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Ice cream isn’t just a dessert—it’s a universal comfort, a joyful treat that brings people together, no matter the season. Across the U.S., there are countless ice cream parlors that serve up this sweet delight in every imaginable flavor, texture, and style. From old-school classics to modern, innovative creations, these spots offer more than just a scoop—they offer a taste of the local culture and a peek into the creativity of their makers. Whether you’re a fan of the rich, creamy traditional flavors or you’re seeking something bold and unexpected, this list of the top 30 ice cream spots in America will guide you to the best the country has to offer. Get ready to indulge in a coast-to-coast journey of frozen delights!
1. Salt & Straw (Portland, OR)
Salt & Straw is a beacon for ice cream lovers who crave unique and adventurous flavors. What started as a humble cart in Portland has now expanded to multiple cities, but its roots and innovation remain firmly in the Pacific Northwest. Their menu is a constantly evolving experiment, featuring both classic flavors and wild, unexpected combinations. Think Pear & Blue Cheese or Arbequina Olive Oil. Each bite is a journey, offering layers of flavor that surprise and delight. The brand’s commitment to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices also makes it a favorite among eco-conscious consumers. Whether you're visiting during the hot summer months or the chilly Portland winters, a scoop from Salt & Straw is always a good idea.
Why It’s Awesome: Salt & Straw stands out for its creativity and commitment to quality. Their flavors are more than just ice cream—they are culinary experiences. Plus, their seasonal flavors mean there’s always something new to try, ensuring that every visit is a fresh adventure.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 838 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
2. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams (Columbus, OH)
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has redefined what ice cream can be with its artisanal approach. Founded by Jeni Britton Bauer, this Columbus-based ice cream shop focuses on crafting unique, high-quality flavors that resonate with a wide audience. From the rich, nutty flavors of Brown Butter Almond Brittle to the bright, tangy notes of Lemon Buttermilk Frozen Yogurt, Jeni’s offers a diverse range of options that cater to every palate. Each flavor is made with whole ingredients, ensuring that what you taste is the real deal—no synthetic flavors or dyes. The texture is smooth, creamy, and utterly indulgent, making it a favorite among ice cream aficionados across the country.
Why It’s Awesome: Jeni’s commitment to quality and innovation is unmatched. The ice cream is not just about taste; it’s about an experience, where every scoop tells a story of craftsmanship and creativity. Plus, their variety ensures that everyone finds a favorite, whether you’re into the classics or something more experimental.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 714 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
3. Bi-Rite Creamery (San Francisco, CA)
Nestled in San Francisco’s Mission District, Bi-Rite Creamery is a beloved local institution. Known for its smooth, creamy textures and bold flavors, this ice cream shop has a loyal following. Their Salted Caramel is often touted as the best in the city, offering the perfect balance of sweet and salty with a rich, buttery undertone. Bi-Rite’s approach is all about quality over quantity, with each batch made in small quantities to ensure freshness and consistency. The shop also emphasizes sustainable practices, using organic dairy and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re grabbing a scoop to enjoy while strolling through Dolores Park or bringing a pint home for later, Bi-Rite Creamery never disappoints.
Why It’s Awesome: Bi-Rite Creamery is the perfect example of how simple, quality ingredients can create extraordinary ice cream. Their flavors are classic with a twist, and the commitment to sustainability makes every bite taste just a little bit better.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
4. Ample Hills Creamery (Brooklyn, NY)
Ample Hills Creamery, based in Brooklyn, NY, is a whimsical ice cream parlor that celebrates the joy of ice cream with a nostalgic twist. Their flavors are a mix of childhood favorites and modern creativity. Standouts include "The Munchies," a salty-sweet blend of pretzels, potato chips, Ritz crackers, and mini M&Ms in a malted milk base, and "Ooey Gooey Butter Cake," inspired by a beloved St. Louis dessert. The shop’s quirky decor and fun, family-friendly atmosphere make it a perfect spot for kids and adults alike. Ample Hills also prides itself on making everything from scratch, ensuring that each scoop is packed with homemade goodness.
