When you think of refreshing, colorful, frozen beverages, one name likely springs to mind: ICEE. Synonymous with movie theaters, convenience stores, and childhood memories, the ICEE has been delighting fans for over six decades. But with shifting consumer habits, the rise of digital ordering, and changes in retail landscapes, many wonder: Can you still buy ICEE today? The short answer is yes — and in more ways than you might think. This article dives deep into the history, availability, and cultural relevance of the ICEE, offering comprehensive insights for nostalgic fans, curious newcomers, and retailers alike.
The Evolution of ICEE: A Frosty Icon
Before we address where ICEE drinks can still be purchased, it’s important to understand their origin and evolution. The ICEE isn’t just a product — it’s a milestone in beverage innovation.
Inception and Invention
The ICEE Company was founded in 1959 by Omar Knedlik, a Texas-based Dairy Queen owner. According to legend, Knedlik’s soda fountain broke down, prompting him to freeze his sodas in a freezer to keep them cold. Customers loved the slushy texture, and Knedlik began experimenting with a machine that could replicate the effect. He teamed up with the John E. Mitchell Company to develop the first commercial slush machine in 1965, officially giving birth to the ICEE brand.
Cultural Momentum in the 1970s–1990s
Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, ICEE machines became staples in gas stations, convenience stores, and movie theaters. Their bright neon signs and ever-rotating flavors made them instantly recognizable. Pop culture played a major role — featuring ICEE in movies, cartoons, and comic books — especially as the company expanded its licensing partnerships.
In the 1990s, ICEE began creating branded co-branded versions of their drinks, including collaborations with iconic brands like Mountain Dew, Coca-Cola, and Slurpee (though Slurpee is actually a 7-Eleven brand, not directly affiliated with ICEE).
The Modern Era: Resilience and Innovation
Despite disruptions caused by the digital age and changing consumer preferences, the ICEE brand has remained remarkably strong. The company has adapted by modernizing machines, introducing new flavors constantly, and expanding into non-traditional retail spaces such as amusement parks, college campuses, and sports arenas. The ICEE experience has evolved beyond just a convenience store purchase — it’s become a pop culture phenomenon and a symbol of instant refreshment.
Yes, You Can Still Buy ICEE: Where to Find It
While some traditional retailers have phased out slush machines due to space or operational constraints, ICEE is still widely available across the United States and parts of Canada and Europe. The brand has diversified where and how consumers can access its frozen treats.
Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
The most common place to buy an ICEE remains the local convenience store or gas station. Chains like Circle K, Speedway, Kum & Go, and Kangaroo Express regularly feature ICEE machines behind their counters. These locations often offer several rotating flavors, with classic options like blue raspberry, cherry, and tropical punch remaining top sellers.
One of the reasons for ICEE’s enduring popularity in these locations is the instant gratification factor — a cold, sugary drink ready in seconds and often priced under $3. Many of these stores promote ICEEs as impulse buys near checkout lanes, appealing to drivers, snack-hungry shoppers, and movie-goers on their way to the theater.
Movie Theaters and Entertainment Venues
Major theater chains, including Cinemark, Marcus Theatres, and Regal Cinemas, frequently offer ICEE as a beverage option. Moviegoers often choose ICEEs over traditional sodas because of their novelty and intense flavor.
ICEE machines in theaters are often branded with colorful designs and movie tie-ins. For example, during the release of a new Pixar film, fans might find limited-edition character-shaped cups or special flavors themed to the movie. This synergy strengthens ICEE’s position as a fun, family-friendly drink.
Fast-Food Restaurants and Chains
In recent years, ICEE has branched out into quick-service restaurants. Some regional or franchised locations of Burger King, Taco Bell, and A&W have begun offering ICEE or ICEE-branded slush drinks. While not universally available, this expansion indicates ICEE’s strategic push into broader foodservice channels.
It’s worth noting that not every fast-food chain offers ICEE — many have exclusive contracts with competing brands like Slurpee or proprietary slush products. But the trend toward partnerships with ICEE suggests ongoing market demand.
Retailers and Supermarkets
In a major shift, ICEE is now available in pre-packaged, ready-to-serve frozen form through grocery chains like Walmart, Kroger, and Meijer. These products come in freezable plastic bottles or pouches and require no machine — simply place in the freezer and enjoy.
