The Best Ice Cream Parlors In Every US State
With its origins in China and once the preserve of the wealthy, ice cream has, over the years in the United States, been handed out to immigrants arriving at Ellis Island and helped beer manufacturers stay afloat during Prohibition, while scientists proved it really does make us happy.
People's love of ice cream prompted parlors to spring up all across the country. The first one opened its doors in New York around 1775, but today there are thousands offering far more than chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Ice cream devotees can now choose between full or low-fat, gluten-free, and plant-based ice cream options, served in every flavor under the sun.
From family farms that have existed for generations to more recent establishments experimenting with unusual tastes, there really is something for every ice cream lover in America. But is your favorite among our run-down of the best ice cream parlors in every U.S. state?
Big Spoon Creamery in Alabama (Multiple locations)
It's impossible not to love this artisanal ice cream company, which has gone from a driveway pop-up to operating three parlors in just under a decade. Big Spoon relies on seasonal ingredients to make a range of flavors like fresh ginger and sea salt caramel banana, as well as inventive, rotating ones. Many people say it's the best ice cream they've ever had. Wait till you try the waffle cones ...
Multiple locations
WooHoo Ice Cream in Anchorage, Alaska
The hand-crafted ice cream from this parlor is proudly made in Alaska — and has the certification to prove it. You can taste the love that's gone into every flavor, too, from the Velvet Thunder to the delicate Thai tea.
It's so good, some say WooHoo's has ruined other ice creams. You can try a few before you buy, but don't leave it too late in the day to visit as the shop often sells out.
(907) 351-3087
5881 Arctic Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99518
Nite Creamery in Tempe, Arizona
This California company only branched out into Arizona in 2025 but it wasted no time in racking up top marks among hundreds of delighted customers. Frozen before your eyes using liquid nitrogen, flavors include Thicc Mint and strawberry cream, and people love them. "Delicious" comes up again and again in reviews, and if the prices are a little higher than elsewhere, the vibe, service, and amazing ice cream make up for it.
operations@nitecreamery.com
922 E Apache Blvd #106, Tempe, AZ 85281
Loblolly Creamery in Arkansas (Multiple locations)
If you've had the pleasure of slurping an Arkansas mud from any one of this creamery's three outlets, you'll know exactly why Loblolly had to be included on this list. Staff will let you try several of the flavors before buying, there are gluten and dairy-free choices (the dark chocolate sorbet is absolutely outrageous), and, best of all, everything is made in-house from seasonal ingredients.
Multiple locations
Rick's Rather Rich Ice Cream in Palo Alto, California
We don't need scientists to tell us that ice cream's a comfort food. We go to places like this, which has been slinging the good stuff since 1956.
Customers have grown up before the owners' eyes, and while they have changed, Rick's ice cream quality never has. It offers 48 amazing flavors, including blue moon (made with secret ingredients) and its unique chocolate chip.
(650) 493-6553
3946 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94303
Magill's World of Ice Cream in Lakewood, Colorado
If you've a hankering for a classic ice cream parlor vibe but with modern flavors, Magill's in Lakewood is the place to be. Its homemade sweet treats have been delighting customers since 1981, and was voted Denver's best value ice cream shop in 2022 by Westword.
Ingeniously, not only do Magill's tell you what's available now, its website also lists what's coming. Bring on the tequila chip!
(303) 986-9968
8016 W Jewell Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232
Ferris Acres Creamery in Newtown, Connecticut
Elvis' favorite sandwich was a sweet and savory mash-up, but you can devour an ice cream homage to his beloved peanut butter and bananas at Ferris Acres Creamery. It's one of a long list of mouthwatering flavors that have a loyal public declaring it's Connecticut's best, and we couldn't agree more. Peak season can be busy but the wait gives you a chance to soak up the gorgeous, rural views.
