Best Ice Cream Shops in the USA: Delicious Scoops Across the Country
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From beach-side soft serve to travel-inspired flavors and more, this post has a round-up of the best ice cream shops in the USA. Keep reading to create your ice cream bucket list!
My name is Sydney, and I have a confession: I am completely addicted to ice cream.
Hand-dipped. Soft serve. Milkshakes. Sundaes. You name it – if there’s ice cream involved, I want it.
Let’s get real. Who doesn’t love ice cream? This creamy dessert is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. Whether I’m at home or traveling, I always make a point to check out yummy local ice cream shops to indulge in a sweet treat.
One of my favorite things about ice cream is the potential for shops to get creative with their flavors. While traditional chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla are delicious, I love trying out a unique flavor, especially one that is unique to a particular shop or region. That’s part of the reason why trying new ice cream shops while traveling is so much fun!
If you’re planning on traveling around the United States this year, and are as ice cream-obsessed as I am, then this post is for you. I’ve teamed up with a few fellow ice cream fanatics to put together this mega guide to some of the best ice cream shops in the United States. From beach-side soft serve to travel-inspired flavors and more, these shops have some of the tastiest scoops (and swirls) in the country.
Keep reading for a list of spots to add to your ice cream bucket list!
A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here.
Best Ice Cream Shops in California
Los Angeles, California – Wanderlust Creamery
Taste-Tested by Alanna Koritzke from Periodic Adventures
Travelers and ice-cream lovers rejoice! Wanderlust Creamery is the perfect shop for you as they serve ice cream inspired by travel destinations.
Each flavor is so unique and will transport you to somewhere amazing! Some of the best flavors are Earl Grey inspired by Great Britain, Passionfruit Cacao inspired by Brazil, and Japanese Neapolitan, which has a trio of Japanese flavors including matcha, hojicha, and black sesame.
Wanderlust Creamery has locations all over Los Angeles and is a great stop on any Los Angeles itinerary!
Monterey, California – Ghirardelli
Taste-Tested by Dhara from Roadtripping California
Eating ice cream with a view at Ghirardelli is one of the best things to do in Monterey, California. Ghirardelli is local to California, having been founded in San Francisco, and is a historic ice cream brand that you definitely must try when you visit the Golden State.
Ghirardelli in Monterey is located on the water at Cannery Row, the most famous street in Monterey. They have a balcony overlooking Monterey Bay, and if you can snag a spot outside, you can enjoy the beautiful views while you savor the delicious ice cream.
Anything chocolate is wonderful at Ghirardelli, or you can try the big Golden Gate Banana Split, with three scoops of ice cream, a banana, and all the fixings!
You can also check out the original Ghirardelli location at Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco, which is a must for your San Francisco bucket list!
Paso Robles, California – Negranti Creamery
Taste-Tested by Tatiana Sorokina from Family Road Trip Guru
Negranti Creamery in Paso Robles, California is a unique ice cream shop – its signature product is sheep’s milk ice cream.
Sheep milk is less than 8% fat, is richer in vitamins A, B, and E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, and is higher in protein than other types of milk. It is also easier digested than cow’s milk so even lactose-intolerant people can enjoy it. Sheep milk ice cream tastes lighter and a little less creamy than cow milk ice cream. But if you a die-hard fan of cow milk variety Negranti Creamery has it in-store too. Typically their ice cream shop has 16 freshly churned seasonal artisan flavors of ice cream for sale – you will not be disappointed!
San Diego, California – Mr. Frostie
Taste-Tasted by Katie from La Jolla Mom
Mr. Frostie has been a family-owned institution and a popular place to go in Pacific Beach, San Diego since 1949. Locals and tourists alike love the decadent soft serve ice cream that doesn’t taste like reduced fat, but it is.
Have it dipped in chocolate or loaded into a specialty dessert like a Hot Fudge Cake (whipped cream, Devils Food Cake, Vanilla Frosty soft serve, hot fudge, and nuts). The classic milkshakes are also popular and come in flavors like banana (mixed with fresh bananas), chocolate cake batter, Butterfinger, red velvet, and others.
If you’re headed to the beach, and many people who stop here are, you can also order a hot dog or deli sandwich to take with you. A line often forms at the ordering counter so you might need to wait for a little bit, but this soft serve is worth it.
San Francisco, California – Humphry Slocombe
Taste-Tested by Amber Charmei from Provocolate.com
Experimental ice cream flavors are hardly a new thing, especially in an age where sea salt and extra virgin olive oil are contemporary patisserie essentials. But Humphry Slocombe, in the Mission District of San Francisco (and a couple of other locations – the Ferry Terminal, and two in the East Bay), has been doing it longer than many (since 2008), and with a lot more panache – some would say nerve. This is a great stop when you’re in the Mission, hanging around for a few days in San Francisco.
