Just because school is officially back in session doesn’t mean summer is quite over yet. Sept. 22 marks the first day of autumn, which means we still have over a month of summer remaining.
What better way to end the season than with summer’s favorite sweet treat, ice cream? We’ve curated our annual guide to 90 ice cream shops, organized by neighborhood.
Take a look at our list, and find an ice cream shop near you.
Food trucks
Ice Cream – R – Us
Nothing like hearing the sound of an ice cream truck ride to spark childhood memories. Keep your ears open in case this truck drives through your neighborhood this summer.
King Of Pops
Yeah, popsicles aren’t technically ice cream. However, King of Pops serves cream-based pops in addition to its fruity pops. Flavors like Cookies ‘n Cream, Strawberries ‘n Cream and Chocolate Sea Salt are perfect for cooling down during the hot summer days. Plus, they are pretty fun to eat. If you’re feeling ice cream on a stick, it’s worth chasing down this cart.
Sugar Shack Sweets
Looking for a curbside treat? Sugar Shack Sweets peddles around the city to deliver ice cream and other food items to the Charlotte area.
Ballantyne/Blakeney
Baskin-Robbins
16131 Lancaster Hwy.
There are over 7,800 Baskin-Robbins locations around the world, and a couple of those are in the Charlotte area. Among specialty options such as parfaits and mix-ins, and grab-n-go options, there are various frozen treats to choose from. You should also always check out its flavor of the month to try something new. Baskin-Robbins is temporarily limited nationwide to drive-thru ordering, carryout and delivery during COVID-19.
Cold Stone Creamery
9820 Rea Road, Suite B
Cold Stone Creamery is an American ice cream chain that has a couple shops in the Charlotte area. Its ice cream, yogurt and sorbet are made fresh in store every day. Various toppings are available for any frozen creation and are mixed-in and prepared on a frozen granite stone. This location has adjusted its hours to 5-10 p.m. for takeout and delivery.
Häagen-Dazs
7408 Waverly Walk Ave.
Many people recognize this brand from the frozen isle in the grocery store. However, there are many Häagen-Dazs shops throughout the country, including the one in the Waverly shopping center. Enjoy your ice cream social distancing style outside at The Terrace, which is directly next to the shop. This location is open for takeout and delivery only during COVID-19.
Marble Slab
7800-C Rea Road
This chain has been around since 1983 and prides itself on serving fresh, homemade ice cream. Hand rolled cones, various toppings and several drizzles to choose from allow you to become the ultimate creator of your frozen treat. This location is currently not offering indoor dine-in seating due to the coronavirus.
The Local Scoop
5355 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. (Note: There’s also a pop-up shop in Matthews)
The secret is in the name: The Local Scoop uses locally-sourced ingredients to make its freshly crafted ice cream. More specifically, its dairy comes from Jackson Farms and Homeland Creamery. Although the flavors change constantly, popular summer flavors include Banana Pudding and Key Lime Pie. Non-dairy options are also available.
Pro-tip: Keep your eyes peeled on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram on Mondays through Thursdays for the name of the day you can receive one free scoop (@localscoopclt). The Local Scoop is currently not offering indoor dine-in seating during the pandemic. Customers can place online orders through the website.
Shake Shack
9824 Rea Road, Suite A
Shake Shack is a fast-casual restaurant chain that serves burgers, chicken, hot dogs and other food items along with sweet treats such as milkshakes and frozen custard. Due to COVID-19, all locations across the country have made adjustments to provide a contactless experience whenever possible. Customers can also order ahead on the Shack App and online for pickup or delivery.
Dilworth
Baskin-Robbins
1831 South Blvd.
There are over 7,800 Baskin-Robbins locations around the world, and a couple of those are in the Charlotte area. Among specialty options such as parfaits and mix-ins, and grab-n-go options, there are various frozen treats to choose from. You should also always check out its flavor of the month to try something new. Baskin-Robbins is temporarily limited nationwide to drive-thru ordering, carry-out and delivery during COVID-19.
King of Pops cart
Often found outside of JJ’s Red Hots, 1514 East Blvd., but check @kingofpopsclt.
