You can even shop for produce and get fresh churned ice cream at one of these stops.
Here at Secret Charlotte, we strongly believe in community first. From minority owned to small business, it’s important to push money back into the creatives and makers working to make our city a bright, more creative place. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 8 ice cream shops here in Charlotte serving up yummy ice cream, perfect for those hot summer days.
1. Cabarrus Creamery
First up on our list, we’ve got Cabarrus Creamery. Cabarrus has got an amazing retro vibe and modern, creative flavors and is the perfect addition to the small but mighty Charlotte ice cream scene. Est. in 1923, they’ve had the time to perfect their 25 unique flavors. Try their Sliced Lemon, Rum Raisin, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough in a milkshake, banana split, sundae, or on a cone.
Tip: Try their Moonpie flavor, a signature flavor inspired by the Southern treat (chocolate covered graham cracker with a marshmallow filling)
Where: 21 Union St S #5009, Concord, NC 28025
2. Elizabeth Creamery
Elizabeth Creamery is another one of those Charlotte-made mom and pop shops that everyone loves, and can be considered a staple here in Charlotte. They’re known for their creamy recipes that are flavorful as they are silky. Get a heaping scoop of ice cream on a cone for $4.00 or less, and enjoy pure sugary bliss.
Tip: They also make fresh cones (which you can smell when you walk in) so make sure to not to skimp on one with your brownie sundae or strawberry ice cream.
Where: 1535 Elizabeth Ave #100, Charlotte, NC 28204
3. La Michoacana
La Michocacana is doing everything from paletas (popsicles) and sorbets to homemade ice cream and mangonadas (which are a Mexican treat with ice, mango, water, and lime). Try their delicious, creamy handmade ice cream flavors like watermelon, vanilla, or cheesecake, or even get fresh fruit topped with tajin. Plus, they’ve even got some savory snacks like elote. There are endless options (fruit popsicles or ice cream versus milk popsicles and ice cream) and you’ll surely be back for more in order to try their delicious options.
Tip: The staff primarily speaks Spanish and most of the menu is in Spanish as well, but you can check out their website to check out a translated version.
Where: 6300 South Blvd Suite 100 Starmount Charlotte, NC 28217
4. Tony’s Ice Cream
Tony’s Ice Cream is a classic, small business that we love. Only downside is that you have to drive to Gastonia in order to enjoy. But we think that Tony’s is well-worth the drive. Pick one of their delicious 28 homemade flavors (with classics like cookie dough and unique flavors like grape) and pair it with their popular hot dogs or sammies.
Tip: If you don’t want to drive all the way to Gastonia, you can hit up your local Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory since they sell Tony’s ice cream there, including their delicious milkshakes.
Where: 604 E Franklin Blvd #7111, Gastonia, NC 28054
5. Spring Farms
We might know Spring Farms for their delicious produce like fresh berries or peaches, but did you know they also make their own fresh swirls of ice cream in a variety of different flavors? In the past, they’ve churned fresh blackberry, strawberry, and vanilla ice cream. We want you to imagine how good these sweet treats are, considering they are made right there on the farm serving up delicious, fresh produce. We’d highly recommend giving it a try!
Tip: You can pick fresh peaches and strawberries this summer to enjoy for home.
Where: 1010 Springfield Parkway Fort Mill, SC 29715
6. Golden Cow Creamery
A handcrafted small batch ice cream that’s family-owned by Charlotte locals. Three spots in South End, South Park, and Uptown. From flavors like Key Lime Pie to S’more with speciality ice cream flavors like Nerds and Kit Kat that are served seasonally and made in small batches to ensure you’re always getting something deliciously made.
Where: 601 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
7. Two Scoops Creamery
Two Scoops is located in a few locations in Charlotte and what makes them special are their secret family recipe that makes their deliciously creamy ice cream. The ice cream parlor is owned by 3 best friends with interesting and unique flavors and murals on the building made by local artists.
Where: 913 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204
8. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Jen’s ice cream has got a buttercream base making them extra smooth and creamy. Go for flavors like brambleberry cream, salted peanut butter with chocolate flecks, and brown butter almond brittle.
Where: 4203 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209