What makes Humphry Slocombe unique among the pioneers of taste is not the dedication to premium sourcing – the minimum standard in cuisine-sensitive SF – nor the unusual combinations. It’s not even the unorthodox, not traditionally dessert-friendly ingredients – like prosciutto, jalapenos, mushrooms, and curry. What makes this place stand apart is the philosophy. Some of their flavors come from a dark – yet still delicious – place, like “Secret Breakfast”: as it turns out, cornflakes and bourbon are actually a natural pairing. “Elvis the Fat Years” – banana with bacon peanut brittle – is a cool re-imagining of the Kings’ legendary favorite sandwich. It’s a little like edible performance art.
San Francisco, California – Mitchell’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Sydney from A World in Reach
San Francisco is home to several yummy ice cream shops, but my favorite is hands-down Mitchell’s Ice Cream. This family-owned shop has been around since 1953 and is now a favorite spot among locals and tourists visiting the city.
Mitchell’s features 40 flavors each day, with everything from your traditional flavors to unique ones like avocado and “halo halo,” based on a traditional Filipino dessert. All of the choices are delicious, but Mitchell’s really shines with its tropical fruit flavors. The shop imports different exotic fruits from the Philippines, and their mango ice cream is the shop’s best-seller. If you’d prefer something more traditional, you can’t go wrong with their chocolate – it’s creamy, delicious, and tastes just like a fudge pop from your childhood!
Best Ice Cream Shops in Colorado
Denver, Colorado – Little Man Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Kiersten from Hiking In My Flip Flops
You can’t miss the location of Little Man Ice Cream, which sits at the base of a 28-foot tall cream in Denver’s Highland neighborhood. The ice cream shop is open year round, but that doesn’t stop people from lining up for a scoop – or two – of their small-batch creations even in the colder months.
There’s always something new at Little Man Ice Cream, and almost always made with locally-sourced ingredients, including nearby craft breweries. Ice cream lovers can catch flavors like chocolate stout, Girl Scout cookie, and King Cake-inspired flavors. The always-delicious flavors are changing so often, that you’ll only find them on the menu at the shop.
Want a little more of Denver’s unique ice cream spot? Hit up their nearby factory to purchase pints, take a tour, or join in one of their ice cream events.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Connecticut
Newtown, Connecticut – Ferris Acres Creamery
Taste-Tested by Margie from DQ Family Travel
Ferris Acres Creamery in Newtown, Connecticut has some of the best ice cream in the country. This family run farm makes their ice cream in house from the herd of cows dating back to the 1950s. Their ice cream is among the creamiest and smoothest I have ever eaten.
Ferris Acres Creamery has over 40 flavors at any given time, and they always have a few seasonal flavors. Among the most popular are pumpkin cookies and cream, strawberry, salty cow, campfire, and reindeer food. Their waffle cones are also made fresh every day. Ferris Acres is a must-visit for any ice cream aficionado, as it offers guests a farm-fresh ice cream experience.
Best Ice Cream in DC
Washington, DC – Ice Cream Jubilee
Taste-Tested by Sarah from Roadmaps and Restaurants
There are many different ice cream options in Washington D.C. but nothing beats an ice cream cone from Ice Cream Jubilee.
Ice Cream Jubilee offers three locations throughout the city – in the Navy Yard, Logan Circle, and in the Ballston Quarter Market in Arlington, VA. All of the locations serve delicious ice cream flavors like the Banana Bourbon Caramel, Cookies and Cookie Dough, and Honey Lemon Lavender.
In addition to the classic flavors, there are often rotating flavors! Around the Lunar New Year, themed flavors include Matcha Green Tea, Citrus Sichuan Peppercorn and Red Bean Almond Cookie among others. Ice Cream Jubilee also offers a mix of dairy and vegan flavors so there is something for everyone! Heading to D.C. soon? Check out this three day itinerary!
Best Ice Cream Shops in Florida
Coral Springs, Florida – Cherry Smash
Taste-Tested by Donna from Explore the Road with Donnamarie
Cherry Smash, located at 8000 Wiles Road in Coral Springs, is more than just an ice cream shop. With flavors like Superman (blue, red, and yellow) and Cookie Monster (bright blue) the shop appeals to all ages.
