As temperatures soar across the country, nothing feels better than cooling off with a refreshing summer treat. Whether you’re lounging on a beach in California or navigating a humid day in New York City, there’s a perfect refresher waiting to perk you up and chill you out. In this 2025 guide, I’ve rounded up the 10 best summer refreshers in the USA—a mix of iconic drinks, frozen delights, and regional favorites that help Americans beat the heat. These aren’t your basic lemonades or generic iced coffees—these are must-try refreshers that locals swear by, and travelers go out of their way for. I’ve been a barista at Target since 2018, but I’ve been enjoying Refreshers since I was younger. Also if you like 25 Best Mocktails to Try in 2025 – Easy, Refreshing Recipes
Let’s dive in—ice first!
1. Nitro Cold Brew – Portland, Oregon
Where to Get It: Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Coava, Heart Coffee
If you’ve never had a nitro cold brew, imagine cold coffee infused with nitrogen gas—giving it a creamy texture and a naturally sweet taste without added sugar. Portland has mastered this art, serving up nitro brews so smooth, you’ll forget it’s coffee.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s cold, bold, and energizing—ideal for those long summer afternoons.
Pro Tip:
Ask for a dash of vanilla sweet cream on top—next level.
2. Swamp Pop Praline Cream Soda – Louisiana
Where to Get It: Regional markets in Baton Rouge, New Orleans & online
Louisiana’s take on summer soda is nothing short of indulgent. Swamp Pop’s praline cream soda is rich, cold, and nutty—like a chilled pecan pie in a bottle.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It combines southern comfort flavors with a refreshing twist—plus it’s caffeine-free!
Pro Tip:
Pour it over vanilla ice cream for an epic summer float.
3. Aguas Frescas – Los Angeles, California
Where to Get It: Street carts, mercados, and taquerías around L.A.
Made with fresh fruit, water, and just a hint of sugar, aguas frescas are a Mexican summer staple that’s become an L.A. obsession. Top flavors include hibiscus (jamaica), watermelon, tamarind, and cucumber-lime.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Light, fruity, and hydrating—great for cooling off without getting weighed down.
Pro Tip:
Look for spots that use real fruit, not powders—your taste buds will thank you.
4. Frozen Hot Chocolate – Serendipity 3, New York City
Where to Get It: Serendipity 3 – Upper East Side, Manhattan
Yes, it’s real—and it’s a legend. A blend of cocoa powder, crushed ice, and whipped cream, the frozen hot chocolate is the cooler cousin of your winter favorite.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Decadent, nostalgic, and Instagram-worthy. A NYC bucket list item.
Pro Tip:
Share one—it’s HUGE.
5. Shave Ice with Li Hing Mui Powder – Hawaii
Where to Get It: Matsumoto’s (Oahu), Ululani’s (Maui), or Wailua Shave Ice
Hawaiian shave ice is ultra-fine, almost creamy. What makes it unforgettable? The addition of li hing mui—a tangy-salty-sweet plum powder sprinkled on top.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s like eating a cloud of cold fruit. Enough said.
Pro Tip:
Ask for a scoop of vanilla macadamia nut ice cream at the bottom.
6. Frozen Arnold Palmer – Charleston, South Carolina
Where to Get It: Cafes and waterfront restaurants across Charleston
This Southern twist on the classic half-tea, half-lemonade gets a frozen makeover in Charleston. It’s tart, slightly sweet, and icy cold—perfect after a humid day exploring historic streets.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Balanced hydration with a touch of caffeine and citrus.
Pro Tip:
Try it with a splash of peach syrup—it’s a Southern signature.
7. Huckleberry Lemonade – Montana
Where to Get It: Local diners and farmers markets in Missoula, Bozeman, Glacier National Park
Montana’s wild huckleberries are juicy, tart, and bursting with antioxidants. When mixed with fresh lemonade, it’s summer in a glass.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Bright, bold flavor and loaded with Vitamin C.
Pro Tip:
Add a little soda water to make it sparkle!
8. Fresh Coconut Water – Miami, Florida
Where to Get It: Beachfront stands, local markets, and Little Havana
Crack open a fresh coconut, pop in a straw, and sip your way to hydration. Miami’s sweltering summers practically demand it.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
All-natural electrolytes and zero added sugar—nature’s Gatorade.
Pro Tip:
Ask the vendor to split it open after drinking so you can scoop out the soft coconut meat.
