When the craving for ice cream hits, nothing beats indulging in a scoop (or two) from a place with a legendary reputation. Across the USA, there are ice cream shops that have achieved iconic status thanks to their history, creativity, and downright delicious flavors. Here are some of the most iconic ice cream destinations in the country, where you can savor sweet perfection.
1. Ben & Jerry’s – Waterbury, Vermont
This globally famous brand started in a renovated gas station in Vermont. The original Ben & Jerry’s factory offers tours and exclusive flavors you can’t find anywhere else. Their playful approach to ice cream, with chunks, swirls, and quirky names, has made them a household name.
2. Salt & Straw – Portland, Oregon
Known for its artisanal approach and unusual flavor combinations, Salt & Straw has become a West Coast institution. Their menu often features ingredients like goat cheese, olive oil, or black garlic, making every visit a culinary adventure.
3. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Columbus, Ohio
Jeni Britton Bauer revolutionized the ice cream scene with her focus on high-quality ingredients and creative flavors. From brambleberry crisp to brown butter almond brittle, Jeni’s ice creams are indulgent and unforgettable.
4. Bi-Rite Creamery – San Francisco, California
A neighborhood staple in the Mission District, Bi-Rite Creamery is celebrated for its organic, small-batch creations. Their salted caramel flavor has achieved cult status and keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
5. Ample Hills Creamery – Brooklyn, New York
Ample Hills pairs whimsical decor with even more whimsical flavors, like Ooey Gooey Butter Cake and Snap Mallow Pop. Every batch is made from scratch, ensuring freshness in every bite.
6. Graeter’s Ice Cream – Cincinnati, Ohio
A Midwest treasure, Graeter’s has been churning out creamy ice cream since 1870. Their signature French Pot process creates a dense, indulgent texture that’s hard to replicate. Don’t miss their famous black raspberry chip.
7. The Franklin Fountain – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Step back in time at this old-fashioned soda fountain where ice cream is served with a side of nostalgia. The Franklin Fountain specializes in handmade ice cream, sundaes, and milkshakes, all in a vintage setting.
8. McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams – Santa Barbara, California
Since 1949, McConnell’s has been producing creamy ice cream made from Central Coast dairy. Their flavors, like sea salt cream and cookies, are a tribute to California’s rich culinary heritage.
9. Blue Bell Creameries – Brenham, Texas
Blue Bell is a Southern classic with roots dating back to 1907. Visitors to the Brenham factory can tour the facilities and enjoy their legendary homemade vanilla flavor.
10. Sweet Rose Creamery – Los Angeles, California
Tucked into LA neighborhoods, Sweet Rose Creamery is dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients. Their seasonal flavors and silky texture make it a standout in a city full of dessert options.
11. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard – St. Louis, Missouri
A Route 66 icon, Ted Drewes is famous for its rich frozen custard served so thick you can hold it upside down. The concretes, blended with mix-ins like candy and fruit, are a must-try.
12. Margie’s Candies – Chicago, Illinois
An old-school favorite since 1921, Margie’s is part ice cream parlor, part candy shop. Their decadent sundaes are served in signature shell-shaped dishes, topped with homemade fudge.
13. Fenton’s Creamery – Oakland, California
This family-owned creamery has been serving scoops since 1894. Fenton’s is known for its classic sundaes, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere.
14. Leon’s Frozen Custard – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
With its retro neon sign and classic frozen custard, Leon’s is a Wisconsin institution. Opened in 1942, this spot is as much about the experience as it is about the creamy, rich custard.
15. Hansen’s Sno-Bliz – New Orleans, Louisiana
While technically a snowball shop, Hansen’s deserves a spot on this list for its history and creativity. Open since 1939, they pair fluffy shaved ice with house-made syrups and condensed milk for an unforgettable treat.
16. The Creamery – Beaver, Utah
A hidden gem in Utah, The Creamery serves ice cream made from its own dairy farm’s milk. Their fresh, creamy flavors, like honeycomb and caramel, make it worth the stop.
17. Lapperts Ice Cream – Hanapepe, Hawaii
Located in the lush surroundings of Kauai, Lapperts offers island-inspired flavors like macadamia nut and passion fruit. The tropical setting adds to the magic of their delicious scoops.
18. Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain – Brooklyn, New York
Housed in a restored pharmacy, this soda fountain is a throwback to simpler times. Their ice cream sundaes and egg creams are both delicious and nostalgic.
19. Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, Oregon
Known for its cheeses, Tillamook also makes exceptional ice cream. A visit to the Tillamook Creamery offers an inside look at their production process and a chance to try their rich, creamy creations.
20. Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream – Seattle, Washington
A Seattle favorite, Molly Moon’s is dedicated to sustainability and community. Their unique flavors, like honey lavender and melted chocolate, are crafted with love.
21. Clementine’s Creamery – St. Louis, Missouri
Clementine’s is famous for its naughty and nice ice cream options—with “naughty” flavors featuring booze-infused scoops. Their creative offerings and commitment to quality have earned them national acclaim.
22. Fenway’s Hood Milk Bar – Boston, Massachusetts
Located near Fenway Park, this spot combines Boston’s dairy heritage with baseball nostalgia. Their creamy treats are perfect for game day indulgence.
Best Ice Cream All Over The World
Ice cream is a universal treat that knows no borders. Each country brings its own unique twist to this beloved dessert, reflecting local ingredients, traditions, and creativity. Here are 14 incredible ice creams from around the world that will have you dreaming of a frozen global tasting tour.