Missouri’s Best Ice Cream Spots to Sweeten Your Spring Break
Missouri is known for its picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and mouth-watering food. And when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, nothing beats a scoop of delicious ice cream. With spring break just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to explore some of Missouri’s best ice cream spots.
Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or prefer something more adventurous like lavender or bacon, Missouri has something for everyone. From small-town ice cream parlors to urban creameries, there are plenty of options to choose from. So, pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready to indulge in some of the best ice cream Missouri has to offer.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Missouri’s must-visit ice cream spots that are perfect for sweetening up your spring break. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most delicious frozen treats in the Show-Me State.
Missouri’s Iconic Ice Cream Shops
Missouri is home to some of the oldest and most iconic ice cream shops in America. From St. Louis to Springfield, and from Columbia to Jefferson City, there are plenty of places to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here are some of the best ice cream spots in Missouri:
St. Louis’ Sweet Spots
St. Louis is home to some of the most famous ice cream shops in Missouri. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard has been serving up frozen treats since 1929. Their famous concretes are a must-try for anyone visiting St. Louis. Crown Candy Kitchen is another iconic spot in St. Louis. This soda fountain and candy store has been around since 1913, and their malts and shakes are legendary.
Kansas City Creameries
Kansas City has its fair share of ice cream shops too. Murray’s Homemade Ice Cream and Cookies is a must-visit spot in the city. Their homemade ice cream is some of the best in the state, and their cookies are to die for. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is another popular spot in Kansas City. Their unique flavors and homemade waffle cones are a hit with locals and tourists alike.
Columbia’s Cold Delights
Columbia is home to the University of Missouri, but it’s also home to some great ice cream shops. Central Dairy has been serving up frozen treats since 1920, and their ice cream is still made the old-fashioned way. Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream is another popular spot in Columbia. Their homemade ice cream and waffle cones are a hit with college students and families alike.
Springfield’s Frozen Favorites
Springfield has some great ice cream shops too. Pineapple Whip is a local favorite, serving up a unique frozen treat that’s somewhere between ice cream and a slushie. Andy’s Frozen Custard is another popular spot in Springfield. Their frozen custard is made fresh every day, and their sundaes and concretes are a hit with locals and tourists alike.
Jefferson City’s Chilled Treats
Jefferson City may be the capital of Missouri, but it’s also home to some great ice cream shops. Central Dairy has a location in Jefferson City, serving up their famous ice cream to locals and tourists alike. St. James Winery in nearby St. James also has an ice cream shop, serving up wine-infused ice cream that’s a hit with adults.
Unique Finds in Small Towns
Missouri is full of small towns with great ice cream shops too. Florissant is home to Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream, serving up unique flavors like lavender honey and blackberry cabernet. Osage Beach is home to Andy’s Frozen Custard, serving up their famous frozen custard to lake-goers. Eminence is home to Crossroads Corner, a local favorite serving up homemade ice cream and old-fashioned sodas.
Whether you’re in St. Louis or a small town in Missouri, there’s no shortage of great ice cream shops to choose from. Be sure to try a few of these iconic spots on your next visit to the Show-Me State.
Diverse Ice Cream Flavors and Styles
Missouri is known for its delicious and diverse ice cream flavors and styles. Whether you prefer classic flavors or innovative and artisanal creations, there is something for everyone in the Show-Me State.
Classic Flavors and Cones
For those who love traditional ice cream flavors, Missouri has plenty of options. From creamy vanilla to rich chocolate and sweet strawberry, classic flavors are widely available at many ice cream shops. Tiger Stripe ice cream, a popular flavor in Missouri, combines chocolate and orange flavors to create a unique and delicious taste. Additionally, waffle cones are a popular choice for those who want to add a bit of crunch to their ice cream experience.
Innovative and Artisanal Creations
Missouri’s ice cream scene is also home to many innovative and artisanal creations. Liquid nitrogen ice cream, for example, is made by freezing the ice cream mixture with liquid nitrogen, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture. Many ice cream shops also offer new flavors regularly, such as lavender honey or raspberry sorbet. Gelato, a dense and creamy Italian-style ice cream, is also gaining popularity in Missouri.
Dairy-Free and Alternative Options
For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, Missouri also offers many dairy-free and alternative options. Many ice cream shops now offer dairy-free ice cream made with milk alternatives such as almond milk or coconut milk. Some shops even offer yogurt-based ice cream or sorbet made with fresh fruit.
Overall, Missouri’s ice cream scene is diverse and delicious, offering something for everyone. Whether you prefer traditional flavors or innovative creations, there is no shortage of options to sweeten your spring break.
More Than Just Ice Cream
Missouri’s best ice cream shops offer more than just frozen treats. They provide a unique experience that combines delicious flavors with homemade baked goods, sweet pairings, and refreshing drinks. Here are some of the highlights of what these shops have to offer:
Sundaes, Splits, and Sandwiches
Many of Missouri’s best ice cream shops offer more than just scoops of ice cream. They also serve up delicious sundaes, banana splits, and ice cream sandwiches. For example, Crown Candy Kitchen in St. Louis offers a “Crown Sundae” that comes with three scoops of ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. Central Dairy in Jefferson City is known for its “Banana Split” that comes with three scoops of ice cream, a split banana, hot fudge, caramel, and whipped cream.
Shakes, Malts, and Floats
For those who prefer their ice cream in liquid form, Missouri’s best ice cream shops also offer a variety of shakes, malts, and floats. Christopher Elbow Artisanal Chocolates in Kansas City offers a “Malted Milkshake” that combines ice cream, malt powder, and milk. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream in Kansas City offers a “Boozy Milkshake” that comes with a shot of alcohol.
