designed to sweeten larger gatherings with ease and style. Their catering packages are well-suited for group sizes of 20 or more, providing everything needed for a hassle-free event. You can choose from three distinct catering packages tailored to different preferences and budgets, which typically include a variety of ice cream flavors, cones or cups, and necessary serving equipment. The Nuggs Ice Cream Truck adds a unique, festive dimension to any outdoor event, bringing the ice cream parlor experience directly to your chosen venue. Whether it’s a corporate event, birthday party, or family reunion, having an ice cream truck on site creates a lively atmosphere, turning your meetup into an unforgettable celebration. Pre-ordering ice cream cakes or arranging for custom cakes with 72 hours’ notice adds flexibility and convenience if you want a centerpiece dessert that fits your event’s theme or size. These services demonstrate Nuggs’ dedication to making your group experience smooth, enjoyable, and delicious from start to finish.
Why is Nuggs Ice Cream considered one of Denver’s best ice cream shops? Awarded Denver’s Best Ice Cream and Gelato Shop in 2019 by Westword’s Editor’s Choice, Nuggs has built a solid reputation for quality and creativity in frozen desserts. This accolade highlights their commitment to exceptional ingredients and craft. Customers praise the rich texture and irresistible flavors, as well as the value guests get for the price. The staff’s friendliness and professionalism also receive consistent applause, creating a positive and welcoming customer experience. Its location in Denver and the focus on using local Colorado ingredients reinforce the shop’s community ties, strengthening the connection between customers and the brand. Whether you are visiting individually or with a group, Nuggs delivers an ice cream experience that feels special, authentic, and worth repeating – qualities that make it a go-to destination for ice cream lovers and social gatherings alike.
What are the logistics and best tips for hosting a meetup at Nuggs Ice Cream? Planning a meetup at Nuggs Ice Cream is straightforward but can be enhanced by a few simple tips. Arriving during off-peak hours might ensure more seating availability and a more relaxed experience for your group. If your gathering involves special occasions, consider ordering a custom ice cream cake 72 hours in advance to ensure your desired size and flavor combo is ready. For larger groups, contacting Nuggs about catering or reserving space, if possible, can smooth out the event logistics. Since Nuggs offers a variety of dietary-friendly options, be sure to check the menu with your guests to accommodate anyone with allergies or preferences. Lastly, embrace the casual and friendly vibe – feel free to engage with staff for recommendations or to inquire about seasonal flavors, which helps make your meetup not just a visit to an ice cream shop, but a memorable event that your friends and family will appreciate and talk about long after.
Hosting your next group meetup at Nuggs Ice Cream guarantees delicious, homemade ice cream in an atmosphere filled with warmth and fun. From everyday visits to special celebrations, the combination of outstanding flavors, outstanding service, and thoughtful amenities makes it a top pick for gathering with friends and family in Denver. Whether indulging in a scoop, sharing a slice of ice cream cake, or enjoying the mobile truck at your event, Nuggs delivers a sweet experience worth returning to again and again.