When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Original Rainbow Cone
Why The Original Rainbow Cone is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Original Rainbow Cone stands as a beloved Chicago institution that has charmed ice cream enthusiasts for nearly a century. Founded in 1926 by Joseph and Katherine Sapp in the Beverly neighborhood, this unique ice cream shop is famed for its signature treat—the Rainbow Cone, a stacked combination of five distinct flavors: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (a special New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. This inventive layering of flavors creates a colorful, delicious cone that is simultaneously nostalgic and delightful.\n\nWhat makes The Original Rainbow Cone an exceptional destination for friends and families is not only its iconic dessert but also its historic ambience and enduring local legacy. Housed in its original location at 9233 South Western Avenue, it offers visitors more than just ice cream—a chance to experience a cherished Chicago summer tradition that’s been passed down through generations. Beyond the Rainbow Cone itself, they serve a variety of other ice cream treats including shakes, sundaes, banana splits, and even take-home ice cream cakes, allowing groups to share and savor sweet moments together. The shop’s long hours during the summer season make it an ideal casual meet-up spot for anyone seeking a refreshing, colorful treat. Its roots as a family-owned and operated business further add to its warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it not just a place to eat but a cherished community landmark.
Here's what people think of The Original Rainbow Cone
As of recent, The Original Rainbow Cone holds a 4.4-star rating based on 219 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Original Rainbow Cone reflect strong affection for its nostalgic appeal and unique flavor combination, contributing to its solid 4.4-star rating from over 200 reviews. Many patrons praise the Rainbow Cone as a quintessential Chicago summer experience, celebrating the perfect blend of the five classic flavors—the rich chocolate, fruity strawberry, nutty Palmer House vanilla with cherries and walnuts, pistachio, and refreshing orange sherbet. Reviewers often comment on the way these diverse tastes blend harmoniously, creating a flavorful treat that is both visually stunning and delicious. Additionally, fans appreciate the friendly service, the historic setting, and the availability of other ice cream options like shakes and sundaes, making it a versatile destination for different preferences and occasions.\n\nPositive feedback emphasizes the tradition behind the brand, the quality and freshness of their ice cream, and the charming family-owned vibe rooted deeply in Chicago culture. Customers enjoy that the shop has maintained its original recipe and ambience despite its expansion to new locations, preserving the authenticity of this nearly 100-year-old legacy.\n\nOn the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional long wait times during peak summer hours and limited seating space, which can detract from the leisurely enjoyment of their treats. A few reviews note that prices are slightly higher compared to typical ice cream stands, reflecting its premium and historic status. Some newcomers also find the mix of flavors unusual at first and suggest trying the Rainbow Cone first to understand its unique appeal.\n\nOverall, the reviews converge on the conclusion that The Original Rainbow Cone remains a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers and those looking to partake in a time-honored Chicago tradition. It balances its vintage charm with the high-quality product, continuing to draw loyal locals and tourists alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
J B
Back in 2020, we visited Chicago and were so disappointed to find the original Rainbow Cone closed the day we planned to visit. Ever since then, trying it has been on my bucket list. After literally years of waiting, we finally got to experience it this June, and it did not disappoint! Watching them carefully craft the cone was almost as enjoyable as eating it while strolling Navy Pier. The flavors were nostalgic, fun, and totally worth the wait. Loved every bite!
Jacob Celestine
This place is an easy five stars for me - it gets everything right. The experience was flawless from start to finish, with friendly staff, quick service, and no long lines. It's all set in a beautiful, scenic location that just adds to the charm. I got 'The Original 5-layered Rainbow Cone,' which is a classic for a reason. While it may not be a wild, new flavor experience, it's absolutely delicious, with great taste and consistency. It's just a genuinely great and tasty cone. For a perfect, hassle-free treat in a lovely setting with reasonable prices, you really can't beat it.
Dhinakaran Jayaraj
They don’t care to serve it well. Just using too much water between each flavor scope. When you in your hand the ice cream is already melting and you don’t eat ice cream but drink it. Please serve the ice cream as ice cream. I got rainbow cone.
Heba
I had previously tried the Michigan Avenue location and happened to be in the area, so I decided to try this one as well. I ordered about an hour before closing on a Saturday night. Even though the line was long, the staff was efficient and the wait time was minimal. I got the original Rainbow Cone in a cup and was pleasantly surprised by how generous the portion was. It was more than enough to share with a friend. All the flavors were delicious and balanced.
Alex C
Definitely unique ice cream slices. But all the flavors tasted the same for the most part. And it was already soft, semi-melting as soon as it was served. Glad I tried it but not a repeat for me.
