When summer heat hits Louisville, nothing satisfies quite like a cold scoop from one of Derby City’s outstanding ice cream shops. From artisanal small-batch creators to beloved local institutions, here’s our definitive countdown of the best ice cream places in Louisville.
Louisville Cream
Located on E Market St in the vibrant NuLu district, Louisville Cream stands out as the city’s premier artisanal ice cream destination. Their commitment to small batches made with finest ingredients results in exceptionally creamy textures and bold flavors. Their handmade waffle cones are the perfect complement to creative offerings like Brown Butter Sage and Bourbon Smoked Pecan.
The Comfy Cow
This beloved local chain has earned its reputation as a Louisville staple. The Comfy Cow crafts their ice cream using highest quality ingredients, often sourcing from local dairy producers. With multiple locations throughout the city, they’ve perfected classics like vanilla ice cream while daring to experiment with unique flavor combinations. Their double scoop sundaes have converted even the most discerning ice cream critics.
Dairy Kastle
Don’t let its humble appearance fool you – this seasonal walk-up stand has cult status among Louisville residents. Operating since the 1950s, Dairy Kastle serves up nostalgia alongside their famous soft-serve creations. Located just outside downtown Louisville, it’s a must-visit for both its character and consistently delicious treats.
Graeter’s Ice Cream
With their signature French Pot process, Graeter’s produces extraordinarily rich ice cream in small batches. Their Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip has achieved legendary status, featuring massive chunks of gourmet chocolate throughout perfectly smooth ice cream. Their commitment to traditional methods makes each visit to their scoop shop a special occasion.
Ehrler’s Ice Cream
A Louisville tradition since 1867, Ehrler’s represents the city’s ice cream heritage. Recently revived after a hiatus, their homemade ice cream recipes remain largely unchanged from generations past. Located near downtown Louisville, it’s the perfect place to experience a taste of the city’s culinary history.
Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Co.
True to its name, this cherished establishment offers the perfect pairing of homemade ice cream and fresh-baked pies. Using recipes passed down through generations, their ice cream has that distinctive homemade richness that mass-produced varieties simply can’t match. The shop’s warm atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy both their signature ice cream and slice of pie – or better yet, a scoop atop a warm pie slice for the ultimate indulgence.
Gelato Gilberto
Bringing authentic Italian-style gelato to Louisville, Gelato Gilberto offers a sophisticated alternative to traditional ice cream. With lower fat content but richer flavor, their small batch creations showcase both traditional Italian flavors and innovative combinations inspired by local ingredients. The silky texture and intense flavor concentration make this a standout in Louisville’s frozen dessert landscape.
Dairy Del
A Louisville landmark since 1951, Dairy Del continues to serve some of the city’s favorite soft-serve ice cream. This classic walk-up stand maintains the mid-century charm that has made it a local favorite for generations. Their vanilla ice cream serves as the foundation for an impressive array of sundaes, shakes, and floats that transport you straight back to simpler times.
- Address: 1400 S 3rd St, Louisville, KY 40208
The Barrel of Fun Ice Cream
This whimsical ice cream shop lives up to its name with both its playful atmosphere and creative flavors. The Barrel of Fun specializes in super-premium ice cream made in small batches using local dairy and seasonal ingredients. Their rotating flavor selection ensures there’s always something new to try, while their commitment to quality keeps customers returning throughout the year.
Valley Dairy Freeze
A southern Louisville institution, Valley Dairy Freeze has been serving the community for decades with consistently excellent frozen treats. Their soft-serve is legendary among locals, and their generous portions ensure you get your money’s worth. The no-frills approach focuses on what matters most – delicious ice cream at reasonable prices in a family-friendly setting.
Whether you prefer your ice cream crafted in small batches with artisanal flair or served with a side of nostalgia from a time-honored establishment, Louisville’s ice cream scene offers something for every palate. These local favorites showcase why the city has become an unexpected destination for frozen dessert enthusiasts.
Try ice cream in these places:
