If you didn't know that July was National Ice Cream Month, here's another excuse to eat America’s favorite frozen treat everyday.
Travel site TripAdvisor has just announced the top 10 ice cream parlors across the country, based on millions of traveler reviews. Whether you’re a classic vanilla or crave something a little more exotic, these scoop shops have something for all types of travelers.
The top spot on the list, Island Creamery of Chincoteague Island, Virginia, has been around for almost 40 years, so they’ve been perfecting their formula for years. And while the East Coast dominates the top 10, people in Portland, Oregon will be happy to see the popular Salt & Straw on the list. With flavors like Honey Balsamic Strawberry with Cracked Pepper and Pear with Bleu Cheese, this artisanal creamery is anything but ordinary.
Read on to learn more about the best ice cream parlors in America.
1. Island Creamery, Chincoteague Island, Virginia
(TripAdvisor)
Island guests have been flocking to this creamery since since 1975. The homemade ice cream is made daily and patrons can indulge in flavors such as Bourbon Caramel Crunch, Cotton Candy Party, and Java Jolt atop a freshly baked waffle cone. One TripAdvisor user commented, “We had the Caramel Bourbon, Salty Caramel, Birthday Cake, and Vanilla flavors – each were wonderful and the homemade waffle cones were delightful.”
2. Dietsch Brothers Inc., Findlay, Ohio
(TripAdvisor)
Located 100 miles north of Columbus, this sweet shop prides itself on quality over quantity, serving up ice cream and candy made from the finest ingredients. Delectable homemade creations include Caramel Macchiato, German Chocolate, Peach, Caramel Cashew, and more. Known as a must stop if you find yourself in the Findlay area.
3. Super Scoops Inc., Treasure Island, Florida
(TripAdvisor)
With more than 20 flavors including Carrot Cake and Captain’s Butterscotch, Super Scoops offers visitors the full range of ice cream serving options-- in a waffle cone or bowl, milkshake, banana split or loaded sundae. Those looking for lighter fare can choose from tasty low-fat or sugar-free options. Bonus: this shop is close to the beach.
4. Woodside Farm Creamery, Hockessin, Delaware
(TripAdvisor)
Located approximately 50 miles north of Dover, this suburban shop offers up some silly but decidedly kid-friendly ice cream flavors such as Dirt – made up of gummy worms with crushed chocolate cookies; and Motor Oil – coffee ice cream mixed with green-colored caramel and fudge swirl. This family owned creamery is a great for children of all ages.
5. A Better Scoop, Englewood, Florida
(TripAdvisor)
Taking a trip to Florida's Gulf Coast? Cool off with a cone from A Better Scoop. The flavors are the simple side-- Toasted Coconut, Georgia Peach, and Salted Caramel-- but with over 40 varieties, the whole family will be laving this shop with a satisfied sweet tooth.
6. Rococo Artisan Ice Cream, Kennebunkport, Maine
(TripAdvisor)
Inspired by Argentinean ice cream, this sweet and savory shop produces small batches that are blended slowly for a unique taste and texture. Every day, there's something new to try with a rotating menu of 14 daily exotic flavors including Chai Cardamom, Sweet Avocado Cayenne, and Nutella Cranberry.
7. Salt & Straw, Portland, Oregon
(TripAdvisor)
Crafted using 17 percent butterfat milk, the creamy flavors from this new Portland favorite are as unique as they come. Try Black Raspberries and Smoked Ham to gourmet takes on the classics such as Double Fold Singing Dog Vanilla.
8. Martha's Dandee Creme, Queensbury, New York
(TripAdvisor)
In the Lake George region of Upstate New York, this roadside retreat publishes a monthly flavor calendar to help fervent fans to plan their visit. Tempting variations of their signature soft serve include Banana Chocolate Twist, Pistachio, and Black Raspberry. One user commented on the heaping portions at affordable prices.
9. Bi-Rite Creamery & Bakeshop, San Francisco, California
(TripAdvisor)
Using organic milk from a nearby farm and rarely containing more than five ingredients per flavor, the decadent scoops at this shop are as creative as they are creamy. Staple favorites include Salted Caramel, Roasted Banana and Honey Lavender, while Balsamic Strawberry and Earl Grey are seasonally available sensations.
10. Sunset Icecream Parlor, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
(TripAdvisor)
This historic town might not be the first place that comes to mind for great food but this ice cream shop is known for its unique creations. Travelers can satisfy any sweet cravings by indulging in one of this shop’s history-inspired creations including the Yankee Hurrah – coffee ice cream with hot fudge, malt and peanuts; or the Rebel Yell – vanilla and chocolate with chocolate syrup, peanut butter, and malt. One TripAdvisor reviewer commented, “The ice cream is amazing. It's wonderful to sit on the porch or at the picnic tables in the evening and people watch while having a sundae or a cone.”
Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.