Known as “ICEE To Go,” this innovation has been a game-changer for families, travelers, and ICEE fans in areas where machine availability is limited. Flavors like Red Powerade ICEE, Mountain Dew ICEE, and Cherry ICEE are all available in this portable format.
How ICEE To Go Works
- Freeze the unopened bottle or pouch for 6–8 hours.
- Once frozen, remove and shake to achieve a slushy consistency.
- Open and enjoy — no machine required.
This approach not only extends accessibility but also caters to the growing market for at-home frozen treats, especially among children and teenagers.
Vending Machines and Digital Kiosks
A lesser-known but growing availability point is through dedicated ICEE vending kiosks. These self-serve machines can be found in malls, airports, and university student centers. They often accept cash, credit, or mobile payments and offer a customizable experience — allowing customers to mix flavors or adjust sweetness.
Some newer machines even feature touchscreen interfaces showing flavor combinations and nutritional information, aligning ICEE with modern consumer expectations regarding transparency and personalization.
How to Know if an ICEE Is Nearby
With so many possible outlets, you might wonder how to locate an ICEE in your area. Fortunately, ICEE provides several tools for fans.
ICEE Store Locator
The official ICEE website (icee.com) features a robust store locator tool. Simply enter your ZIP code or city, and the map will display nearby retailers that carry ICEE. The tool filters by location type (convenience store, movie theater, etc.) and updates in real-time based on retailer submissions.
Mobile Apps and Partnerships
Some retail partners integrate ICEE availability into their own apps. For example, the Circle K app not only shows store locations but also offers exclusive ICEE promotions, such as “Buy One, Get One Free” deals during summer months.
Additionally, Google Maps searches for “ICEE near me” often yield accurate results, especially in urban and suburban areas with high foot traffic.
Popular Flavors: What’s Available Now?
One of ICEE’s greatest strengths is its wide range of flavors, which appeal to diverse tastes and age groups. While classic flavors have endured, the brand frequently introduces seasonal and limited-edition options.
Classic and Evergreen Flavors
These are the staples found at nearly every ICEE location:
| Flavor | Description | Most Popular At |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Raspberry | Vibrant blue color with bold, sweet-tart taste | Movie theaters, convenience stores |
| Cherry | Rich red cherry taste, slightly tangy | Fast food, gas stations |
| Cola | Classic soda flavor, less carbonation, more freeze | Supermarkets (ICEE To Go) |
| Tropical Punch | Medley of fruit flavors, bright red-orange hue | Family entertainment centers |
Licensed and Branded Flavors
ICEE leverages partnerships with beverage giants to offer co-branded drinks:
- Mountain Dew ICEE: A fan favorite, available in both fountain and To Go formats. Its citrusy kick appeals to teens and gamers alike.
- Coca-Cola ICEE: Combines the brand recognition of Coke with ICEE’s slushy magic.
- Powerade ICEE: Marketed for athletes and active individuals, offering electrolyte-infused hydration in frozen form.
Seasonal and Limited Editions
ICEE gets creative during holidays and special events:
– Pumpkin Spice ICEE – Available in October, this autumn-flavored drink combines cinnamon and cream notes with sweetness.
– Lime Sherbet ICEE – A summer staple, often released around Memorial Day.
– Unicorn Power ICEE – Brightly colored, sweet, and whimsical, this themed drink appeals to kids and those who love playful aesthetics.
These limited releases generate buzz on social media and drive foot traffic to stores — a strategic move by ICEE to stay relevant in a competitive market.
How ICEE Compares to Competitors
It’s impossible to talk about ICEE without acknowledging its main rival in the frozen beverage space: 7-Eleven’s Slurpee. While both brands serve a similar purpose, they differ in several key ways.
Brand Experience
– ICEE is typically seen as more child-friendly and playful, with strong ties to cartoon licensing (like Scooby-Doo and Looney Tunes).
– Slurpee often targets a slightly older demographic, with edgier marketing and frequent adult-oriented promotions (like “Free Slurpee with a movie ticket for R-rated films”).
Flavor Philosophy
– ICEE tends to favor bold, candy-like flavors (e.g., sour apple, melon, blue raspberry).
– Slurpee experiments more with “adult” combinations, including drinks that mimic cocktails or feature bolder citrus profiles.
Machine Distribution
– ICEE machines are licensed to a wide variety of independent and chain stores, offering broader geographical reach.
