Pennsylvania isn’t just known for its history and beautiful landscapes — it’s also home to some of the best ice cream shops in the country. From farm-fresh scoops to inventive flavors that you won’t find anywhere else, the Keystone State takes frozen treats seriously. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these are the Top 15 ice cream shops in Pennsylvania you must try in 2025.
1. Fox Meadows Creamery – Ephrata (Lancaster County)
This family-owned creamery is the definition of farm-to-cone. The owners raise their own dairy cows, and the milk is turned into ultra-fresh ice cream right on site. Their menu features creative flavors like Lemon Poppyseed Pound Cake, Peanut Butter Overload, and seasonal favorites made with local ingredients.
- Must-try: The signature “Baked Fox” — warm brownie or cookie topped with your favorite ice cream flavor.
- Location: 2475 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA
- Fox Meadows Creamery Official Website
2. Penn State Berkey Creamery – University Park (State College)
The Berkey Creamery has been serving ice cream for more than 150 years and is run by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences. It’s not just a shop; it’s a piece of Pennsylvania history. Fun fact: Ben & Jerry learned the art of ice cream making here before starting their brand.
- Must-try: The classic “Peachy Paterno” (a nod to Penn State’s famous coach) and “Death by Chocolate.”
- Location: 119 Food Science Bldg, University Park, PA
- Berkey Creamery Website
3. Franklin Fountain – Philadelphia
Step back in time at this old-fashioned soda fountain in Old City, Philadelphia. It’s styled like a 1900s ice cream parlor, complete with vintage décor and homemade small-batch ice cream. The experience is just as delightful as the flavors.
- Must-try: Their indulgent “Mt. Vesuvius Sundae” — brownies, ice cream, hot fudge, malt powder, and whipped cream piled high.
- Location: 116 Market St, Philadelphia, PA
- Franklin Fountain Official Website
4. Merrymead Farm – Lansdale (Montgomery County)
A true family farm experience. Merrymead has been operating for over 100 years and is a favorite among locals. They use fresh dairy from their herd and offer more than 32 flavors of premium ice cream. In summer, it’s a hotspot for families looking to enjoy homemade ice cream with a countryside vibe.
- Must-try: Black Raspberry and their seasonal Pumpkin ice cream in the fall.
- Location: 2222 S. Valley Forge Rd, Lansdale, PA
- Merrymead Farm Website
5. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream – Multiple PA Locations
Originally founded in Youngstown, OH, Handel’s has become a regional favorite with multiple shops across Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh and the Lehigh Valley. Their ice cream is made fresh daily in each store, and they have a rotating menu of more than 100 flavors throughout the year.
- Must-try: Graham Central Station (graham cracker ripple with chocolate-covered honeycomb crunch) — a fan favorite.
- Locations: Pittsburgh, Berwyn, Allentown & more
- Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Website
6. Urban Churn – Harrisburg
Known for its small-batch, hand-churned ice cream, Urban Churn experiments with adventurous flavors like Whiskey Peach, Maple Bacon, and Thai Iced Tea. It’s the go-to spot for anyone who wants to step outside the usual vanilla-and-chocolate zone.
- Must-try: Whiskey Peach (it’s their signature).
- Location: 111 N. Street, Harrisburg, PA
7. Owowcow Creamery – Ottsville, Wrightstown & Easton
Owowcow is a certified dairy producer and one of the few ice cream makers in the country licensed to pasteurize its own milk. They source from local farms and focus on natural, seasonal ingredients. Expect rich, creamy flavors and lots of rotating specials.
- Must-try: Honey Lavender and Cookie Monstah.
- Locations: Ottsville, Wrightstown, Easton, Bethlehem, Lambertville
8. Milky Way Farm & Chester Springs Creamery – Chester Springs
Located on a working dairy farm, this creamery makes more than 50 flavors throughout the year. You can enjoy your ice cream while watching the cows graze, which makes the experience extra special for families.
- Must-try: Cow Tracks (a twist on Moose Tracks) and Salted Caramel Pretzel.
- Location: 521 E Uwchlan Ave, Chester Springs, PA
- Milky Way Farm Website
9. Lapp Valley Farms – New Holland (Lancaster County)
Famous for its silky, homemade ice cream crafted from fresh Jersey cow milk, Lapp Valley Farms is a hidden gem in Amish country. People often line up for cones made fresh in their homemade waffle cones.
- Must-try: Butter Pecan and Coffee.
- Location: 244 Mentzer Rd, New Holland, PA
10. Uncle Dave’s Homemade Ice Cream – Yardley (Bucks County)
Located at Shady Brook Farm, Uncle Dave’s is a Bucks County staple. The ice cream is made on site, and many flavors use ingredients straight from the farm. During the summer, it’s a fun spot with live events, festivals, and hayrides.
- Must-try: Blueberry (made with local berries) and Cookie Dough.
- Location: 931 Stony Hill Rd, Yardley, PA
- Uncle Dave’s Ice Cream Website
11. Bassett’s Ice Cream – Philadelphia (Reading Terminal Market)
America’s oldest ice cream company, Bassett’s has been serving scoops since 1861. Located in the iconic Reading Terminal Market, it’s a must-stop for anyone visiting Philadelphia. Their rich, creamy flavors are made from a 150-year-old family recipe.
- Must-try: Cookies & Cream and Guatemalan Ripple.
- Location: 45 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA
- Bassett’s Ice Cream Website
12. Valley Dairy Restaurants – Western PA (Latrobe & More)
A Western Pennsylvania classic, Valley Dairy offers homemade ice cream along with family-style dining. Their sundaes are legendary, and it’s a nostalgic stop for locals.
- Must-try: Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae.
- Locations: Latrobe, Greensburg, Belle Vernon & more
- Valley Dairy Restaurants Website
13. Petrucci’s Ice Cream – Montgomeryville
A seasonal roadside stand that’s been delighting families for decades. They’re known for both soft serve and hard ice cream, plus massive banana splits that make them a summer destination.
- Must-try: Peanut Butter Sundae.
- Location: 670 Bethlehem Pike, Montgomeryville, PA
14. Kerber’s Dairy – North Huntingdon (Westmoreland County)
A family-owned dairy farm making fresh ice cream for over 50 years. Kerber’s is famous for classic, rich flavors and its kid-friendly atmosphere with a play area and farm animals.
- Must-try: Black Cherry and Chocolate Marshmallow.
- Location: 1856 Guffey Rd, North Huntingdon, PA
- Kerber’s Dairy Website
15. Yuengling’s Ice Cream – Pottsville
Yes, the same Yuengling family known for beer also makes ice cream! Yuengling’s Ice Cream has been around since 1920, offering creamy classics and modern flavors without artificial colors.
- Must-try: Root Beer Float and Black & Tan.
- Location: Pottsville, PA (sold in select shops & grocery stores)
- Yuengling’s Ice Cream Website
Final Thoughts
From Amish country creameries to historic soda fountains, Pennsylvania has no shortage of ice cream experiences that combine tradition, freshness, and creativity. If you’re traveling around the state, consider planning a little “ice cream road trip” to hit all five of these destinations — you won’t regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most famous ice cream shop in Pennsylvania?
A: The Penn State Berkey Creamery is the most famous, with over 150 years of history and alumni like Ben & Jerry.
Q: Do these shops use local ingredients?
A: Yes! Fox Meadows and Merrymead Farm, in particular, use milk from their own herds for farm-fresh ice cream.
Q: Are there vegan or dairy-free options?
A: Many, like Franklin Fountain and Handel’s, now offer sorbets and dairy-free flavors.
Related Post you may like:
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.
