20 of Our Favorite Ice Cream Shops in the U.S., From East Coast to West Coast

By Amelia Woolard

Ice cream has a neat and complex history, stretching back to the second century B.C., although there is no exact date or inventor credited with its discovery. It’s been said that historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Marco Polo, and King Charles I adored ice cream, sherbet, and its other frozen variants. It didn’t take very long for the dessert to show up in America, either. In the summer of 1790, President George Washington even reportedly spent 200-dollars on ice cream (with inflation rates—that’s more like 5,500-dollars) …hm, sounds like something we’d do, honestly.

Today, the intense love and devotion for ice cream continues with many popular ice cream parlors popping up nationwide. While apple pie may be the most traditionally American dessert, it’s always served with a scoop of cool and creamy vanilla ice cream. So, there’s really no denying that people go absolutely nuts for ice cream, and what better time to enjoy it, then in the summertime when temperatures are at their warmest? Plus, you have plenty of extra time since school is out right now. Get your fix of one of America’s favorite desserts, while the season for it is in full swing. With so many popular ice cream destinations across the United States, uCribs wanted to show our *summer love* for these 20 ice cream shops!

Wild Scoops

Location: Anchorage, Alaska

Nearest University: University of Alaska Anchorage

Nestled in Anchorage, Alaska, Wild Scoops crafts freshly made batches of ice cream daily. Ask the locals, and they’ll probably tell you that their wildly delicious treats are what sets them apart from the competition. Throughout the summer, you can indulge in seasonal favorites, such as the Rhubarb Crumble, which incorporates ribbons of Anchorage-born jam. No matter what your ice cream craving might look like today, Wild Scoops is always concocting something new!

Sweet Republic

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona

Nearest University: Arizona Christian University

From the scorching heat to the constant need to stay hydrated, it’s no question why Arizona is considered to be one of the hottest states in America. So, why not treat yourself to a deserved scoop of award-winning artisan ice cream from Sweet Republic? Sweet Republic uses fresh, local ingredients to create original flavors like Madagascar Vanilla, Blueberry Cheesecake, and Almond Buttercrunch, which keep you cool for the summer. We encourage you to set some time aside soon and bond with friends over the pleasure of exceptional ice cream at Sweet Republic!

Paradis Sherman Oaks

Location: Los Angeles, California

Nearest University: University of California, Los Angeles

Paradis Sherman Oaks has been crafting fresh ice cream since 2000. Because the shop insists on doing things the “Paradis Way,” Paradis Sherman Oaks has become a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Made with zero artificial ingredients, Paradis Sherman Oaks still doesn’t skip a beat with their eclectic assortment of flavors, including Amarena Chip, Banana Sundae, and Mango Cheesecake. They even boast soft-serve yogurt, sorbet, and vegan options for those with specific dietary needs or preferences. So, grab a spoon and get ready to enjoy your favorite sweet treat under the sun.

The Magic Cow

Location: Davie, Florida

Nearest University: Nova Southeastern University

The former location of the Museum of Ice Cream pop-up features one of the sweetest ice cream shops you’ll find in the USA. Magic Cow keeps locals buzzing with excitement over their award-winning chocolate ice cream, which pairs perfectly with their decadent chocolate cake. Even better, their menu extends to more than just ice cream with cupcakes, cakes, and truffles that will win you over in a heartbeat. But, if you prefer to keep your eye on the prize, opt for some of their fruiter flavors, like Pink Bubblegum, Key Lime, and Strawberry Cotton Candy. Trust us, The Magic Cow is the epitome of ice cream heaven!

Scream’n Nuts

Location: Alpharetta, Georgia

Nearest University: DeVry University

On the streets of Alpharetta in the summertime, you’ll always see someone sporting some kind of ice cream to keep them cool from the Georgian heat. Scream’n Nuts is the go-to destination for that very ice cream. The shop is a twist on the modern ice cream shop, however, incorporating donuts into their creative Donut Cone and Loaded Donut Shake concoctions. These two treats alone are guaranteed to please your sweet tooth. There’s even Donut Bread Pudding, drizzled with salted caramel and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If the thought of this alone doesn’t excite you, what else in life will?

Bubbie’s Ice Cream

Location: Honolulu, Hawaii

Nearest University: Hawaiʻi Pacific University

Brace yourselves for the perfect, creamy treat from Bubbie’s Ice Cream. Located in the tropical destination of Honolulu, Bubbie’s Ice Cream prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to whip up batches of their signature flavors. And, have you heard of their special menu staple? Well, it’s Bubbie’s Green Tea mochi that really sets them apart! Wrapped in sweetened rice confection, after one taste, you’ll quickly put two and two together and realize why Bubbie’s Ice Cream is so irresistible to locals and tourists of the island.