(203) 426-8803
144 Sugar St, Newtown, CT 06470
Hopkins Farm Creamery in Lewes, Delaware
The farm that houses this creamery has been running since 1942, and while the ice cream business only began in 2008, it's quickly become a firm favorite among locals and tourists. There are dairy and sugar-free options, while popular flavors include strawberry cheesecake (with real cheesecake pieces) and butter brickle. You can enjoy it while saying hello to the cows whose milk was used to make it.
(302) 645-7163
18186 Dairy Farm Rd, Lewes, DE 19958
Gelati di Roma Ice Cream in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Voted Best of Florida in 2025 and universally acclaimed in hundreds of online reviews, you ignore the artisanal treats from Gelati di Roma at your tastebuds' peril. If the warm welcome and excellent service don't get you, then the smooth, amazing gelato will. People have nothing but good things to say, especially those who have eaten the real Italian deal.
(321) 466-8011
229 W Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Leopold's Ice Cream in Georgia (Multiple locations)
More of an institution than an ice cream parlor, Leopold's is woven into Savannah's history. The family-run firm's amazing frozen treats continue to win armfuls of awards and thousands of fans. Expect to queue for your ice cream (it gives you time to choose from among the fabulous flavors) but you won't be waiting for too long, and if you have a well-behaved furry friend, they can enjoy a delicious cup, too.
Multiple locations
Gypsea Gelato in Hawaii (Multiple locations)
It's worth taking a trip to the Big Island just for the incredible gelato served at Gypsea. There are plenty of traditional, freshly made flavors but if you're looking for something more adventurous, it will provide.
Customers raved about the creamy, robust flavors, while standouts included the Tom Kha, Lilikoi (also known as passionfruit), and toasted coconut. As one satisfied customer noted, the hardest part is the choosing, but you'll be delighted once you do.
Multiple locations
The STIL in Idaho (Multiple locations)
The STIL is short for "The Sweetest Things In Life," and the team behind the artisanal ice creams ensure everything lives up to it. Its quirky, mouthwatering flavors have names like Everything but the Turkey and La-Z-Boy, and for those who miss Ben & Jerry's, there's an entire section of delicious, boozy ice creams.
The creativity gets top marks all round, there's praise for the gluten-free and vegan choices, while the word "amazing" is used a lot. It's justified.
Multiple locations
Legend Tasty House in Chicago, Illinois
Locals love this ice cream joint, which brings a taste of Thailand to Chicago's Old Chinatown. The friendly servers don't just help you choose the flavor of your ice cream; they'll make it before your eyes, mixing the ingredients on a freezing plate before dropping the rolled-up goodies, along with yummy toppings, into a cup. Go for the spectacle and stay for the S'mores Galore.
(312) 225-8869
2242 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
Danny's Mexican Ice Cream in Avon, Indiana
This tiny ice cream parlor, tucked away in an Avon shopping center, has consistently gotten glowing customer ratings for years. Its recipe for success?
Friendly service, limitless taste tests, and creamy, smooth ice cream that comes in more than 50 flavors from the traditional to the slightly more unusual, like mango chili and corn. Best of all, the scoops are huge.
facebook.com/dannysmexicanicecream
(463) 314-9811
7730 E US Highway 36, Avon, IN 46123
Dan and Debbie's Creamery in Ely, Iowa
You can buy all sorts of dairy goods at Dan and Debbie's Creamery, but the most popular by far is its hand-made ice cream. People come from far and wide to have a taste, and are pretty much unanimously delighted by what they get. Its 12 signature ice creams include a butter pecan that will melt your heart, while among the limited editions are the much-loved sweetcorn and intriguing Razzle Dazzle flavors.
(319) 848-6455
1600 Main St, Ely, IA 52227
Sylas and Maddy's Homemade Ice Cream in Kansas (Multiple locations)
A lot of work goes into the ice cream on offer at this family-owned business and it shows in every delicious lick. You'll find lots of classic flavors such as vanilla bean and cookies and cream, as well as some funky, more intriguing ones like Graduation Day or Da Bomb. Whatever you choose (and you can sample a few), you're likely to join the chorus of people saying it's the best.
