With flavors like Tin Cup Whiskey & Cinnamon Churro, how can you resist?
We’re big on ice cream parlors here in Denver. Whether they be homages to vintage carnival towns or modern retellings of classic flavors, there’s a little something for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy ice cream season with this short and sweet list.
1. Sweet Action Ice Cream Shop
Sweet Action is the quintessential Colorado ice cream shop. They create their flavors using local dairy, then collaborate with local purveyors, farmers, and bakers to create their fantastic, unique, and homemade flavors. Their current spring/summer offerings at the Broadway location are flavors like Apricot, Mango Iced Tea, Mocha Cold Brew, and Jalapeño Key Lime, to name only a few.
Where: 52 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
2. Dang Soft Serve
Dang Soft Serve has got to be one of the prettiest ice cream shops we’ve ever laid eyes on, and the soft serves are just as aesthetic! The sixth and last member of the Little Man Ice Cream family, Dang serves modern twists on ice cream and french fries. Their beautifully painted building is inspired by 80s pop culture and the arts, and aims to be a hub and center that puts community first. Dang has just introduced their new spring flavors, a swirl of two customer favorites: banana pudding and peanut butter.
Where: 2211 Oneida St., Denver CO 80207
3. Bonnie Brae
We’ve got one word to describe Bonnie Brae, and that’s retro. Visitors of this classic ice cream shop can be transported to a different time by the bold red, white, and light blue vintage exterior and colorful umbrella-topped tables. Flavors are made daily, so they’re different depending on how often you stop by, though of course they also have their flagship flavors. Try their Butter Brickle, Triple Death Chocolate, Blueberry, or Cherry Vanilla and get ready for sweet bliss.
Where: 799 S University Blvd, Denver, CO 80209
4. Little Man Ice Cream
Little Man Ice Cream is an oldie but a goodie with decor inspired by vintage Coney Island’s festive style, and dedicated to preserving the whimsy of that era. From cups and cones, to big and small sundaes, they also offer a variety of delicious toppings like sprinkles and hot fudge. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can get one of their delicious flavors on top of a brownie.
Where: 2620 16TH ST. Denver, CO 80211
5. High Point Creamery
This ice cream parlor is on the more upscale side of the spectrum, and we have to admit, it’s reflected in the prices. But High Point Creamery still serves some quality and creative flavors, and they’re known for their ice cream flights. Try six mini cups of different flavors to get a bird’s eye view of what High Point offers, like Basil with Blackberry Swirl, Earl Grey and Shortbread, Tin Cup Whiskey & Pistachio Brittle.
Where: 215 S Holly St, Denver, CO 80246
6. Magill’s World of Ice Cream
Magill’s is a family style ice cream parlor that’s colorful and nostalgic, never changing over the last four decades it’s been open. They’ve got a big variety of flavors from salted caramel cashew to Reese’s peanut butter cup, huckleberry to birthday cake. They’ve got 3 different fruity sorbets, sugar-free and dairy-free varieties, and more.
Where: 8016 West Jewell Avenue Lakewood, Colorado 80232
7. Sherry’s Soda Shoppe
A real classic vintage diner that does real vintage soda pop alongside retro ice cream favorites (think orange creams and malts). Come in and be transported back to the 50s where you can pick your flavor and enjoy it in a fresh made waffle cone or topped on a sweet and flavored soda. If you’re a cookie fan, then they’ve got thick ice cream cookies that are divine.
Where: 2716 Welton St, Denver, CO
8. Ice Cream Riot
For a unique variation of an ice cream sandwich then, definitely head to Ice Cream Riot for their ambitious take on the delicious treat. Get huge scoops of sprinkled or cookie-filled (or without) ice cream in between two cookies or even pop tarts if you choose! They’ve even got cannolis filled with ice cream and unusual flavors.
Where: 1238 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80218
9. Pint’s Peak
Small, underground, woman-owned, and artisanal ice cream. While Pint’s Peak may not have a brick and mortar store, you can find them at farmer’s markets, pop ups at some community favorites in Denver, and catering. Try their spitzes, like their lemon spritz topped with blueberry ice cream. Here’a a list of everywhere you can buy pints.