The 7 Best Ice Cream Shops in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and of course, its delectable food scene. Among the city’s culinary delights, ice cream holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to try something new and adventurous, our guide to the 7 Best Ice Cream Shops in Philadelphia will point you in the right direction.

When choosing the perfect ice cream shop, consider the following services and aspects:

Variety of Flavors: From traditional vanilla and chocolate to unique, locally-inspired creations.
Homemade Options: Freshly made in-house for that authentic, creamy taste.
Non-Dairy and Vegan Choices: Delicious alternatives for those with dietary preferences.
Custom Creations: Build your own sundaes, cones, or milkshakes.
Seating and Ambiance: Comfortable settings to enjoy your treat.
Price Range: Options that cater to all budgets, from $3 cones to $10 gourmet sundaes.
Family-Friendly: Activities or areas for kids to enjoy.
Local Ingredients: Support for local farmers and producers.

These considerations will help you find the perfect spot to indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy the best ice cream experiences Philadelphia has to offer.

1. C & C Creamery
2. Insomnia Cookies
3. Morrone's Water Ice

4. Chloe's Corner
5. Bassetts Ice Cream
6. Häagen-Dazs Shop & Ice Cream Truck
7. The Igloo

Number of companies

4084

Verified reviews

4,41

Average rating

(215)4871920

1. C & C Creamery

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

5461 Ridge Ave, 19128.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop

Why we chose them

C & C Creamery, a beloved ice cream shop, has been delighting taste buds with its handmade confections since 1951. Known for crafting ice cream on the premises, this establishment has become a staple in Philadelphia, offering a unique and authentic dessert experience. With a commitment to quality and tradition, the creamery continues to serve up delicious treats that have kept customers returning for generations.

Operating from its cozy location, the creamery provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for dessert enthusiasts. The fall hours ensure ample opportunity for visitors to indulge in their favorite flavors. As a testament to its popularity and quality, the last day to order a cake for the 2024 season is set for October 15th. The combination of rich history and dedication to quality makes this ice cream shop a standout addition to our directory.

(215)5443093

2. Insomnia Cookies

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,1/5

4319 Main St, 19127.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop
Dessert shop
Cookie shop

Why we chose them

Insomnia Cookies stands out in our directory for its unique blend of offerings as an ice cream shop, dessert shop, and cookie shop. This bakery chain has captured the hearts of many with its delectable cookies and creamy ice cream, providing a sweet escape for dessert lovers. Known for its late-night availability, the company caters to those craving a delicious treat at any hour, making it a go-to destination for indulgence.

The brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in its carefully crafted menu, which features a variety of cookies and ice cream flavors that appeal to all taste preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic chocolate chip cookie or a unique ice cream combination, this dessert haven offers something for everyone. Their dedication to delivering delightful desserts makes them a standout choice for inclusion in our directory.

(267)2925949

3. Morrone's Water Ice

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

200 N 63rd St, 19139.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop

Why we chose them

Morrone’s Water Ice is a standout in West Philly, renowned for offering “the best water ice” in the area. This charming ice cream shop has captivated locals with its refreshing and flavorful treats, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a delightful way to cool down. The company has successfully built a reputation on quality and taste, ensuring each visit leaves customers craving more of their delicious offerings.

Chosen for our directory for its exceptional service and community appeal, this ice cream shop exemplifies the perfect blend of traditional flavors and local charm. The vibrant presence of Morrone’s Water Ice on social media further highlights its popularity and the warm reception from its loyal patrons. Their commitment to serving the finest water ice in the neighborhood has earned them a well-deserved spot in our selection of noteworthy businesses.

(215)4834162

4. Chloe's Corner

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

4162 Main St, 19127.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop
Cheesesteak restaurant

Why we chose them

Chloe’s Corner has been a beloved destination in the heart of Philly since 1995, offering a delightful blend of sweet treats and savory delights. Known for its iconic ice cream shop, this establishment has been crafting memorable experiences for locals and visitors alike. The combination of classic and innovative flavors ensures there’s something for everyone, making it a go-to spot for those late-night cravings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

In addition to its delectable ice cream offerings, Chloe’s Corner has earned a reputation for serving some of the best cheesesteaks in the city. As a cheesesteak restaurant, it captures the authentic Philly taste, creating unforgettable food memories for its patrons. This unique blend of offerings and its commitment to quality make it a standout choice, and a must-visit spot, earning it a well-deserved place in our company directory.

