Arizona City Living

17 Ice Cream Frozen Treat Locations That Chill You in Phoenix

17 Phoenix's Coolest Ice Cream Destinations – Where Chill Meets Thrill!
December 26, 2023

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and beat the Arizona heat with our guide to 17 of the coolest ice cream and frozen treat locations in and around Phoenix. Whether you’re a fan of classic ice cream, artisan gelato, dairy-free options, or unique flavors, Phoenix has something for every frozen dessert lover. From family-friendly parlors to date night spots, we’ve rounded up 17 of the best ice cream shops, gelaterias, and frozen dessert spots in the Valley of the Sun. So, when the temperatures rise, chill out and indulge in the frozen delights that Phoenix has to offer.

Papa Ed’s Ice Cream

Step into Papa Ed's Ice Cream, a charming old-fashioned parlor nestled in a historic bungalow, now a unique shop with a tranquil outdoor seating area in a garden setting. Enjoy 16 locally crafted ice cream flavors, including dairy-free and vegan options. Our menu features waffle cones, cake cones, sugar cones, and cookie ice cream sandwiches. Sip on freshly brewed tea, coffee, cold brew, or root beer floats. We're pet-friendly, with an outdoor area for your furry friends to enjoy Frosty Paw treats. Whether you seek nostalgia or a serene garden spot, Papa Ed's offers a delightful escape for all.

Sweet Provisions

Sweet Provisions takes you on a nostalgic journey with the charming ambiance of a neighborhood ice cream shop. Step inside and you'll find a treasure trove of classic candies, cookies, pies, and, of course, an irresistible selection of ice cream. Indulge in a delightful array of options, from perfectly scooped ice cream crowned with a variety of toppings to soda floats, thick and creamy milkshakes, and sumptuous sundaes. Don't miss the old-school banana split for a taste of pure nostalgia. For those looking to elevate their experience, pair your favorite ice cream with a slice of one of the shop's delectable pies, a true delight for your taste buds. Sweet Provisions is where memories are made, one sweet treat at a time.

Churn

A charming, nostalgic shop dedicated to delivering artisan ice cream and freshly baked treats, where only the finest ingredients are used – no artificial additives allowed! Churn boasts a delightful interior adorned with a treasure trove of retro toys and candy from the good ol' days. A visit to this whimsical establishment is guaranteed to leave your sweet tooth beaming with joy.

The City Creamery

Nestled within Cave Creek's Western landscape, The City Creamery is the ideal complement, offering classic and straightforward small-batch ice cream in over a dozen delightful flavors. As the sole Southwest outpost of this mini-chain, it has become a must-visit destination, attracting ice cream enthusiasts from near and far. In fact, visitors can even pinpoint their hometowns on a map, showcasing the creamery's widespread popularity.

Peace Cream - Coffee and Ice Cream

As a beloved family-owned ice cream shop, this delightful spot offers a wide array of sweet indulgences. You'll find everything from timeless scoops of ice cream featuring flavors like butter pecan or bubblegum to delectable ice cream-adorned crepes and waffles, not to mention their luscious shakes. For those seeking a taste of nostalgia, their original sundae is a must-try classic, featuring creamy vanilla ice cream adorned with whipped cream, luscious chocolate sauce, crushed nuts, and a vibrant maraschino cherry on top.

The Screamery

When it comes to embracing all things Arizona, The Screamery truly stands out. From their locally-crafted ice creams to the playful monikers of their treats, this place encapsulates the essence of the state. Take, for instance, the Sweet Sonoran Dessert, featuring delectable sweet cream and honey ice cream, swirled with peanut butter and adorned with homemade toffee. Another delightful option is the Cowboy Cookie, boasting a salted caramel base, oatmeal, walnuts, and luscious chocolate chip cookies. For a unique twist, dive into their ice cream nachos, a delightful concoction of waffle chips generously drizzled with hot fudge and crowned with your choice of ice cream flavor.

Scoop and Joy

Scoop and Joy is a haven for ice cream enthusiasts, with a delightful rotation of over 50 flavors that guarantees a new and exciting experience with each visit. From the exotic notes of horchata cajeta to the floral charm of honeysuckle rose, and the comforting richness of yam pecan, their creative selection caters to every palate. But that's not all – this shop goes beyond ice cream, offering an array of baked goods, boba delights, and a diverse range of coffee options to complement your frozen treat adventure.

