Pelican's SnoBalls

Pelican's SnoBalls is a unique and exciting addition to the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, dessert scene, bringing a taste of New Orleans' classic shaved ice to the heart of the Midwest. This is not your typical snow cone; a sno-ball is known for its incredibly fine, fluffy, and snow-like texture that absorbs the syrup for a truly flavorful experience. This local establishment has quickly become a favorite for families and individuals seeking a fun and refreshing treat, especially during the warm Iowa summers. It offers a nostalgic and cheerful atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for a sweet escape. The business has built its reputation on its wide variety of flavors and its commitment to catering to different dietary needs, which sets it apart from other dessert shops in the area.

The core of Pelican's SnoBalls’ appeal is its extensive menu, which boasts over a hundred flavor options. This vast selection ensures that every customer, no matter their preference, can find a flavor they love. The shop also provides a full range of toppings and additions, allowing for endless customization and creativity. For many in the Iowa region, a visit to Pelican's SnoBalls is more than just a quick stop; it's an experience in itself, a chance to explore a huge menu and try a new and unique combination with every visit. This focus on variety and quality has cemented its status as a go-to spot for those looking for a different kind of frozen treat.

Furthermore, the shop's dedication to inclusivity is a major highlight. They offer options for customers with dietary restrictions, including a variety of dye-free and sugar-free syrups. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone in the family, including those with specific health or allergy concerns, can enjoy a delicious sno-ball. The friendly and helpful staff are often praised for their knowledge of the menu, assisting customers in navigating the many choices available. This combination of a unique product, a wide array of options, and a welcoming environment makes Pelican's SnoBalls a cherished local business that brings a little bit of New Orleans sunshine to Cedar Rapids.

Pelican's SnoBalls is conveniently located at 2702 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, USA. This location makes it easily accessible to residents throughout the Cedar Rapids area and surrounding communities. Situated on a well-known street, the shop is easy to find and navigate to, whether you're coming from work, school, or a family outing. The accessibility of the location is a significant factor in its popularity, as it allows for spontaneous visits as well as planned stops.

The shop is designed for a walk-up experience, with two serving windows that evoke a classic, old-fashioned feel. This outdoor-only setup encourages a casual and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a sunny day. While there may not be indoor seating, the business provides outdoor seating for customers to enjoy their treats on-site. The focus on an outdoor, walk-up model is a core part of its charm and adds to the overall experience. The location is also noted for having plenty of parking, which is a major convenience for customers, especially during peak hours when the shop is busy.

Being a locally-owned and operated family business, the Cedar Rapids location has a strong connection to its community. The owners, Amanda Zahn and Jonielle Spillers, are Iowans who brought this New Orleans tradition to the state. This local ownership further strengthens the shop's ties to the community and provides a personal touch that is often appreciated by patrons.

Pelican's SnoBalls offers a wide array of services and products, all centered around their signature New Orleans-style shaved ice.

• Over 100 Flavors: The centerpiece of the menu is the massive selection of sno-ball flavors. These range from classic fruity flavors like cherry and grape to more unique and creative options such as "Dill Pickle," "Tigers Blood," and "Wedding Cake." This variety ensures there is a flavor for every palate.

• Dye-Free and Sugar-Free Options: A major service highlight is the availability of syrups that are free of artificial dyes and sugar. This is a crucial feature for many customers with specific dietary concerns, including allergies or health-conscious choices, and makes the shop a welcoming place for everyone.

• "Stuffed" Sno-Balls: For an extra-indulgent treat, customers can order a "Stuffed" sno-ball, which includes a layer of vanilla soft-serve ice cream. This popular option adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the icy treat, creating a hybrid dessert that is a huge hit.

• Flavor Combinations and Specialties: The menu also features special combinations with playful names like "Gone Fishing" (Lemon Lime & Polar Punch with a gummy worm) or "Shark Attack" (Sour Tsunami & Tiger's Blood with a gummy shark). These creative mixes, often topped with candy or whipped cream, provide a fun and themed experience, especially for kids.

• Event and Catering Services: The business also offers catering services, providing their "World Famous SnoBalls" for events, parties, and other special occasions. This service allows customers to bring the fun and deliciousness of Pelican's SnoBalls directly to their own gatherings, adding a unique touch to any event.

Pelican's SnoBalls is defined by several key features that contribute to its popularity and reputation as a local family favorite.

• Extensive Flavor Menu: The sheer number of flavors is a primary highlight. With over 100 options, customers are encouraged to experiment and find new favorites with every visit. This variety is a major draw that sets the shop apart from competitors.

• Fluffy, High-Quality Shaved Ice: The texture of the sno-balls is consistently praised. Unlike a crunchy snow cone, the fine, soft texture melts in your mouth and holds the flavor all the way through, creating a superior and more enjoyable experience.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The shop is designed with families in mind, providing a fun and vibrant atmosphere. The colorful menu, creative flavor combinations, and welcoming outdoor space make it an ideal destination for a family outing. The local owners' desire to create a fun family atmosphere is evident in the business model.

• Inclusive Options: The commitment to providing dye-free and sugar-free syrups is a major highlight. It demonstrates an understanding of customer needs and ensures that people with allergies or dietary restrictions do not have to miss out on the fun.

• Local Ownership: As a locally owned and operated business, Pelican's SnoBalls holds a special place in the community. Patrons appreciate supporting a local family that is dedicated to providing a unique and enjoyable product to the Cedar Rapids area.

For those planning a visit to Pelican's SnoBalls, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 2702 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, USA

Phone: (319) 423-9981

The provided phone number is a convenient way to get in touch with the shop for any inquiries you may have. The physical address is straightforward, making it easy to find using any GPS or map service.

In conclusion, Pelican's SnoBalls is a perfect destination for locals in the Iowa region, particularly those in the Cedar Rapids area. It offers a fresh and unique twist on a classic frozen treat with its New Orleans-style shaved ice. The massive menu, featuring over 100 flavors and a variety of creative combinations, ensures that every visit is a new and exciting experience. The shop's commitment to being family-friendly and inclusive, with its dye-free and sugar-free options, makes it a welcoming place for everyone. While service can sometimes be slow during peak times due to its popularity, the delicious and high-quality product is well worth the wait for most customers. For anyone looking for a fun, delicious, and unique dessert experience that feels like a mini-vacation to New Orleans, Pelican's SnoBalls is an essential local spot. Its dedication to community and quality makes it a cherished part of the Cedar Rapids landscape.

Pelican's SnoBalls

2702 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404, USA