East Charlotte
Aggie’s Ice Cream & Grill
Aggie’s Ice Cream & Grill is a restaurant in East Charlotte that serves all three meals along with homemade ice cream. Some of its flavors include Fudge Swirl, Cherry Vanilla and Bubble Gum.
Cook Out
5715 N. Sharon Amity Road and 6438 Albemarle Road
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbeque and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out has stated that during COVID-19, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Elizabeth
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
507 Providence Road
Ben and Jerry: two names known and loved by many. The story of Ben and Jerry and their notorious ice creams began in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Vermont. Now, Ben and Jerry’s pints are recognized in areas all over the world. Luckily, Charlotte has a couple scoop shops for all those Phish Food and Cherry Garcia cravings. Don’t want to leave your house during the pandemic? No problem. Ben & Jerry’s offers instant delivery around the clock. Head to the site to find out which location can deliver your favorite flavor right to your doorstep.
Elizabeth Creamery
1535 Elizabeth Ave.
This quaint little shop is a crowd pleaser. It is a family-owned and family-run business that values fresh, quality ingredients and has been adored by the city for many years. Popular flavors include Butter Pecan and Blueberry Cheesecake. If you are feeling funky, try some of its more unique flavors, such as Smurf or Green Tea. Since reopening on Aug.7, Elizabeth Creamery has adjusted its hours to 1-9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday with no indoor seating available. All quests are required to wear masks, and only two guests are allowed in the store at a time. Samples are also prohibited during this time.
Freemore West
Cook Out
2540 Freedom Drive
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out has stated that during COVID-19, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
LoSo
La Michoacana Paleteria
6300 South Blvd., Unit 100
La Michochana has been serving artisanal, Mexican ice cream, frozen fruit bars and drinks since 1942. The team uses fresh, natural ingredients for all its sweet treats, including paletas, banana splits and shakes.
Zack’s Burgers
4009 South Blvd.
Zack’s Hamburgers is an old school fast food joint that has been around since 1975. Although known for its iconic burger, the Zack’s Special, Zack’s Hamburgers also serves malted milkshakes and root beer floats. Milkshake flavors include vanilla, chocolate, cherry, banana, Oreo and strawberry.
Myers Park
Amélie’s French Bakery
4321 Park Road
In addition to the famous Salted Caramel Brownie and other French desserts, Amélie’s recently added ice cream pints to its menu. Flavors include Salted Caramel Brownie, Strawberry Chiffon, Dairy Free Chocolate Sea Salt and Lavender Lemon. During the pandemic, Amelie’s is offering online ordering, in-store pickup, and contact-free delivery for all orders.
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
7800 Fairview Road, Foxcroft East Shopping Center
Ben and Jerry: two names known and loved by many. The story of Ben and Jerry and their notorious ice creams began in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Vermont. Now, Ben and Jerry’s pints are recognized in areas all over the world. Luckily, Charlotte has a couple of scoop shops for all those Phish Food and Cherry Garcia cravings. Don’t want to leave your house during COVID? No problem. Ben & Jerry’s offers instant delivery around the clock. Head to the site to find out which location can deliver your favorite flavor right to your doorstep.
Dairy Queen (treat only)
108 S. Sharon Amity Road
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a few DQs located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your cravings.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
4203 Park Road
This Ohio-based, artisan ice cream company has sparked a craze in the Charlotte area. People go nuts for its unique flavors and overall aesthetic. Crowd favorite flavors include Brambleberry Crisp, Darkest Chocolate and Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Artisan dairy-free flavors are also available. While all Charlotte locations are open for walkup traffic during COVID-19, Jeni’s requires all customers nationwide to wear a mask before entering, prohibits flavor sampling and cash payments, and serves all cones upside down in a bowl.
Park Road Soda Shoppe
4121 Park Road
Looking for the perfect banana split? Park Road Soda Shoppe might be your golden ticket. This old-school soda shoppe serves all the diner classics and is a great spot to enjoy a milkshake, sundae, scoop or float.
Shake Shack
1605 E. Woodlawn Road
Shake Shack is a fast-casual restaurant chain that serves burgers, chicken, hot dogs and other food items along with sweet treats such as milkshakes and frozen custard. Due to COVID-19, all locations across the country have made adjustments to provide a contactless experience whenever possible. Customers can also order ahead on the Shack App and online for pickup or delivery.