Why It’s Awesome: Ample Hills Creamery is not just about ice cream; it’s about creating memories. Their playful flavors and fun environment make every visit feel like a special occasion, whether you're with friends, family, or just treating yourself.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 623 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
5. Sweet Republic (Scottsdale, AZ)
Sweet Republic in Scottsdale, AZ, is where handcrafted meets creativity. This award-winning ice cream shop is known for its all-natural, small-batch ice creams made from scratch using the finest ingredients. Their innovative flavors, like Honey Blue Cheese and Salted Butter Caramel Swirl, set them apart from the competition. Sweet Republic’s dedication to quality is evident in every scoop, whether you’re indulging in a classic like Vanilla Bean or something more adventurous like their spicy Sichuan Pepper Chocolate. The shop also offers a variety of toppings and mix-ins, all made in-house, to elevate your ice cream experience even further.
Why It’s Awesome: Sweet Republic’s attention to detail and passion for flavor innovation make it a standout in the desert heat. Their ability to blend unusual flavors while maintaining a perfect balance makes each visit a delicious discovery.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 9160 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
6. Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream (Seattle, WA)
Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream is a Seattle institution known for its dedication to sustainability, community, and, of course, incredible ice cream. Founded by Molly Moon Neitzel, this beloved spot offers rich and creamy flavors made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Favorites include Melted Chocolate, Stumptown Coffee, and Earl Grey, each with a smooth texture and intense flavor. The shop also offers vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. Beyond ice cream, Molly Moon’s is committed to social justice, regularly supporting local charities and paying their staff a living wage.
Why It’s Awesome: Molly Moon's is a true Seattle gem that combines delicious ice cream with a strong commitment to the community. The shop’s ethical practices and delicious, innovative flavors make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 1622 1/2 N 45th St, Seattle, WA 98103
7. Leopold's Ice Cream (Savannah, GA)
Leopold's Ice Cream in Savannah, GA, is a charming, old-fashioned ice cream parlor that has been serving up delicious scoops since 1919. The shop’s retro atmosphere, complete with vintage decor and friendly service, transports visitors back in time. Leopold's is famous for its classic flavors like Tutti Frutti, a fruit-studded ice cream that has been a favorite for over a century, and Butter Pecan, which is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Each scoop is made using the original family recipes, ensuring that every bite is a taste of history. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, Leopold’s never disappoints.
Why It’s Awesome: Leopold's is a slice of Americana with a deep-rooted history and flavors that have stood the test of time. The nostalgic ambiance and consistently excellent ice cream make it a must-visit in Savannah.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
8. The Franklin Fountain (Philadelphia, PA)
The Franklin Fountain in Philadelphia, PA, offers a delightful blend of history and indulgence. This old-timey ice cream parlor takes you back to the early 1900s with its vintage soda fountain and handmade ice cream. The shop is known for its traditional American flavors and indulgent sundaes, like the decadent "Mount Vesuvius" with its eruption of hot fudge and malt powder. The ice cream is made in small batches with all-natural ingredients, ensuring a high-quality experience with every visit. The Franklin Fountain also offers dairy-free options, catering to a wide range of ice cream lovers.
Why It’s Awesome: The Franklin Fountain offers more than just ice cream—it’s an experience. The authentic, old-fashioned ambiance paired with rich, creamy ice cream makes this spot a standout in Philly.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 116 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
9. The Bent Spoon (Princeton, NJ)
The Bent Spoon, located in the charming town of Princeton, NJ, is a small shop with a big reputation. Known for its artisan ice cream and sorbet, The Bent Spoon specializes in using local and organic ingredients to create inventive flavors. From Lavender Mascarpone to Avocado, the menu is constantly changing with the seasons, ensuring that every visit offers something new. Their commitment to sourcing fresh, local ingredients from nearby farms not only supports the community but also results in some of the freshest-tasting ice cream you’ll ever have. With a cozy, rustic atmosphere, The Bent Spoon is the perfect place to enjoy a scoop after exploring Princeton’s historic streets.
Why It’s Awesome: The Bent Spoon’s dedication to local, organic ingredients and its ever-changing menu make it a must-visit for foodies and ice cream enthusiasts alike. Each flavor is a reflection of the season and the local terroir.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 35 Palmer Square W, Princeton, NJ 08542
10. Graeter's Ice Cream (Cincinnati, OH)
Graeter's Ice Cream in Cincinnati, OH, is a beloved institution that has been serving up creamy, rich ice cream since 1870. Known for their French pot process, Graeter’s creates dense, smooth ice cream that is packed with flavor. Their Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, featuring massive chunks of dark chocolate in a tangy raspberry base, is legendary and has even earned a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things list. The shop offers a variety of classic and seasonal flavors, all made with the same commitment to quality that has kept customers coming back for over a century. With locations across the Midwest, Graeter's is a regional treasure that’s worth the trip.
