To find ice near you, your best bet is usually a quick stop at a local convenience store, gas station, or grocery store. These places almost always have bagged ice available, especially if you’re looking for standard cubed ice to chill drinks or keep a cooler cold. But if you’re hunting for something a bit more specific, like dry ice, bulk quantities, or even that beloved “nugget” ice, your search might take you down a few different paths. Knowing where to look can save you time and even a few bucks, whether you’re planning a party, going camping, or just need to cool down on a hot day. I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you track down the perfect ice, no matter what you need it for. We’ll cover everything from your everyday ice runs to specialty options, making sure you’re always prepared to keep things frosty. If you’re planning a picnic or a camping trip, make sure you have a reliable portable cooler and maybe even some ice packs to supplement your bagged ice.

The Usual Suspects: Everyday Ice Sources

When you need ice in a pinch, these are the places you’re probably already thinking of, and for good reason! They’re everywhere, and they usually stock a good supply of standard bagged ice.

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores are a go-to for ice, and you’ll often find them conveniently located. Most major chains, like Walmart, Kroger, Albertsons, Safeway, and Giant Foods, carry various sizes, typically ranging from 5 to 20 pounds. You might even snag specialty options like filtered water cubes or ice spheres if you’re lucky.

Walmart: You can find bags of ice from 5-10 pounds for around $2.33, which works out to about 23¢ per pound for a 10-pound bag. They’re often a great spot for cheap ice.
Kroger: Offers good deals, with a 20-pound bag costing as low as 20¢ per pound.
Albertsons: A 10-pound bag typically goes for about $2.99, or 30¢ per pound.
Safeway: Offers a 16-pound bag for $7.29 45¢ per pound and 10-pound bags for $4.29 42¢ per pound.
Giant Foods: You can often find a 20-pound bag for $4.99, or 25¢ per pound.

Many grocery stores also let you add ice to your online grocery delivery order, which is super convenient if you’re already getting groceries delivered.

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Convenience Stores and Gas Stations

These spots are practically synonymous with last-minute ice runs. They’re open late, often 24/7, and are designed for quick grabs.

7-Eleven: Often has some of the best prices among gas stations, with a 20-pound bag for $4.79 23¢ per pound. You can even buy ice through their mobile app.
Circle K, BP, Chevron, ExxonMobil: These chains reliably stock bagged ice, though prices can vary and tend to be a bit higher than grocery or big-box stores, sometimes up to 64¢ per pound.
Dollar General & Dollar Tree: Surprisingly, these budget-friendly stores often carry ice. Dollar Tree, for example, sells 7-pound bags for $2, which is about 29¢ per pound.

Keep in mind that gas stations are great for convenience, especially if you’re driving long distances and need to keep a car cooler stocked.

Where to Buy Ice: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Cool

Fast Food Restaurants

This one might surprise you, but many fast-food places sell bags of ice, even if it’s not explicitly on their menu. It’s always a good idea to ask!

McDonald’s: They don’t usually list it on their menu, but if you ask, many locations sell 8-pound to 10-pound bags for around $0.99 to $1.50, which can be as low as 16¢ per pound. That’s an incredible deal!
Sonic Drive-In: Famous for its “nugget ice” also known as chewblet or pebble ice, Sonic often sells 10-pound bags for about $2.50 25¢ per pound. If you’re a fan of that soft, chewable ice, this is your spot!
Chick-fil-A: You might be able to order bags of ice through their app, though the price can be a bit higher, sometimes around $2.59 for a bag about 52¢ per pound.
Burger King: Some locations might sell bags of ice for about $1.99, though the exact weight and price per pound can vary.

If you’re looking for cheap ice, fast food restaurants can be a real secret weapon, especially if you need a smaller amount.

Beyond the Basics: Specialty Ice and Bulk Options

Sometimes, standard ice just won’t cut it. Maybe you need something for a science experiment, a large event, or a specific type of drink.