My favorite flavor is Cotton Candy, which is served with a tuft of actual cotton candy. However, the main attraction is the whimsical memorabilia that decorates the place. See life-size superheroes, Marilyn Monroe over the subway grate, and Al Capone. Two miniature trains run on tracks around the ceiling which is a mosaic of photos. A flat-screen TV plays Happy Days reruns above memorabilia from the movie Grease. Characters from The Wizard of Oz revolve on a miniature carousel. This shop is a must-see for the endless antiques and memorabilia.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Sloan’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Michelle from That Texas Couple
You cannot have a list of the best ice cream shops in the USA and not include Sloan’s Ice Cream. While Sloan’s has many locations, we especially love visiting their location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (more specifically Lauderdale by the Sea). The minute you walk into Sloan’s you know that you are in for a treat. The bright colors of the shop greet you as the smell of fresh-baked cookies and delicious ice cream waft through the air.
Known for their fun and funky flavors, Sloan’s has something for everyone! They use fresh ingredients to create flavors such as banana, raspberry, and coffee bean. While these flavors are great, the fun flavor concoctions draw us to Sloan’s. They use real peach cobbler pieces in their peach cobbler ice cream, and chunks of carrot cake and fresh walnuts in their carrot cake ice cream! You can have your choice of flavors in a cone, cup, sundae, or a delicious ice cream cookie sandwich! No matter what flavor you choose, Sloan’s will not disappoint!
In addition to Lauderdale by the Sea, Sloan’s Ice Cream has locations throughout South Florida as well as shops in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Sarasota, Florida – Big Olaf Creamery
Taste-Tested by Susan Berk Koch from her Science Blog
There’s no better place to eat ice cream than in sunny Florida! If you want to eat the best, go to Big Olaf Creamery, located in Sarasota. Every tub is hand mixed in their small creamery and taken to their four locations. St. Armand’s Circle on Lido Key, Siesta Key village, downtown Venice, and in Lakewood Ranch.
Creating perfect ice cream is a science. The key to their smooth, creamy consistency is high butterfat, made from fresh cream produced from their own cows in an Amish village near Sarasota. Their must-try flavor is Kahlua Crunch. Kahlua ice cream is swirled with mocha chips and chocolate flakes for a perfect balance. Sadly, this flavor is not for dogs so my boy Louie can’t eat it. But you can! This stuff is amazing.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Georgia
Savannah, Georgia – Leopold’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Sydney from A World in Reach
Savannah, Georgia is one of my favorite cities in the USA, but it’s no secret that it is HOT in the summer. The best way to cool off? A scoop (or two) of ice cream from Leopold’s!
Located on Broughton Street in Savannah’s beautiful Historic District, Leopold’s Ice Cream has been serving up scoops for over a century. Leopold’s Ice Cream is a super popular spot, and there’s almost always a line to get in. Don’t let the line scare you away though – it moves pretty fast (plus, it must be pretty good if there’s a long line, right?).
Leopold’s always has more than 20 flavors on their standard menu in addition to a rotation of seasonal specialties. The shop’s most popular flavors include Tutti Frutti (rum-flavored ice cream with candied fruit and roasted Georgia pecans), rum bisque (rum-flavored ice cream mixed with almond macaroons), Savannah Socialite (milk and dark chocolate ice cream with Georgia pecans and bourbon-infused caramel), and lemon custard (lemon ice cream with lemon zest – perfect on a hot summer day). No matter which flavor you choose, you can’t go wrong!
Best Ice Cream Shops in Massachusetts
Cambridge, Massachusetts – Toscanini’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Tegan + Alex from Why Not Walk Travel Guides
Once called the “best ice cream in the world” by the New York Times, Toscanini’s is a must-try if you’re visiting the Boston area. Located in the Central Square area of Cambridge, Massachusetts, right near the waterfront, it’s easy to stop by if you’re visiting downtown Boston or the nearby Harvard or MIT campuses.
Toscanini’s has been a much-loved member of the community since 1981 and has won many, many “Best of Boston” awards. Tosci’s updates their offerings daily, and is known for pushing the envelope flavors-wise, dreaming up concoctions like miso chocolate, goat’s cheese brownie, and most importantly, B3. B3 is a must-try at Tosci’s– the 3 B’s in question being browned butter, brown sugar, and brownies. While certainly decadent, this is their most famous flavor for good reason, and you should absolutely try it while you’re here.
Northampton, Massachusetts – Herrell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler
If you are looking for bold flavors in ice cream, be sure to visit Herrell’s Homemade Ice Cream Shop. Even though it’s tucked into a small side street in the city of Northampton in Western Massachusetts, Herrell’s has a big history.