Panhandle Cone & Coffee

Location:  Sandpoint, Idaho

Nearest University: University of Idaho

Do you love ice cream, but are also a self-declared coffee addict? If this sounds like you, head on over to Sandpoint’s favorite ice cream joint, Panhandle Cone & Coffee. Offering a surplus of surprising combinations, it’s your one-stop for flavorful options, like Salted Caramel & Brown Butter Cookie and Buttermilk Buckleberry. If you crave a chocolatey decadence, their menu features mouthwatering chocolate ice cream distributed from the tropics of Tanzania. Additionally, their espresso drinks are made with locally roasted beans from Evans Brothers Coffee. Whether you choose to satisfy your ice cream or coffee craving, their menu is where it’s at!

Covered Bridge Creamery

Location: Long Grove, Illinois

Nearest University: University of St. Mary of the Lake

While Illinois may be known for its Chicago-style pizza, there’s just one place you can’t forget when visiting the Windy City, and that’s Covered Bridge Creamery. Covered Bridge Creamery is a cozy shop in Long Grove that prioritizes wowing their customers with super premium ice cream. Are you planning a special on or off-campus event? Covered Bridge Creamery also has a Build Your Own Sundae Bar, which boasts an interactive experience for your next party! Between a chill atmosphere and a vast selection of flavors, there’s no question as to why they make our list of favorite ice cream shops.

Sundae’s Ice Cream & Coffee

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana

Nearest University: University of Indianapolis

Whether you prefer crunchy, creamy, or fruity, Sundae’s Ice Cream & Coffee has served a plethora of scoops suitable for every ice cream personality since 1995. There are several menu favorites, such as the Graham Central Station, which consists of graham cracker flavored ice cream and chocolate chunks. It will transport you to a late-night bonfire with friends—far from the bustling streets of Indianapolis. Prefer coffee? Well, you came to the right place. Sundae’s offers a variety of 18 coffee beans to choose from. With so much care and consideration for their product, it’s no wonder why Sundae’s Ice Cream & Coffee has been around 25 years and counting!

Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge

Location: Lexington, Kentucky

Nearest University: University of Kentucky

Thought you’ve seen it all when it comes to ice cream shops? Well, Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge isn’t your typical ice cream parlor. Offering a wide range of flavors— such as a Strawberry Balsamic Sundae— and homemade waffle cones, they set the bar high within a chic, industrial setting. In receiving positive reviews in USA Today, Southern Living, Lexington Herald-Leader, and Eat Kentucky, their incorporation of local and exotic ingredients into their final product has become increasingly clear. Staying true to their deliciously unique flavor profiles, Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge makes ice cream that is booming with flavor!

Creole Creamery

Location:  New Orleans, Louisiana

Nearest University: Tulane University (Uptown) / University of New Orleans (Lakeview)

Bourbon Street, Audubon Zoo, Café Du Monde… you may think you have seen the best of New Orleans, but have you discovered the one sweet haven that keeps crowds raving? Creole Creamery has taken American ice cream classics and turns them into local favorites. Whether you want to indulge in a classic Vanilla scoop or seasonal favs, such as Pear & Balsamic Caramel or Goat Cheese & Mission Fig, these old-school ice cream parlors (with one location Uptown and another in Lakeview) continue to prove their status as a New Orleans staple—just be prepared to wait in line for some of the deliciousness.

Cindy’s Donuts & Ice Cream

Location: Kentwood, Michigan

Nearest University: Davenport University

Did someone say donuts and ice cream? Yep, you heard us right! Cindy’s Donuts & Ice Cream is taking Michigan by the storm with their combination of homemade donuts and refreshing scoops of ice cream.  Just think about how well the creaminess of the ice cream pairs with the crispy, doughiness of the donut ringlets. If you ask us, it’s definitely a dessert upgrade. Once you visit, you’ll have a new view on ice cream for breakfast, meaning you might as well just accept the inevitable.

Betty Rae’s Ice Cream

Location: Kansas City, Missouri

Nearest University: University of Missouri-Kansas City

Turning basic satisfaction into pure infatuation, Betty Rae’s Ice Cream meets every ice cream lovers’ chillingly ridged expectations. Creating memorable experiences for both Kansas City residents and visitors, Betty Rae’s Ice Cream features over 25 creative, homemade flavors, including Blueberry Maple Pancake, Jasmine Green Tea, Chile Mango, and Chocolate Brownie. You can even enjoy fizzy floats, fudgy sundaes, delicious ice cream sandwiches, and creamy milkshakes. It’s seriously nothing short of a 5-star rating from us here at uCribs!