(215)9254315

5. Bassetts Ice Cream

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

45 N 12th St, 19107.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop
Dessert shop
Frozen dessert supplier

Why we chose them

Bassetts Ice Cream, America’s oldest ice cream brand, has been delighting customers since 1861. As a family-owned business now in its sixth generation, it holds a cherished spot in Philadelphia’s historic Reading Terminal Market. Known for its iconic ice cream counter, the company specializes in selling super-premium ice cream in various forms, including cups, cones, shakes, and specialty treats. Its rich history and commitment to quality make it a standout choice for ice cream enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste experience.

Offering more than just an ice cream shop, Bassetts serves as a dessert shop and frozen dessert supplier, catering to diverse customer needs. The company provides options for nationwide shipping, wholesale, and even catering services, ensuring accessibility to their beloved flavors. Their website features a comprehensive flavor gallery, retail store menu, and options for online orders, showcasing their dedication to innovation while maintaining traditional values. This blend of heritage and modern convenience is why they are featured in our directory.

(215)9253373

6. Häagen-Dazs Shop & Ice Cream Truck

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

242 South St, 19147.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop
Catering food and drink supplier
Event planner
Mobile caterer

Why we chose them

Häagen-Dazs Shop & Ice Cream Truck has been a beloved destination for ice cream enthusiasts in Philadelphia since 1985. Known for its wide range of frozen treats, the shop caters to both residents and visitors, offering an array of delectable options including ice cream bars, cones, sandwiches, and scoopable ice cream. They also provide gluten-free and non-dairy alternatives, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The shop’s commitment to quality and variety makes it a standout choice for those seeking a sweet indulgence. With a history of delighting customers, they have expanded their services to include catering and event planning, bringing their iconic flavors to gatherings and celebrations.

Innovating beyond the traditional shop experience, the company has introduced a mobile option with their Ice Cream Truck, available for booking through Instagram. This service allows the Häagen-Dazs experience to reach customers wherever they are, making it a popular choice for events. As a mobile caterer, they offer a unique and delightful addition to any occasion. Their presence on South Street remains a staple, but the addition of delivery services and mobile catering underscores their commitment to accessibility and customer satisfaction. This blend of tradition and innovation is why they are a distinguished choice for inclusion in our directory.

(267)8584290

7. The Igloo

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

2223 Grays Ferry Ave, 19146.0, Philadelphia

Ice cream shop
Frozen yogurt shop

Why we chose them

The Igloo is a premier frozen dessert destination located in Philadelphia, offering a delightful array of both hard scoop ice cream and soft serve options. Known for its vibrant and inviting atmosphere, it caters to ice cream enthusiasts and frozen yogurt lovers alike. The shop is a must-visit for anyone in the area, providing a sweet escape with its diverse menu that promises to satisfy every craving. It’s not just about the desserts; the company also hosts parties and events, making it a perfect spot for celebrations.

With its strong presence in the community, The Igloo stands out for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company also offers exciting ownership opportunities for those looking to become part of its success story. Their website makes it easy to explore the menu and place orders, ensuring a seamless experience for all customers. This dedication to excellence and innovation in frozen treats makes it a standout choice for our company directory.

FAQs

What variety of flavors can I expect at ice cream shops in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia ice cream shops offer a wide range of flavors, from classic options like vanilla and chocolate to unique, locally-inspired creations. Many shops also experiment with seasonal flavors and innovative combinations.

Are there non-dairy and vegan ice cream options available?

Yes, many ice cream shops in Philadelphia offer non-dairy and vegan options. These alternatives are made with ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk to cater to dietary preferences.

What is the average price range for ice cream in Philadelphia?

The price for ice cream in Philadelphia varies, with cones typically ranging from €2.50 to €4.50 and gourmet sundaes costing between €8.50 and €11.00.

How can I tell if an ice cream shop uses local ingredients?

Many shops highlight their use of local ingredients on their menus or websites. You can also ask the staff about their sourcing practices to ensure they support local farmers and producers.

What should I consider when choosing an ice cream shop in Philadelphia?

Consider factors such as the variety of flavors, homemade options, non-dairy and vegan choices, custom creations, seating and ambiance, price range, family-friendly amenities, and the use of local ingredients.

Can I create custom ice cream creations at these shops?

Yes, many ice cream shops in Philadelphia allow you to build your own sundaes, cones, or milkshakes, offering a personalized experience with various toppings and flavors.

Are there family-friendly ice cream shops in Philadelphia?

Many ice cream shops in Philadelphia are family-friendly, offering activities or designated areas for kids to enjoy while you savor your treat.

What is the ambiance like in Philadelphia ice cream shops?

Ice cream shops in Philadelphia vary in ambiance, from cozy and quaint settings to modern and lively environments. Many offer comfortable seating areas where you can relax and enjoy your dessert.