NoDa
Amélie’s French Bakery
2424 N. Davidson St.
In addition to its famous Salted Caramel Brownie and other French desserts, Amélie’s recently added ice cream pints to its menu. Flavors include Salted Caramel Brownie, Strawberry Chiffon, Dairy Free Chocolate Sea Salt and Lavender Lemon. During the pandemic, Amelie’s is offering online ordering, in-store pickup, and contact-free delivery for all orders.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
416 E. 36th St. #400
This Ohio-based, artisan ice cream company has sparked a craze in the Charlotte area. People go nuts for its unique flavors and overall aesthetic. Crowd favorite flavors include Brambleberry Crisp, Darkest Chocolate and Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Artisan dairy-free flavors are also available. While all Charlotte locations are open for walkup traffic during the pandemic, Jeni’s requires all customers nationwide to wear a mask before entering, prohibits flavor sampling and cash payments and serves all cones upside down in a bowl.
Northwest Charlotte/ Mount Holly
Cook Out
425 Huntersville Gateway Blvd. and 1301 Sugar Creek Road
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out has stated that during the coronavirus, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Sonic Drive-In
265 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road
If you’re craving a classic vanilla cone or hot fudge sundae, Sonic’s got that. But it’s hard to top a Sonic blast, with favorites like Oreos, Butterfinger candy or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups mixed in. The drive-in or drive-through — your choice — also has options for classic shakes or “master” shakes, which include Oreo Peanut Butter or Strawberry Cheesecake.
X-tra Ball Ice Cream & Pinball
2914 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road
This half-pinball arcade and half-ice cream shop beckons your inner child to come play for a while and grab a treat. It scoops up 12 flavors of hand-dipped Hershey ice cream, including Cotton Candy, Cookie Dough and Moose Tracks. But there’s also hand-spun shakes and spun soda floats — called “Spinners” — coffee floats and even multi-balls, which are mini-scoops just begging for you to mix and match flavors. During Phase Two of COVID restrictions in North Carolina, only one party at a time is allowed to sit indoors, but there’s a bench outside for seating, too.
Oakhurst
Swirl
1640 Oakhurst Commons Drive, #103
Many people know Swirl for its delicious and fun custom cakes. However, did you know the team recently began selling soft serve ice cream? During your next visit (which should be soon), grab a cupcake and a cup of soft serve — you won’t regret it. Two is better than one, right? Swirl is currently open for takeout and delivery only due to COVID-19.
Plaza Midwood
Rita’s Italian Ice
1308-A, The Plaza
Rita’s Italian Ice is a restaurant chain that is known for its Italian ice, frozen custard, and specialty creations such as Gelatis, a combination of Italian ice and frozen custard. During COVID-19, the Plaza Midwood location is open for take out only Tuesday through Sunday during 1-8 p.m.
Sweet Sensations
2819, The Plaza
Sweet Sensations is an old fashion family owned and operated candy store in Plaza Midwood. Along with old fashion candy and baked goods, Sweet Sensations also sells handmade ice cream made from fresh ingredients and a family recipe.
Two Scoops Creamery
913 Central Ave.
Two Scoops Creamery is a locally owned ice cream shop operated by three best friends who brought their family recipes to life. Can’t decide on what to order? No worries — create your own flavor creation using its iconic, dual-top cone. Dairy-free vegan flavors are also available for your choosing. Currently, Two Scoops is not offering indoor seating due to COVID-19.
South End
Golden Cow Creamery
170 W. Summit Ave.
Golden Cow Creamery was founded by two North Carolina natives who shared a love for frozen treats and the community. Each batch of ice cream is made from scratch, and its flavors are always changing. Classic flavors include Fresh Strawberry, Salted Oreo and Dunkaroos (which may spark a flashback to your childhood snacking days). During the pandemic, Golden Cow is open for take-out and outdoor seating and offers delivery through DoorDash.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
1920 Camden Road
This Ohio-based, artisan ice cream company has sparked a craze in the Charlotte area. People go nuts for its unique flavors and overall aesthetic. Crowd favorite flavors include Brambleberry Crisp, Darkest Chocolate and Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Artisan dairy-free flavors are also available. While all Charlotte locations are open for walkup traffic during COVID-19, Jeni’s requires all customers nationwide to wear a mask before entering, prohibits flavor sampling and cash payments and serves all cones upside down in a bowl.
