Best Ice Cream in Every U.S. State

We all scream for ice cream, and these cool ice cream shops in every U.S. state offer just that.

Whether you’re into classic flavors like mint chocolate chip or prefer wacky concoctions like basil cheesecake, chances are you really love ice cream. And for good reason: It is quite possibly the best food on the planet. (That’s right, we said it.)

But there’s a problem: It can be hard to know where to begin when selecting the best-ever treat.

To help guide you to the good stuff, we’ve sifted through reviews to come up with this list of the No. 1 ice cream spot in every U.S. state. The following truly cool ice cream shops earned top marks from the largest percentage of diners on Tripadvisor based on 100 or more reviews (when available), and have been heralded by ice cream experts and connoisseurs.

Ready to feel extremely hungry? Read on.

Alabama: Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream in Mobile

Mia P. / Yelp

Loved by 95% of reviewers*

Since 1956, this old-fashioned shop has been an Alabama icon. Nearly 50 flavors promise something for everyone, with reviewers swooning over the blue-dyed cookie monster and pitch-perfect salted caramel flavors in particular.

Pair a scoop with a brownie, baked in house, for the ultimate decadent treat.

Sample review: “Cammie’s has got to have hands-down the BEST ice cream! I found this gem while searching online and it completely lived up to the reviews! I’m not even a huge fan of ice cream–I like it, but I’ll usually take a piece of cake before I’d want ice cream. But not with Cammie’s! They make their own and it is sooo good. I went there 3 times in 8 days… and two of those times might’ve been two days in a row. No shame, NO REGRETS.” — bloomsofglory

*Percentage of “Excellent” and “Very Good” ratings on Tripadvisor

Alaska: Wild Scoops in Anchorage

wildscoops / Instagram

Loved by 97% of reviewers

Scarfing down an ice cream cone might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Alaska, but Wild Scoops is bringing in happy customers despite the cold. The rhubarb crumble ice cream is particularly beloved (read: obsessed over), with salted caramel a close runner-up.

The shop also gets kudos for sourcing local ingredients, and for offering a nice selection of vegan ice cream, if that’s your thing.

One reviewer suggests topping your dessert with a toasted marshmallow. Done!

Sample review: “If you’re interested in some artisanal flavors that reflect the local tastes of Alaska, check out Wild Scoops.” — JaDeGirL01

Arizona: Churn in Phoenix

Churn / Facebook

Loved by 93% of reviewers

Variety is the spice of life, and Churn offers plenty of it. In addition to delicious scoops in fun flavors (goat cheese, honey and pistachio, mmmm), the shop serves milkshakes, floats and sundaes. Go big or go home by splurging on the Kitchen Sink Sundae, made with PB & chocolate ice cream, toffee sauce, chocolate pretzels, butterscotch chips, whipped cream and peanuts.

You deserve it.

Sample review: “This was recommended to us by a local food blogger who makes a lot of homemade ice cream so we knew it had to be great. It did not disappoint. Their scoops are very generous! The flavor and creaminess is awesome.” — Lori_Db

Arkansas: Lolbolly Creamery in Little Rock

Samantha K. / Yelp

Loved by 94% of reviewers

This hip spot in downtown Little Rock uses only the finest ingredients, sourced from local farms, gardens and businesses, and makes its flavors in small batches to ensure high-quality scoops. There’s a nice mix of vegan options, too, and even a vegan milkshake!

Sample review: “This place has some of the best ice cream I’ve tasted in North America. It tastes like homemade small batch, very flavourful and creamy. I love that their vegan options are not limited to sorbets, as is the case at most places–if they even offer a non-dairy option.” — Kikipotamus

California: McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams in Santa Barbara

Iris F. / Yelp

Loved by 96% of reviewers

The ice cream shop with the highest volume of reviews to nab a 4.5-star rating is actually Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate in San Francisco. But its reviews are more lackluster than those earned by McConnell’s, which has nearly as many total ratings and an exceptional percentage of folks who think it’s amazing. More than being the best in California, Time magazine once pronounced this the best ice cream in the world.