Multiple locations
Louisville Cream in Louisville, Kentucky
There is a lot of love on social media for the ice cream created by this locally owned business. One online reviewer said their visit was a "full-blown life-altering experience." There are fewer flavor choices compared to some outlets, and the ice cream from Louisville Cream might be a touch pricier than elsewhere, but you get quality, not quantity, and each lick is worth every cent.
(502) 882-1516
632 E Market St Suite 101, Louisville, KY 40202
Laozi Ice Cream in New Orleans, Louisiana
There are those who have never tasted Sam Caruso's incredible ice cream and those who have. The latter watch his social media like hawks, waiting for the next drop of unique flavor combos like Beaucoup Butta Pecan or Creole Cream Cheese.
Those who do manage to get their hands on them are never disappointed. Artist, wizard or culinary genius? We think he's all three.
(504) 810-5388
4514 Banks, New Orleans, LA 70119
Rococo Ice Cream in Kennebunk, Maine
There is so much to love about Lauren Guptill's ice cream, from the gorgeous aesthetic of her scoop shop to the wealth of flavors drawn from around the world. One bedazzled customer said they would happily mortgage their home for one more scoop, and while you won't need to go that far, you will be intoxicated (in a good way) by the flavor journey that lies in store.
(207) 835-1049
8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Bmore Licks in Maryland (Multiple locations)
Everything's hand made at this ice cream spot that is adored by locals. You can get both hard and soft serve, though the hard ice creams change daily.
Don't worry if there's a line — you can browse the wide range of flavors to fill a waffle cone or make up a yummy ice cream sundae. Aside from heaping praise on the sweet treats, the friendly, efficient service also got a big thumbs up from customers.
Multiple locations
Richardson's Ice Cream in Middleton, Massachusetts
This family-run business can trace its roots back to 1636, but began making ice cream in 1952 that has been a favorite with locals ever since. There's a vast range of flavors available, and the staff don't skimp on the servings, either.
Chances are there will be a line of people waiting when you swing by, but be patient and hang around. Your tastebuds will be so grateful.
(978) 774-5450
156 S Main St Rte 114, Middleton, MA 01949
Milk & Honey Cafe and Ice Creamery in Traverse City, Michigan
Ice cream isn't really a healthy food, but the team at Milk & Honey are doing everything to get it as close as possible. The products contain no GMO ingredients, pesticides, hormones, or antibiotics, it's all sourced locally, and there are sugar-free and vegan choices among the unique flavors.
No wonder it's adored by locals. When you go, definitely get the Sleeping Bear sundae.
(231) 944-1036
240 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Milkjam Creamery in Minneapolis, Minnesota
One online reviewer quipped that this would be the place their tastebuds would throw a party and we 100% hard agree. From the jam bun (a scoop of your choice nestled between a split, warm donut) to incredible, inventive flavors like Cereal Killers — orange coriander milk speckled with fruit-flavored candy — or Uma, a swirl of passionfruit in Greek yogurt, Milkjam proves it really should be everyone's ice cream jam.
(612) 424-4668
2743 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Area 51 Ice Cream in Hernando, Mississippi
You don't have to be a sci-fi fan or believer in little green men to make a stop at this Hernando ice cream parlor, which delights locals and out-of-towners in equal measure. Smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor, every mouthful of the hand-made ice cream is a bullseye. The flavors are changed regularly, but the snickerdoodle, salted caramel, and cookies and cream are regularly swooned over.
(662) 298-3028
100 E Commerce St, Hernando, MS 38632
Clementine's Ice Cream in Missouri (Multiple locations)
It took a village to help Clementine's founder Tamara Keefe's family make the amazing ice cream, back in the day. Today, the "Flavor Temptress" helms a successful business spanning several outlets.