In 1973, Steve Herrell revolutionized the ice cream industry by introducing low air, gourmet ice cream to the public. Herrell’s is also credited with the introduction of “smoosh ins”, broken-up cookies and candies added to the ice cream. The practice has become popular in most ice cream shops today.
Herrell’s rotates 300 flavors for sale throughout the year. Don’t miss the local favorites Cider Donut or Spicy Jalapeno. For novelty, try Date Almond Halva with its Middle Eastern flavor of sesame ice cream with almonds and dates mixed in. There are also No-Moo dairy-free “ice creams” available. However, whatever you taste, each Herrell’s flavor is velvety and delicious.
Best Ice Cream Shops in New York
New York City – Serendipity 3
Taste-Tested by Vanessa Gordon from East End Taste Magazine
Serendipity 3 is an iconic NYC restaurant based in Manhattan’s Upper East Side on 60th Street. Serendipity 3 is famous for its deliciously over-the-top ice cream sundaes. Since its original opening in 1954, it has been the setting for three major holiday productions and has entertained celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Any Warhol, Grace Kelly, Cher, and many others throughout the years.
Serendipity 3 is most famous for their Frrrozen Hot Chocolate (also available in Peanut Butter and Mint), the Outrageous Banana Split, Drug Store Sundaes, Strawberry Fields Sundae, and of course the Golden Opulence Sundae. That $1,000 sundae is made with three scoops of Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream, edible gold, and many more grand toppings that requires at least a 48-hour advanced notice as the ingredients “must be flown in from different parts of the world,” according to owner Stephen Bruce. Make sure to add a trip to Serendipity 3 to your NYC bucket list!
New York City – TAIYAKI NYC
Taste-Tested by Rachel & Dana Reed from Traveling Found Love
TAIYAKI NYC is located in the midst of Manhattan’s Chinatown. This unique ice cream shop features the Japanese culture with its one-of-a-kind taiyaki waffle cone which represents the cherished Tai fish.
For a classic taste, go for the beautifully decorated ‘Unicorn Taiyaki’ with vanilla ice cream, unicorn horn, ears, and sprinkles to really emphasize the flavors of the red bean taiyaki cone. If you are looking for something special, try the ‘Straight out of Japan’. – a red bean taiyaki cone filled with matcha (green tea) and hojicha ice cream topped with a wafer stick and mochi.
TAIYAKI NYC’s rare flavors, fancy creations, and one of a kind waffle cone will have ice cream lovers coming back for more. It is hard to beat the unique experience and taste this shop has to offer so make sure to add it to your NYC itinerary!
Best Ice Cream Shops in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Bassett’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Lauren from Where the Wild Kids Wander
The next time you are in Philadelphia, head over to the Reading Terminal Market for a special treat. Bassett’s Ice Cream, one of the best ice cream shops in the USA, has been selling its delicious ice cream to Philadelphia visitors since 1885! The shop moved into the historic Reading Terminal Market at 12th and Market Streets in 1892 and has been there ever since.
This family-owned and operated business continues to sell some of its classic flavors and some unique options like green tea, pistachio, and peach. Grab a cone to go, or sit at the counter while you enjoy a hand-made milkshake. And while you’re there, have fun perusing all of the food booths at the Reading Terminal Market, a “must-visit” when you are in Philadelphia!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Franklin Fountain
Taste-Tested by Laura from Guide to Philly
Located in the city’s most historic section, Franklin Fountain is the top spot for ice cream in Philadelphia. It’s normal for the line at this old-school-style soda fountain to extend down the block when the weather is nice (and at unexpected times, too, such as New Year’s Day).
Most of the 20+ flavors served at Franklin Fountain have a local tie. The chocolate for their chocolate chip comes from a 125-year-old company with Philadelphia roots, and their coffee ice cream is made with an espresso extract from a roastery in the northwest section of the city. Their seasonal peppermint stick includes peppermint candy from the confectionery down the block that dates from 1863. The examples go on.
From their broken heart sundae on Valentine’s Day to their red, white, and blue birthday cake ice cream for Benjamin Franklin’s birthday, there is always something new and special at Franklin Fountain.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Weckerly’s Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Jan from Leisurely Drives
Located in Philadelphia’s popular Fishtown area on Girard Avenue, Weckerly’s Ice Cream is a favorite among the locals. It is quite low profile and if you do not look for it, you might walk past it.
It’s hard to choose from their enticing flavors with interesting names such as Ramble Tamble, Raspberry Lime, Chill Chocolate, Butterscotch Plum, and more. Their most popular ice creams are the sandwiches or mini sandwiches (set of six) with colorful ice cream sandwiched between butter cookies. Of course, they have the usual scoops and pints both in cups and cones, and popsicles too! Their unique ‘Pie Buddy’ is worth a try with the perfect hint of citrus along with chunks of cornbread croutons and caramel.
