Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and vibrant culture, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious ice cream scene. From classic scoops to inventive flavors, Chicago's ice cream parlors offer a sweet escape for locals and tourists alike. This guide explores the best of the best, highlighting 22 exceptional ice cream shops that deserve a spot on your Chicago bucket list. Finding the perfect Chicago ice cream just got easier!
Discovering Chicago's Coolest Ice Cream Spots: A Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Guide
This list isn't just a random collection; it's a curated exploration of Chicago's diverse ice cream landscape, categorized by neighborhood to help you find the perfect scoop based on your location and preferences.
Downtown Delights: Loop & River North
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Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop: A classic choice, Ghirardelli offers premium chocolate and ice cream creations. Their sundaes are legendary. Expect a slightly higher price point, but the quality is undeniable.
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Mity Nice Bar: This spot provides a classic diner experience with delicious ice cream. It's a great option for a quick, affordable treat after exploring the Loop.
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Insomnia Cookies: While primarily known for cookies, Insomnia also offers a surprising range of ice cream flavors perfect for a late-night sweet craving.
Lincoln Park's Frozen Treasures
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BomboBar: Known for its unique and inventive flavors, BomboBar pushes the boundaries of ice cream. Expect unexpected combinations and high-quality ingredients.
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Black Dog Gelato: A favorite among locals, Black Dog offers authentic Italian gelato with fresh, seasonal flavors. Their creamy texture sets them apart.
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Stan's Donuts & Coffee: While primarily a donut shop, Stan's also offers a selection of ice cream to complement their delicious baked goods.
Wicker Park & Bucktown's Sweet Sensations
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Little Goat Diner: Stephanie Izard's restaurant offers inventive and seasonal ice cream options that perfectly complement their unique menu.
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Pushkin's Bakery: While known for their pastries, their ice cream is a delightful secret. It pairs perfectly with their other offerings.
Lakeview's Coolest Creations
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The Original Rainbow Cone: A Chicago institution, the Rainbow Cone is a must-try for any visitor. This iconic multi-layered cone is a truly unique experience.
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Sweet Surrender: This charming shop offers a wide selection of classic and unique flavors, all made with high-quality ingredients.
Hyde Park's Hidden Gems
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Valois: A historic restaurant with a classic ice cream selection, Valois is a perfect spot for a taste of Chicago history.
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Glace: This local favorite features a changing selection of creative flavors and a focus on using fresh, local ingredients.
Beyond the Loop: More Chicago Ice Cream Adventures
The following shops represent a cross-section of diverse neighborhoods and styles, ensuring a truly comprehensive Chicago ice cream experience.
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Margie's Candies (various locations): A Chicago institution, Margie's offers a wide selection of classic candies and ice cream, perfect for a nostalgic treat.
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Cold Stone Creamery (various locations): A popular chain, Cold Stone offers customizable ice cream creations and a fun, interactive experience.
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Baskin-Robbins (various locations): Another widely available option for those seeking familiar flavors and a wide selection.
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Dairy Queen (various locations): A classic fast-food ice cream option, great for a quick and affordable treat.
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Häagen-Dazs (various locations): High-quality ice cream with classic and sophisticated flavors.
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Ben & Jerry's (various locations): A popular chain known for its commitment to social responsibility and delicious ice cream.
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Weber's (various locations): Known for their hot dogs, Weber's also boasts a simple but satisfying ice cream selection.
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Oberweis Dairy (various locations): This local dairy offers fresh, high-quality ice cream and other dairy products.
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Whole Foods Market (various locations): Often features a rotating selection of artisanal and local ice cream brands.
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Target (various locations): Provides affordable and convenient access to a range of ice cream brands.
Choosing Your Chicago Ice Cream Adventure: Factors to Consider
When selecting your perfect Chicago ice cream experience, several factors come into play:
- Neighborhood: Exploring a new area? Check out the local favorites listed above.
- Flavor Preferences: Classic or innovative? This list caters to both!
- Budget: From budget-friendly options to premium experiences, there's something for everyone.
- Ambiance: Looking for a casual scoop or a more upscale experience? Consider the atmosphere of each shop.
Conclusion: Indulge in Chicago's Sweetest Side
This comprehensive guide showcases just a fraction of Chicago's incredible ice cream offerings. With this list as your starting point, you're sure to find your new favorite Chicago ice cream spot. So grab a spoon, explore the city, and indulge in the sweet rewards of this amazing culinary landscape. Remember to share your favorite finds with us in the comments below!
