Who doesn't like ice cream? While you probably don't need an excuse to grab a cone, Sunday, July 20 is National Ice Cream Day, and what better way to celebrate than by stopping at one of these beloved local ice cream shops? Below, we've compiled a list of some of the best ice cream Chicagoland has to offer. Whether all your favorites made the cut or you're due to try something new, we hope you and the family find some time to cool off at one of these local favorites from our real estate agents.
1960 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
1813 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Ready for a blast from the past? This classic ice cream shop has been family-owned and operated for over 100 years, and walking through the doors of the Bucktown and Ravenswood locations feels like taking a step back in time.
1658 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Chicago's oldest frozen custard shop offers the Lake View neighborhood a rotating flavor schedule and a "concrete of the month." Plus, the fresh, handmade frozen custard is locally sourced from dairy farms in Wisconsin.
630 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60616
This family-owned small business has been a staple in the Bridgeport neighborhood for nearly 20 years. Choose from 12 flavors of hand-scooped ice cream or try one of their famous funnel cake sundaes.
2242 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
Ever tried Thai-style rolled ice cream? At Legend Tasty House in Chinatown, you can choose a base flavor, add your favorite mix-ins, and watch as it's skillfully mixed and rolled right before your eyes.
10 S Pine St, Mt Prospect, IL 60056
This family-owned ice cream shop in Mount Prospect recently started a new chapter, with a new generation of management stepping up to the plate. Whether you're a long-time fan or want to check out their new offerings, getting a handcrafted scoop from Cap's is a must.
6500 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
This family-owned and operated coffee shop in Crystal Lake offers unique local flavors of frozen custard, sundaes, shakes, affogatos, and concretes.
230 Reinking Rd, Pingree Grove, IL 60140
This cozy, small-town favorite in Pingree Grove is known for its rich, creamy soft serve and welcoming vibe. It's the perfect spot for a summertime treat with the whole family.
3472 W Devon Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
A nostalgic walk-up stand offering classic soft serve and sundaes, Dairy Star brings the old-school charm to Lincolnwood. This beloved local shop has been around since the 1950s and was originally a Dairy Queen, but was officially renamed Dairy Star 38 years ago.
2909 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201
Just steps from Northwestern's campus in Evanston, Hartigan's is a charming neighborhood staple serving hand-dipped scoops and shakes in a retro-style setting.
1015 Lehigh Ave, Glenview, IL 60025
This seasonal, walk-up window has been serving classic cones and floats in Glenview since 1955.
1237 Green Bay Rd, Wilmette, IL 60091
An iconic North Shore institution since 1935, Homer's Ice Cream in Wilmette is famous for ultra-rich, homemade ice cream and timeless flavors.
12301 S 86th Ave, Palos Park, IL 60464
7903 W 171st St, Tinley Park, IL 60477
Whimsical and beloved, Plush Horse is an old-fashioned parlor that offers a huge selection of homemade flavors and a carousel of seasonal treats. Check out two locations in Palos Park and Tinley Park.
110 W Park Ave, Elmhurst, IL 60126
109 E Front St, Wheaton, IL 60187
W 1 Illinois St, St. Charles, IL 60174
These bright, modern scoop shops serve small-batch, premium ice cream with creative flavors and signature sparkle cones with three locations in Wheaton, Elmhurst, and St. Charles
4 N Island Ave, Batavia, IL 60510
This friendly favorite in downtown Batavia is known for a wide flavor selection, generous portions, and fun mix-ins. In addition to ice cream, Batavia Creamery serves pies, cakes, shaved ice and more.
990 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515
14 W Hinsdale Ave, Hinsdale, IL 60521
This quaint and colorful shop offers hand-scooped ice cream, milkshakes, and banana splits in a cheerful, retro setting. Choose from two convenient locations in Downers Grove and Hinsdale.
7347 Madison St, Forest Park, IL 60130
The Brown Cow is a vintage-style parlor crafting house-made ice cream and soda fountain classics in an inviting, old-school atmosphere. The retro shop is located on a walkable commercial corridor in Forest Park. In addition to ice cream, the Brown Cow serves customizable cakes, pies, and ice cream cakes.
Graham's Fine Chocolates and Ice Cream
302 S 3rd St B, Geneva, IL 60134
119 W Front St, Wheaton, IL 60187
This artisanal shop — with locations in Geneva and Wheaton — is known for decadent chocolate and gourmet ice cream, all made in-house in a charming historic space. Plus, it's a great spot to grab a gift for any occasion, which can be customized and ordered in advance.
24030 Lockport St, Plainfield, IL 60544
Locally-loved parlor with a friendly feel, Hazel Marie's serves rich ice cream, coffee, and desserts in the heart of downtown Plainfield. Check their menu for rotating flavors as well as a few vegan and non-dairy options.