When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery

Why Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery, located at 45 W South Temple in Salt Lake City, offers a charming and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying a sweet treat. Famous for its creamy, high-quality ice cream and freshly made waffle cones, this eatery has earned a solid reputation for delicious desserts and exemplary dairy products. The welcoming environment makes it an excellent spot to relax and socialize while indulging in sundaes, specialty ice cream flavors, and other dairy delights. Not just an ice cream shop, Sweet Retreat also provides an impressive selection of cheeses, meats, and other dairy products, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Its hours of operation (Monday through Saturday, with some variation in closing times) allow for convenient visits throughout the week. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick sweet snack or planning a casual meet-up, Sweet Retreat combines quality, flavor, and a friendly vibe to make each visit enjoyable and memorable.
Here's what people think of Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery
As of recent, Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery holds a 4.7-star rating based on 22 reviews.
Reviews of Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery highlight a strong overall satisfaction with an average rating of 4.7 based on 22 reviews. Customers frequently praise the exceptional quality of the ice cream, particularly noting the freshness and deliciousness of the waffle cones and sundaes. Many reviewers emphasize the Creamery's reputation for excellent dairy products, including their cheeses and meats, which attract shoppers beyond just dessert lovers. Positive feedback often mentions the friendly and efficient service, as well as the inviting atmosphere that makes it a great place to meet and share treats with friends and family. On the other hand, some reviews note that the restaurant experience leans toward fast food style, which may not meet expectations for a full-service dining experience. A few customers also mention limited operating hours and occasional crowdedness during popular times, which could affect the comfort and convenience of visits. Overall, the combination of high-quality products, variety, and a welcoming space secures Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery as a highly recommended destination for those seeking premium ice cream and dairy delicacies in Salt Lake City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Heidi Knowlton
Excellent ice cream and freshly made waffle cone! Lots of other chocolate and candies available to purchase. And fun cookbooks and recipe binders.
Alex Scott
It was a bit pricier that Creamery on 9th in Provo. But if you don't wanna drive all the way to Provo is is a suitable alternative. But not as many options, and definitely more pricey.
Ama Ampiah-Davis
I love getting ice cream here. It is super affordable with tons of fun flavors. My family loves this place. The workers are super sweet and friendly. There freshly made waffle cones are delicious and smell like sunshine and rainbows.
Selby Scutari
One of the only places in Salt Lake where you can get your hands on BYU creamery ice cream and chocolate milk. The ice cream itself is wonderfully rich and delicious. Right amount of smooth and creamy, with a great selection of flavors. Tucked away in the bookstore at city creek, it's a great place to take a break downtown and just chill out.
Thelonious Linford
I love the personal and lovely care from the employees at Sweet Retreat! They serve the BYU Creamery Ice Cream which is absolutely delicious! My favorite flavor is Graham Canyon, come in and get a scoop!
How to reach Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery
None
Website: None

Why Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery with your friends?
Gathering at Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery presents an inviting and memorable experience that makes it a top choice for social meetups. The Creamery’s impressive 4.7 rating from 22 reviews reflects its strong reputation for quality, friendly service, and an atmosphere that lends itself perfectly to group enjoyment. Whether you are looking to catch up over delectable desserts, celebrate special occasions, or just enjoy a casual hangout, this spot combines nostalgic charm with contemporary flair to create a sweet escape. Moreover, the venue’s range of delicious ice cream flavors, generous portions, and unique treats such as mini Dutch pancakes (poffertjes) ensure there is something for everyone’s taste buds. The relaxed environment, coupled with BYU Creamery’s long-standing tradition as an iconic local institution, makes it an ideal rally point to connect and create lasting memories with friends or family. Add to this their accommodating hours until 11 PM, which allow plenty of time for unhurried visits, and it’s clear that Sweet Retreat is tailor-made for groups seeking both comfort and culinary delight in one location.
What kinds of activities and treats make Sweet Retreat perfect for group meetups?
Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery offers a variety of activities and treats that easily keep a group entertained and satisfied. First and foremost, the star attraction is the ice cream, featuring classic favorites as well as rotating specialty flavors that keep the experience fresh and exciting. Guests can order single, double, or trio scoops and can customize their cones, with options including sugar and homemade waffle cones. Their menu goes beyond just ice cream with adorable poffertjes—mini Dutch pancakes served in counts of 10 or 20, with the option to add scoops of ice cream for a delectable combo. This creates a fun and interactive treat-sharing experience perfect for groups. For those who want something extra, the Creamery offers milkshakes and other dessert specials like raspberry lemonade panna cotta or strawberry cheesecake ice cream. The ambiance caters well to chatter and laughter, making it easy for friends and family to socialize while exploring different flavor combinations and toppings such as caramel, Nutella, or peanut butter sauce. The combination of diverse offerings and a cozy setting encourages sharing and spontaneous group indulgence.
How does Sweet Retreat accommodate dietary preferences and accessibility?
Sweet Retreat at BYU Creamery thoughtfully accommodates a variety of dietary needs and preferences, which enhances its appeal as a group venue. Many of their ice cream flavors and sorbets, such as the strawberry lemonade sorbet, are gluten-free, providing options for guests with gluten sensitivities. The diverse menu includes fresh salads and soups—like the Mexican Fiesta Salad and roasted broccoli cheese soup—for those in the group who might prefer lighter or savory options alongside sweet treats. Such variety ensures that a group with diverse palates can all find something enjoyable under one roof, eliminating guesswork or compromise on dietary grounds. Additionally, the Creamery is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available, making it easy and convenient for all participants to join in without mobility concerns. The long open hours until 11 PM on most days (closed Sundays) further allow groups with different schedules to find a suitable time to meet, which is especially important for gatherings involving busy friends or family members.
What makes the menu at Sweet Retreat diverse and appealing?
The menu at Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery is notable for its diversity and broad appeal, combining classic American comfort food with gourmet-level dessert options. Aside from an extensive array of ice cream flavors that range from timeless choices like chocolate and vanilla to creative blends such as peanut butter ice cream mixed with cream cheese and crushed Oreos, there are fresh seasonal offerings that delight frequent visitors. The availability of customizable pints—where guests can mix and match their favorite flavors—provides a unique, personalized experience that groups can enjoy exploring together. For those craving something savory, the Creamery offers substantial salads and soups with fresh ingredients, like the Lucky Crunch Salad featuring chicken, wontons, and a house-made sesame plum vinaigrette, and warm soups like tomato basil or roasted broccoli cheese. These choices make the location perfect for groups with varying tastes, as everyone can enjoy either a light meal or an indulgent dessert, or both. The variety ensures an inclusive experience whether you are seeking a quick snack or a full gathering meal.
Why is the atmosphere at Sweet Retreat ideal for hosting meetups with friends or family?
The atmosphere at Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery combines a welcoming, nostalgic vibe with a lively and relaxed environment, which is ideal for meetups with friends or family. The setting draws on its deep roots at BYU, evoking classic charm while maintaining modern comfort, making the space feel both familiar and special. The friendly and attentive staff contribute to a pleasant experience, ensuring your group feels cared for and welcomed from arrival to departure. Comfortable seating arrangements and an inviting interior encourage extended visits, perfect for long conversations, sharing desserts, or celebrating milestones together. Additionally, the location’s late operating hours provide the flexibility to gather at your convenience, whether planning an afternoon outing or a later evening indulgence. The balance of activity and calmness allows varied group dynamics, from energetic celebrations to quiet, meaningful catch-ups. This atmosphere, coupled with quality food and excellent service, makes Sweet Retreat not just a dessert spot but a place to create joyful, shared moments.
What practical considerations support Sweet Retreat as a group meetup location?
Several practical features solidify Sweet Retreat - BYU Creamery’s status as an excellent choice for group meetups. Parking availability is a significant advantage, especially for larger groups arriving in multiple vehicles, ensuring hassle-free access. The venue’s wheelchair accessibility caters to diverse group needs, promoting inclusivity. The menu pricing is also reasonable and transparent, with clear options for kids’ scoops and adult-sized servings, making it easy to accommodate various budgets within your group. Takeout service adds convenience for those who might want to extend an event outdoors or have a picnic in a nearby park. Finally, the Creamery’s location within Provo means it is easily reachable from local neighborhoods and campuses, supporting spontaneous or planned meetups alike. These logistical factors combined with its culinary and social advantages create a venue where groups can confidently plan enjoyable, stress-free gatherings.