Why It’s Awesome: Graeter’s unique French pot process creates a texture and flavor that’s hard to beat. The generous chocolate chunks and rich, creamy base make every scoop a luxurious treat.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 2145 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45202
11. Humphry Slocombe (San Francisco, CA)
Humphry Slocombe is not your average ice cream shop. Located in San Francisco, CA, this spot is known for its bold and quirky flavors that challenge the traditional notions of ice cream. From their infamous "Secret Breakfast," which combines bourbon and cornflakes, to "Government Cheese," a savory-sweet combination, Humphry Slocombe is all about pushing the boundaries. The shop’s irreverent attitude is reflected in both their flavors and their decor, making it a favorite for those who like to keep things interesting. Despite the out-there flavors, every scoop is perfectly balanced, offering a unique taste experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Why It’s Awesome: Humphry Slocombe’s commitment to creativity and flavor innovation sets it apart in the crowded San Francisco ice cream scene. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to try something truly different.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 2790 Harrison St, San Francisco, CA 94110
12. McConnell's Fine Ice Creams (Santa Barbara, CA)
McConnell's Fine Ice Creams in Santa Barbara, CA, is a pioneer in the world of artisan ice cream. Founded in 1949, McConnell’s has been dedicated to making the finest ice cream possible, using Central Coast grass-grazed milk and cream, and organic, sustainable ingredients. Their flavors are rich and indulgent, with options like Eureka Lemon & Marionberries and Sea Salt Cream & Cookies standing out as fan favorites. The ice cream is made in small batches to ensure quality, resulting in a dense, creamy texture that is packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a cone at their flagship shop in Santa Barbara or picking up a pint at a grocery store, McConnell’s delivers a consistently high-quality product.
Why It’s Awesome: McConnell’s commitment to quality and its rich history make it a standout in the artisan ice cream scene. Their flavors are classic yet elevated, offering a luxurious ice cream experience.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 728 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
13. Big Gay Ice Cream (New York, NY)
Big Gay Ice Cream started as a humble ice cream truck in New York City but quickly became a sensation with its fun, flamboyant approach to classic soft serve. Known for its playful toppings and inventive combinations, like the "Salty Pimp" (vanilla ice cream, dulce de leche, sea salt, and chocolate dip), Big Gay Ice Cream offers a fresh, whimsical take on traditional flavors. The shop’s vibrant atmosphere and inclusive ethos have made it a hit with locals and tourists alike. With locations in both the East and West Villages, Big Gay Ice Cream continues to delight customers with its joyful approach to ice cream.
Why It’s Awesome: Big Gay Ice Cream combines nostalgia with creativity, offering fun and delicious soft-serve treats in a vibrant, inclusive environment. It’s a must-visit for anyone in NYC looking for a sweet pick-me-up.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 125 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
14. Creole Creamery (New Orleans, LA)
Creole Creamery in New Orleans, LA, brings the city’s rich culinary traditions to the world of ice cream. Located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood, this charming shop offers a mix of classic and unique flavors that reflect the bold spirit of New Orleans. Favorites include Creole Cream Cheese, a nod to the local delicacy, and Red Velvet Cake, which is as decadent as it sounds. The shop’s old-fashioned parlor vibe adds to the charm, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Creole Creamery also offers an "Ice Cream Challenge"—if you can finish an enormous sundae with 8 scoops and toppings, you get your name on the wall!
Why It’s Awesome: Creole Creamery combines the flavors of New Orleans with the fun and nostalgia of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor. It’s a perfect spot to indulge in something sweet and uniquely Southern.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 4924 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70115
15. Lick Honest Ice Creams (Austin, TX)
Lick Honest Ice Creams in Austin, TX, is all about celebrating Texas with every scoop. This shop prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients to create innovative flavors that reflect the Lone Star State’s diverse landscape. From Roasted Beets & Fresh Mint to Goat Cheese, Thyme & Honey, Lick’s flavors are as unique as they are delicious. The shop’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in their use of compostable packaging and their support of local farmers. With a bright, welcoming atmosphere and flavors that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream, Lick Honest Ice Creams has become a staple in the Austin food scene.
