It may not be on the main menu, but it's one of the best values at McDonald's
If You’re Not Buying This Freezer Staple at McDonald’s, You’re Missing Out
Published on Apr. 04, 2025
McDonald’s has built a reputation on serving hot, delicious burgers, fresh and crispy fries and the occasional sweet treat. After all, that’s how the restaurant chain set a record of over 99 billion customers served. But believe it or not, there is one frozen item that’s not on the menu, yet it might deliver one of the greatest values McDonald’s has to offer. It’s not soft serve or a McFlurry, but it’s definitely a freezer must-have that you won’t want to miss out on.
Keep reading to learn about a surprising freezer staple you can stock up on at your local McDonald’s and how to order this under-the-radar item.
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What is the surprising freezer staple McDonald’s sells?
Believe it or not, McDonald’s sells bags of ice straight out of the freezer, even though it’s not on the menu. Chances are, when you need ice, you typically think about heading to your local gas station or grocery store, but your nearest McDonald’s may be even closer, cheaper and more convenient overall. Even fast-food fans who know all about McDonald’s secret menu are surprised that the restaurant chain sells this under-the-radar item.
What type of ice is it?
McDonald’s ice isn’t just convenient to purchase; it’s actually pretty great quality, especially when you compare it with the ice available at grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores. McDonald’s ice comes in rectangular chips that aren’t too big and aren’t too small—they’re just right. If you’re hosting an outdoor event, they’re definitely your best bet because they’re easy to break apart to fill your cooler.
McDonald’s fans also love the ice because it’s crunchy and not too hard, and it keeps drinks cold without melting too quickly. TikTok user @marthreenez_ took to social media to test it out, noting that it has a hollow section in the middle that’s unique to McDonald’s ice. “The little hollow part right there, it makes for an interesting crunch,” he says, giving it a rating of 7.8 out of 10. “Solid ice,” he concludes. It’s the same ice you get from the fountain drink station, so you’ve probably already tried it!
McDonald’s ice comes in 8-pound bags, which is a great size for a small party or for storing in your freezer if you don’t have an ice maker. Need more? No problem! You can buy several bags to stock up for a big event or to fill a large freezer or multiple coolers.
How much does it cost?
Like the rest of the fast-food giant’s prices, the cost of a bag of McDonald’s ice depends on where you live. Some locations charge only $1 for an 8-pound bag of ice, while others charge up to $1.50 or $2. Comparable bags of ice from other convenience stores can cost anywhere from $3 to $4, and that savings can really add up if you go through a lot of ice.
How do you order it?
Ordering your McDonald’s ice is similar to ordering your favorite McDonald’s value meal, but there’s one extra step you should take first: Call ahead. Give your local McDonald’s a ring before heading into the store to make sure ice is available for purchase. Then, when you arrive, you should be able to buy it in store or at the drive-thru. Because ice isn’t available on the official McDonald’s menu, you won’t be able to place a mobile order or order it from the app. But the savings you get by buying your ice at McDonald’s are worth the extra effort of going inside the restaurant or waiting in line at the drive-thru, especially if you also have a hankering for fries!
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Sources:
- @TheMakeShiftProject: “McDonald’s Sells These?!”
- @marthreenez_: “McDonald’s Ice”