Such fervor is well-founded; the shop serves slow-churned scoops made with a high volume of butterfat, ensuring maximum creaminess. And though it’s been around since 1949, it isn’t afraid to have fun with its modern flavors (Turkish coffee, anyone?).

The shop is on the pricier side and pretty much always has lines out the door, but with scoops this good, who cares?

Sample review: “I have been eating Mconnell’s ice cream for at least 50 years now. The flavors are superior to other ice creams. I am fortunate enough to live in Santa Barbara but if you are visiting here you have to stop by and try some. You won’t be disappointed.” — MTG2905

Colorado: Third Bowl Homemade Ice Cream in Crested Butte

mara.eggers / Instagram

Loved by 93% of reviewers

Not only is the ice cream here homemade — in small batches no less — but everything is homemade, including the to-die-for waffle cones.

Diners also love the inclusion of dairy-free and vegan flavors on the menu, and that these healthier options are super-tasty too. Honest!

Sample review: “Third Bowl makes the most amazing ice cream I have found. You MUST try their homemade waffle cones.” — Elizabeth M

Connecticut: Ferris Acres Creamery in Newtown

Ferris Acres Creamery / Facebook

Loved by 94% of reviewers

This one was a tough call. The shop with the highest number of reviews to still earn a 4.5-star rating is Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream in Mystic, which is famous for its Vermont maple flavor and has been around since the 1800s.

Its popularity makes it a bit of a tourist trap, though, so most locals will tell you that Ferris Acres is the place to go.

At this Newtown stand, the flavor list is long and fun, with seasonal options to keep things interesting (try the eggnog flavor in the winter and caramel apple pie option in the fall). Mostly though, it wins out because it’s super delicious.

Sample review: “This quaint roadside ice cream stand is a quintessential New England must stop! Best ice cream around hands down! Enjoy ice cream and watch the cows!” — drlnbenson

Delaware: Vanderwende Farm Creamery in Bridgeville

vanderwendecreamery / Instagram

Loved by 98% of reviewers

Ice cream connoisseurs across Delaware agree that Vanderwende serves the best of the best. There are tons of yummy flavors, ranging from the classic to the inventive, like lemon chiffon and berry cheesecake. Better yet, the scoops are very generously sized, ensuring excellent bang for your buck.

Sample review: “Absolutely fantastic ice cream. Be aware that one serving of ice cream is actually two big scoops.” — rontu78

District of Columbia: Pitango Gelato in Washington DC

pitangogelato / Instagram

Loved by 81% of reviewers

DC doesn’t have a ton of homegrown ice-cream shops, so the pickings are a little slim. Still, locals are drooling over Pitango Gelato.

The unique flavors are a hit, with many suggesting the pistachio and caffe espresso offerings. Ingredients are also sourced from an organic farm in Pennsylvania, ensuring high quality all around.

Sample review: “We had this every day during our trip to DC! To get out of the sun, be welcomed by friendly staff, and eat refreshing gelato was the most amazing experience. Our favourites were tangerine, stracciatella, pineapple, mojito, and cinnamon.” — Mei_Gru_

Florida: Love Boat Ice Cream in Fort Myers

loveboaticecream / Instagram

Loved by 94% of reviewers

People love eating ice cream in Florida, which makes sense since it’s hot and humid pretty much all year round. And the place they dig most of all is Love Boat Ice Cream.

This shop, which now has a few locations in the state, is heralded for its variety of flavors (85 to be exact!) and large portions. Try the salted caramel bacon flavor for a sweet-meets-salty treat.

Sample review: “This is a place that makes all other ice cream shops look lacking. All of the ice cream is handmade and the taste shows it. It is well priced and the quality will surprise you. We left planning to go back asap.” — Rob H

Georgia: Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah

city.whit / Instagram

Loved by 92% of reviewers

Almost 12,000 people have reviewed Leopold’s, an astounding number that reflects the shop’s status as a true institution: It’s been around since 1919, and still boasts a throwback feel, replete with a marble soda fountain.

But it’s not the ambiance that makes Leopold’s the best; it’s the fresh, creamy ice cream that’s been on tap for over a century. Keep things old-school by ordering a scoop of chocolate, vanilla or strawberry. Classic.

