Best Ice Cream in Chicago (Parents Share the Scoop)

After trying this place, it's completely understandable to take a moment of silence and be grateful for Graeter's because it is mind-blowingly good. This family-owned business, based in Cincinnati, has honored a few select Chicago-area locations with their presence and you should treat yourself and your family to their hand-crafted, small batch, delicious ice cream and sundae creations. You won't regret it!

Kelly R said:  The Village Creamery is a family owned place that makes its own extra-creamy ice cream on the premises every day. You will find all of your favorite standbys there, but they are well known for their large assortment of creative and exotic flavors. Think avocado, green tea, mangosteen, red bean, and...queso.

Gina I. said:  Step back in time at Tates Old Fashioned Ice Cream! With its classic ice cream parlor feel, vintage decor, friendly staff, and amazing ice cream, it's no surprise that Tate's has been a neighborhood favorite for generations. Be sure to try a milkshake...pick a flavor, any flavor, you can't go wrong!

Brittany Kozielski said:  Located in Downtown Downers Grove for 20 years. An old fashioned ice cream shop serving Sherman's Finest ice cream. With more than 40 flavor choices and over 20 sundae choices, this shop is sure to please the entire family. Enjoy a sundae right when you get off the train with its convenient location.

Vanessa M. said:  Capannari Ice Cream is a local gem in the Northwest suburb of Mt. Prospect. Their housemade, gourmet flavors have won prestigious awards such as "Best Ice Cream in Chicago" by Chicago Magazine and "Top 10 Best Scoops in America" by Good Morning America. Check their events calendar for fun, free family concerts, movies nights, and more!

Laurie Reese said:  Kilwins offers 22 ice cream flavors and 2 dairy free sorbetto options. Their menu includes scoops, malts and milkshakes. They also offer fudge, chocolates and other candies.

Berry Yo was started by three siblings who wanted to bring something special and unique to the area. They offer several different flavors of frozen yogurt and even have flavors of the week. Some of the fun options include birthday cake gelato, pumpkin pie and tiger's blood gelato (which is also dairy-free)! And if toppings are what makes your dessert, then you are in luck because Berry Yo has over 50 to choose from! They are also a fun place to host a birthday party.

Yoli B said:  Housed in an old mechanic garage, this family-owned custard shop is a perfect place for a quick family trip! Comet is an old-fashioned space with a drive-through lane and outdoor seating. The menu includes ice cream sundaes, frozen custard, concretes and one special flavor every day! The staff is friendly and the place feels like an old school neighborhood shop.

Colonial Cafe has been around since 1901. Since then, they have opened a few Chicagoland locations. They offer several ice cream options from shakes to smoothies to ice cream. Plus, Colonial Cafe has a famous kitchen sink concoction with ice cream, bananas, pineapple and more!

Yoli B said:  Down to the checkerboard floors Daisy Malt Shoppe resembles an old soda fountain. Unfortunately for me this place is on the way to my gym, but the menu is definitely worth the extra calories! Menu highlights are premium ice cream, soft serve and milkshakes. If you are dairy free you will have plenty of sorbet and soy ice cream to choose from too!

Gina I. said:  A neighborhood favorite, Sprinkles Ice Cream Shoppe serves up all the best Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream flavors. In fact, they have so many flavors, you can try something different each time you go! Best of all, they are very reasonably priced. So, get that extra scoop. You deserve it! Seating is limited, so consider grabbing a pint of ice cream to-go on busy days. Be sure to try their "This $&@! Just Got Serious" - salted caramel ice cream with cashews and sea salt fudge...worth every calorie!

Yogurt Beach offers the highest quality frozen yogurt and custard in a relaxed, laid back beach-themed setting. They are a family-owned and operated business that prides themselves on being the ultimate “10 minute vacation” spot.