King of Pops Shop
2500 Dunavant St.
Pro-tip: At the shop, you can have your ice cream on a stick dipped in chocolate at the pop shop for a little extra pizzazz.
Krispy Kreme
2116 Hawkins St., #102
The North Carolina-founded brand is now open in its new South End location. Adjacent to Krispy Kreme’s Global Project & Innovation Center, this location allows guests to sample innovative new products and is home to Krispy Kreme’s first-ever doughnut vending machine. Krispy Kreme serves scoop sandwiches along with hand-spun milkshakes made with Original Glazed Doughnut-infused ice cream flavors such as Classic Strawberry, Double Chocolate, OREO Cookies & Kreme, Salty Caramel and Vanilla Glazed.
Mr. K’s Soft Ice Cream
2107 South Blvd.
Mr. K’s is an old-school soda shop that has been serving vanilla and chocolate swirl soft serve since 1967. The store has been in the same exact location as the day it opened several years ago and is still loved by the community for its charm and quality, and it is currently open for indoor and outdoor eating. Coned, cupped, spun, dipped, sprinkled — whatever your preference, you cannot go wrong with Mr. K’s.
Shake Shack
1930 Camden Road, #235
Shake Shack is a fast-casual restaurant chain that serves burgers, chicken, hot dogs and other food items along with sweet treats such as milkshakes and frozen custard. Due to COVID-19, all locations across the country have made adjustments to provide a contactless experience whenever possible. Customers can also order ahead on the Shack App and online for pickup or delivery.
Two Scoops Creamery
1616 Camden Road, #100
Two Scoops Creamery is a locally owned ice cream shop operated by three best friends who brought their family recipes to life. Can’t decide on what to order? No worries — create your own flavor creation using its iconic, dual-top cone. Dairy-free vegan flavors are also available for your choosing. Currently, Two Scoops is not offering indoor seating due to COVID-19.
SouthPark
Around the World Cafe
5110 Park Road 1-K
This cafe is run by a mother-daughter duo. Their goodies are inspired by the various places they have traveled together, including Thai ice cream rolls. Find fun flavors like Jet Lag (coffee), Cherry Carolina (black cherry) and Hazy Nana (Nutella and banana). Around the World Cafe is now open 11 a.m.–7 p.m. daily and offers takeout, order ahead and curbside ordering with the Cloosive app and delivery with UberEats and DoorDash.
Godiva Chocolatier
4400 Sharon Road, SouthPark Mall
The mall location of this premium chocolate outlet offers soft serve ice cream, along with luxury pralines, truffles, soft drinks and, of course, chocolates.
Golden Cow Creamery
720 Gov. Morrison St.
Golden Cow Creamery was founded by two North Carolina natives who shared a love for frozen treats and the community. Each batch of ice cream is made from scratch, and its flavors are always changing. Classic flavors include Fresh Strawberry, Salted Oreo and Dunkaroos (which may spark a flashback to your childhood snacking days). Show up for breakfast if you’re feeling a waffle (yes, you can get ice cream on it. The new Golden Waffles is a partnership between Golden Cow Creamery, Cast Iron Waffles and Enderly Coffee Co.). During COVID, Golden Cow is open for takeout and outdoor seating and offers delivery through DoorDash.
Nom Nom Hibachi Ice Cream
4400 Sharon Road, SouthPark Mall, in front of Disney Store and Victoria’s Secret
This ice cream kiosk located in SouthPark Mall sells fried ice cream rolls, which is a Thai concept.
Steele Creek
Smallcakes Cupcakery and Creamery
4847 Shopton Road, Suite E
The combination of cake with ice cream is truly one that cannot be matched. At Smallcakes, you can have the best of both worlds. Enjoy a scoop of one of its popular flavors, such as Red Velvet or Blue Monster Cookie, and pair it with a cupcake. This shop is now offering curbside pickup and contactless delivery.
Cold Stone Creamery
14126 Rivergate Pkwy., Suite 100
Cold Stone Creamery is an ice cream chain that has a couple shops in the Charlotte area. Its Ice cream, yogurt and sorbet are made fresh in store every day. Various toppings are available for any frozen creation and are mixed-in and prepared on a frozen granite stone. During the pandemic, this location is open for takeout only.