Sample review: “I have eaten way too much ice cream in my 62 years. I’m sort of a connoisseur. This is the best I’ve ever had. Hands down. I don’t know what their recipe is but it is fantastic.” — Reimer666

Hawaii: Lappert’s Ice Cream in Maui

jengraces via lappertshawaii / Instagram

Loved by 88% of reviewers

You can hop from island to island in search of good ice cream, or you can just stick with Lappert’s, which has excellent locations all across the state. The shop emphasizes aloha spirit with its authentic Hawaii flavors, including chocolate macadamia nut, Kona coffee and Kauai pie.

Reviewers also note that you can smell the sweet scent of the shop’s homemade waffle cones. That’s when you know, you know?

Sample review: “We enjoyed Lappert’s so much we went three times during our Maui stay! The staff is friendly and the ice cream is delicious.” — Grant R

Idaho: Ice Cream Alley in McCall

ritz_santi / Instagram

Loved by 94% of reviewers

Idaho is best known for potatoes, but it makes some mean ice cream too.

Ice Cream Alley in particular keeps customers coming back for more — especially when it’s rocky road. And you won’t leave hungry; the shop claims it serves “mountain-size scoops” and delivers on that promise.

Sample review: “This small outdoor ice cream stand has THE best ice cream in the state. Some rather unusual flavors and huge helpings. With these prices you’d be silly not to get yourself a treat. Enjoy every bite!” — connieg12345

Illinois: Whitey’s Ice Cream in Moline

whiteysicecream / Instagram

Loved by 97% of reviewers

If you ever find yourself in the small town of Moline, Illinois, you better stop by Whitey’s for ice cream; the shop dates back to 1933 and has never wavered in its commitment to high-quality ingredients and scoops made with love.

Don’t leave without ordering the turtle sundae — vanilla ice cream covered with hot caramel and hot fudge. It’s the most popular offering for a very good reason.

Sample review: “We heard that Whitey’s was special. That the chain had often been voted ‘the best’. But hey, it’s ice cream right? How different could it be??? But it is. Really. Do yourself a favor and visit. Try a couple of flavors (the very friendly staff made several recommendations and were happy to give us samples). LOVED the pretzel peanut butter chocolate chip. My turtle sundae was creamy, dreamy, heaven!” — AniyahsPapa

Indiana: BRICS in Indianapolis

BRICS / Facebook

Loved by 92% of reviewers

The most well-known shop in Indiana is Columbus’ Zaharako’s, where diners enjoy the old-fashioned feel and flavors like butter pecan and chocolate mint. But it’s BRICS in Indy that gets the highest marks from locals and travelers alike.

The name is an acronym for Broad Ripple Ice Cream Station, a nod to the shop’s setting in a century-old historic railway station. This makes for a charmed ambiance, but what really keeps people coming back are the hand-dipped ice creams, served in 36 flavors, and homemade waffle cones. Finish your treat off with a kick of caffeine; BRICS is also a fair-trade coffee house.

Sample review: “Super cute spot with very friendly staff and delicious ice cream. They let you split the kinds of ice cream you get in a regular, which allows you to mix without eating more.” — 943sue

Iowa: Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor in Le Mars

Wells Visitor Center & Ice Cream Parlor / Facebook

Loved by 89% of reviewers

Whitey’s, the most beloved shop in Illinois, has a vew outposts in Iowa, too, and they’re just as revered. But if you want to try ice cream from an Iowa legend, head to the small town of Le Mars, 22 miles outside Sioux City.

Here, you’ll find Wells, the country’s largest family-owned and managed ice cream manufacturer. The company sells tasty scoops in a throwback parlor adjacent to an interactive ice cream museum. Learn more about why this tiny town has been named the ice cream capital of the U.S.

Sample review: “We had a great time looking at the small museum upstairs. The ice cream was wonderful and they had a lot to choose from.” — Ruth K

Kansas: Sylas and Maddy’s Homemade Ice Cream in Lawrence

sylasandmaddys / Instagram

Loved by 97% of reviewers

Every day, the proprietors at Sylas and Maddy make a fresh batch of waffle cones and ice cream, and they put immense care into their creations. Case in point? Their delectable pie flavors — apple, banana cream, pumpkin, lemon custard — are made with actual, fresh-made pies.

