Florida’s sunny climate means it’s always a good time for a scoop (or two) of delicious ice cream! From classic flavors to wildly imaginative concoctions, Florida is packed with unique ice cream spots that cater to every craving.
Every November 11th, National Sundae Day invites ice cream lovers to indulge in a classic treat. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a scoop—or two—topped with your favorite flavors and garnishes! Traditionally, an ice cream sundae includes one or two scoops of ice cream, a drizzle of rich syrup, and a mountain of toppings like whipped cream, cherries, sprinkles, and more.
The origin story of the sundae, however, remains a sweet mystery. While Ithaca, New York, holds an 1892 advertisement claiming it invented the sundae, others believe it was first served in 1881 in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. In this story, a creative druggist named Edward Berners is said to have crafted the dish for a customer on a Sunday, topping plain ice cream with chocolate syrup due to Sabbath soda restrictions, and naming it in honor of the day.
In Ithaca’s version, the sundae’s debut took place at Platt & Colt Pharmacy in 1892, when Chester Platt prepared an indulgent dessert for Reverend John M. Scott, topping scoops of vanilla with cherry syrup and a bright cherry on top. The dessert was named after its day of creation—Sunday—later modified to “sundae.”
In honor of National Sundae Day we’ve put together a list of some of the top ice cream spots in Florida.
Whether you’re into classic scoops, inventive sundaes, or boozy shakes, these ice cream shops promise refreshing and memorable experiences. Here’s a list of the top 15 ice cream spots across Florida that will make your dessert-loving heart soar.
Sloan’s – West Palm Beach
Location: 700 S Rosemary Ave #138, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, USA
Contact: +1 561-833-4303
Starting in West Palm Beach, Sloan’s is not only an iconic Florida brand but also a whimsical experience in itself. Known for its bright pink interiors, funky decor, and signature glass bathroom doors, Sloan’s offers luxurious ice cream flavors that range from classic vanilla to over-the-top concoctions like the “Circus” (cotton candy ice cream with gummy bears) or the “Sandcastle Sundae,” which arrives in an actual sand pail. Every visit to Sloan’s is an experience filled with color, nostalgia, and indulgence.
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor – Dania Beach
Location: 128 S Federal Hwy, Dania Beach, FL 33004, USA
Contact: +1 954-923-4445
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor is a nostalgic throwback to the 1950s with a menu of incredible ice cream portions. This diner-style spot is known for its oversized sundaes, such as the Jaxson’s Classic Sundae and the famous Kitchen Sink—a sundae so massive that it’s served in a literal sink, perfect for sharing among friends. The lively ambiance, complete with old-fashioned memorabilia, makes it a must-visit for families and anyone looking to relive their childhood.
Super Scoops – Treasure Island
Location: 11025 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island, FL 33706, USA
Contact: +1 727-360-6200
Voted as one of the top ice cream spots in the country, Super Scoops in Treasure Island offers a selection of rich, creamy flavors and is loved by locals and tourists alike. With traditional flavors like Georgia Peach and Creamsicle, this family-owned shop also serves thick milkshakes and massive sundaes. If you’re a fan of the classics with a touch of creativity, Super Scoops will not disappoint.
Photo Courtesy – Jaxsons Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant
Walls Old Fashioned Ice Cream – Miami
Location: 8075 SW 67th Ave, Miami, FL 33143, USA
Contact: +1 305-740-9830
Walls Old Fashioned Ice Cream brings back the golden era of the 1950s with its vintage-inspired decor and classic ice cream flavors. Their epic “Great Wall of Ice Cream” is a challenge for even the most dedicated ice cream fans, combining 12 flavors with bananas, brownies, whipped cream, and cherries. Fun flavors like Snickers and Coconut Joy make this spot popular among both kids and adults.
Harbor Scoops – Punta Gorda
Location: 150 Laishley Ct Unit 1111, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, USA
Contact: +1 941-505-8880
Located on Punta Gorda’s scenic Harborwalk, Harbor Scoops offers incredible views and ice cream to match. Known for its picturesque setting along the marina, this shop was once rated the “#1 Ice Cream Shop in America” by TripAdvisor. They serve flavors that cater to all tastes, from the whimsical Unicorn Ice Cream to the classic Cookie Therapy.
Azucar Ice Cream – Little Havana, Miami
Location: 1503 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, USA
Contact: +1 305-381-0369
Azucar Ice Cream in Little Havana is a Cuban-inspired shop famous for flavors that pay homage to its heritage. The shop’s most popular flavor, “Abuela Maria,” is a nod to classic Cuban desserts and features vanilla ice cream with guava, cream cheese, and Maria cookies. Other unique flavors like Café Con Leche (Cuban coffee and Oreo) are available, offering a distinctly Miami experience.