The shop itself is very compact and has just about four chairs, a table, a long counter, but the service is super fast with cheerful staff. If you are passing through the City of Brotherly Love, please check out Weckerly’s!
Best Ice Cream Shops in South Carolina
Greenville, South Carolina – Molly and Myles Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Candice Steele from CSGinger
This kid-friendly ice cream shop is known for their quirky, over-imaginative menu! If fact, the owners have said that their store was designed by children, for children. Their menu is always changing but it isn’t uncommon to find cones dipped in Cap’n Cruch or Trix. The cereal cones are one of the best things to try at Molly and Myles Ice Cream.
Molly and Myles work with local farmers and dairies for the freshest and most creative flavors. Along with their rotating ice cream flavors, be sure to check out the Cereal Killer pie. If you’re visiting on a Tuesday, keep an eye out for the superheroes who visit.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah – MONKEYWRENCH
Taste-Tested by Laurel from Bay Rosemary
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, MONKEYWRENCH offers creative and classic flavors for the person looking for delicious ice cream. It is the premier ice cream shop downtown, offering classic flavors such as rocky road and mint chip. Grab a scoop of chocolate orange honeycomb in a cup or waffle cone (made on-site) and take a pint back home for later.
If you want something more, add a latte, caramel peanut butter cup, or milkshake to your order. Flavors change seasonally, offering add-ons such as “bloody” strawberry sauce during Halloween, or conversation heart cookies on Valentine’s Day. Those with dietary restrictions can easily navigate the menu as common allergens are updated regularly. MONKEYWRENCH creates all their ice cream with high-quality ingredients and is a must-try on your visit to Salt Lake City, Utah. The best part? You will never even realize the entire menu is dairy-free.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Virginia
Chincoteague, Virginia – Island Creamery
Taste-Tested by The Directionally Challenged Traveler
One of the best things to do in Chincoteague, Virginia is to stop at Island Creamery after a day at the beach! Indulge in homemade small-batch ice cream made from local dairy milk. Located at 6243 Maddox Boulevard in Chincoteague, it’s easy to get to.
With over 28 flavors available year-round and even more available seasonally, ice cream lovers will be ecstatic for the variety. From Apple Cider Sorbet to Lucky Charms, or classic flavors like Chocolate or Butter Pecan – there’s something for everyone. Island Creamery even has vegan ice cream available. If you’ve gotten your fill of ice cream, don’t worry – they also have milkshakes, root beer floats, and ice cream cake slices (or full cakes!)
Best Ice Cream Shops in Washington
Seattle, Washington – Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream
Taste-Tested by Tracy from Sunshine and Vine
Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream has been an area favorite since 2008. The adorable original shop is located in the quirky Seattle neighborhood of Wallingford. The building’s small size along with the knowledge that all ice cream scooped here is made out back invokes thoughts of elves working feverishly to fulfill wishes of patrons out front.
The menu is compact as well with expected flavors of chocolate and strawberry along with the unexpected. Try Rose Milk Tea or Honey Lavender, both offer surprisingly smooth flavor. Or Salted Carmel and Union Coffee, both packed with savory goodness. Better yet, try a tasting flight. The flight includes miniature scoops of every flavor offered (about 14) and is accompanied by a tasting chart. What a fun experience!
Look for other equally unique Molly Moon’s locations around the city of Seattle. One is tucked into a Madrona neighborhood laundromat. For more Seattle area attractions, see my Seattle Travel Guide.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Wyoming
Jackson, Wyoming – Cream + Sugar
Taste-Tested by Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia
If you find yourself in Jackson, WY, you should try some ice cream from Cream + Sugar. We tried some ice cream and mini ice cream sandwiches at a small store right across from the Jackson Main Square. Originally started by a Fine Dining Restaurant Group to serve in their restaurants, you can find them in many places in Wyoming. The ice cream sandwiches got so popular that local grocers around town in Jackson carry them.
Cream + Sugar’s artisan ice creams are hand-made using milk and cream from local farms and the cookies are baked daily. Don’t miss the huckleberry ice cream and salted caramel sandwich ice creams.
These ice cream shops are among the best in the USA. From classic favorites like chocolate or cookies and cream to unique creations like passionfruit cacao or red bean almond cookie, these tasty ice cream shops will satisfy your craving (and make you want to come back for more!).
Which shops to do want to add to your ice cream bucket list?
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