All You Need to Know About the Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream (MOIC) is a fun-filled, immersive experience blending art, play, and ice cream. Known for its colourful exhibits like the famous Sprinkle Pool, it offers a sweet adventure for all ages.

All You Need to Know About the Museum of Ice Cream
Museum of Ice Cream, Credit: Phillip Pessar

What is the Museum of Ice Cream?

The Museum of Ice Cream is a unique, immersive experience that blends art installations with the theme of ice cream. It’s designed to spark imagination and fun, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore a series of colourful rooms, each more whimsical than the last. These spaces are filled with interactive elements, from giant ice cream cones to sprinkle pools, offering a mix of sweet treats and a visually stimulating adventure.

How much does a ticket cost?

Ticket prices generally start at $39 for adults, though this can vary by location. Tickets for children, students, and senior citizens are often priced slightly lower, and there are usually discounts available for groups or special promotions. Since tickets can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, booking in advance is highly recommended.

Do you get to eat ice cream at the Museum of Ice Cream?

Yes, ice cream is a big part of the experience! Throughout your visit, you’ll have several opportunities to sample different flavours of ice cream and other ice cream-themed treats. Each stop typically features a unique flavour or treat that ties into the theme of the room you're exploring. Whether it's classic vanilla or a more experimental flavour, you’re sure to enjoy a sweet surprise.

How long does a visit usually take?

On average, visitors spend about 60 to 90 minutes inside the Museum of Ice Cream. However, the experience is self-guided, so you’re free to explore at your own pace. If you want to take extra time for photos, or simply enjoy the installations, you can stay longer. Some visitors may breeze through quickly, while others might linger in the rooms to fully savour the experience.

What can I expect inside the museum?

Inside the Museum of Ice Cream, you’ll find a series of themed rooms, each designed to offer a unique, interactive experience. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Sprinkle Pool, which is a giant pool filled with millions of plastic sprinkles, and the Banana Jungle, where giant pink bananas hang from the ceiling. There are also rooms dedicated to candy, cones, and even an ice cream sandwich swing! Each room has its own playful, visually engaging atmosphere, making it feel like a dreamscape brought to life.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, the Museum of Ice Cream is highly kid-friendly. The bright colours, playful installations, and interactive elements make it a hit with children. There are plenty of opportunities for them to run, jump, and play, especially in rooms like the Sprinkle Pool. That said, it’s equally enjoyable for adults, making it a great family outing.

Is there a guided tour, or can I explore on my own?

The MOIC is a self-guided experience, allowing visitors to explore each room at their own pace. This flexibility means you can spend as much or as little time in each area as you like. However, friendly staff members are stationed throughout the museum to offer assistance, share interesting facts, or help with photos. Some locations may offer occasional guided tours or special events, but these are rare and usually need to be booked in advance.

Can you take pictures inside the museum?

Yes, the Museum of Ice Cream is designed to be extremely photogenic! Visitors are encouraged to take as many photos as they like, and many rooms have been created with Instagram-worthy backdrops in mind. From giant ice cream cones to vibrant murals, there are countless opportunities for capturing creative and fun photos.

What’s the most popular exhibit?

The Sprinkle Pool is often considered the most iconic and popular exhibit at the Museum of Ice Cream. It’s a massive pool filled with millions of colourful plastic sprinkles where visitors can "swim" or pose for photos. The pool has become a symbol of the MOIC experience and is a favourite among visitors of all ages. Other popular rooms include the Banana Jungle and the Cone Room, but the Sprinkle Pool remains the most talked about.

Is the Museum of Ice Cream accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, the MOIC strives to be fully accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. Most locations are equipped with ramps and lifts to ensure that everyone can enjoy the experience. If you have specific accessibility concerns, it's best to check with the museum in advance or upon arrival, as staff are usually very accommodating.

Can I buy ice cream-themed merchandise?

Yes, the Museum of Ice Cream has a gift shop that sells a wide variety of ice cream-themed merchandise. From t-shirts and hats to home decor and accessories, there are plenty of items to take home as a memento of your visit. You can even buy exclusive MOIC-branded ice cream flavours to enjoy later.

How many flavours of ice cream can you try?

At the Museum of Ice Cream, visitors typically sample around 2 to 4 ice cream flavours during their visit. The exact number can vary depending on the location and time of year. Each flavour is often themed to match the surrounding exhibits, providing a fun and immersive tasting experience. Additionally, some locations may offer other ice cream-related treats, such as sundaes, popsicles, or novelty items, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Is the ice cream made at the museum?

Some locations serve ice cream made exclusively for the Museum of Ice Cream, while others partner with well-known local or national ice cream brands to offer special flavours. Either way, the ice cream is crafted specifically for the MOIC experience, ensuring it’s fresh, unique, and high-quality.

Do they offer vegan or dairy-free options?

Yes, most MOIC locations provide vegan and dairy-free options to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. These alternative options are typically just as creative and delicious as the regular ice creams. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s a good idea to mention this to staff at the beginning of your visit, so they can ensure you get the right treats along the way.

Can I host private events at the Museum of Ice Cream?

Yes, the MOIC offers private event packages for birthdays, corporate events, and other celebrations. You can rent out the entire space for your guests to enjoy the exhibits privately. These events often include special touches, such as customised ice cream flavours or branded merchandise. It’s a great option if you want to make your event stand out with a fun, immersive experience.

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?

Yes, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance. The Museum of Ice Cream is a popular attraction, and tickets often sell out, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. By booking ahead, you can secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment at the door.

Are there restrooms inside the museum?

Yes, each MOIC location has restrooms available for visitors. These are conveniently located throughout the museum, so you won’t need to leave the experience to find facilities.

What should I wear to the Museum of Ice Cream?

It’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll be walking and moving through various exhibits. Many visitors also choose to wear bright, colourful outfits that will stand out in photos against the museum’s vibrant backdrops. Whether you're planning a casual look or something more fun, dress for comfort and creativity.

Can adults visit without children?

Absolutely! The Museum of Ice Cream is designed for people of all ages, and many visitors are adults without children. The MOIC is a popular destination for date nights, friends’ outings, and even solo adventures. The playful atmosphere appeals to adults who want to embrace their inner child.

Is there an age limit for the Sprinkle Pool?

No, there is no specific age limit for the Sprinkle Pool. It’s open to everyone, from young children to adults. However, children should be supervised while in the pool, and very young kids might require extra attention to ensure their safety.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are not allowed inside the Museum of Ice Cream, except service animals that are trained to assist people with disabilities. If you have a service animal, it's a good idea to contact the museum in advance to ensure smooth entry.

Is there a specific time limit for how long you can stay in the museum?

While there isn’t a strict time limit, most visitors spend about 60 to 90 minutes exploring the exhibits. You’re welcome to take your time and enjoy the installations at your own pace, but the museum is designed to be experienced in under two hours.

Are there any other Museum of Ice Cream locations planned?

The MOIC is constantly expanding and often opens pop-up locations in new cities. To find out about upcoming openings, it’s best to keep an eye on their official website or social media accounts. They regularly announce new locations and special events, so there’s always something to look forward to!