Welcome to Chicago, a bustling city renowned for its magnificent skyline, deep-dish pizza, and a vibrant cultural scene that’s as diverse as its neighborhoods. But when the Windy City heats up, there’s nothing quite like cooling down with a scoop (or two) of delectable ice cream. Chicago’s ice cream scene is as rich and varied as its history, with an array of shops that cater to every taste bud, from classic flavors to innovative creations that are sure to make your mouth water.
Whether you’re strolling through Millennium Park, shopping on the Magnificent Mile, or exploring one of the city’s many museums, a sweet, frosty treat is never far away. Join us as we tour five of Chicago’s best ice cream shops that promise to make your visit even more memorable.
Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets
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Nestled in the heart of Edgewater, Lickity Split is more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a community staple where every visit feels like coming home. Their menu boasts an impressive selection of frozen custard, concretes, sundaes, and old-fashioned malts and shakes, all made with the freshest ingredients.
What sets Lickity Split apart is their commitment to creating moments of joy through their sweet treats, in an atmosphere filled with nostalgia. The cozy, retro-inspired décor, complete with a candy counter brimming with classic favorites, makes it the perfect spot to relive childhood memories or create new ones with family and friends.
Scooter’s Frozen Custard
Scooter’s, a beloved gem in Roscoe Village, prides itself on serving the creamiest frozen custard you’ll find in Chicago. Their secret? A time-honored recipe and a passion for custard that shines through in every scoop. This family-owned spot offers a daily menu of vanilla and chocolate, alongside a special “flavor of the day” that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for more. The warmth and friendliness of the staff add to the charm of Scooter’s, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Chicago frozen custard experience.
Vaca’s Creamery
Vaca’s Creamery is revolutionizing the ice cream game in Chicago with its delightful array of 100% vegan options. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Wicker Park, Vaca’s proves that dairy-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. Using innovative ingredients and creative recipes, they offer a variety of flavors that are rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to try something new, Vaca’s Creamery is a testament to the fact that everyone can enjoy the sweet taste of ice cream.
Pretty Cool Ice Cream
Pretty Cool Ice Cream takes the ice cream experience to a whole new level with their unique approach to frozen treats. This Logan Square favorite specializes in artisanal ice pops, ice cream bars, and novelties that are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious. Each creation is handcrafted with love, using locally sourced ingredients to support the community and ensure the highest quality. From classic flavors to inventive combinations, Pretty Cool Ice Cream is a dream come true for those looking to explore the cooler side of Chicago’s dessert scene.
Margie’s Candies
A visit to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without stepping into the nostalgic world of Margie’s Candies. This historic ice cream parlor, with its original location on the corner of Western Avenue and Armitage, has been serving up happiness since 1921. Margie’s is famous for its colossal sundaes, served in their signature clamshell bowls, and their homemade candies that add a sweet touch to every dish. The old-fashioned ambiance, complete with a jukebox and booths, transports visitors back in time, making every scoop of ice cream a trip down memory lane.
Enjoy Ice Cream in Chicago
As we wrap up our tour of Chicago’s sweetest gems, it’s clear that the city’s ice cream scene is as diverse and captivating as Chicago itself. Each shop offers a unique taste of the city’s rich culinary tapestry, promising not just a treat for the taste buds but an experience to remember. And when you’ve had your fill of ice cream, don’t forget to check out Pequod’s Pizza, heralded by Yelp as the best pizza place in America, for a taste of Chicago’s legendary deep-dish pizza.
From the creamy delights of frozen custard to the savory satisfaction of deep-dish pizza, Chicago offers an endless array of culinary adventures that are sure to make your visit unforgettable.