Sonic Drive-In
7820 Forest Point Blvd.
If you’re craving a classic vanilla cone or hot fudge sundae, Sonic’s got that. But it’s hard to top a Sonic blast, with favorites like Oreos, Butterfinger candy or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups mixed in. The drive-in or drive-through — your choice — also has options for classic shakes or “master” shakes, which include Oreo Peanut Butter or Strawberry Cheesecake.
University City/North Charlotte
Cafe49
10221 University City Blvd.
Cafe49 is an ice cream shop in the University area that has over 40 premium flavors to choose from. The shop also sells coffee and quick bites.
Cocos Locos
4801 N. Tryon St.
Cocos Locos is a small-batch ice cream shop in North Charlotte. It is currently open from 2-7 p.m. daily.
Coffee Cone Cafe
9620 University City Blvd.
Looking for non-dairy or Paleo friendly treats? Coffee Cone Cafe might be right up your alley. In addition to its non-dairy, paleo ice cream, it serves hand-crafted espresso drinks, over 20 flavors of soft serve ice cream, milkshakes, frappes, smoothies and many other goodies.
Culver’s
7031 University City Blvd.
Although Culver’s restaurants are primarily located in the Midwest, there are a couple of stores in the Charlotte area. This fast-food joint serves frozen custard that is made throughout the day to remain creamy and fresh.
La Michoacana Paleteria
6301 N. Tryon St.
La Michochana has been serving artisanal, mexican ice cream, frozen fruit bars and drinks since 1942. The team uses fresh, natural ingredients for all its sweet treats, including paletas, banana splits and shakes.
Ninety’s Ice Cream & Sandwiches
9009 J M Keynes Drive, Suite 4
Ninety’s, a family-owned shop in the University area, is known for its novelty ice cream creations such as cereal bowl milkshakes with edible rims, macaron ice cream sandwiches, customizable warm cookie sundaes and yum-ee buns (aka glazed doughnut ice cream sandwiches). Ninety’s is now offering online ordering and front-door pickup.
Uptown
Amélie’s French Bakery
380 S. College St.
In addition to its famous Salted Caramel Brownie and other French desserts, Amélie’s recently added ice cream pints to its menu. Flavors include Salted Caramel Brownie, Strawberry Chiffon, Dairy Free Chocolate Sea Salt and Lavender Lemon. During this time, Amelie’s is offering online ordering, in-store pickup and contact-free delivery for all orders.
West Charlotte
Cook Out
4374 S. Tryon St.
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out stated that during COVID-19, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Dairy Queen
2732 Wilkinson Blvd.
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a couple located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your craving.
Outside Charlotte
Concord
Andy’s Frozen Custard
8835 Christenbury Pkwy.
This quick-service frozen dessert chain has been around since 1986. Popular menu items include Straw-Ana Sundae (custard covered with strawberries and bananas), the Ozark Turtle (custard covered with hot fudge, crème caramel, roasted pecans, and topped with a cherry), and the James Brown Funky Jackhammer (blended custard with peanut butter, brownies and hot fudge). Seasonal summer flavors are also available for a limited time. During COVID, walk-up and drive-thru windows are open and operating under normal business hours.
Cabarrus Creamery
5009, 21 Union St. S.
This creamery has been serving 25+ fun flavors, such as Moon Pie, Apple Pie, Bubble Gum, Butter Pecan and Rum Raisin, for over 80 years. Whether you want your frozen dessert cupped or coned, there are plenty of options to choose from for whatever you’re craving. This shop is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, but will repost hours once reopened.
Cook Out
7771 Gateway Lane NW and 280 S. Concord Pkwy.
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out stated that during COVID, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Krispy Kreme
8018 Concord Mills Blvd.
Krispy Kreme serves scoop sandwiches along with hand-spun milkshakes made with Original Glazed Doughnut-infused ice cream flavors such as Classic Strawberry, Double Chocolate, OREO Cookies & Kreme, Salty Caramel and Vanilla Glazed. Here, you can design your own doughnut.