After perfecting a way to freeze alcohol in her award-winning ice cream, Keefe's chain serves up dairy and non-dairy flavors divided into "Naughty" and "Nice," so you can choose from a Pink Champagne sorbet or a Midnight Pleasures. Prepare to be both surprised and delighted by all of it.
Multiple locations
Big Dipper Ice Cream in Montana (Multiple locations)
Popularity doesn't always mean something is good, but anyone who has ever slurped a Big Dipper Ice Cream will tell you that you can taste the quality in every mouthful. The regular menu is small but perfectly formed, and it's easy to see why Big Dipper is often voted one of the country's best ice creams. Go for the much-loved huckleberry flavor but be patient, as there'll most likely be a line.
Multiple locations
Coneflower Creamery in Nebraska (Multiple locations)
Voted America's best ice cream shop in 2023 by online reviewers, this outlet, operated by Katie Arant and Brian Langbehn, is a haven for anyone who loves food made with love, care, and the freshest of ingredients. Often described as rich, creamy, and delicious, the classics and inventive signature range take in every flavor you can think of. If you're spoiled for choice, we'd nudge you in the direction of the butter brickle and Grandma Minnie's lemon bar.
Multiple locations
Sorry Not Sorry in Nevada (Multiple locations)
It's impossible not to love this cute parlor, with its warm, welcoming staff and incredible range of ice cream. Made with milk from a century-old family-owned dairy farm, Sorry Not Sorry offers 16 classic and four seasonal (and in many cases, unique) flavors, and there isn't a bum note among them. The ube honeycomb and the bumbleberry cheesecake crumble are two of many hits, while vegans will love the creamy, dairy-free options.
Multiple locations
Super Secret Ice Cream in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Founder Kristina Zontini's side hustle may have started out as a secret — hence the name — but ended up being a finalist in the 2025 James Beard Awards. With a list of flavors that leave you "oooooing" in anticipation, and made with locally-sourced ingredients, everything you see is tempting. Go out of your way if you must, but go get a scoop of what one customer called "pure happiness."
hello@supersecreticecreamclub.com
2213 Main St, Bethlehem, NH 03574
Jersey Freeze in New Jersey (Multiple locations)
Locals can get a little huffy when visiting this chain in the summer. They know there will be a line, but they also know it's worth every second of waiting.
Some customers have been going to Jersey Freeze for decades, and whether they go for hard or soft serve, the ice cream hits the target every time. For those who prefer, there are a few fat and dairy-free options also available across all three outlets.
Multiple locations
La Lecheria in Santa Fe, New Mexico
You can, if you wish, stick to the classics at this renowned and adored Santa Fe ice cream parlor, and go away 100% satisfied. Or, you can let it rip with its rotating range of flavors that are far more adventurous.
There's black garlic, mole, and banana leaf candy ginger to name but a few. All are artisanal made, and all are lapped up by a delighted customer base.
(505) 428-0077
500 Market St #110, Santa Fe, NM 87501
The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory in New York (Multiple locations)
In 1978, the doors opened on The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, and it has gone on to become a New York icon. Flavors in generous scoops are divided into "Regular" and "Exotic," with the Asian-inspired tastes making up the former, and Western ones in the latter.
Don't sleep on anything that looks tempting. The flavor combinations are switched out often so prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
Multiple locations
The Parlour in North Carolina (Multiple locations)
The ice cream at The Parlour is so delicious, customers who are "one scoopers" will give themselves a stomach ache and still have good things to say about the experience. They're not the only ones.
Thousands of people rave online about the decadent, creamy treats on offer, with the Moroccan rose and salted caramel flavors among the most talked-about. It's not the cheapest scoop in the state, but it's definitely the best.
Multiple locations
The Silver Lining Creamery in North Dakota (Multiple locations)
No clouds required to reap the benefits of the ice cream from this wildly popular creamery. Even on the coldest of days it's worth a visit, according to some customers.