Why It’s Awesome: Lick Honest Ice Creams offers a true taste of Texas, with innovative flavors and a commitment to quality and sustainability. It’s a must-visit for anyone in Austin looking for a sweet, local treat.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 1100 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
16. Amy's Ice Creams (Austin, TX)
Amy’s Ice Creams is an Austin institution, serving up inventive flavors and a whole lot of fun since 1984. Known for their quirky, upbeat vibe and theatrical scoopers who often entertain with tricks and jokes, Amy’s is all about making your ice cream experience as enjoyable as possible. With over 350 rotating flavors, there’s always something new to try, from classic Mexican Vanilla to the adventurous Guinness Ice Cream. They also offer an extensive list of mix-ins, from Oreos to strawberries, allowing you to customize your treat to your heart’s content. With multiple locations around Austin, Amy’s is a must-visit for anyone in the city.
Why It’s Awesome: Amy’s Ice Creams combines creativity, fun, and flavor in a way that few other ice cream shops do. The rotating flavors and customizable options mean there’s something for everyone, every time you visit.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 1301 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
17. Izzy's Ice Cream (St. Paul, MN)
Izzy's Ice Cream in St. Paul, MN, is a beloved local gem known for its high-quality, handcrafted ice creams and the unique "Izzy Scoop"—a small, extra scoop added to each order. This thoughtful touch allows customers to try an additional flavor without committing to a whole scoop. Izzy’s offers a wide variety of flavors, from classics like Vanilla Bean to creative options like Salted Caramel Swirl. The shop is also committed to sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a treat with friends or family.
Why It’s Awesome: The Izzy Scoop is a game-changer for indecisive ice cream lovers, and the shop’s dedication to quality and sustainability makes it a standout in the Twin Cities.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 2034 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104
18. The Penny Ice Creamery (Santa Cruz, CA)
The Penny Ice Creamery in Santa Cruz, CA, is a true artisan ice cream shop where everything is made from scratch, using locally sourced and organic ingredients. The flavors at The Penny are inspired by the seasons, meaning you’ll always find something fresh and unique. From Meyer Lemon to Brown Butter Spiced Pecans, the shop offers a variety of options that showcase the best of what’s in season. The Penny also prides itself on being the only ice cream shop in Santa Cruz that makes its own ice cream base, ensuring that every scoop is as fresh and flavorful as possible.
Why It’s Awesome: The Penny Ice Creamery’s commitment to making everything from scratch with local ingredients results in some of the freshest, most flavorful ice cream you’ll ever taste. Their seasonal approach keeps things exciting, too.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 913 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
19. Toscanini's Ice Cream (Cambridge, MA)
Toscanini’s Ice Cream in Cambridge, MA, has been a local favorite since 1981, known for its rich, creamy texture and inventive flavors. The shop has garnered a cult following thanks to its delicious offerings like Burnt Caramel, B3 (brown butter, brown sugar, and brownies), and Goat Cheese Brownie. Toscanini’s has a cozy, welcoming vibe that makes it a perfect spot for a casual hangout or a post-dinner treat. The shop’s dedication to quality and creativity has earned it numerous awards, including being named "The Best Ice Cream in the World" by The New York Times.
Why It’s Awesome: Toscanini’s has been pushing the boundaries of ice cream flavor for decades, and its commitment to quality has made it a beloved institution in the Boston area. The cozy atmosphere adds to the charm.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 899 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02139
20. Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery (St. Louis, MO)
Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery in St. Louis, MO, offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream with its "naughty" (boozy) and "nice" (alcohol-free) flavors. This small-batch, micro-creamery uses 100% natural ingredients, including local dairy, to craft its decadent, creamy ice creams. Popular flavors include Maple Bourbon with Candied Pecans and Gooey Butter Cake, a nod to a St. Louis classic. The shop’s cozy, vintage-inspired decor adds to the experience, making it a perfect spot to indulge in a little sweet—and possibly spirited—treat.
Why It’s Awesome: Clementine’s offers something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a traditional scoop or something with a boozy kick. The playful flavors and local ingredients make it a standout in the St. Louis dessert scene.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 1637 S 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63104
21. L'Artisan des Glaces (Orlando, FL)
L'Artisan des Glaces, located in the France Pavilion at Epcot in Orlando, FL, offers a touch of European elegance in every scoop. This artisanal ice cream and sorbet shop is known for its rich, creamy textures and exquisite flavors. From classic Vanilla to more adventurous options like Salted Caramel with Butter Biscuits, each flavor is crafted with the finest ingredients. L'Artisan des Glaces also offers an impressive selection of sorbets, perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot Florida day. The charming, French-inspired decor makes the experience even more delightful, transporting you straight to Paris.