Sonic Drive-In
7761 Gateway Lane NW
If you’re craving a classic vanilla cone or hot fudge sundae, Sonic’s got that. But it’s hard to top a Sonic blast, with favorites like Oreos, Butterfinger candy or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups mixed in. The drive-in or drive-through — your choice — also has options for classic shakes or “master” shakes, which include Oreo Peanut Butter or Strawberry Cheesecake.
Fort Mill/Tega Cay, SC
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
2603 W. Highway 160
This franchise is located in about 20 different states, and North Carolina is lucky to be one of them. The ice cream is made in-store and comes in about 24 different flavors. During COVID-19, its outdoor seating area has been closed and customers are asked to wait in their cars if more than 10 people are in line
Culver’s
3521 Foothills Way
Although Culver’s is primarily located in the Midwest, there are a couple stores in the Charlotte area. This fast-food joint near Carowinds serves frozen custard made throughout the day to remain creamy and fresh.
Cupcrazed Cakery
936 Market St. Suite 103
Don’t be fooled — this Food Network-award-winning dessert shop serves more than just delicious cakes. Along with cupcakes, cake pops and cookies, it also serves ice cream sandwiches.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
2524 W. Highway 160
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a few located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your craving.
Scoop N’ Swirl
753 Crossroads Plaza
Scoop and Swirl’s frozen treats consist of the four S’s: scoops, sundaes, shakes and smoothies. Popular flavors include Cheesecake, Butter Pecan and Red Velvet. Dairy-free flavors, such as Mango Sorbet, are also available. Feeling adventurous? Create your own sundae using your choice of ice cream and toppings. A plexiglass barrier has been added to the serving area to help protect customers along with staff, who are wearing masks, to help stop the spread of COVID.
Sonic Drive-In
3039 Highway 160
If you’re craving a classic vanilla cone or hot fudge sundae, Sonic’s got that. But it’s hard to top a Sonic blast, with favorites like Oreos, Butterfinger candy or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups mixed in. The drive-in or drive-through — your choice — also has options for classic shakes or “master” shakes, which include Oreo Peanut Butter or Strawberry Cheesecake.
Springs Farm Market
1010 Springfield Pkwy.
Springs Farm Market, a sister store to The Peach Stand, produces more than fresh, homegrown produce. It serves homemade soft-serve ice cream available in four different flavors: Strawberry, Peach, Blackberry and Vanilla. This quaint shop has a covered porch, which offers a shady spot to enjoy your sweet treat in the heat of summer while also supporting a local business. Since June 15, the shop’s credit card only drive-thru is open Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Peach Stand
1325 W. Highway 160
The Peach Stand serves over 30 flavors of Hershey’s Premium Hand Dipped Ice Cream. After shopping for your local, fresh produce or after finishing lunch at the restaurant, top off your trip to The Peach Stand with a scoop or two (or three) from the ice cream parlor.Since June 22, The Peach Stand has adjusted store hours to Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Only 10 people are allowed in the store at once.
Whit’s Frozen Custard
642 W. Highway 160 West
At Whit’s, the frozen custard is made fresh daily. Although there are only three different flavors available (vanilla, chocolate and a special weekly flavor), Whit’s focuses on perfecting each batch so customers receive quality custard. Whit’s has several different toppings that can either be mixed in to create a “Whitser” or piled on top for a sundae. It also serves hand-dipped cones and other sweet treats.
Rock Hill
Cook Out
2131 Cherry Road
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. During COVID-19, Cook Out has stated that each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Pw’s Gourmet Ice Cream
491 S. Herlong Ave.
Grab a cone, shake or smoothie at this spot that makes ice cream fresh daily. Outdoor seating is available.
Gastonia
Baskin-Robbins
2302 S. New Hope Road
There are over 7,800 Baskin-Robbins locations around the world, and a few of those are in the Charlotte area. Among specialty options such as parfaits and mix-ins, and grab-n-go options, there are various frozen treats to choose from. You should also always check out its flavor of the month to try something new. Baskin-Robbins is temporarily limited nationwide to drive-thru ordering, carry-out and delivery, due to the pandemic.