Coneflower Creamery

Location: Omaha, Nebraska

Nearest University: University of Nebraska

When you feel like you’re out of options for the perfect ice cream parlor, Coneflower Creamery will quickly change your mind. Coneflower Creamery boasts a comfy, modern setting and offers an abundance of ice cream flavors using farm-fresh ingredients. From traditional flavors to seasonal, your unique palate will feel represented, whether you prefer Vanilla Bean, Cookies and Cream, Dark Chocolate, or Salted Caramel. Their rainbow sprinkles are even baked in-house! It simply cannot get much more magical than that.

Steve’s Homemade Ice Cream

Location: Fernley, Nevada

Nearest University: University of Nevada, Reno

When you think of Nevada, you probably imagine the extremely hot conditions of the surrounding deserts, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But, there’s a cure to the ailment that is dry heat, and it’s Steve’s Homemade Ice Cream. Steve’s Homemade Ice Cream is the one place where you can cool down with a double scoop of creamy ice cream, which is sure to take your mood from 0 to 100 in a second-flat. If the ice cream isn’t enough, the shop also serves Italian Ice throughout the summer months, as well as soft-serve yogurt, cakes, and pies year-round. Make your sweet tooth dreams come true at this truly unforgettable ice cream parlor!

Alleyway Ice Cream

Location: Saugerties, New York

Nearest University: Bard College

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Alleyway Ice Cream is here to curb some of your cravings. With an assortment of flavors—including vegan options—that range from Madagascar Vanilla to Honey Butter Pecan, Alleyway Ice Cream offers up some of the best of ice cream in New York. Their Sweet Potato Pie flavor with maple glazed walnuts is one of our absolute favorites, and you don’t want us to even begin on how absolutely mouthwatering the Sweet Tea Ice Cream with Homemade Peach Mint Jam is. As you’ll soon discover, you really can’t go wrong in making a quick stop at Alleyway Ice Cream!

Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream

Location: Cleveland, Ohio

Nearest University: Cleveland State University

Believe it or not, Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream is hard to miss if you’ve ever driven around Cleveland. The gleaming, bright lights and welcoming logo immediately captures your attention before you can even make your way into the shop’s entrance. As for their menu, there’s something so original about it, sporting locally-grown ingredients such as rhubarb and berries. If you prefer chocolate to fruit, the chocolate for their ice cream is delivered directly from the Ivory Coast and Ghana!  If this fact alone isn’t incredible enough, then we’re not quite sure what would impress you!

Rose Rock Microcreamery

Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Nearest University: The University of Tulsa

Rose Rock Microcreamery has completely changed the game for ice cream lovers in Tulsa. While you may be used to your favorites such as Cookie Dough and Mint Chocolate Chip, Rose Rock Microcreamery offers unique flavors, like Lavender Honey, Chamomile Peach, and Strawberry Candied Pecan. Their cones alone will urge you to toss out store-bought tubs and stick with the artisan stuff—just imagine the warmth of their homemade waffle cones after being freshly made per order. It’s enough to convert you, no? Whatever your ice cream cravings happen to demand, you’ll leave Rose Rock Microcreamery satisfied and already thinking about your next trip.

Hurry Back Ice Cream

Location: Portland, Oregon

Nearest University: University of Portland

Are you tired of the typical offering of ice cream flavors? We get it! We’ve all experienced the scenario when you’re standing in line at your favorite shop, and nothing is sticking out to you since you’ve been there time and again. But, this isn’t a normal occurrence at Hurry Back Ice Cream in Portland. At this ice cream parlor, you’ll find every flavor from Mandarin Chocolate to Lingoberry. You can even choose to dazzle up your scoop with popular toppings, such as rainbow sprinkles, whipped cream, or caramel sauce. Isn’t having choices just the best?

Arctic Scoop

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Nearest University: University of Pennsylvania

Aside from its traditional Philly Cheesesteaks, Philadelphia has made its mark in the food scene through its ice cream— specifically, a little shop by the name of Arctic Scoop. At Artic Scoop, your sweetest dreams will come true with an array of ultra-creamy ice cream, from Midnight Vanilla and Lavender to Lychee Rose with Rainbow Mochi—all served in a ultra-crunchy waffle cone. If you want to make your experience tropical, you can choose to have your ice cream served in a half coconut shell, as well. Who says you can’t enjoy a little paradise in Philly?

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