18 Must-Visit Ice Cream Spots in (or Near) Charlotte

As the summer heat blazes on, Charlotte, North Carolina is the place to beat the heat with its remarkable ice cream parlors. National Ice Cream Month in July might be over, but the crave for a sweet, refreshing treat is always in season. Charlotte is the home of more than a few spots guaranteed to satisfy your ice cream cravings. Here are 18 must-see ice cream spots in Charlotte or in its near vicinity.

1. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

For an exceptional artisanal ice cream experience, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is a definite must-visit. With flavors ranging from standard chocolate and vanilla to unique varieties like Goat Cheese with Red Cherries and Coffee with Cream & Sugar, the variety is impressive. Their unique take on traditional flavors, and a line of customers that wraps around the corner confirms it’s all worth the wait.

2. Two Scoops Creamery

Run by a trio of best friends, Two Scoops Creamery offers the nostalgic and comforting experience of childhood ice cream parlors. Not forgetting its distinct 32 flavours such as bubble gum and Smurf marshmallow that will satisfy both traditional and adventurous taste buds.

3. Golden Cow Creamery

Being Charlotte natives, founders Liz and Alex Hannah understand the essence of the local culture as well as the importance of giving back to the community. Each time you savor their delicious ice cream, a portion of the proceeds goes to a local charity. Varieties at the Golden Cow Creamery include classic flavors as well as vegan options for the lactose-intolerant.

4. Popbar

Taking a twist on traditional gelato, Popbar offers customizable popsicles that are fresh and guilt free! Options range from lower calorie gelato, sorbetto popsicles to vegan-friendly yogurtPops that are gluten-free, Kosher certified and contain no artificial coloring or preservatives.

5. The Local Scoop

True to its name, The Local Scoop prides in producing locally sourced dairy ice cream. Daily rotations and eight different non-dairy options are available. The “Survival Kit”, was a hit during the recent pandemic. It allowed families to have their own ice cream sundae parties at home.

6. Ninety’s Ice Cream and Sandwiches

The ice cream sandwiches at Ninety’s Ice Cream are as delicious as they are artistic. Milkshake lovers also have an assortment of unusual combinations to choose from, like the ones topped with Fruity Pebbles, Cracker Jacks, or other sugary delights.

7. Seemingly Overzealous Ice Cream

Although named as an ice cream shop, Seemingly Overzealous actually serves completely dairy-free and egg-free frozen desserts. Their flavor names are often fun and thought provoking so don’t forget to read the fine print.

8. Morelia

Morelia takes a fresh approach to ice cream by serving Mexican paletas. These frozen popsicles can be enjoyed on a stick, with toppings, or even blended into a tasty milkshake. Choose from their variety of flavors or combine your favorites to create your own.

9. Cold Hearted Gelato

The Cold Hearted Gelato, a female-owned and chef-driven shop, loves to experiment with flavors. You can savor exotic concoctions like Hazelnut & Miso Caramel or Chocolate Honey & Banana Carmel, all served in a delicious house-made brown butter waffle cone.

10. SWIRL Dessert Bar

This local bakery serves colossally tempting ice cream sandwiches made with two thick, oven-fresh cookies. This dessert bar should be on every sweet-toothed Charlotte resident’s bucket list.

11. Honeysuckle Gelato

Stop by this shop in Optimist Hall for scoops, gelato sandwiches and shakes. The flavors are as diverse as they are delightful.

Outlying Areas Top Picks

12. Waxhaw Creamery

Located in downtown Waxhaw, this outlet selling homemade daily ice cream and Italian ices constantly attracts lines of fans eagerly awaiting their turn for the refreshing treats.

13. Carolina Cones (Cornelius)

A favorite spot since 1983, it captivates not just with its variety of ice creams, but also with the whimsical train track set high above, offering a visual delight.

14. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream (Matthew)

A popular choice for all in the group, with its array of choices like sundaes, waffle cones, shakes and more. They also offer free baby cones to children under 40 inches and “doggie sundaes” for your pets, so the whole family can enjoy.

15. Tony’s Ice Cream Company (Gastonia)

Tony’s is a Gaston County landmark. They make their ice cream in-house and sell to local shops and stores all around the state. It’s affordable and delicious making it a hit among residents.

16. Carolina Creamery (Mint Hill)

As soon as it gets warmer outside, people patiently line up for the creamy, homemade ice cream and freshly made waffle cones that Carolina Creamery offers.

All these amazing locations are well worth a visit. These ice cream places offer not just sweet, flavorful treats, but also a chance to create delicious memories in Charlotte.