Ben & Jerry’s
3908 E. Franklin Blvd. and 2113 S. Union Road.
Ben and Jerry: two names known and loved by many. The story of Ben and Jerry and their notorious ice creams began in 1978 in a renovated gas station in Vermont. Now, Ben and Jerry’s pints are recognized in areas all over the world. Luckily, Charlotte has a few scoop shops for all those Phish Food and Cherry Garcia cravings. Don’t want to leave your house during COVID? No problem. Ben & Jerry’s offers instant delivery around the clock. Head to the site to find out which location can deliver your favorite flavor right to your doorstep.
Cook Out
2810 E. Franklin Blvd.
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out has stated that during COVID, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Dairy Queen
3821 Union Road and 904 E. Franklin Blvd.
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a few located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your craving.
Tony’s Ice Cream Company
604 E. Franklin Blvd.
Tony’s is a family-run and family-operated restaurant that has been in downtown Gastonia since 1915, and its ice cream is manufactured in the plant right next to the shop. In addition to being sold at Tony’s, its 28 flavors are available in stores and restaurants all over the state.
Xcite’s Sweet Connections
1206 S. York St. (Note: There’s also an ice cream truck.)
This treat shop features Thai ice cream rolls in flavors such as Fruity Pebbles, Root Beer Float or Vegan’s Delight, as well as shaved sno cream and other frozen delicacies.
Lake Norman
Carolina Cones
20801 N. Main St, Cornelius
Carolina Cones, a family-owned ice cream shop, has been in the Cornelius area for over 30 years. They have various ice cream and yogurt flavors available, and the shop is extremely kid-friendly with playground equipment and a model trail that runs around the ceiling. To protect from community spread of COVID-19, Carolina Cones has installed glass walls at the register and at the seating area for those who wish to dine indoors.
Whit’s Frozen Custard
428 S. Main St., Davidson
At Whit’s, the frozen custard is made fresh daily. Although there are only three different flavors available (vanilla, chocolate and a special weekly flavor), Whit’s focuses on perfecting each batch so customers receive quality custard. Whit’s has several different toppings that can either be mixed in to create a “Whitser” or piled on top for a sundae. It also serves hand-dipped cones and other sweet treats.
Matthews
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
545 W. John St, Matthews
This franchise is located in about 20 different states, and North Carolina is lucky to be one of them. The ice cream is made in-store and comes in about 24 different flavors. During COVID-19, its outdoor seating area has been closed and customers are asked to wait in their cars if more than 10 people are in line.
Cook Out
1815 Sardis Road
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. During the pandemic, each Cook Out location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Dairy Queen (treats only)
1819 Matthews Township Pkwy., Suite 900
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a handful located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your craving.
The Local Scoop
11 Matthews Station St., Matthews
The secret is in the name: The Local Scoop uses locally-sourced ingredients to make its freshly crafted ice cream. More specifically, its dairy comes from Jackson Farms and Homeland Creamery. Although the flavors change constantly, popular summer flavors include Banana Pudding and Key Lime Pie. Non-dairy options are also available.
Pro-tip: Keep your eyes peeled on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram on Mondays through Thursdays for the name of the day you can receive one free scoop (@localscoopclt). The Local Scoop is currently not offering indoor dine-in seating during the pandemic. Customers can place online orders through the website.
VeloPops
645 Matthews Township Pkwy., Matthews
All-natural, quality ingredients go into the creation of its fruit and cream-based pops. VeloPops serves a variety of cream-based flavors such as Banana Nutella, Mexican Chocolate and Pineapple Coconut. It even has pops for your pup, so bring your furry friend along with you.
Mint Hill
Carolina Creamery
11300 Lawyers Road, A
Carolina Creamery is a local ice cream shop in Mint Hill that serves various ice cream treats and sno cones.
Monroe
Bruster’s
2166 Commerce Drive
This franchise is located in about 20 different states, and North Carolina is lucky to be one of them. The ice cream is made in-store and comes in about 24 different flavors. During COVID-19, its outdoor seating area has been closed and customers are asked to wait in their cars if more than 10 people are in line.
Cook Out
1410 W. Roosevelt Blvd.
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. During COVID, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Dairy Queen (food and treat)
400 W. Roosevelt Blvd.
Craving a notorious dipped cone or Blizzard from Dairy Queen? No worries — there are a handful located in and around the Charlotte area to satisfy your craving.