Novel Ice Cream

Novel, your go-to spot for ice cream, gelato, and all things sweet. Their mission is to redefine your ice cream experience with inventive creations that will keep you coming back for more. Yumminess like the Dough Melt: a warm, freshly baked donut bun paired with a generous scoop of artisanal ice cream, creating a delightful blend of warm and cold, sweet and savory. Novel is proud to offer a thoughtfully curated selection of 12 hand-crafted ice cream flavors, from classics to unique surprises, including four rotating weekly options. Craving a satisfying crunch? Try the crispy European waffle sandwiches. Need something to quench your thirst? Sip on their vintage glass bottle sodas. And if you're in the mood for customization, top off your treats with a variety of delicious toppings to create your own masterpiece.Novel isn't just an ice cream parlor; it's an experience. Join us on a delightful culinary journey in the heart of Phoenix, where we're redefining the way you enjoy ice cream and desserts.

Alebrije Nevaria

Nestled within an unassuming strip mall in North Phoenix, Alebrije Nevaria may not catch your eye from the outside, but the treasures it holds within are worth discovering. Step inside and be greeted by an extensive menu displayed on a massive chalkboard that spans two walls. This charming little spot manages to offer an impressive array of snacks and desserts despite its cozy size. While you'll find Mexican delights like fresas con crema, elote, and raspados on the menu, there's one surprising yet delectable option that steals the show. Give the cereal-infused ice creams a try, where you get to choose your favorite cereal to be expertly blended into a scoop of creamy ice cream, resulting in a delightful, slightly crunchy soft serve. For a true crowd-pleaser, the Cinnamon Toast Crunch flavor is an irresistible choice that keeps us coming back for more.

Aloha Yogurt

Discover the delightful world of Aloha Yogurt, a beloved self-serve frozen yogurt shop in Phoenix, as featured on Arizona City Living. Aloha Yogurt is the go-to destination for frozen yogurt enthusiasts, offering a tantalizing selection of 12 yogurt flavors and an impressive array of 45 delectable toppings.What sets Aloha Yogurt apart is the opportunity for visitors to customize their frozen yogurt creations to perfection. From classic favorites to unique and exotic flavors, there's something to suit every palate. The extensive variety of toppings adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing you to create the ultimate frozen yogurt masterpiece. In addition to their yogurt offerings, Aloha Yogurt caters to coffee lovers with cold brew coffee options, providing a refreshing and energizing beverage to complement your frozen treat.Join Aloha Yogurt and indulge in a personalized frozen yogurt experience, where you can let your creativity run wild with an abundance of flavors and toppings. Arizona City Living invites you to explore this delightful haven for frozen dessert enthusiasts. Scoop and Joy's convenient location ensures easy access, even during busy hours. Visitors have praised the welcoming staff, noting their friendly service. Many have found the prices to be reasonable, making it an accessible treat for all. And as you savor your goodies, take in the pleasant atmosphere and charming decor that add to the overall experience.

Scooptacular

Meet the talented ice cream artisans behind Scooptacular, Nindi and Carissa Wadhwa, proud residents of Laveen. At Scooptacular, their ice cream is nothing short of premium, thanks to the exceptional quality of ingredients in their base. With a rich 14% butterfat content, real cream, and sugar, every scoop is a testament to their commitment to excellence. Their vanilla ice cream is a true standout, crafted from a special blend of Madagascar beans. What sets them apart is their dedication to freshness; all ice creams are processed right in the store to ensure you enjoy the finest product. If you're looking for a flavor sensation, the oatmeal cookie ice cream is an absolute must-try and happens to be their bestseller. Scooptacular offers a delightful range of flavors, including the unique Laveen Concrete Mix, Red Velvet, and Cookie Monster. For those who prefer sipping their sweetness, indulge in a handspun milkshake or a tantalizing Scooptacular ice cream sundae, fully customizable with your choice of flavors and toppings. And when the Arizona sun is at its peak, cool off with a refreshing Shave ice, available in a variety of 30 different syrup flavors to quench your thirst.

Sugar Bowl

For over six decades, the Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor/Restaurant has been a cherished destination for those seeking delectable American cuisine and delightful ice cream confections. With an authentic 1950s soda fountain that can accommodate up to 10 guests and table service for 100 more, this iconic establishment has remained a beloved fixture in the hearts of both locals and tourists. Since its inception in 1958, the Sugar Bowl's commitment to preserving the essence of its menu items, decor, and location has been unwavering. As a testament to its historical significance, the Sugar Bowl proudly holds the designation of a Founding Business of Scottsdale and holds a place of honor on Scottsdale's Historic Preservation Register. Whether you're yearning for a taste of nostalgia or simply looking to create new memories, the Sugar Bowl invites you to partake in the fun and time-honored traditions that have made it a cherished part of Scottsdale's history.

