Missouri Ice Cream Shops Everyone Talks About

Missouri has some of the most beloved ice cream spots in the Midwest, and locals can’t stop raving about them. From old-fashioned parlors to creative new flavors, these shops offer something special for every sweet tooth.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a longtime fan, you’ll find incredible treats worth talking about.

1. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

St. Louis wouldn’t be the same without this legendary custard stand that’s been around since 1929. I love how thick and creamy their famous concrete is—you can literally turn it upside down without spilling a drop.

The seasonal pumpkin pie concrete is a must-try during fall. Lines wrap around the building on summer nights, but trust me, it’s worth every minute of waiting.

2. Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream

Columbia residents swear by this charming spot that makes everything from scratch daily. You’ll find wild flavor combinations like lavender honey and bourbon butter pecan alongside classic vanilla bean.

The owner sources ingredients from local farms whenever possible, making each scoop taste incredibly fresh. I appreciate how they rotate seasonal flavors, so there’s always something new to discover on your next visit.

3. Ices Plain & Fancy

Walking into this Kirkwood gem feels like stepping back in time to a 1950s soda fountain. Their homemade ice cream comes in over 30 flavors, and the hot fudge sauce is legendary among regulars.

I recommend trying their signature sundaes piled high with toppings and whipped cream. The nostalgic atmosphere makes every visit feel special, especially if you bring kids along for the experience.

4. Andy’s Frozen Custard

Springfield is the birthplace of this now-famous chain that started as a single shop in 1986. What makes them stand out is their commitment to making custard fresh every hour throughout the day.

The Jackhammer concrete blends cookie dough, hot fudge, and Oreos into pure heaven. I always grab a concrete when I’m in town because the texture is unbelievably smooth and rich compared to regular ice cream.

5. Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery

This St. Louis hotspot pushes boundaries with boozy ice cream flavors that adults absolutely adore. Their whiskey caramel and champagne sorbet have become instant favorites for grown-up treat seekers.

Don’t worry – they also offer plenty of family-friendly options without alcohol. I love how adventurous they get with ingredients like goat cheese and balsamic strawberry, creating combinations you won’t find anywhere else in Missouri.

6. Shug’s Soda Fountain

Independence locals treasure this old-fashioned fountain that serves thick milkshakes and hand-dipped cones just like the good old days. The banana splits here are enormous and perfect for sharing with friends or family.

I’m impressed by their commitment to traditional recipes and presentation. Everything from the cherry phosphates to the malts tastes authentic, making you feel like you’ve traveled back to simpler times when life moved slower.

7. Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream

Webster Groves residents can’t get enough of this neighborhood treasure that crafts small batches with premium ingredients. Their salted caramel pretzel flavor has developed a cult following among dessert enthusiasts.

What sets them apart is the creamy texture that comes from using a higher butterfat content. I suggest trying their waffle cones made fresh daily – they smell amazing and add the perfect crunch to complement any flavor choice.

8. The Fountain on Locust

This St. Louis institution has been serving sodas and sundaes since 1928 in a stunning art deco setting. The phosphates here are made with authentic flavoring syrups you can’t find in modern chains.

I’m fascinated by their vintage soda fountain equipment that’s still in working order today. Their turtle sundae with pecans, caramel, and hot fudge remains a customer favorite that never disappoints hungry visitors.

9. Crown Candy Kitchen

Since 1913, this family-owned St. Louis landmark has been delighting customers with massive sundaes and homemade chocolates. Their famous BLT sandwich paired with a malt makes for an unexpectedly perfect lunch combination.

I’m blown away by how generous their portions are—one sundae can easily feed two people. The vintage atmosphere and friendly service make you feel like part of the family from the moment you walk through the door.

10. Lick

Kansas City’s trendy Crossroads Arts District is home to this innovative shop that experiments with unexpected flavor profiles. Their olive oil gelato sounds strange but tastes absolutely incredible with a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

I’m constantly surprised by their rotating menu that features ingredients like black sesame and cardamom. The scoops are priced reasonably considering the high-quality artisan approach they take with every single batch produced.

11. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream

Kansas City residents line up for this locally-owned shop that creates Instagram-worthy ice cream sandwiches and cones. Their burnt ends ice cream incorporates actual barbecue flavors, paying homage to the city’s famous culinary tradition.

I’m obsessed with their boozy milkshakes that blend premium spirits with house-made ice cream. The retro vibe and playful flavor names make every visit feel like a fun celebration rather than just another dessert stop.