Dollar Cone
4021 Weddington Road
As the name hints, Dollar Cone sells ice cream cones for a buck. Looking for a fun outing this summer? Take a drive to this small, ice cream parlor in the middle of a field and enjoy a quality cone for a steal. Dollar Cone is open 2-9 p.m. daily.
Mooresville
Cook Out
335 W. Plaza Drive
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. During the pandemic, each Cook Out location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Jack The Dipper
124 Argus Lane
This family ice cream spot with locations in western North Carolina specializes in warm, made-to-order waffle cones in flavors like vanilla or cinnamon. Its hand-dipped ice cream also lends itself to sundaes, shakes and banana splits. It is temporarily closed.
Mooresville Ice Cream Company
72 N. Broad St.
In 1924, several ice cream lovers came together and created Mooresville Ice Cream Company. From classic flavors, to sherberts, to low-fat options, to deluxe flavors, Mooresville Ice Cream Company has many delicious flavors of churned ice cream. Other goodies include sundaes, banana splits, milkshakes and root beer floats.
Two Scoops Creamery
119 Landings Drive #104, Mooresville
Two Scoops Creamery is a locally owned ice cream shop operated by three best friends who brought their family recipes to life. Can’t decide on what to order? No worries — create your own flavor creation using their iconic, dual top cone. Dairy-free vegan flavors are also available. Currently, Two Scoops is not offering indoor seating due to COVID-19.
Pineville
Amélie’s French Bakery
7715 Pineville-Matthews Road, Unit 34B
In addition to the famous Salted Caramel Brownie and other French desserts, Amélie’s recently added ice cream pints to its menu. Flavors include Salted Caramel Brownie, Strawberry Chiffon, Dairy Free Chocolate Sea Salt and Lavender Lemon. During this time, Amelie’s is offering online ordering, in-store pickup, and contact-free delivery for all orders.
Baskin-Robbins
8334 Pineville Matthews Road
There are over 7,800 Baskin-Robbins locations around the world, and a couple of those are in the Charlotte area. Among specialty options such as parfaits and mix-ins, and grab-n-go options, there are various frozen treats to choose from. You should also always check out its flavor of the month to try something new. During COVID, Baskin-Robbins is temporarily limited nationwide to drive-thru ordering, carryout and delivery.
Cook Out
13317 York Center Drive and 10645 Park Road
Cook Out is a fast food chain based in North Carolina. It is known for its burgers, sides, barbecue and, of course, milkshakes. Flavors include Chocolate Nut, Peanut Butter Fudge, Oreo Mint and many more. Cook Out stated that during the coronavirus, each location has enhanced hand washing, increased deep cleaning and sanitation procedures, added hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage, added plexiglass partitions and adjusted seating formats to adhere to occupancy guidelines.
Dippin’ Dots
11025 Carolina Place Parkway, Carolina Place Mall – level two, in food court
Dippin’ Dots serves tiny beads of flash frozen ice cream, yogurt, sherbert and flavored ice. Popular flavors include Cookies ‘N Cream, Birthday Cake and Cotton Candy.
Waxhaw
Andy’s Frozen Custard
9921 Rea Road
This quick-service frozen dessert chain has been around since 1986. Popular menu items include Straw-Ana Sundae (custard covered with strawberries and bananas), the Ozark Turtle (custard covered with hot fudge, crème caramel, roasted pecans, and topped with a cherry), and the James Brown Funky Jackhammer (blended custard with peanut butter, brownies and hot fudge). Seasonal summer flavors are also available for a limited time. Walk-up and drive-thru windows are open and operating under normal business hours.
Cookie Dough Bliss
318 E. South Main St.
Edible cookie dough is a game changer, but pairing it with ice cream is close to perfection. With over 20 flavors, Cookie Dough Bliss has numerous ways to enjoy cookie dough without the belly ache, including cookie dough ice cream sandwiches.
Waxhaw Creamery
109 E. North Main St.
This locally owned creamery is in the heart of Waxhaw near the train tracks. The team prepares homemade ice cream in the store every day for its popular sundaes and shakes, as well as classic cups and cones. Waxhaw Creamery is currently open for walk-ins but is closed on Mondays.
Editor’s note: Did we miss any of your favorite ice cream spots? Let us know and we’ll add them in. Note that we didn’t include gelato on this list because there are enough gelato spots that we decided they deserve their own guide.
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