As a fun twist, they also serve flavors based on ideas sent in by customers.

Sample review: “Many classics as well as unique flavor combinations that are rich, creamy and super-delicious. Almost always a line of ice-cream aficionados but it moves fast and is well worth the short wait.” — Lovena S

Kentucky: Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge in Lexington

crankandboom / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Crank & Boom is a fan favorite in Kentucky. Reviewers love the Bourbon ball ice cream, which features honey flavoring and candied pecans, and comes paired with a Bourbon cream shot. (It doesn’t get more Kentucky than that!)

Then again, the blackberry buttermilk flavor also earns raves. Our advice? Go twice to try both.

Sample review: “We asked around for the ‘best ice cream in Lexington’ and what we discovered is basically the Best Ice Cream on the Planet. Unique flavors, great atmosphere, and friendly & fun employees exemplify this cult ice cream shop in a rehabbed warehouse. It sits in the midst of hip bars which live music at night in an ultra-cool area of Lexington. Must visit!” — tw136

Louisiana: Angelo Brocato Ice Cream in New Orleans

Angelo Brocato Ice Cream

Loved by 96% of reviewers

In steamy hot Louisiana, ice cream is the perfect way to cool down. And there’s no better place to beat the heat than Angelo Brocato.

In this icon dating back to 1905, gelato takes center stage, alongside other Italian classics like cannoli and Sicilian cassata cake. There are some fun flavors on tap, including jasmine and honey sesame, but most love the more traditional options, like pistachio and hazelnut.

Sample review: “Home made delicious Italian ice cream and pastries. Brocato’s has been a favorite for generations. These Italian desserts are amazingly delicious.” — cyngaf2016

Maine: Rococo Ice Cream in Kennebunkport

rococoicecream / Instagram

Loved by 91% of reviewers

This classic American ice cream shop has reviewers coming back for the unusual flavors. We’re talking sweet avocado cayenne, strawberry habanero, Maine whoopie wie and molasses gingersnap.

You have to see it (or rather taste it) to believe it.

Sample review: “The flavors of the ice creams and sorbets here are without compare. They are always patient with chronic tasters!” — Geoffrey B

Maryland: Annapolis Ice Cream Company in Annapolis

annapolisicecreamcompany / Instagram

Loved by 94% of reviewers

Reviewers love digging into the 30-plus ice creams at Annapolis, especially the apple pie flavor. No matter what you order, expect a creamy treat made with only the highest-quality ingredients.

Oh, and the shakes and sundaes are pretty awesome too!

Sample review: “One of our Annapolis favorites. Melts (pun intended) in your mouth. Apple Pie is my favorite. Must experience for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.” — SunnyIslandChaser

Massachusetts: Auntie’s Ice Cream Parlor in Dennis Port

hungrygirlsofboston / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Auntie’s is a family-owned ice cream shop that, unlike many places in seasonal Cape Cod, is open year round.

Reviewers keep coming back for the black raspberry and death by chocolate flavors, best enjoyed in a chocolate-dipped cone. Want something lighter? Try the “itsy bitsy” sundae. (Chances are, though, you’ll leave wanting more.)

Sample review: “Puts all the other cape ice cream places to shame. Such a hidden secret!!” — diamondgoat77

Michigan: Moomers Homemade Ice Cream in Traverse City

moomersicecream / Instagram

Loved by 91% of reviewers

In addition to touting the best name ever, Moomers serves creamy, homemade ice cream that’s the best in the state. There’s even a dairy farm right next door, so you know it’s fresh!

Considering cherry production is a major industry in Michigan, it should come as no surprise that the biggest hit here is the cherries moobilee flavor, made with sweet black cherries, chocolate fudge and chunks of fresh brownie. Yes, please.