Why It’s Awesome: L'Artisan des Glaces brings a taste of France to Florida with its luxurious, handcrafted ice creams and sorbets. The quality and authenticity make it a must-visit for any ice cream lover at Epcot.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
22. Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop (San Francisco, CA)
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop, located in San Francisco’s historic Ghirardelli Square, offers a decadent experience that combines the company’s famous chocolates with rich, creamy ice cream. The shop’s signature sundaes are legendary, with options like the "Hot Fudge Sundae" and "The Gold Rush" (peanut butter and hot fudge) being crowd favorites. Each sundae is generously topped with Ghirardelli’s classic hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry, making for a truly indulgent treat. The shop’s location in Ghirardelli Square adds to the experience, offering stunning views of the bay as you enjoy your dessert.
Why It’s Awesome: Ghirardelli’s combination of premium chocolate and rich ice cream creates a dessert experience that’s hard to beat. The iconic location and indulgent sundaes make it a must-visit in San Francisco.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 900 North Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109
23. Coolhaus (Los Angeles, CA)
Coolhaus in Los Angeles, CA, started as a food truck and quickly became a sensation with its architecturally inspired ice cream sandwiches. The shop offers a variety of ice cream flavors with playful names like "Dirty Mint Chip" and "Balsamic Fig & Mascarpone," all made with high-quality, natural ingredients. What sets Coolhaus apart is its customizable ice cream sandwiches, where you can choose your favorite cookie and ice cream combination. The result is a delicious, handheld treat that’s perfect for enjoying on the go. Coolhaus also offers dairy-free and vegan options, making it accessible to a wide range of dessert lovers.
Why It’s Awesome: Coolhaus takes ice cream sandwiches to the next level with its innovative flavors and customizable options. The playful concept and quality ingredients make it a standout in the LA ice cream scene.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 8588 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
24. Sweet Action Ice Cream (Denver, CO)
Sweet Action Ice Cream in Denver, CO, is known for its bold, inventive flavors and commitment to sustainability. This small-batch ice cream shop uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique flavors like Stranahan’s Whiskey Brickle and Brown Sugar Banana. Sweet Action also offers a wide range of vegan options, made with coconut or almond milk, ensuring that everyone can find something to love. The shop’s minimalist, laid-back vibe makes it a perfect spot to grab a scoop and explore the vibrant South Broadway neighborhood. With its focus on quality and creativity, Sweet Action has become a favorite among Denver locals.
Why It’s Awesome: Sweet Action’s innovative flavors and commitment to sustainability make it a must-visit for any ice cream lover in Denver. The variety of vegan options ensures that there’s something for everyone.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 52 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
25. The Parlour (Durham, NC)
The Parlour in Durham, NC, started as an ice cream truck and quickly gained a following for its rich, handcrafted ice creams. Now housed in a charming downtown location, The Parlour offers a variety of classic and seasonal flavors made from scratch with local ingredients. Favorites include Vietnamese Coffee, Salted Butter Caramel, and unique seasonal offerings like Sweet Corn and Blackberry. The Parlour also offers a selection of vegan ice creams and sorbets, ensuring that everyone can indulge. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to relax with a scoop or two.
Why It’s Awesome: The Parlour’s commitment to quality and local ingredients shines through in every scoop. The variety of flavors, including vegan options, and the warm, inviting space make it a favorite in Durham.
The Gelato Rating: 🍦🍦🍦🍦
Address: 117 Market St, Durham, NC 27701
As we wrap up this ultimate ice cream journey across the U.S., it’s clear that these top 30 spots are more than just places to grab a scoop—they’re destinations where flavor, creativity, and community come together. Whether you’re indulging in a classic vanilla cone or an adventurous, boozy treat, these ice cream parlors are sure to satisfy every craving and leave you with sweet memories. Each spot brings something unique to the table, making it worth the trip for any dessert lover.
Stay tuned for more delicious adventures and cool discoveries from around the country, only at Woke Waves Magazine. Keep your sweet tooth happy, and your love for ice cream alive by exploring these iconic spots.
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