Carvel

In the heart of New York City's bustling Herald Square, amidst the iconic Macy's department store, lies a sweet sanctuary for ice cream lovers: Carvel. Located on the 7th floor of Macy's at 151W 34th Street, this Carvel outpost offers a familiar and comforting taste of classic American ice cream. Known nationwide for its original soft serve, signature ice cream cakes like Fudgie the Whale, and a wide array of scooped flavors, Carvel provides a delightful respite for shoppers, tourists, and local New Yorkers alike. It’s a place where tradition meets convenience, allowing you to indulge in a beloved treat right in the midst of one of the city's busiest retail hubs.

Carvel has a rich history rooted in innovation, having introduced soft serve ice cream to the world. This heritage is evident in every creamy scoop and perfectly swirled cone. The Macy's Herald Square location carries on this legacy, aiming to deliver the consistent quality and comforting flavors that Carvel enthusiasts have come to expect. While navigating a large department store to find it might be a unique challenge, as noted by some customers, the reward is often a delightful break from the urban frenzy. The presence of comfortable seating further enhances the experience, allowing for a relaxed enjoyment of your chosen treat.

Whether you're craving a simple vanilla soft serve, a decadent sundae piled high with toppings, or need to pick up a classic ice cream cake for a special occasion, this Carvel aims to fulfill those desires. Its integration within a major retail landmark makes it an accessible, albeit perhaps subtly hidden, gem for those in the know. For many New Yorkers, Carvel represents a taste of nostalgia, a sweet memory from childhood, and this location offers a convenient way to revisit those cherished flavors.

Macy's Herald Square is exceptionally well-connected by New York City's public transportation system. Multiple subway lines converge around 34th Street and Herald Square, including the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M trains at Herald Square, and the 1, 2, 3, A, C, E trains at Penn Station or nearby 34th Street stations. Numerous bus routes also stop directly outside Macy's. This extensive network ensures that the Carvel, despite being inside a large store, is highly accessible from virtually any part of New York City.

For pedestrians, 34th Street is a major thoroughfare with high foot traffic, making it a natural stopping point for many. While street parking is typically scarce in Midtown Manhattan, the reliance on public transport makes this a non-issue for most. Once inside Macy's, elevators and escalators provide access to the 7th floor, making the Carvel a comfortable destination for a quick break during a shopping spree or a visit to the department store's various departments.

• The Original Soft Serve: Carvel is renowned for its signature soft serve ice cream, available in classic vanilla, chocolate, and their popular "twist" (a combination of both). Seasonal soft serve flavors, like "Pumpkin Cheesecake Soft Serve" as noted in a review, are also often available.

• Scooped Ice Cream Flavors: In addition to soft serve, the shop offers a variety of traditional scooped ice cream flavors. These often include classics like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Mint Chocolate Chip, Strawberry, and more, providing options for different preferences.

• Customizable Sundaes: Customers can create their own sundaes with their choice of soft serve or scooped ice cream, various toppings (fudge, caramel, whipped cream, sprinkles, crunchies, etc.), and a cherry. The shop also offers signature sundaes like Sundae Dashers and Carvelanches, which feature layers of ice cream, sauces, and mix-ins.

• Hand-Spun Shakes: Carvel prepares thick and creamy milkshakes using their signature soft serve ice cream, allowing for flavor customization.

• Famous Ice Cream Cakes: Carvel is widely celebrated for its iconic ice cream cakes, including "Fudgie the Whale" and "Cookie Puss," as well as custom-designed cakes for birthdays and other special occasions. These cakes typically feature layers of vanilla and chocolate ice cream separated by Carvel's distinctive chocolate crunchies.

• Take-Home Treats: The shop offers various take-home treats, such as pints and quarts of ice cream, Flying Saucers (ice cream sandwiches), and ice cream pops, perfect for enjoying at home.

• Comfortable Seating Area: A valuable service, especially within a bustling department store, is the availability of a "comfortable seating area" where customers can relax and enjoy their treats.

• Iconic Soft Serve: Carvel's "Original Soft Serve" is a timeless classic and a major highlight. Its creamy texture and consistent quality are a cornerstone of the brand's appeal, offering a distinct alternative to hard-scooped ice cream.

• Signature Ice Cream Cakes: The legendary ice cream cakes, particularly "Fudgie the Whale," are a major draw. These cakes are a staple for celebrations across the tri-state area and beyond, known for their distinctive "crunchies" layer and nostalgic charm. The ability to customize cakes for various occasions is also a significant feature.

• Seasonal and Unique Flavors: Carvel regularly introduces seasonal and limited-time flavors, such as the praised "Pumpkin Cheesecake ice cream" mentioned in reviews. This keeps the menu fresh and encourages repeat visits from customers eager to try new offerings.

• Convenient Macy's Location: While potentially hard to find, its placement within Macy's Herald Square offers unparalleled convenience for shoppers looking for a refreshing break. The "shopping break" aspect highlighted by a customer is a key benefit of this specific location.

• Comfortable On-Site Experience: The provision of a "comfortable seating area" is a notable highlight, especially in a busy urban environment. It allows customers to sit down, relax, and savor their treats, making the visit more enjoyable than a grab-and-go experience.

• Variety of Dessert Formats: Beyond just scoops, Carvel offers a comprehensive range of dessert formats including sundaes, shakes, ice cream sandwiches (Flying Saucers), and take-home pints, catering to diverse preferences and occasions.

  Note on reviews: Some customer feedback indicates challenges with finding the location and occasional "confusing series of interactions with staff." While the product itself is generally well-received ("Great ice cream," "It's Carvel - it's always good"), these operational aspects might influence the overall experience for some visitors.

Phone: (800) 775-7029

Mobile Phone: +1 800-775-7029

Locals appreciate Carvel for its consistent quality and nostalgic appeal, especially its legendary soft serve and the beloved ice cream cakes like Fudgie the Whale, which are staples for many celebrations. The availability of seasonal flavors, such as the popular pumpkin cheesecake ice cream, adds an element of excitement and keeps the menu fresh for regular patrons. Having a "comfortable seating area" within such a busy environment is a significant plus, providing a rare opportunity to relax and enjoy a dessert without feeling rushed, which is a valuable feature in fast-paced New York.

While some reviews indicate minor challenges with finding the exact location or occasional service nuances, the core Carvel offering—delicious ice cream and iconic treats—remains a strong draw. For many, a visit to Carvel is not just about the ice cream; it's about a moment of comfort and a taste of tradition. Its presence in Macy's makes it an ideal spot for a mid-shopping pick-me-up or a family treat, seamlessly integrating into the daily lives and routines of New Yorkers. For those who know where to find it, this Carvel is a reliable and enjoyable sweet escape in the heart of the city.

Carvel

151W W 34th St. 7th floor, New York, NY 10001, USA