Sample review: “Amazing ice cream and setting. I enjoyed it so much that I took home a quart. I didn’t finish it before leaving for home.” — SueH164

Minnesota: Nelson’s Drive Inn Dairy Store in Stillwater

frankthewhiteweenie / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Nelson’s is a summer tradition where the helpings are, shall we say, generous. Locals advise that you arrive with an empty stomach.

The vast selection of flavors might make you indecisive. Need help making a decision? The black cherry comes highly recommended.

Sample review: “You will not be disappointed if you like ice cream. Not only does the store have numerous flavors, the size of the servings is unbelievable. Even the child size portion is enough to satisfy your needs.” — Roger F

Mississippi: Malt Shop in Natchez

ella.rose.may / Instagram

Loved by 88% of reviewers

While other shops on this list favor the unconventional, the Malt Shop keeps things appealingly traditional. The most beloved dessert is a simple vanilla and chocolate milkshake. What more do you need, really?

(FYI, the burgers and BBQ sandwiches are delicious as well.)

Sample review: “A real throwback to the mom and pop burger and ice cream shop, this place has a walk-up window and a drive-through. The small chocolate milkshake hits the spot after a long morning of walking around the city.” — EB39211

Missouri: Central Dairy in Jefferson City

Central Dairy / Facebook

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Central Dairy’s banana split — made with a whole banana, a scoop each of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry ice cream, marshmallows, chocolate sauce and nuts — is legendary, and not just because it’s almost comically massive.

You will have to wait in line to get this beloved treat. You will not be disappointed.

Sample review: “Absolutely the best ice cream in Missouri. Basking Robbins could have 3300 flavors and not beat out Central Dairy. If you don’t mind sharing … the banana splits are monstrous!” — ShannonG1510

Montana: Big Dipper Ice Cream in Missoula

bigdippermissoula / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

You can’t go wrong at Big Dipper, where everything is homemade perfection. But you really can’t go wrong if you order the Mexican chocolate flavor, which reviewers routinely rave about.

This place has become so popular that it opened two other locations in Montana, plus an ice cream truck. If you see it, flag it down!

Sample review: “Love Love Love the Mexican Chocolate and their homemade waffle cones! If you love good ice cream without all the fluff, this is the place!” — mifcnm

Nebraska: Ivanna Cone in Lincoln

ivannacone / Instagram

Loved by 93% of reviewers

Head out early to this family-owned soda shop; specialty ice creams are made in small batches and sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. When unusual offerings like French toast hit the menu, they go fast!

Sample review: “Great ice cream…REAL ice cream…RICH ice cream. It’s a special treat for us because it is so rich.” — Melanie M

Nevada: Cafe Gelato in Las Vegas

theloveofpepper / Instagram

Loved by 87% of reviewers

What kind of Italian-themed resort would the Bellagio be if it didn’t have a gelato shop on its premises? Cafe Gelato may not serve concoctions as good as what you’ll find in Italy, but for a shop inside a mega-resort on the Strip, it does a pretty impressive job.

Try the rum raisin flavor, which reviewers can’t get enough of.

Sample review: “Excellent selection of Italian ice cream and wonderful desserts. Convenient to the pool complex, as well as close to the casino. Service was fast and friendly.” — 989emmettm

New Hampshire: Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream in Portsmouth

Annabelle’s / Facebook

Loved by 90% of reviewers

As the name indicates, this waterfront shop is all about natural ingredients, including fresh cream and cane sugar, and eschews artificial colors. It also uses a particularly high level of butterfat (16.5 percent) to create an uber-creamy product.

For the name alone, try the Mint Summer Night’s Dream — mint chocolate ice cream with chocolate chunks.

(A close second in New Hampshire? Kellerhaus in Laconia, which serves tasty sundaes in a charming German-cottage setting.)

Sample review: “Really just terrific ice cream. Need I say more? Just go, eat well, and enjoy one of the simplest eating pleasures of life.” — morr316

New Jersey: The Bent Spoon in Princeton

thebentspoon / Instagram

Loved by 92% of reviewers

Ice cream from the Bent Spoon has been stealing people’s hearts in New Jersey for nearly 16 years. Reviewers love the unique flavors, especially sweet corn, with blood orange and lemon ricotta not far behind.