Everything is homemade with 14% butterfat, so big ticks all round in both the rich and creamy boxes. There may be fewer flavor choices than some places, but what Silver Lining lacks in range is more than made up for in quality.
Multiple locations
Chill Artisan Ice Cream in Ohio (Multiple locations)
With seven signature flavors, seven vegan options, and around 15 rotating ice creams (depending on which of the three locations you choose), you're spoiled for choice by the brothers behind Chill. For every person who claims Lavender Queen Bee is the bomb, another will praise the chocolate milk and cookies to the heavens. We suggest you brave the crowds and go try (the red wine) one for yourself.
Multiple locations
Boom Town Creamery, in Oklahoma (Multiple locations)
Any chocolate ice cream that's been honored with a blue ribbon from the North American Ice Cream Association is worth a try, but everything is good at Oklahoma City's Boom Town Creamery. Owner and creator Angela Muir brings her design flair to the interior vibe and the flavor menu, which includes classics like bananas foster and cookie butter, alongside limited editions like yuzu white chocolate. Get a flight of six scoops and enjoy the bliss.
Multiple locations
Fifty Licks in Oregon (Multiple locations)
When life gave Chad Draizin dull ice cream, he started to make his own. The result is Fifty Licks, and not even a 2024 fire at its original East Burnside location could put a stop to its roaring success.
Devoted customers love the smooth, creamy texture, while the strawberry (made with locally grown fruit) and Chocolate AF are particular favorites. If you prefer vegan ice cream, it's got you covered, too, with a half-dozen delicious choices.
Multiple locations
The Franklin Fountain in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Stepping into this small but beautiful soda fountain in Philly's Old City will take your breath away, but you'll get it back in time to taste some truly outstanding ice cream. The flavors on offer are rich and varied, with classics like almond butter cherry jostling with the rotating range. It doesn't come cheap and there will be a line, but it's worth both the wait and the cost.
(215) 627-1899
116 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
The Keep in Cumberland, Rhode Island
When locals worry their fave foodie hangout will be discovered by the masses, you know it's worth exploring. Cumberland's The Keep is just such a place.
Hidden in a strip mall this sort-of-medieval-themed place slings divine ice cream that is described as everything from "insanely delicious" to the best in the state. Get a generous scoop of the Ooey Gooey, chill with the knight and you'll understand why.
(401) 658-5337
2368 Mendon Rd, Cumberland, RI 02864
Off Track Ice Cream in Charleston, South Carolina
Not only does this beloved artisanal business make all the ice creams by hand, the production kitchen is at the back of the store, so you can watch them hard at work, creating new, delicious flavors. Not that the menu is short of them, with the Tahitian vanilla bean, and cookie dough and chocolate brownie among the sure-fire hits. Yes, the shop also offers pup cups for canine friends.
(843) 203-6997
6 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC 29401
Leones' Creamery in Spearfish, South Dakota
Lots of local produce goes into the ice cream from this family-owned outfit, which shouts its love for the sweet treat from the Black Hills it calls home. Alongside eight hand-made flavors that everyone recommends people try, Leones' also makes its own waffle cones from gluten and GMO-free ingredients. Buy one for yourself and, if you can, scoop an ice cream forward for someone who needs it.
(605) 644 6461
722½ Main St, Spearfish, SD 57783
KOKOS Ice Cream in Nashville, Tennessee
Everything about KOKOS looks amazing, from the cute, inviting interior to the line-up of tasty — and 100% plant-based — ice creams. They're as smooth, rich, and creamy as their dairy-based counterparts, plus there's the same variety of flavors.
People rave online about the quality as well as the service and overall vibe. You don't have to be vegan to enjoy KoKos' ice creams, but they are a revelation.