Dry Ice

Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide and is much colder than regular ice around -109.3°F or -78.5°C. It’s fantastic for keeping things frozen for longer periods, creating spooky fog effects, or for shipping temperature-sensitive items. Where to Find Your Perfect Pink Himalayan Salt: A Complete Guide

Grocery Stores: Many larger grocery chains like Safeway and Hy-Vee sell dry ice blocks. You might also find Penguin Brand Dry Ice at over 5,000 retail locations nationwide, typically in grocery stores.
Specialty Gas & Welding Supply Stores: Companies like Airgas are major distributors of dry ice. These are great if you need larger quantities or specific forms, like pellets or slices.
Online Locators: Websites like DryiceDirectory.com and Penguin’s dry ice locator can help you find suppliers near you. Just punch in your zip code!
Cost: Expect to pay around $1.50 to $5 per pound, depending on the quantity and where you buy it. Always handle dry ice with gloves to prevent frostbite. You can find appropriate insulated gloves and dry ice storage containers online.

Block Ice

Block ice melts much slower than cubed ice, making it ideal for long-term cooling in large coolers or ice chests.

Ice Distributors: Companies like Reddy Ice, the largest manufacturer and distributor of packaged ice in the US, offer block ice in various sizes and also provide delivery services.
Specialty Ice Companies: Local ice factories or distributors often carry block ice. For example, Ice Express in Houston offers 10-pound blocks in packages of four.
Some Grocery Stores: Occasionally, larger grocery stores might stock block ice, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays.

Nugget Ice Sonic Ice

Ah, the beloved chewable ice! Known for its soft, crunchy texture, it’s a favorite for many, especially in sodas and blended drinks.

Sonic Drive-In: As mentioned, Sonic is probably the most famous place to get this type of ice, often selling it by the bag.
Some Convenience Stores: A few convenience stores might carry “chewblet” or “pellet” ice, but it’s less common than regular cubes.
Home Ice Makers: If you’re truly obsessed, you can invest in a nugget ice maker for your home. They’ve become quite popular.

Crushed Ice

While many modern refrigerators have a crushed ice dispenser, if yours doesn’t or you need a lot, you can find it.

Grocery Stores: Some grocery stores might offer bags of crushed ice, though it’s less common than cubed ice.
Fast Food Restaurants: Some fast-food places might be willing to fill a cup or a small bag with crushed ice if you ask nicely.
DIY: If you have standard ice, you can always wrap it in a clean towel and carefully break it into pieces with a mallet. It’s a bit of work, but it gets the job done.

Getting Your Ice in Bulk or Delivered

Planning a big event or managing a business that needs a constant ice supply? Buying in bulk or opting for delivery is the way to go. Where to Buy Hoka Shoes: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Pair

Wholesale Clubs

Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club are fantastic for buying large quantities of ice at low prices, especially if you have a membership.

Costco: Often has some of the best per-pound prices, with 20-pound bags costing around $2.59 13¢ per pound.
Sam’s Club: Similar to Costco, you can find 20-pound bags for about $2.98 15¢ per pound.

These are ideal if you need a lot of ice for a big party, catering event, or a long camping trip and have the storage space. Remember to bring a large cooler with wheels for easy transport.

Dedicated Ice Companies & Distributors

For truly massive quantities or regular deliveries, professional ice distributors are your best bet. Companies like Reddy Ice have extensive networks across the US, supplying everything from small stores to large events.

Reddy Ice: The largest in the US, they offer various products and delivery services tailored to your needs.
Home City Ice: Another large manufacturer and delivery service, providing a wide network with a local feel. They even have an app to make ordering and tracking deliveries easier.
Local Distributors: Search online for “ice delivery service near me” or “bulk ice suppliers.” Many local companies, like Ice King Distribution in Phoenix or Emergency Ice in Dallas-Fort Worth, offer 24/7 delivery for both planned events and emergencies. They cater to residential, commercial, and event needs.
Minimum Orders: Be aware that these companies usually have minimum order quantities, so they’re best if you need a significant amount of ice e.g., 20-30 bags or more.