In addition to the artisanal ice cream, you’ll find a wonderful assortment of fruity sorbets.

Sample review: “Oh my, how to describe the artisan ice cream?! Heaven! It’s so delicious that you feel like walking on air and you don’t need anything else.” — patsyrib

New Mexico: Kakawa Chocolate House in Santa Fe

kakawa_chocolatehouse / Instagram

Loved by 96% of reviewers

It’s hot in New Mexico and people have found that Kakawa Chocolate House is the best spot to cool down. Reviewers love coming here for the variety — not only with the ice cream flavors, but with the other chocolatey desserts, including decadent truffles and mendiants.

For an authentic taste of New Mexico, try the Aztec chili chocolate flavor, a beguiling mix of hot and cold.

Sample review: “My husband had the salted caramel. I had the chocolate. The salted caramel was good. The chocolate — was incredible. OMG!!!! It was a dark chocolate, very intense, with flavor that lingered on the tongue. Fabulous!!!” — RamblingRoses

New York: Ample Hills Creamery in Brooklyn

amplehills / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

At Ample Hills, the ice cream is both creamy and adventurous; the “I Contain Breakfast Foods” offering comes loaded with chunks of chocolate donut and coffee-cake crumble, for instance, while the “Boozy Breakfast” is infused with a local stout.

There’s usually a line, but it’s okay because ice cream this good makes everything better.

The shop has since expanded throughout the state and into California, Florida and New Jersey, but started in Brooklyn and still serves the best stuff there.

Sample review: “The ice cream here is absolutely heavenly. They really mean business when they say creamy and fresh. I literally die for the ooey gooey. I can probably eat just about any flavor, but that my friends is just instantly bliss. Don’t walk run!!!!” — Louise S

North Carolina: Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream in Wilmington

Esther C. / Yelp

Loved by 91% of reviewers

Boombalatti’s makes people swoon with its dairy products from North Carolina-raised, grass-fed cows. Most of its ingredients are also natural and (gasp!) real. So, yes, the banana ice cream is made with real bananas. We know — customers can hardly believe it, too.

Sample review: “Banana ice cream with vanilla wafers! Peanut butter chocolate! Waffle cone bowls! Homemade hot fudge! This place is as good as it gets.” — Craig C

North Dakota: Pride Dairy in Bottineau

dennydiamond / Instagram

Loved by 97% of reviewers

Pride Dairy calls itself the “last small town creamery” in North Dakota, and whether that’s true or not, people are giving this place lots of five-star reviews. Reviewers comment that the malts are especially delicious.

Sample review: “The best ice cream ever! They also have frozen caramel rolls and dinner rolls that are amazing with caramel sauce!” — fanynany22

Ohio: Graeter’s Ice Cream in Cincinnati

graeterscleveland / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Graeter’s has over 1,000 five-star reviews. What makes it so above-and-beyond great?

For one thing, it prepares its ice cream in unique French Pot freezers to ensure maximum creaminess. For another, it makes 14 flavors with homemade chocolate chips, which come in large, soft, dark and milk varieties.

People especially swoon over the black cherry chocolate chip and the black raspberry chocolate chip ice creams. (Understandably!)

Sample review: “Greaters is the BEST ice cream on the planet. I have tried them all! Even the so called ‘best gourmet ice creams’ don’t hold a candle to Greaters. It is SOOOOO creamy and smooth, with LOTS of whatever flavor you choose.” — STALOYS

Oklahoma: Roxy’s Ice Cream Social in Oklahoma City

takeabiteok / Instagram

Loved by 89% of reviewers

Roxy’s pecan flavor ice cream is good enough on its own; when topped with candied pecans, it enters a new level. People also rave about the cookie monster sandwich — ice cream sandwiched between two homemade cookies.

One reviewer left a piece of advice to always order the cone because it’s a bigger portion size than the cup. Noted!

Sample review: “Roxy’s is by far the best ice cream in Oklahoma. My wife and I love this place and regularly drive from Norman to get some wonderful flavors. The best thing about Roxy’s is their unique flavors that actually taste like what the flavor is.” — wxpolk

Oregon: Salt & Straw in Portland

ladytramp_ayako / Instagram

Loved by 92% of reviewers

Salt & Straw has a few locations on the West Coast and Miami, but reviewers still love its original location in Portland best.

