It might be the smallest state in the United States, but you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the best ice cream in Rhode Island.
The Ocean State sure knows how to whip up some delicious frozen treats. From classic cones and creamy gelato to home-churned ice cream and delightful sundaes, here’s my scoop of Rhode Island’s best ice cream.
Sunshine or rain, head to these spots for some sweet treats that will have you craving for more.
Lincoln Creamery
The Lincoln Creamery deserves to be atop the list of the best places for sumptuous ice cream in the state. Ask any Rhode Islander and most likely they’ll tell you the same.
They have over 50 ice cream flavors, you’ll definitely find your favorite flavors here to satisfy your sweet tooth. Choose from their hard ice cream, soft serve, or frozen yogurt for a sweet treat, or combine any flavors for the perfect milkshakes, sundaes, or banana splits. They also have some great dairy-free options as well: oat milk-based Simply Vanilla, Classic Cookie, and Chocolate Chunk or Raspberry Sorbet.
- Lincoln Creamery, 276 Front St, Lincoln, RI 02865
Newport Creamery
Among the many local shops in Rhode Island, Newport Creamery has made its mark since its opening in 1928. From a Milk Bar serving ice cream in 1940 to becoming a state-famous institution, it’s seems to have always been there.
Whether it’s their thick ice cream shakes dubbed Awful Awful, sundaes, or ice cream sandwiches, there’s something for everyone to relish here. With ‘Good Mood Food,’ Newport Creamery is a family favorite across Rhode Island, offering delicious food and some of the best scoops of ice cream. If you’re up for a challenge, try their Holy Cow! Sundae (10 scoops of ice cream, four toppings, banana wheels, and walnuts).
- Newport Creamery, multiple locations
Frosty Freez
Add Frosty Freez to your list of summer places! Well-known among the Aquidneck Island residents since 1956, this old-fashioned shop with walk-up windows is a great place to find some excellent ice cream. Get the best ice cream sandwich, sundae, Nor’Easter, or banana split at Frosty Freez; you won’t be disappointed.
Classic flavors in soft serve and hard ice cream, vegan and sugar-free options, fro-yo, sherbet, and sorbet; they have it all and more. Their sundae toppings and cone coatings take the ice cream to the edge, whether it’s scoops of vanilla ice cream or Play-dough (yes, they have this flavor).
Frosty Freez, 496 E Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842
The Wright Scoop
Taking pride in being Rhode Island’s only cow-to-cone ice cream, you can’t go wrong with any flavor at The Wright Scoop. An ice cream parlor in the form of a Streamliner with one located right next to their dairy farm and bakery, what you pick from the take-out window is bound to be of the highest quality.
While this scoop shop may not have too many choices, they have genuine homemade flavors from the freshest local ingredients. From the creamy Coffee ice cream and Tractor Tracks (vanilla ice cream with a thick caramel swirl, Oreo pieces, and crushed peanut butter cups) to the delightfully colorful Unicorn and Mint Chip, it’s a treat for any hot summer day.
- The Wright Scoop, 200 Woonsocket Hill Rd, North Smithfield, RI 02896
Gray’s Ice Cream
Serving old-fashioned homemade ice cream since 1923, Gray’s Ice Cream is an award-winning shop that has also appeared multiple times in the Rhode Island Monthly Magazine.
Apart from the classic flavors, you can dig into the more summery flavors like Blueberry, Lemon, and Orange Pineapple. Their seasonal flavors include Pumpkin and Eggnog. It doesn’t stop there; they also have yogurts, seasonal sherbets, sugar-free options, and some specials (try the Apple Caramel Spice).
- Gray’s Ice Cream, 16 E Rd, Tiverton, RI 02878
The Inside Scoop
Were you looking to try any new flavors? With over 64 delicious homemade ice cream flavors, you’re bound to find something new at The Inside Scoop. This award-winning place offers flavors like Apple Pie, Bing Cherry, Chocolate Coconut Almond, Ginger, Health Bar, Peppermint Stick, and Sweet Cream.
Smoothies, Parfaits, Ice Cream Cakes, and homemade waffle cones – you’ll be spoilt for choice here.
- The Inside Scoop, 30 Ten Rod Road, North Kingstown, RI 02852
Atomic Blonde Ice Cream truck
Atomic Blonde Ice Cream Truck
Atomic Blonde Ice Cream Truck is a retro-inspired dessert experience on wheels, beloved for its inventive approach to classic frozen treats. Known for its edgy aesthetic and creative flair, the truck roams Rhode Island, bringing artisanal ice cream and sorbet to neighborhood streets, local events, and private parties.
Atomic Blonde focuses on bold flavors and high-quality ingredients, offering everything from boozy ice cream creations to vegan and dairy-free options. With a touch of nostalgia and a sprinkle of modern whimsy, it’s the perfect blend of old-school charm and contemporary indulgence.
Cold Fusion Gelato
Nestled in the heart of Newport, Cold Fusion Gelato brings a taste of Italy to the bustling Thames Street. This family-owned gem specializes in handcrafted gelato and sorbet made fresh daily using traditional techniques and top-tier ingredients.
Their diverse menu features an impressive array of rotating flavors, from classics like pistachio and stracciatella to inventive options like blackberry cabernet and espresso chip. Whether you’re wandering Newport’s waterfront or taking a break from shopping, Cold Fusion Gelato is an irresistible stop for cooling down.
- Cold Fusion Gelato, 389 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840
Tricycle Ice Cream
Tricycle Ice Cream is a Providence institution renowned for its handcrafted ice cream sandwiches. What began as a mobile ice cream cart pedaling sweet treats around town has evolved into a beloved brick-and-mortar location in Providence’s West End.
Each ice cream sandwich is made with locally sourced ingredients, sandwiched between freshly baked cookies, brownies, or even waffles. Popular combinations include salted caramel ice cream with chocolate chip cookies and seasonal creations that reflect the flavors of Rhode Island.
- Tricycle Ice Cream, 70 Battey St, Providence, RI 02903
The Ice Cream Machine
The Ice Cream Machine is a Rhode Island legend, serving up smiles and scoops since 1977. Located in Cumberland, this family-run shop is famous for its extensive menu of homemade ice cream, with over 40 flavors ranging from the traditional to the extraordinary.
Crowd favorites include the rich and creamy “Death by Chocolate,” fruity “Maine Black Bear,” and refreshing “Lemon Sorbet.” The shop’s charming, old-fashioned ambiance adds to the experience, making it a must-visit destination for ice cream enthusiasts.
- The Ice Cream Machine, 4288 Diamond Hill Rd, Cumberland, RI 02864
Clementine’s
With two welcoming locations in East Greenwich and Middletown, Clementine’s has earned a reputation as one of Rhode Island’s premier ice cream destinations. Known for its small-batch, locally made ice cream, Clementine’s crafts each flavor with care and creativity. Signature offerings like “Sea Salted Caramel” and “Midnight Chocolate” sit alongside seasonal favorites such as “Pumpkin Pie” and “Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp.” Their use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every scoop is bursting with flavor.
- Clementine’s, 2934 South County Trail, East Greenwich and 62 Wave Avenue, Middletown, RI
Rhode Island will satisfy your sweet cravings, anything from premium ice cream to equally delightful offerings from a food truck and everything in between. The beach and ice cream make a smashing combo.
Traveling Elsewhere? Here Are Some Great Ice Cream Shops You Can Try!