How to reach The Original Rainbow Cone
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Why The Original Rainbow Cone may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Original Rainbow Cone with your friends?
Gathering friends at The Original Rainbow Cone offers a uniquely joyful experience that goes well beyond just enjoying ice cream. This iconic Chicago establishment has been delighting locals and visitors alike for nearly a century with its signature five-flavor cone, a vibrant stack of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (a special vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. The colorful and delicious blend stimulates conversation, nostalgia, and smiles, creating a perfect setting for bonding and shared enjoyment. The shop's rich family history adds a layer of warmth and authenticity; it has been a cherished family-run business since 1926, passing down decades of tradition and community spirit. The bright pink storefront, whimsical architecture, and the joyful ceremony of receiving a multi-flavored cone make it a landmark where friends can gather to create lasting memories. Whether you’re catching up, celebrating, or just hanging out, the friendly atmosphere and the delightfully unusual ice cream make The Original Rainbow Cone a magnetic spot to rally your group and enjoy good times together.
What activities can you do at The Original Rainbow Cone that make it ideal for group meetups?
At The Original Rainbow Cone, the main activity is, of course, savoring their legendary five-flavor rainbow cone, which offers a unique tasting experience in every bite. This small but vibrant ice cream shop encourages social interaction through its shared love of an iconic treat that you won’t find anywhere else. Beyond ice cream eating, the spot is perfect for leisurely strolling through the charming Beverly neighborhood, where the shop’s bright design adds to the fun ambiance. The welcoming staff and relaxed setting provide a great environment for friends and family to chat, laugh, and take group photos with the colorful cones. Small gatherings can also enjoy the shop’s additional offerings like made-to-order mini donuts and rainbow-flavored cakes that complement the ice cream, making your meetup dessert-focused but varied. For larger or planned events, the business even offers ice cream trucks that can be booked, bringing the rainbow cone experience to your party or meetup location, ensuring your group’s time together is memorable and festive. These features combine to make The Original Rainbow Cone not just an ice cream stop, but a hub for social connections.
Why is The Original Rainbow Cone a perfect place for a group that loves unique food experiences?
For groups passionate about tasting something uniquely iconic, The Original Rainbow Cone stands out as a destination thanks to its exclusive five-flavor layering technique, where each flavor is sliced rather than scooped, stacked harmoniously to create an exquisite flavor medley. This distinctive presentation invites curiosity and conversation as everyone savors the intricate balance of chocolate’s richness, strawberry’s sweetness, Palmer House’s creamy cherry-walnut blend, the nutty pistachio, and the refreshing orange sherbet. Sharing this rare multi-flavored cone encourages group members to explore tastes they might not try alone, sparking lively discussions and bonding over a shared culinary adventure. The shop’s consistent use of this recipe since 1926 lends a sense of historical and cultural significance to each bite, connecting patrons to nearly a century of Chicago’s food heritage. The vibrant colors and the craftsmanship behind the cone appeal visually and gastronomically, making it a perfect Instagram-worthy and palate-pleasing experience to enjoy and talk about with friends or family.
What makes The Original Rainbow Cone’s ambiance and location ideal for social gatherings?
The Original Rainbow Cone’s ambiance is one of its most compelling reasons for group meetups. Nestled in the Beverly neighborhood on Chicago’s Far South Side, the store’s bright pink stucco exterior, orange Spanish-style tile roof, and neon signage catch the eye and set a festive tone even before you enter. The two-story building’s design, meant to evoke the fluffy, layered nature of the ice cream itself, creates a charming and whimsical backdrop perfect for group photos and social media memories. Located at 92nd Street and Western Avenue, the same spot the business was founded nearly 100 years ago, it serves as both a nostalgic gathering place and a local landmark. The surrounding neighborhood, once rural but now a vibrant community with a strong local identity, offers a welcoming feel while staying convenient for city-based visitors. The friendly, family-run atmosphere inside encourages relaxed and comfortable interactions, whether you're standing at the counter savoring your cones or lingering outside in the pleasant Chicago summer air, making it an ideal spot to relax and reconnect with friends or family.
How does The Original Rainbow Cone’s family legacy enhance the group experience?
The Original Rainbow Cone is more than just an ice cream shop; it's a living piece of Chicago’s history and family heritage that spans four generations. Founded by Joseph and Katherine Sapp in 1926, the shop has grown alongside the city, surviving world events, economic recessions, and generations of customers who return with their own families. This story of resilience and tradition adds a layer of meaning for visitors, who can feel connected to something greater than just a dessert stop. Families and groups not only get to enjoy a delicious treat but also share an experience steeped in the legacy of a business built on passion, creativity, and community spirit. The ongoing family management ensures a welcoming environment and attention to quality that resonates through the personal approach to customer service. For groups, this means they can enjoy not only tasty ice cream but also a sense of being part of a cherished Chicago institution, making their meetup special and memorable in an authentic and heartfelt way.
