Ice cream is by far my favorite dessert, regardless of whether it’s warm or cold outside. I love finding new spots to try when I travel. These are the best ice cream shops I have tried worldwide, plus five more I can’t wait to try one day!
My Top Five (So Far!)
Sweet Cooie’s
Denver, Colorado
Little Man Ice Cream might be more popular, but Sweet Cooie’s is just as delicious (which makes sense, as the ice cream is churned by Little Man Ice Cream Company), and you’ll spend significantly less time waiting in line. You will love the vintage soda fountain feel and the unique ice cream flavors, including some vegan options.
Salt & Straw
Major cities on the US West Coast
If you need to sample a ton of flavors before you commit to one (or a few!), Salt & Straw is the place for you. You can sample as many flavors as you’d like – and they truly mean that.
They offer a monthly rotation of flavors with varying levels of adventurousness. Try something unique like pear blue cheese or honey lavender, or splurge on a delicious double dip combination of sea salt caramel and chocolate brownie.
The line will almost certainly be long, regardless of which location you visit. If you already know what you’d like, order online in advance to reduce your wait.
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Sandy, Utah (near Salt Lake City)
With over 50 flavors, from cones to custards to sundaes to milkshakes, everyone in your party is sure to find something they’ll love at Handel’s. Plus, it’s fairly reasonably-priced (starting at $3.95 for a single dip cup or cone).
They do accept call-ahead ordering, and there’s a little courtyard with benches next to the shop where you can sit and enjoy your treat.
Gelateria Come il Latte
Rome, Italy
During my last trip to Italy, I tried so many different gelato shops, but Come il Latte was the first and the best! All of the others paled in comparison.
The gelato was creamy, the flavors were delicious, and the wafer cookie and whipped cream topping made it unique. It was also one of the most reasonably-priced for what you get – a win-win!
Heritage Creamery
Waco, Texas
The ice cream at Heritage Creamery is delicious, but this spot made the list specifically because of the homemade waffle cones. The thin, crispy cones practically melts in your mouth! Plus, it’s right next door to one of Waco’s best coffee shops – if someone else in your party wants a drink instead, send them over to Common Grounds while you get your treat.
If you’re heading to Waco, be sure to check out the other delicious restaurants you need to try while you’re there.
Five More I want to Try:
Amy’s Ice Cream
Austin, Texas
Amy’s shows up on pretty much every list of best ice cream spots to try in Austin. Every flavor is based on their sweet cream, consisting only of cream, sugar, and eggs.
Specialty ingredients like Madagascar vanilla bean, Belgian chocolate, and fresh fruit are added to make six basic flavors and a new, seasonal flavor introduced each week.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Many major cities in the US
Try several of Jeni’s numerous flavors (including great dairy-free options) with their half scoop sizes, but don’t be fooled – the half scoops are much bigger than you’d expect!
If you don’t live near one, they ship pints nationwide! You can even join their Pint Club subscription to try four flavors each month, often before they are on sale (3-12 month subscriptions are available, starting at $199).
Rain or Shine
Vancouver, British Columbia
I first heard about this spot on a travel podcast a few years ago, and the reviewer joked about how he “converted” his friends to being Rain or Shine fans over other ice cream shops in the area.
Then, last week, I heard another podcast mentioning this store as one of his top choices – two random recommendations years apart has me convinced that I must try this. I also love that they offer a kid-sized scoop if you just want a taste.
The ingredients in their rotating menu of flavors are sourced locally seasonally, and a few flavors are allergy-friendly. Peanut butter lovers – don’t miss the peanut butter ice cream. It comes highly recommended!
Gelateria La Carraia
Florence, Italy
This spot made it into several “Top Gelato in the World” lists – considering how many gelato shops are in Italy, it’s high praise to call this one of the best.
Reviews say the gelato at La Carraia is creamy, delicious, flavorful, and very affordable – a great combination. The smallest scoop is just ONE Euro! It’s a bit outside of the city center, but it sounds like it’s worth the detour.
Gelateria dei Neri
Florence, Italy
Another spot in Italy – not surprising! I read one review that said, “One does not seek gelato in Italy… Gelato finds you.” With shops practically on every corner, don’t get sucked into the tourist traps with gelato piled high in the display case (that can indicate they are full of artificial ingredients).
Authentic gelato should be “flat,” (dense and rich; not fluffy and full of air) like Gelateria dei Neri serves. Unfortunately, customers are limited to one sample per person (possibly to keep the long line moving), but the reviews sound like you can’t go wrong with any flavor.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be planning your next vacation around the opportunity to visit one (or more!) of these spots! Love savory indulgences as well? You’ll love these best spots to eat along Florida’s famous 30A coastline!