Baked Goods and Sweet Pairings
To complement their delicious ice cream, Missouri’s best ice cream shops also offer homemade baked goods and sweet pairings. Grandpa’s Ice Cream and Homemade Pies at the Lake of the Ozarks is famous for its homemade waffle cones and bowls. They also offer 48 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream, sherbet, frozen yogurt, and specialty treats. Anderson’s Ice Cream in Joplin offers a variety of sweet pairings, including cookies and cinnamon rolls.
Overall, Missouri’s best ice cream shops offer more than just ice cream. They provide a unique experience that combines delicious frozen treats with homemade baked goods, sweet pairings, and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a sundae, shake, or banana split, Missouri’s best ice cream shops have got you covered.
The Ice Cream Experience
Ice cream is a beloved treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, a date night destination, or a taste of Missouri culture, there’s an ice cream spot for everyone. Here are some of the best ice cream experiences Missouri has to offer.
Family-Friendly Atmospheres
For families, ice cream shops with a fun and welcoming atmosphere are a must. Soft serve ice cream is a classic favorite, and many places offer a variety of flavors and toppings. One such place is Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream in Webster Groves. This ice cream shop has been serving up delicious homemade ice cream since 2003, and their family-friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a sweet treat with the kids.
Date Night Destinations
For a romantic evening out, an ice cream shop can be the perfect destination. Many ice cream shops offer unique and creative flavors that are perfect for a date. Ruby’s Ice Cream in St. James is a great example. Their homemade ice cream has been a Missouri favorite since 1905, and their delicious flavors like cheesecake and raspberry are sure to impress any date.
The Role of Ice Cream in Missouri Culture
Ice cream is more than just a sweet treat in Missouri – it’s a part of the state’s culture. Many ice cream shops have been around for decades and are beloved by locals and tourists alike. Buck’s Ice Cream Place in Columbia is a prime example. This shop has been serving up delicious ice cream since 1923, and their signature flavor, Tiger Stripe, is a must-try for anyone visiting the University of Missouri.
Overall, the ice cream experience in Missouri is one that everyone should indulge in. From family-friendly atmospheres to date night destinations, and everything in between, there’s an ice cream spot for everyone to enjoy.
Seasonal Specials and Events
Spring Break Limited Editions
Spring Break is the perfect time to indulge in some delicious ice cream. Many ice cream shops in Missouri offer seasonal specials and limited edition flavors during this time of the year. For example, Ice Cream Factory in Eldon and Jefferson City offers unique flavors like chocolate caramel pretzel and blueberry cheesecake during the spring season. Similarly, Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream in Webster Groves offers seasonal flavors like strawberry rhubarb and lemon lavender during spring break.
Ice Cream Socials and Festivals
Missouri is home to many ice cream socials and festivals that take place during spring break. These events are perfect for families and ice cream enthusiasts to enjoy different flavors, socialize and have fun. One such event is the statewide ice cream social that takes place on August 10th to celebrate Missouri’s bicentennial statehood. Many historical sites and restaurants participate in this event by offering free ice cream to visitors. Another popular event is the Branson Ice Cream Festival that takes place in May. This event features ice cream from various local vendors, live music, and other fun activities.
Overall, spring break is the perfect time to explore the best ice cream shops in Missouri and try out their seasonal specials and limited edition flavors. Visitors can also attend ice cream socials and festivals to enjoy different flavors and have fun with their loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the most famous ice cream stores in St. Louis?
St. Louis is home to several famous ice cream stores, including Ted Drewes, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and Clementine’s Creamery. Ted Drewes is a St. Louis institution, known for its frozen custard. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers unique and creative flavors, while Clementine’s Creamery is known for its artisanal ice cream made with local ingredients.
What are the best spots for homemade ice cream in St. Louis?
If you’re looking for homemade ice cream in St. Louis, you can’t go wrong with Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream, Ices Plain & Fancy, and Fountain on Locust. Serendipity offers a wide variety of flavors, while Ices Plain & Fancy uses liquid nitrogen to create a creamy, smooth texture. Fountain on Locust is a vintage soda fountain that serves up classic ice cream flavors.
Which ice cream parlors offer alcoholic flavors in St. Louis?
Several ice cream parlors in St. Louis offer alcoholic flavors, including Clementine’s Creamery, Ices Plain & Fancy, and Bailey’s Range. Clementine’s Creamery has a rotating selection of boozy flavors like Bourbon Maple Pecan and Chocolate Cabernet. Ices Plain & Fancy offers a boozy ice cream flight, while Bailey’s Range has alcoholic milkshakes.
What are the operating hours for popular ice cream shops like Clementine’s Creamery?
Clementine’s Creamery has several locations in St. Louis, and their operating hours vary by location. Generally, they are open from noon to 9 pm on weekdays and noon to 10 pm on weekends. However, it’s always a good idea to check their website for specific hours and locations.
Can you recommend cool ice cream places for a unique experience in Missouri?
If you’re looking for a unique ice cream experience in Missouri, check out Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream in Columbia. They offer creative flavors like Lavender Honey and Blueberry Cheesecake, and they also have vegan and dairy-free options. Another cool spot is Ruby’s Ice Cream in St. James, which has been around since 1905 and serves up delicious homemade ice cream.
Does any ice cream shop in St. Louis offer catering services for events?
Yes, several ice cream shops in St. Louis offer catering services for events. Clementine’s Creamery, Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream, and Ices Plain & Fancy all offer catering services. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party, these ice cream shops can create a custom menu to fit your needs.