Ice Vending Machines Twice the Ice, Watermill Express

These self-serve kiosks are popping up more and more, offering a convenient and often cheaper way to get ice and water. Where to Buy Gift Cards: Your Ultimate Guide

Twice the Ice: These machines offer bagged ice and water at competitive prices, often “twice the ice at half the price”. You can use their ICE2U app to find locations, get discounts, and even make touchless purchases.
Watermill Express: Similar to Twice the Ice, Watermill Express has close to 1300 water and ice refill stations, making them a large drive-up provider.
Cost Savings: Since they cut out packaging and shipping to a store, you’re often paying less per pound – around $2.00 for a 16- to 20-pound bag, compared to $2.50 for a 7- to 10-pound bag at other places. Some even let you dispense directly into your cooler for an even better deal.

These machines are fantastic if you’re looking for cheap ice and happen to have one nearby.

How to Find Ice “Near Me Now” or “Open Now”

When you need ice right now, technology is your friend.

Google Maps: Seriously, just open Google Maps and type “ice near me” or “bagged ice near me.” It’ll show you gas stations, grocery stores, and convenience stores with ice in stock, along with their operating hours. You can filter for “open now” to see current options.
Store Locators: Many large chains have their own store locators on their websites or apps. If you’re looking for dry ice, check the Penguin Brand Dry Ice locator.
Delivery Apps: Services like Instacart, Uber Eats, or DoorDash often partner with local grocery and convenience stores, allowing you to get ice delivered right to your door. Be prepared for delivery fees and potentially higher per-bag prices, but for ultimate convenience, it’s worth it.
Ice Vending Machine Apps: The ICE2U app for Twice the Ice machines is excellent for finding their locations and seeing what’s available.

The Cost of Staying Cool: How Much Does Ice Really Cost?

Prices for bagged ice can vary quite a bit depending on the store, the bag size, and your location. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Fast Food Restaurants: Often the cheapest per pound, sometimes as low as 16¢ per pound at McDonald’s.
Wholesale Clubs Costco, Sam’s Club: Excellent value for bulk, around 13¢ to 15¢ per pound for a 20-pound bag.
Ice Vending Machines Twice the Ice, Watermill Express: Very competitive, often around 10¢ to 12¢ per pound for larger bags if you dispense directly, or about $2.00 for a 16-20 pound bag.
Big Box Stores Walmart, BJ’s: Generally good value, ranging from 20¢ to 23¢ per pound for 10-20 pound bags.
Grocery Stores: Typically range from 20¢ to 45¢ per pound, depending on the store and bag size. Kroger often offers 20-pound bags at 20¢ per pound.
Convenience Stores/Gas Stations: Usually the priciest per pound due to convenience, ranging from 23¢ to over 60¢ per pound. A 10-pound bag might cost around $2.99 to $4.98.

General rule of thumb: The larger the bag, the cheaper the price per pound. Buying in bulk from wholesale clubs or ice vending machines will almost always give you the best deal. If you only need a small amount, a fast-food restaurant or a free cup from a coffee shop like Starbucks can be surprisingly cost-effective.

Making Your Own Ice: The Frugal & Prepared Option

While buying ice is convenient, making your own can be the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, especially for everyday use. Where to buy grand soul gems oblivion

Standard Ice Trays: The classic method. Simple, effective, and you can get various shapes. Silicone ice cube trays are great for easy release.
Ice Makers: Many modern refrigerators come with built-in ice makers. If yours doesn’t, or you need more capacity, a standalone countertop ice maker can be a fantastic investment. These can produce different types of ice, including standard cubes, crescent ice, or even chewable nugget ice.
Reusable Ice Packs: For coolers, reusable gel ice packs or frozen water bottles can reduce your need for bagged ice and keep your cooler colder for longer without making everything wet.
Large Ice Blocks at Home: Freeze water in plastic containers or milk jugs to create your own large ice blocks. These melt much slower than cubes and are perfect for filling a cooler for an extended period.