What additional features and services does The Original Rainbow Cone offer to accommodate group needs?
In addition to its famous five-flavor cones, The Original Rainbow Cone caters to groups by providing several thoughtful services and additional menu options. For those who want to extend their meetup beyond ice cream cones, the shop offers rainbow-flavored cakes and freshly made mini donuts, perfect for sharing among a crowd. These complementary treats add variety and fun to any gathering, satisfying a range of tastes and making the event feel more festive. The business also embraces modern convenience with options for in-store pickup and delivery, allowing groups to enjoy their signature cones privately or at different venues. For larger group events and celebrations, The Original Rainbow Cone’s ice cream trucks can be booked, bringing the authentic taste and excitement directly to your meetup location, whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or community event. This flexibility makes the shop a versatile choice for gatherings of all sizes, ensuring the group can enjoy their favorite multi-flavored experience wherever they choose.
How does The Original Rainbow Cone foster a sense of community perfect for reunions and celebrations?
The Original Rainbow Cone’s enduring popularity in Chicago is deeply tied to its role as a community hub, bringing generations together with its unique and shared culinary tradition. Many customers are returning visitors who grew up enjoying the rainbow cone and now bring their own families, creating a multi-generational bond through a common experience. The shop is known to be especially busy on Sundays, a testament to its place as a popular weekend gathering spot where friends and relatives come to catch up and celebrate milestones. Its presence at major local events like Taste of Chicago further highlights its community significance, serving as a delicious ambassador that invites people to connect through the simple pleasure of quality ice cream. By offering a place that feels simultaneously historic, hospitable, and joyful, The Original Rainbow Cone naturally fosters group celebrations, from casual catch-ups to special occasions, by turning every cone into a symbol of friendship and togetherness.
Why is The Original Rainbow Cone an excellent choice for families with children?
Families with children find The Original Rainbow Cone especially appealing due to its colorful, fun ice cream cone, which naturally captures kids’ imaginations as well as their taste buds. The five bright, distinct flavors stacked in one cone make it visually exciting and a sensory delight for children, turning dessert time into a playful event. The safe and friendly family-owned atmosphere means parents can relax while children enjoy their treat. The mini donuts and rainbow cake options add more variety to please younger palates and create an experience that feels like a celebration. Additionally, with its long-standing reputation and presence as a neighborhood staple, parents often feel confident introducing their children to this local tradition, passing on a piece of Chicago’s culinary heritage. The Original Rainbow Cone’s casual and cheerful environment makes it easy for families to linger and enjoy quality time together.
How do social media and visual appeal enhance the meetup experience at The Original Rainbow Cone?
The Original Rainbow Cone’s vibrant visual appeal plays a significant role in making it a popular destination for meetups in the age of social media. The cone’s beautiful layering of the five distinct ice cream flavors creates a striking rainbow effect that’s highly shareable and instantly eye-catching in photos. The shop’s bright pink exterior, colorful signage, and whimsical decor provide an excellent backdrop for Instagram, TikTok, and other social media posts, encouraging guests to capture and share their experience. This creates a fun digital extension of the meetup that lets friends relive the moment and share it with others who couldn’t attend. The combination of tasty, unique food and photogenic presentation turns a simple ice cream stop into a vibrant event perfect for the visually minded group. It also helps keep the group excited and engaged before, during, and after their visit, enhancing the overall social experience.
What practical tips help plan a successful group visit to The Original Rainbow Cone?
To make the most of a group visit to The Original Rainbow Cone, it's smart to arrive during less busy times, such as weekday afternoons, to avoid long lines and ensure timely service. Planning ahead by checking the shop's current hours and any event bookings is also useful, especially if you want to take advantage of their ice cream truck for a private event. Consider ordering a mix of cones, cakes, and mini donuts to offer variety and please different tastes within the group. Bringing a camera or smartphone will capture the colorful cones and lively atmosphere, making memories last. Finally, embrace the neighborhood vibe by taking a stroll around the Beverly area before or after your visit to extend the social experience. Being mindful of parking availability and using public transportation if convenient can also reduce stress and maximize enjoyment for everyone involved. These small steps can ensure seamless, enjoyable gatherings for any group at this historic and joyful destination.