9. Matcha Lemonade – Seattle, Washington
Where to Get It: Local coffee shops like Storyville, Elm Coffee Roasters, and indie cafes
Matcha is having a moment—and Seattle knows how to blend it with fresh-squeezed lemonade for an earthy, energizing cooler.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s antioxidant-rich, slightly caffeinated, and the citrus balances the umami of matcha beautifully.
Pro Tip:
Try it iced and shaken for maximum chill and froth.
10. Boozy Slushies – Austin, Texas
Where to Get It: Bars like Whisler’s, Kitty Cohen’s, and The Buzz Mill
Austin summers are hot, and locals cool down with adult slushies—frozen cocktails in every flavor from frosé to margarita to frozen gin & tonic.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s fun, flavorful, and a vacation-in-a-cup vibe.
Pro Tip:
Check happy hour menus—many spots offer discounted frozen cocktails before 6 PM.
11. Thai Iced Tea – San Francisco, California
Where to Get It: Thai restaurants and bubble tea shops in the Mission District and Richmond neighborhoods
Made with strong brewed black tea, condensed milk, and crushed ice, Thai iced tea is a creamy, spiced refresher that’s incredibly popular in the Bay Area—especially during foggy heat waves.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Its rich yet cooling profile makes it a satisfying escape from the sun.
Pro Tip:
Ask for it with oat milk for a dairy-free twist that still tastes indulgent.
12. Wild Blueberry Smoothie – Maine
Where to Get It: Smoothie stands and cafés along the Maine Coast & Acadia National Park
Wild Maine blueberries are smaller, tangier, and richer in antioxidants than their store-bought cousins. Blended into a smoothie with yogurt, banana, and a touch of honey, they become the ultimate New England cooler.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s fruity, healthy, and packs a punch of Northeast flavor in every sip.
Pro Tip:
Opt for local farm stands—you’ll get the freshest berries possible.
13. Frozen Custard – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Where to Get It: Kopp’s, Leon’s, or Gilles Frozen Custard
Frozen custard is denser, creamier, and smoother than ice cream thanks to the added egg yolks—and Wisconsin is the undisputed king of custard. A big cone of vanilla or chocolate on a hot Midwestern day? Instant chill.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
It’s cold and creamy, but doesn’t melt as fast—perfect for lazy summer strolls.
Pro Tip:
Check for the “flavor of the day”—some shops rotate epic creations like butter pecan or raspberry truffle.
14. Mint Julep Mocktail – Kentucky
Where to Get It: Derby-themed restaurants and cocktail bars in Louisville
Inspired by the traditional mint julep, this non-alcoholic version mixes crushed mint, simple syrup, crushed ice, and ginger ale or sparkling water. It’s cooling, elegant, and very Southern.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Fresh mint + fizzy bubbles = unbeatable porch sipper.
Pro Tip:
Ask for extra crushed ice and real mint sprigs for that ultra-refreshing finish.
15. Watermelon Slush – Phoenix, Arizona
Where to Get It: Juice bars, farmers markets, and taquerías in Phoenix and Tucson
When Arizona hits triple digits, locals turn to one of the most hydrating fruits around—watermelon. Blended with lime juice and ice, it becomes a light, naturally sweet slush that’s as good as air conditioning in a cup.
Why It’s Perfect for Summer:
Watermelon is 90% water and loaded with electrolytes. Super hydrating.
Pro Tip:
Ask for tajín or chili-lime salt on the rim for a spicy-sweet twist.
Final Sip: What Makes a Perfect Summer Refresher?
The best summer refreshers in the USA aren’t just about beating the heat—they’re about the experience. Whether it’s sipping a huckleberry lemonade on a mountain trail or slurping shave ice under a Hawaiian palm tree, these drinks and treats are full of flavor, regional flair, and good vibes.
Looking to plan a summer trip around these refreshments?
Why not! Food and drink make some of the best travel guides.
FAQs
Q: Are these refreshers available nationwide?
Many are regional specialties, but several (like nitro cold brew or aguas frescas) have spread to other cities. Some, like Swamp Pop or matcha lemonade, can even be ordered online.
Q: Can I make some of these at home?
Yes! Try blending your own frozen Arnold Palmer or making aguas frescas with fresh fruit and a blender.
Q: Are any of these low-sugar or diet-friendly?
Fresh coconut water, aguas frescas (unsweetened), and matcha lemonade can all be made with minimal sugar for a healthier option.
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.