– Slurpee machines are mostly confined to 7-Eleven locations, limiting access in rural or non-urban areas.
Home Accessibility
– ICEE offers “To Go” products in most major grocery chains.
– Slurpee has limited home availability but offers “Slurpee Mix” powders and branded freezers in select markets.
For many consumers, the difference comes down to personal nostalgia and location. But ICEE’s wider retail availability and innovative at-home products give it a growing edge in convenience and accessibility.
The Future of ICEE: What Lies Ahead?
As consumer preferences shift toward health-conscious choices and digital experiences, ICEE is adapting with strategic innovation.
Low-Sugar and Functional Options
While traditional ICEEs are high in sugar, the company has begun exploring reduced-sugar formulations and functional ingredients. For example:
– Vitamin-enriched ICEEs targeting immune support.
– Clarified water-based ICEEs with reduced calories and natural flavors.
These developments aim to attract health-focused consumers without sacrificing the fun, frosty nature of the original drink.
Digital Engagement and Loyalty Programs
ICEE is investing in digital engagement through partnerships with retail apps. Features like scan-to-reward programs, where customers scan ICEE cups to earn points or discounts, are being tested in select markets.
Social media also plays a critical role — ICEE encourages user-generated content through hashtags like #ICEEmoment and runs seasonal contests with prizes such as branded merchandise or VIP movie tickets.
Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental concerns are pushing the brand to adopt more sustainable practices:
– Transitioning to recyclable cups and biodegradable straws.
– Improving energy efficiency in ICEE machines.
– Exploring plant-based packaging for ICEE To Go products.
These efforts not only align with modern consumer values but also enhance long-term brand viability.
Why ICEE Remains a Cultural Staple
Beyond availability and flavor, ICEE’s lasting appeal lies in nostalgia and cultural resonance. For millions, the sound of the machine dispensing that first icy sip evokes powerful memories — Friday night movies, road trips with siblings, summer days at the arcade.
A Symbol of Fun and Convenience
The ICEE experience is about more than taste — it’s about instant joy. The glowing machine, the colorful swirl of liquid, the fizzy-cold sensation on your tongue — these sensory elements create emotional connections that brands strive for but rarely achieve.
Cross-Generational Appeal
ICEE has successfully bridged generations. Adults who loved ICEE as kids now buy them for their own children. Grandparents treat grandchildren to a retro slush drink, continuing a joyful tradition.
Pop Culture Presence
From animated shows to action movies, ICEE often appears as a cultural shorthand for fun and indulgence. It’s been featured in cartoons like *The Fairly OddParents* and referenced in music by artists like Lil Wayne and Fall Out Boy, adding to its iconic status.
Final Verdict: Is ICEE Still Around?
Without a doubt, yes – you can absolutely still buy ICEE. Whether you’re craving a classic blue raspberry treat at a roadside gas station, picking up an ICEE To Go at Walmart, or catching a limited-edition flavor at the theater, the opportunities to enjoy this frozen favorite are plentiful.
The ICEE brand has proven its adaptability, moving from standalone machines in local stores to national retail distribution and digital engagement. Its combination of nostalgia, innovation, and accessibility ensures that it will remain a go-to frozen drink choice for years to come.
So next time you’re on the road, heading to a movie, or just craving something cold and colorful, don’t hesitate. Look for that signature swirling machine or grab a pack from the freezer aisle — because the ICEE experience isn’t going away. It’s just evolving, one frosty sip at a time.
Can you still buy ICEE today?
Yes, you can absolutely still buy ICEE today. The iconic frozen carbonated beverage remains widely available across the United States and in several international markets. ICEE has maintained its popularity since its debut in the 1960s and is commonly found in convenience stores, gas stations, movie theaters, amusement parks, and grocery stores with self-serve soda fountains. The brand continues to innovate with new flavors and seasonal offerings, ensuring its presence in modern beverage culture.
In addition to physical retail locations, ICEE products have expanded into retail packaging, such as ICEE Mini Cups and ICEE-branded syrups that can be used at home. These portable options allow fans to enjoy the frozen treat outside of traditional vending spots. The ICEE Company also partners with major chains like 7-Eleven, where the Slurpee is essentially the same product under a different name. Thanks to these broad distribution channels, ICEE remains accessible to millions of consumers every year.
Where can I find ICEE machines in my area?