People go nuts over the wild flavors, including but not limited to pear and blue cheese, honey lavender, Arbequina olive oil and cinnamon snickerdoodle. But that doesn’t mean the shop relies on gimmicks; the ice cream, handmade in small batches, is first and foremost of the highest quality.

Sample review: “You can not be in Portland and miss Salt & Straw. The creativity coming up with flavour is amazing and the taste is so good. Just mind the queues but don´t miss out!” — KatBer68

Pennsylvania: Mr. G’s Ice Cream in Gettysburg

mr_gs_ice_cream / Instagram

Loved by 94% of reviewers

Mr. G’s touts a historically important setting not far from the battlefield where the Battle of Gettysburg took place; out front stands a 300-year-old Sycamore tree that witnessed this seminal Civil War fight, and the building itself is marked with bullet holes.

But the real draw is the ice cream itself, served in 16 flavors that range from the traditional to the seasonal. (Peach and blueberry in the fall? Yes, please!) It’s hard to choose what to order, but go for the salted caramel to really get your money’s worth. And make sure to eat it in a homemade waffle bowl.

Sample review: “Right in the heart of it all! Homemade ice cream in a historic building in the middle of one of the most historic cities in America!” — DaddyandCaleb

Rhode Island: Brickley’s Ice Cream in Narragansett

thecravingsteam / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Brickley’s is winning people over with its chunky peanut butter-cup ice cream, though cake batter and mint Oreo also earn raves. These and other flavors — 45 in total! — are complemented by special treats like a killer banana split.

Bottom line: Don’t come here unless you’re really hungry and ready to splurge.

Sample review: “This is the best ice cream, ever. Seriously. It is so rich and creamy, nothing beats it. Many flavors to choose from. I love the peach and the peanut butter cup.” — Laura S

South Carolina: Luna Rosa Gelato in Greenville

Luna Rosa Gelato / Facebook

Loved by 92% of reviewers

Italian-style ice cream is done right at this cafe that also serves excellent pasta, pizza and paninis. Want to try something different? Order a float made with gelato and soda. It sounds weird, but people love it!

Sample review: “I have had my fair share of galeto being an Italian New Yorker and all. It is very hard to find traditional gelato in the south. Thankfully I live right by Luna Rosa. Not only is their gelato the best I ever had but their food is to die for.” — Julie B

South Dakota: The Silver Lining Creamery in Rapid City

The Silver Lining Creamery / Facebook

Loved by 93% of reviewers

If you like cotton candy, wait until you try the cotton candy-flavored ice cream at Silver Lining. It’s sugary sweetness, perfected.

This beloved shop also serves divine ice cream sundaes in mason jars, a unique way to try a beloved classic. Oh, and the sorbets are wonderful too.

Sample review: “The ice cream is super creamy – more of a gelato consistency. Wonderful flavors – try the oreo cookie dough or the lemon grass. Lots of kids found the cotton candy to die for.” — MaquamVt

Tennessee: Mike’s Ice Cream in Nashville

hongkongerincalifornia / Instagram

Loved by 92% of reviewers

You’ll find this yummy ice cream shop in the heart of Nashville on bustling 2nd Avenue. The Tennessee fudge is a popular flavor, along with the chocolate overload and nutter butter.

Order two scoops in a cookie cone after a night on the town enjoying the local music scene. (The shop is open until midnight on the weekends.)

Sample review: “I usually eat ice cream once per month, but this was worth two trips in a week! Great flavors, generous scoops, super taste and excellent coffee.” — Wing_anda_Prayer1210

Texas: La King’s Confectionery in Galveston

junkgypsy / Instagram

Loved by 95% of reviewers

Over a thousand people have given La King’s five stars, a testament to its exemplary quality. At this 1920s-styled parlor, you’ll find classic ice-cream flavors in generous portions, plus an old-timey candy counter and taffy-making demonstrations. Neat!