Staying Prepared for Any Ice Emergency

What if your fridge ice maker breaks or you’re in a remote area?

Keep an Emergency Stash: If you have extra freezer space, consider buying a couple of extra bags of ice when they’re on sale.
Portable Ice Makers: For camping, RV trips, or frequent outdoor gatherings, a portable ice maker can be a lifesaver.
Ice Delivery Services: For businesses or large events, having a contact for an emergency ice delivery service like Emergency Ice in some regions can prevent a meltdown. They often operate 24/7.
Cooler Management: Maximize the life of your ice by pre-chilling your cooler, minimizing how often you open it, and draining meltwater occasionally unless you want to keep items submerged for chilling. Investing in a high-quality rotomolded cooler can make a huge difference in ice retention.

Finding ice near you is usually pretty straightforward, but knowing your options can help you get the right type of ice at the best price, whether you need a single bag or a whole truckload!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy ice near me right now?

The quickest places to find ice “near me right now” are typically gas stations, convenience stores, and most major grocery stores. Many of these establishments, like 7-Eleven, are open 24/7. Your best bet is to use Google Maps and search for “ice near me open now” to see the closest options with their current operating hours. Delivery apps like Instacart can also get ice to you quickly from local stores. Where to buy fenbendazole

What are the cheapest places to buy bags of ice?

For the cheapest ice, your top choices are usually wholesale clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club, where you can get large 20-pound bags for as low as 13¢ to 15¢ per pound if you have a membership. Fast food restaurants like McDonald’s or Sonic also often sell bags of ice at very competitive prices, sometimes as low as 16¢ to 25¢ per pound. Additionally, ice vending machines like Twice the Ice or Watermill Express can offer great deals, especially if you dispense directly into a cooler.

Can I get dry ice at a regular grocery store?

Yes, you can often find dry ice at larger grocery stores. Chains like Safeway and Hy-Vee are known to carry dry ice blocks. You can also use online locators, such as the Penguin Brand Dry Ice website, to find a grocery store near you that stocks it. Remember that dry ice needs to be handled with care, using proper insulation and gloves, as it’s extremely cold. You should also ensure proper ventilation when transporting or storing it.

Do fast food restaurants sell ice?

Many fast-food restaurants surprisingly do sell bags of ice, even if it’s not prominently displayed on their menu. Places like McDonald’s and Sonic Drive-In are known for this. It’s always a good idea to ask the cashier or manager, as prices can be very low – some McDonald’s locations sell 8-10 pound bags for under $1.50. Sonic is particularly popular for its chewable nugget ice, which you can often buy in 10-pound bags.

How can I buy ice in bulk for an event?

For buying ice in bulk for an event, you have a few excellent options. Wholesale clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club are great for larger quantities at low prices. For even larger needs or regular deliveries, dedicated ice distributors and manufacturers like Reddy Ice or Home City Ice specialize in bulk orders and often provide delivery services. You can also look for local ice companies that cater to events. Some ice vending machine chains like Twice the Ice also have options for bulk purchases.

What types of ice can I buy?

When you’re out shopping, you’ll find a few common types of ice. The most widespread is cubed ice, which is versatile for drinks and coolers. You might also find crushed ice, often preferred for cocktails or blended drinks. For specialty needs, some places offer block ice, which melts slower, or dry ice for extreme chilling and fog effects. A growing favorite is nugget ice also called “Sonic ice” or pebble ice, known for its soft, chewable texture. Less common but available are gourmet ice cubes or spheres, often found at specialty stores or for home ice makers. Where to buy a switch 2

Where to Buy Ice Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Cool