Sweet Republic

Do you recall the nostalgic days when Sweet Republic roamed the streets of Phoenix in their iconic orange-and-white 1959 ice cream truck? While the truck may have retired, the cherished ice creamery has continued to grow and delight throughout Phoenix. Renowned for its inventive and daring flavors, such as sweet corn, strawberry buttermilk, and black pepper cherry, Sweet Republic has garnered acclaim from countless national food publications. While the seasonal and specialty flavors are always a delightful surprise, some of our perennial favorites include the indulgent salted caramel swirl and the refreshing watermelon sorbet. Sweet Republic has become an integral part of Phoenix's frozen dessert scene, offering a taste of innovation and tradition that continues to capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike. (Multiple Locations)

Frost Gelato at SanTan Village

"Frost Gelato, nestled within the vibrant SanTan Village in Gilbert, stands as a beacon of Italian culinary tradition, offering a diverse selection of meticulously crafted gelato and sorbetto flavors daily. Beyond the frozen delights, Frost Gelato presents an enticing array of delectable desserts and a tantalizing range of coffee beverages to complete your sensory experience. But Frost Gelato is not merely a destination for frozen confections; it's a hub of culinary exploration and relaxation. As you indulge in sweet offerings, take a moment to relish the welcoming ambiance and unwind with a cup of finely brewed coffee. Whether you're embarking on a family outing or seeking a romantic date night locale, Frost Gelato at SanTan Village promises an experience that transcends ordinary frozen treats."

Milk Run Premium Ice Cream & Boba

Discover the delightful world of Milk Run, a unique establishment located on Camelback Road in Phoenix, as featured on Arizona City Living. Milk Run has quickly become a cherished destination for those seeking handcrafted boba drinks and exquisite in-house-made ice cream.At Milk Run, they take pride in our unwavering commitment to quality. Their artisanal ice cream is meticulously prepared using the purest and highest-quality ingredients to ensure a superior product that delights our discerning customers.What sets Milk Run apart is its inventive and playful approach to boba drinks. Indulge in their boba floats, a delightful combination of boba and homemade ice cream, available in a variety of flavors, including the whimsical Lucky Charms and the decadent Nutella milk tea bobas. For a lighter and equally refreshing option, explore their fruit juice "sparkler" boba drinks.Milk Run's commitment to sustainability shines through in their charming refillable glass milk bottles, adding an extra layer of charm to your visit.Join Milk Run and embark on a delightful journey through the world of boba and ice cream, creating cherished memories along the way. Arizona City Living invites you to explore this whimsical gem in the heart of Phoenix

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Embark on a sweet journey that traces its roots back to 1989 with Bruce Reed, the 'Bruce' behind Bruster's. It all began with Bruce's unwavering passion for bringing the community the finest homemade ice cream. Since then, Bruster's commitment to delivering premium, small-batch ice cream remains as strong as ever.At Bruster's Ice Cream, we adhere to the timeless art of crafting ice cream, ensuring every scoop carries our signature flavor. Our artisanal recipes always commence with a unique homestyle mix, sourced fresh from our very own dairy and delivered to each ice cream shop. We take pride in serving premium flavors and crafting artisanal desserts right in the store where they are savored. Indulge in the satisfying crunch of our handcrafted waffle cones, savor customized sundaes, experience candy-filled blasts, and revel in the luscious thickness of our milkshakes."Discover the essence of old-fashioned, small-batch ice cream at Bruster's, where every scoop is a testament to our commitment to quality. Arizona City Living invites you to explore the world of premium ice cream at its finest, handcrafted with love and tradition.

MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain

Step back in time and experience the nostalgic charm of MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain, a beloved destination in Phoenix. This retro-themed diner is a local favorite, renowned for its authentic Americana-style dishes, classic drinks, and vibrant atmosphere. As you enter MacAlpine's, you'll be transported to a bygone era, surrounded by vintage decor that captures the essence of the past. The menu is a delightful journey through retro-inspired food and drinks that will evoke memories of yesteryears.Join MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain for a dose of vintage nostalgia, delicious comfort food, and a lively atmosphere that's perfect for a memorable outing.