Florida isn’t just about sunny beaches and palm trees—it’s also home to some of the most delicious ice cream shops in the country. Whether you’re strolling through Miami, relaxing in Orlando, or enjoying a weekend in Tampa, you’ll find unique ice cream flavors that go way beyond the usual vanilla and chocolate. After exploring recommendations, reviews, and personal experiences, I’ve put together the top 15 ice cream shops in Florida for 2025 that you absolutely need to try.
1. Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour – Dania Beach
One of Florida’s most legendary spots, Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour has been serving giant sundaes and handmade ice cream since 1956. The portions are massive, making it perfect for families or groups. Their “Kitchen Sink Sundae” is famous—it comes in a literal sink bowl and is enough for 4–6 people.
Old-school parlor vibe with American nostalgia
Homemade ice cream with over 50 flavors
Huge portions that make it Instagram-worthy
- Check them out here: Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour
2. Azucar Ice Cream Company – Miami
Located in Miami’s Little Havana, Azucar Ice Cream Company is known for its Cuban-inspired flavors. Their signature “Abuela Maria” flavor mixes vanilla ice cream with guava, cream cheese, and Maria cookies—a true local favorite.
Unique Latin-inspired flavors you won’t find elsewhere
Vibrant Cuban-themed shop atmosphere
Perfect stop after a stroll in Calle Ocho
- Visit them: Azucar Ice Cream Company
3. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream – Orlando
If you’re in Orlando, Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream is a must. It started as a small food truck and has now expanded into several shops across the city. Their menu rotates with seasonal flavors, but staples like “Cookie Monster” and “Strawberry Cheesecake” are always crowd-pleasers.
Locally owned and community-focused
Creative seasonal flavors
Affordable treats for families
- Official site: Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
4. The Hyppo – St. Augustine & Tampa
Technically more of a gourmet popsicle shop, The Hyppo deserves a mention for its hand-crafted, all-natural ice pops made from fresh Florida fruits. Flavors like “Mango Habanero” and “Strawberry Basil” make it stand out from traditional ice cream.
100% natural ingredients
Refreshing alternative to heavy ice cream
Fun flavors with a Florida twist
- Learn more here: The Hyppo
5. Sweet Dreams Homemade Ice Cream – Gainesville
A true local gem, Sweet Dreams Homemade Ice Cream is known for its small-batch, handcrafted ice creams. They often experiment with unusual but delicious flavors like avocado, lavender, and even Guinness stout.
Unique experimental flavors
Locally made with fresh ingredients
Cozy, friendly atmosphere
6. Sloan’s Ice Cream – West Palm Beach
Walking into Sloan’s Ice Cream feels like stepping into a pink candy wonderland. Their shops are decorated with chandeliers, whimsical décor, and a fun vibe that makes it a hit with both kids and adults. The “Cookie Monster” sundae is a must-try.
Over-the-top décor that’s perfect for photos
Creative flavors and giant sundaes
Great for families with kids
- Official site: Sloan’s Ice Cream
7. Ice Cream Theory – Tampa
Ice Cream Theory takes a modern approach, letting you customize your own creations with mix-ins and toppings. Think Cold Stone but more elevated. Locals rave about their Oreo Cheesecake flavor and seasonal specials.
Build-your-own ice cream concept
Modern and fun shop vibe
Great variety of toppings
8. Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – Miami & Fort Lauderdale
If you want something fun and different, Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream freezes your ice cream right in front of you using liquid nitrogen. Not only is it fresh, but the smoky effect is also Instagram-worthy.
Ice cream made fresh in seconds
Tons of mix-in options
A unique science-meets-dessert experience
- Visit: Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream
9. Pappalecco – San Diego (Wait—Florida’s one is in Sarasota)
In Sarasota, Pappalecco is known for its Italian-style gelato. Creamy, rich, and less sweet than American ice cream, it’s perfect if you’re craving something authentic. Pair it with their espresso for a true Italian treat.
Authentic Italian gelato
Espresso and dessert combo options
Smooth, rich flavors
- Website: Pappalecco
10. Mr. Cool Ice Cream & Boba Tea – Orlando
If you’ve never tried rolled ice cream, this is the place. Mr. Cool Ice Cream hand-rolls your ice cream on a frozen surface, then serves it with toppings of your choice. It’s not just dessert—it’s a performance.
Fun rolled ice cream made fresh
Lots of topping combinations
Also serves bubble tea for something extra
11. Subzero Nitrogen Ice Cream – Multiple Locations
Subzero Ice Cream uses liquid nitrogen to instantly freeze your custom mix, creating smooth, creamy ice cream right before your eyes. It’s a fun science experiment and dessert rolled into one.
Fully customizable creations
Fun nitrogen “smoke show” for kids
Wide range of dairy-free options
- Official site: Subzero Ice Cream
12. The Greenery Creamery – Orlando
If you’re looking for a boutique ice cream shop that supports local farmers, The Greenery Creamery is the place. They’re famous for small-batch, hand-crafted ice cream with vegan and Asian-inspired flavors like Ube and Black Sesame.
Vegan and dairy-free options
Locally sourced ingredients
Exotic Asian-inspired flavors
13. Dreamette – Jacksonville
Dreamette is a Jacksonville institution, serving soft-serve since 1948. People line up for their classic dipped cones, sundaes, and banana splits. It’s a nostalgic stop for anyone who loves old-fashioned ice cream stands.
Over 70 years of history
Famous dipped cones
Affordable and family-friendly
- Learn more: Dreamette
14. Frios Gourmet Pops – Pensacola
If you’re on the Gulf Coast, Frios Gourmet Pops is a refreshing alternative to traditional ice cream. They serve colorful popsicles in flavors like Blueberry Cheesecake, Key Lime Pie, and Cookie Dough.
Handcrafted gourmet pops
Fun and portable dessert
Creative seasonal flavors
- Website: Frios Gourmet Pops
15. Thomas Sweet Ice Cream – Jupiter
Originally from New Jersey, Thomas Sweet Ice Cream has a loyal following in Jupiter, Florida. They’re known for their “Blend-Ins,” which are similar to mix-ins but whipped to a creamier consistency.
Famous “Blend-In” creations
Generous serving sizes
Classic American ice cream shop vibe
- Explore here: Thomas Sweet
Final Thoughts
Florida isn’t just a paradise for beaches and sunshine—it’s a paradise for ice cream lovers too. From the nostalgic charm of Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour in Dania Beach to the modern, Instagram-worthy rolled ice cream at Mr. Cool in Orlando, the state offers something for every type of dessert enthusiast.
What makes these 15 ice cream shops special is not just the quality of the ice cream, but the experience each one provides. Some, like Azucar Ice Cream Company, bring local culture to your cone with unique Cuban-inspired flavors. Others, like Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream and Subzero, turn dessert into an interactive spectacle, making your treat as fun to watch as it is to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best ice cream shop in Florida?
It depends on your taste! For classic sundaes, try Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour. For unique flavors, Azucar Ice Cream Company is a must.
2. Are there vegan or dairy-free options?
Yes! Shops like The Greenery Creamery and Subzero Ice Cream offer vegan and dairy-free flavors.
3. Can I find rolled or nitrogen ice cream in Florida?
Absolutely. Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream and Mr. Cool specialize in rolled or nitrogen-made ice cream for a fun experience.
4. Do these ice cream shops offer seasonal flavors?
Yes, many shops rotate flavors based on the season, like Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream and Ice Cream Theory.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
