The Best Ice Cream Shops Across the US

I scream you scream...you know the rest.

Ice cream is just a staple of summer. Or any other time for that matter.

And if you find a place with something different, like a cannoli flavor (hint, hint), you’ve hit the jackpot.

Here are some of the best ice cream shops in America, and they are worth a trip. This is just a sampling though as there would be far more if we had the boss’s credit card and an unlimited budget. These are in no particular order.

Nathan's Dairy Bar, Manassas, Virginia – Let’s start with a twist. One of the best things about this place is its frozen custard. And, yes, you can order a twist.

Gelato Paradiso, Austin, Texas – Does the name give it away? The next time you visit Austin or have business here, make a detour for this place.

Let's Chill Homemade Ice Cream, Coral Springs, Florida – What better place to have an ice cream cone than in Florida? And the selection of homemade flavors is outstanding.

Ben and Jerry’s, Burlington, Vermont – This is not just any shop in a suburban mall. This is the original that produced such offbeat flavors as Cherry Garcia.

Fluffy's Sno-Balls, Long Beach, California – So you say you’re ready to try a dill pickle-flavored ice cream. But are you?

Deep Barrel Roasters & Creamery, Norco, California – Does it help that the owners are on-site and take a vested interest in the success of their business? One bite will tell you that.

Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory, Kissimmee, Florida – This is right near Walt Disney World in Orlando, hence the name. Prepare to spend a copious amount of time here. No, not on choosing an ice cream flavor. But in selecting your toppings. The amount of toppings available is staggering.

Ghirardelli, San Francisco, California – Perhaps the finest use of chocolate. Ever.

Cloud City Ice Cream, Portland, Oregon – The scoops here are insanely large. And the homemade flavors make it all worth the while. 

Of course, there are many others. Ice cream is universal.

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