As temperatures continue to rise, Chicago is finding ways to stay cool and ice cream is one of the most pleasurable ways to cool down. Here are some of the best shops around the city to get a scoop or a cone:
Cone
This family-owned ice cream shop in West Loop is serving up quality, European soft serve and hand-scooped ice cream with an Irish flair…and creative flourishes. If you’re craving something magical, try Cone’s “The Shamrock,” topped with Lucky Charms.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
With decadent flavors such as Buttercream Birthday Cake, Skillet Cinnamon Roll, and Wildberry Lavender, Jeni’s artisanal scoop shops at several Chicago locations have a long list of delicious tastes for you to try. Don’t forget their limited flavors: Sunshine, Strawberry Pretzel Pie, and Maple Soaked Pancakes.
Pretty Cool Ice Cream
This Logan Square ice cream shop curates specialty ice cream bars on sticks, guaranteed to bring you back to your ice cream truck favorites. With flavors like Pina Colada, Pony Cotton Candy, Chicago Mix, along with delicious vegan options, you’re guaranteed to find something that makes you smile. Don’t want your furry friend to go without? They offer a Puppy Pop, perfect for a cool treat.
The Freeze
Looking for a taste of nostalgia? Look no further than this popular vintage neighborhood ice cream stand, in business since 1950. Besides fast food favorites, burgers, fries, Italian beef, and Chicago dogs, The Freeze offers classic dipped ice cream cones, milkshakes, and Freezees.
Eli’s Ark
Eli’s Ark in Wicker Park has the cutest gelato cones anywhere. Scoops morph into koalas, bears, monkeys, or unicorns. You choose your flavor and your favorite animal. You can even stack them up. Eli’s offers signature flavors such as: Pretty in Pink, Dolce and Banana, and Mint-To-Be.
Lickity Split
The name says it all. Lickity Split’s rich frozen custard is delicious on its own or you can indulge in a Banana Split or Tasty Turtle sundae. If you dare, try an “OMG,” frozen custard blended with brownies, hot fudge, and a smidge of peanut butter.