Sample review: “This was a great place to eat ice cream. It was also a great place to watch taffy being made and cut and wrapped. and then sampled. You could also buy delicious chocolates, caramels, popcorn, cotton candy, shakes, Old time presentation. It was fun just to sit and eat ice cream and watch everything going on around.” — recorder

Utah: Springdale Candy Company in Springdale

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Loved by 95% of reviewers

Yes, this is a candy shop and yes, it serves sublime treats like homemade fudge and hand-dipped chocolate. But the creamy ice cream, served in fun flavors like huckleberry and maple pecan, is equally superb.

Come by for an extra-large scoop after a day of hiking in Zion National Park.

Sample review: “We really love ice cream and have it on a regular basis during our trips. This place is absolutely one of the top ranked ice [cream] vendors. Great ice cream in more than one way; great in taste, in size and in value for money. Two scoops are actually four which you can split in four different tastes. And these are really excellent tastes.” — O224D

Vermont: Ben & Jerry’s in Burlington

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Loved by 91% of reviewers

It’s tough to compete with the heavyweight that is Ben & Jerry’s, and reviewers have spoken: This is THE place to get ice cream in Vermont. People love to go into the shop and order their faves, such as phish food and caramel blondie.

Reviewers warn that this place gets busy (no surprise!), but it’s worth the wait.

Sample review: “We love Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. We buy it for home, but it’s always fun to stop at their scoop shop on Church St. The staff is so friendly and there is always a great assortment of flavors and cones to choose from.” — wally37

Virginia: Island Creamery in Chincoteague Island

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Loved by 96% of reviewers

More than 3,240 people have given this ice cream shop five stars, singling out its overall quality and inventive flavors like caramel crunch, java jolt, pony tracks and, seasonally, pumpkin pie and Almond Joy.

Have an idea for a flavor? The shop will sometimes craft flavors from customer requests!

Sample review: “This place has so many choices it will make your head spin! And the ice cream and waffle cones are HOMEMADE. This is the best ice cream I have ever had – and trust me, I have enjoyed a lot of ice cream at a lot of places. This place blows them all away.” — jeaniegreen313

Washington: Mallard Ice Cream & Cafe in Bellingham

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Loved by 93% of reviewers

Mallard takes the quality of its ice cream very seriously. In-season, locally sourced fruits, spices, veggies and herbs serve as the basis for flavors like basil cheesecake, chocolate lavender and tumeric, all crafted in salt ice churns.

Plus, it serves some of the best vegan ice cream you’ll ever find.

Sample review: “Flavors that surprise you and the creamiest, most delicious ice cream. Very popular and will usually have a line on the weekends, but well worth it.” — Zelsmama

West Virginia: Dairy Creme Corner in Fairmont

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Loved by 97% of reviewers

Come to Dairy Creme with an appetite, because the portion sizes here are massive. Considering how delicious the ice cream is, though, finishing shouldn’t be a problem. Try a unique flavor like peanut and jelly or banana pudding, served in the biggest cone you’ve ever seen.

Sample review: “Best ice cream in town! If you order a large ice cream cone, be prepared to eat it fast, because it takes some time to finish it before it melts!! Have someone on stand by to help you eat it all! Mmmmmmm!!” — Dell H

Wisconsin: Pearl Ice Cream Parlor in La Crosse

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Loved by 97% of reviewers

People are lauding Pearl with five stars for the nostalgia of its 1950s decor…oh, and the ice cream! Go for the Mississippi mud flavor when you’re here; you won’t regret it.

Sample review: “We like to come here for ice cream, especially in the summer months and then walk around in Riverside Park. Their ice cream is the best!! Strongly recommend if coming to La Crosse!” — Heidimclem

Wyoming: Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream in Jackson

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Loved by 84% of reviewers

Moo’s isn’t rated quite as highly as other shops on this list, but is popular and championed by many. The large portions and excellent dairy-free options are hits. So is the huckleberry flavor, a well-deserved favorite.

Sample review: “Now THAT is great ice cream! So creamy, so delicious! Portions are huge and priced as such. A ‘kiddie’ size portion may actually work for most people.” — CKF