Legendary Ice Cream Stops You’ll Love Across Missouri
Missouri is home to some of the most charming ice cream parlors in the Midwest, each offering its own unique twist on frozen treats.
From family-owned shops that have been scooping for generations to trendy new spots with wild flavor combinations, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Whether you’re cruising Route 66 or exploring small-town streets, these legendary stops will make your taste buds sing.
1. Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream In Columbia
Where nostalgia meets innovation, you’ll find scoops that’ll make your childhood memories jealous. Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream has been churning out ridiculously good flavors since the early 2000s, and trust me, they’ve mastered the art of creamy perfection.
Their seasonal rotation keeps things exciting, but the classics never disappoint. The texture is impossibly smooth, and each bite feels like a hug from your favorite aunt.
Don’t sleep on their waffle cones either. They’re made fresh daily and smell like heaven wrapped in crispy goodness.
2. Andy’s Frozen Custard In Springfield
This spot started as a single store and exploded into a Midwest phenomenon for one reason: their custard is dangerously addictive. Andy’s Frozen Custard whips up frozen magic that’s denser and richer than regular ice cream, thanks to extra egg yolks in the mix.
Their concretes are legendary, blending custard with toppings so thoroughly you get flavor in every spoonful. The James Brownie Funky Jackhammer is a personal favorite, packed with brownie chunks and fudge.
Expect a line, but it moves fast because this crew knows their stuff.
3. Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream In Webster Groves
Though tucked away in a charming neighborhood, this gem draws crowds from all over St. Louis. Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream crafts small batches with real ingredients, and you can taste the difference immediately.
Their flavor lineup changes with the seasons, but the Salted Caramel Pretzel is a year-round stunner. Each scoop is generous, creamy, and packed with actual chunks of whatever they promise.
The shop itself feels like stepping into your grandma’s kitchen, cozy and welcoming. Grab a seat outside and watch the world go by.
4. Crown Candy Kitchen In St. Louis
Are you ready for a time machine disguised as an ice cream parlor? Crown Candy Kitchen has been slinging sodas and sundaes since 1913, and they haven’t changed a thing about their recipe or their vibe.
The banana splits here are massive, piled high with three scoops, whipped cream, and enough toppings to feed a small army. Their hot fudge is made from scratch and tastes like liquid gold.
Sit at the original counter and soak in over a century of sweet history.
5. Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Cafe In St. Louis
When a cupcake shop decides to add ice cream, you know it’s going to be extra. Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Cafe brings the same creative energy to their frozen treats as they do to their baked goods.
Their flavors are bold and unexpected, like Lavender Honey or Bourbon Butter Pecan. Each scoop is crafted with premium ingredients and a whole lot of attitude.
The shop is Instagram-worthy, but more importantly, the ice cream backs up the hype. Pair a scoop with one of their famous cupcakes for ultimate indulgence.
6. Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery In St. Louis
However you’re feeling, this place has a flavor to match your mood. Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery splits their menu into two categories: wholesome classics and adventurous wild cards.
The Goat Cheese with Red Cherries sounds weird but tastes like a revelation, tangy and sweet in perfect harmony. If you’re playing it safe, their Vanilla Bean is anything but boring, loaded with real specks.
The staff here are passionate about their craft and happy to let you sample everything. Take your time and explore.
7. The Fountain on Locust In St. Louis
Did you know that some of the best ice cream hides inside a comic book store? The Fountain on Locust combines nerdy nostalgia with seriously good frozen treats, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
Their sundaes are named after superheroes and pop culture icons, and they’re as fun to order as they are to eat. The Dork chocolate malt is ridiculously thick and tastes like childhood in a glass.
Browse comics while you wait, then settle into a booth to enjoy your creation. Pure bliss.
8. Peggy Jean’s Pies In Columbia
Though famous for their award-winning pies, the ice cream here is equally spectacular. Peggy Jean’s Pies uses farm-fresh ingredients and old-fashioned techniques to create flavors that taste like home.
Their Butter Pecan is loaded with toasted pecans and has a buttery richness that’s downright addictive. Pair it with a slice of pie for the ultimate dessert experience.
The cozy atmosphere makes you want to linger, and the friendly staff treat you like family. It’s comfort food at its finest.
9. Glacé Artisan Ice Cream In Kansas City
Hence the name, this place takes ice cream seriously as an art form. Glacé Artisan Ice Cream crafts small-batch flavors using local ingredients and techniques borrowed from fine dining.
Their Honey Lavender is floral without being perfumey, and the texture is silky smooth. They rotate seasonal flavors constantly, so there’s always something new to try.
The minimalist shop lets the ice cream do the talking, and boy, does it have a lot to say. Sophisticated yet approachable, it’s ice cream for grown-ups.
10. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream In Kansas City
Are wild flavor combinations your thing? Betty Rae’s Ice Cream pushes boundaries with creative concoctions that sound crazy but taste incredible.
Their Burnt Ends & Barbeque flavor actually has real burnt ends mixed in, and it’s a savory-sweet masterpiece. If that’s too adventurous, the Brown Butter Pumpkin is a safer bet but equally delicious.
The shop is bright and cheerful, matching the playful energy of their menu. Come with an open mind and leave with a new favorite flavor.
11. Zesto Drive-In In Jefferson City
This vintage drive-in is a time capsule of American ice cream culture. Zesto Drive-In has been serving soft-serve and burgers since the 1950s, and the recipes haven’t changed one bit.
Their soft-serve is perfectly swirled and incredibly smooth, ideal for hot summer nights. The sundaes are massive and messy in the best way possible.
Pull up, order from your car, and enjoy the retro experience. It’s a slice of Americana that still hits the spot.
12. Ices Plain & Fancy In Cape Girardeau
Though technically Italian ice, this spot deserves a place on any frozen treat list. Ices Plain & Fancy offers a lighter alternative to traditional ice cream without sacrificing flavor.
Their Mango Italian ice is refreshing and intensely fruity, perfect for those who find ice cream too heavy. They also serve regular ice cream, so you can mix and match.
The portions are generous, and the staff are always friendly. It’s a hidden jewel in Southeast Missouri that locals guard jealously.
13. Ozark Mountain Creamery In Branson
When you’re exploring the Ozarks, this is your mandatory ice cream stop. Ozark Mountain Creamery serves up thick, creamy scoops in a cozy mountain-themed setting that feels authentically local.
Their Huckleberry flavor is a regional specialty you won’t find elsewhere, tart and sweet with real berries. The waffle cones are made to order and fill the shop with an irresistible aroma.
After a day of hiking or shopping, nothing hits quite like a cone from this spot. Pure vacation bliss.