(615) 730-7807
3 City Ave STE 700, Nashville, TN 32209
milk + sugar in Texas (Multiple locations)
"Life is too short for plain vanilla," says the team at Houston's milk + sugar ice cream parlor. They prefer to get funky with their flavors and throw all sorts of goodies into the mix, so we get delights like Yum Cha (pandan and chrysanthemum ice cream) or Rain or Shine, a blend of Earl Grey, lavender, and lemon ice cream. Regulars love the attention to detail and rush back to see what's new.
Multiple locations
Blacksmith Ice Cream Co. in Utah (Multiple locations)
This is probably the only place in the United States where you can buy ice cream that's been made using a frozen anvil. Gimmick or not, the end product is utterly delicious and contains no nuts, soy, dye, gluten, or corn syrup.
It's also vegan friendly. Flavors are split into "Always" and "For Now" but both are a hit with customers. Get the Campfire S'mores — it comes with fire-toasted marshmallows.
Multiple locations
lu.lu in Vergennes, Vermont
Curiosity might draw you to the award-winning basil ice cream but it's a near-certainty that you'll be drooling over everything else, too, from lu.lu's Black Mascara Tears (they call it the "perfect post break-up ice cream") to the also award-winning goat milk gelato, if you can get your hands on it. Locals love this place, so if you visit, expect huge scoops and an incredible taste adventure with every mouthful.
(802) 777-3933
185 Main St, Vergennes, VT 05491
Be Free Craft Ice Cream in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Veteran Chris Fettes is the driving force behind this outlet, which sells coffee, pastries, and off-the-chart amazing ice cream. There are 11 signature flavors, of which six are gluten free, as are the four vegan options — and they're all outstanding. Sea Salt Assault is among the most popular, and even those who know about the impact of air content on flavor give Be Free the thumbs up.
(757) 301-2578
2336 Elson Green Ave #107, Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Olympic Mountain Ice Cream in Shelton, Washington
This ice cream outlet may be, but it is mighty in the eyes of its devoted customers. Run by Karl and Bev Black and located near the Olympic National Forest, the website lists a bewildering number of flavors, though only a few are available at a time. Most people who taste it say it's the best they've ever had, while one reviewer doubted it could ever be bettered.
(360) 426-0696
301 E Wallace Kneeland Blvd Suite 224-330, Shelton, WA 98584
Austin's Homemade Ice Cream in West Virginia (Multiple locations)
Think chocolate, strawberry and vanilla ice cream is dull? Go to Austin's, try the award-winning trio and think again. There are sugar and dairy-free options among the other flavors, and locals will happily queue up (though not for long, thanks to hard-working staff) to get their favorite scoop. You can try before you buy, the scoops are on the generous side, and the waffle bowls an absolute must.
Multiple locations
Kelley Country Creamery in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
It's easy to be dazzled by the range of flavors on offer at this creamery, but the gorgeous, rural surroundings and all those sunflowers will help. The Kelley family have run things for over 160 years, so they know an ice cream crowd pleaser when they make it. The butterscotch malt and Irish cream are popular, as are the turtle sundaes, though be warned, they're huge.
(920) 923-1715
W 5215 County Road B, Fond du Lac, WI 54937
Moo's Gourmet Ice Cream in Jackson, Wyoming
With a selection of flavors, running from the traditional to the downright unusual, to please both children and grown-ups, made using organic cream (and no added extras) it's easy to see why this Jackson ice cream parlor is a hit with everyone. Locals know it's a gem of a place, while tourists swing by several times during their vacations. It is a little more expensive than you might pay elsewhere, but every mouthful is worth it.
(307) 733-1998
155 Center St, Jackson, WY 83001
Methodology
Choosing the best ice cream parlors in every State was a mammoth task — there are thousands of great places to choose from. We started by looking at local media and finding out who was creating a buzz or winning awards.
Then we scoured the internet for insights and opinions from customers who had tasted the ice creams for themselves. We cross-referenced all that information to whittle down the potential candidates to a single ice cream parlor from each state.