Sea Maids Creamery – Tampa
Location: 4230 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33603, USA
Contact: +1 813-766-1097
Tampa’s Sea Maids Creamery serves ice cream with a twist. With fun options like Cookie Monster and Beach Bum, Sea Maids also caters to dietary preferences with vegan and gluten-free choices. Signature flavors such as Divine Dark Chocolate and Pink Champagne Party offer something for everyone. The colorful, mermaid-themed decor adds to the charm of this delightful shop.
Strachan’s Ice Cream & Desserts – Dunedin
Location: 310 Main St, Dunedin, FL 34698, USA
Contact: +1 727-733-3603
Strachan’s Ice Cream & Desserts brings back the nostalgia of mom-and-pop ice cream parlors with its cozy decor and sweet selection. You’ll find classic treats like Red Velvet Cake and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, perfect for anyone who loves old-fashioned, homemade ice cream. The spot’s friendly atmosphere and delicious flavors make it a favorite for families.
Photo Courtesy – Azucar Ice Cream
The Soda Fountain – Orlando
Location: 2525 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804, USA
Contact: +1 407-540-1006
Orlando’s Soda Fountain is famous for its indulgent floats and sundaes. With options like The Sinatra Float (cream soda and vanilla ice cream) and The Elvis Sundae (Nutella ice cream, candied bacon, peanut butter sauce), the menu is perfect for those looking to satisfy a serious sweet tooth. Their adult milkshake menu adds a fun twist to this College Park gem.
Bocas House – Weston
Location: 1793 Bell Tower Ln, Weston, FL 33326, USA
Contact: +1 954-533-6100
Bocas House may not be a traditional ice cream parlor, but its towering milkshake creations have earned it a spot on this list. Known for heaping shakes topped with treats like Nutella and Tres Leches cake, Bocas House combines quantity with quality. Each dessert is a showstopper, making it a popular spot for those who love extravagant treats.
The Candy Kitchen – Madeira Beach
Location: 13711 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL 33708, USA
Contact: +1 727-392-6803
The Candy Kitchen is a family-owned treasure, famous for its nostalgic candies and homemade ice cream. Established in 1950, this Madeira Beach spot is as much a candy store as it is an ice cream parlor, serving up classic treats like the Big Mouth, a brownie ice cream sandwich dipped in chocolate and rolled in nuts.
Photo Courtesy – The Soda Fountain, Orlando
Dreamette – Jacksonville
Location: 1401 N Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206, USA
Dreamette is a beloved soft-serve institution in Jacksonville, offering fun sundae options and classic dipped cones. Known for generous portions and a variety of toppings, Dreamette keeps locals coming back for its Pineapple Dole Whip and playful sundae combinations, making it one of Jacksonville’s top spots for frozen treats.
Royal Scoop – Naples
Location: 829 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL 34108, USA
Contact: +1 239-597-4043
Naples’ Royal Scoop has been serving homemade ice cream since 1979 and now has multiple locations across Florida. With fan-favorite flavors like Sticky Fingers (peanut butter ice cream with brownie chunks) and Caramelicious Cups, Royal Scoop keeps things fresh with seasonal offerings and hand-packed pints to go.
Hudson Beach Ice Cream Parlor – Hudson
Location: 6930 Clark St, Hudson, FL 34667, USA
Contact: +1 727-378-4496
Located near Hudson Beach, this parlor is popular for its waterfront views and wide range of flavors, including sherbets and Italian ice. Hudson Beach Ice Cream Parlor also has low-fat and sugar-free options, making it a top choice for a refreshing treat after a beach day.
Love Boat Home Made Ice Cream – Fort Myers
Location: 16475 San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33908, USA
Contact: +1 239-466-7707
Love Boat Homemade Ice Cream is a Fort Myers staple that has delighted customers with over 50 flavors for more than 50 years. With flavors ranging from classic Cookie Dough to unique options like Cinnamon Caramel Pecan and Key Lime Pie, Love Boat has something for everyone. This shop is especially festive during the holidays, featuring flavors like Peppermint and Egg Nog.
From traditional parlors to modern dessert lounges, Florida’s ice cream scene is as diverse as the state itself. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these ice cream shops across the Sunshine State are sure to offer cool relief and satisfy any sweet craving. So the next time you’re out exploring Florida’s sights or simply seeking a cool treat, be sure to visit one (or more!) of these delightful spots and indulge in the delicious flavors of Florida.