Locating an ICEE machine near you is easier than ever thanks to the ICEE Company’s official store locator tool. By visiting the ICEE website and entering your zip code or city, you can view a map of nearby retailers that carry the frozen drink. The locator includes major chains such as Circle K, Casey’s, Cumberland Farms, and select independent convenience stores that feature working ICEE dispensers.
Many gas stations and convenience stores prominently display the ICEE logo on their storefronts or windows to attract customers. Look for the distinctive blue-and-white signage or the illuminated ICEE globe. Additionally, mobile apps like GasBuddy or Google Maps can help you locate stores and even provide photos of in-store amenities, including soda machines. If you’re unsure, asking store clerks directly can confirm whether they have an active ICEE machine.
What flavors does ICEE offer?
ICEE offers a wide range of flavors that cater to diverse taste preferences, from classic fruit options to limited-edition seasonal releases. Standard flavors include Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Cola, Lemon-Lime, Strawberry, and Tropical Punch. These flavors are staples and are consistently available at most locations with ICEE machines. The brand also features diet and zero-sugar versions of popular options for health-conscious consumers.
In addition to core flavors, ICEE frequently introduces new and limited-time flavors, often tied to holidays, pop culture, or national observances. Examples include Red & Green (holiday-themed), Watermelon (summer), and collaborations with brands like Sour Patch Kids or Mountain Dew. Some locations even offer the “Float Your Own” option, where customers can mix ICEE flavors with soft drinks to create custom frozen drinks, enhancing the overall interactive experience.
Is ICEE the same as a Slurpee?
While ICEE and Slurpee are very similar, they are technically different brand names for essentially the same type of frozen carbonated beverage. ICEE is the original brand developed in the 1960s and is used in various retail locations independently or through licensing. Slurpee, on the other hand, is 7-Eleven’s trademarked name for the same product they sell exclusively in their stores.
The drinks are made using similar technology and freezing processes, resulting in a slushy, icy consistency with carbonation. Both offer a wide array of rotating and seasonal flavors, and their taste profiles are nearly identical when comparing the same flavor across brands. Essentially, Slurpee is to 7-Eleven what ICEE is to other retailers—two names for the same refreshing experience under different brand partnerships.
Can I buy ICEE products to make at home?
Yes, you can now enjoy ICEE at home with a growing selection of retail products. The ICEE Company offers Mini Cups, which are pre-filled, frozen slushy cups available in flavors like Blue Raspberry and Cherry. These are stored in grocery store freezers and can be consumed as-is after partial thawing for the ideal texture. They are convenient for parties, road trips, or personal enjoyment.
Additionally, ICEE sells concentrated syrups that allow you to make your own slushies at home using a slushy maker or a simple DIY method involving a blender and ice. These syrups capture the authentic ICEE taste and enable customization in size and sweetness. Some kits even include the necessary equipment, making it easy for families and fans to recreate the experience without needing a commercial ICEE machine.
Are ICEE drinks suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
ICEE offers several options suitable for people with common dietary restrictions. Many of their standard flavors are vegetarian and gluten-free, making them accessible to a wide audience. However, due to shared equipment and facility processing, those with severe allergies should read labels carefully and contact the manufacturer if necessary. The company does not currently offer certified allergy-safe products, so caution is advised.
For individuals managing sugar intake, ICEE provides diet and low-calorie versions of popular flavors, sweetened with artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. These alternatives maintain the fizzy, icy texture while significantly reducing sugar and calorie content. Vegans should note that while the ingredients are typically plant-based, independent verification may be required, as formulations can vary by region and distributor.
Why is ICEE so popular despite the rise of other frozen drinks?
ICEE has maintained its popularity due to its pioneering role in the frozen beverage market and its consistent quality across decades. As one of the first frozen carbonated drinks ever created, ICEE established a nostalgic connection with multiple generations. The combination of carbonation and icy texture provides a unique sensory experience that differentiates it from non-carbonated slushies or smoothies, keeping fans coming back for the distinctive fizzy chill.
Moreover, the brand’s strategic partnerships, marketing campaigns, and flavor innovation have kept it relevant in a competitive landscape. Collaborations with popular candies, movies, and events help ICEE stay culturally current. Its availability in high-traffic locations like gas stations and movie theaters also associates it with moments of fun, refreshment, and reward. This blend of tradition, accessibility, and innovation ensures ICEE’s enduring appeal.