As summer approaches and the Charleston heat begins to sizzle, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream to beat the sweltering temperatures. Charleston’s vibrant ice cream scene offers a delightful array of options, from classic parlors to artisanal shops crafting innovative flavors. Whether you’re a local seeking to escape the heat or a visitor looking to cool off in style, the city’s top ice cream spots are ready to serve up a sweet reprieve. Dive into our guide to discover the best places to savor a refreshing treat this summer.
- Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor – A classic spot with homemade ice cream and a nostalgic atmosphere. Their flavors are rich and varied, and they have a great selection of sundaes and milkshakes.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Known for their unique and high-quality flavors, Jeni’s has a creative take on ice cream that’s worth trying. Their seasonal and limited-edition flavors are particularly interesting.
- The Charleston Ice Cream Factory – A local favorite with a charming, old-fashioned vibe. They offer a range of traditional flavors, as well as some unique options.
- Sweet Lu’s Ice Cream & Desserts – A great place for both ice cream and other sweet treats. They have a nice variety of flavors and often feature seasonal specials.
- Goat Sheep Cow North – Although primarily a cheese shop, they also serve up some excellent ice cream. It’s a bit off the beaten path but worth checking out for their high-quality offerings.
- Handcrafted – This spot is known for its artisanal approach to ice cream, offering rich, creamy flavors made from high-quality ingredients. Their creations often include interesting mix-ins and toppings.
- The Gelatologist – If you're a fan of gelato, this place is a must-visit. They offer a variety of gelato flavors with a smooth, creamy texture that’s hard to beat.
- Nana’s Ice Cream – Located at the Charleston City Market, Nana’s offers a range of classic and inventive flavors. Their homemade waffle cones are a popular addition.
- The Brown Dog Deli – While primarily known for their sandwiches, they also serve up delicious ice cream. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a place that does both savory and sweet well.
- Melt – Specializing in ice cream sandwiches, Melt combines freshly baked cookies with a variety of ice cream flavors for a fun and tasty treat.
- Swoon – A relatively new addition to Charleston’s ice cream scene, Swoon offers artisanal ice cream with a focus on high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Charleston Creamery – Known for their rich, creamy ice cream and fun flavor combinations. Their flavors are made in small batches to ensure freshness.
With Charleston’s summer heat showing no signs of letting up, there’s no better way to stay cool and indulge than by exploring the city’s top ice cream spots. From beloved classics to trendy new spots, the variety of flavors and styles available ensures that every visit can be a new adventure for your taste buds. So, as the temperatures rise, make sure to treat yourself to the perfect scoop and enjoy all that Charleston’s ice cream scene has to offer. After all, in a city as sweet as Charleston, the quest for the best ice cream is always worth it.
