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As the capital of Texas, it’s only right that the best desserts can be found all around Austin. When it comes to ice cream shops, there are plenty that’ll make you wish you had gotten a double scoop. From creamy, dreamy, to delicious, these ice cream shops are worth a pit stop.
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Also, check out our articles on the Best Food Trucks in Austin, Best Desserts in Austin, Late Night Food in Austin, and Best Austin Restaurants With a View.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Austin: The Local Favorites
Amy’s Ice Creams
Amy’s is a local chain that serves up delicious ice creams, shakes, and even fro-yo. They’re best known for their Mexican Vanilla ice cream. With roughly 350 flavors in rotation, that’s enough to try a new flavor nearly every day of the year! Don’t miss the “crush-ins” where they fold toppings in right before your eyes.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:30 am – 11 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:30 am – 12 am
Where: 1301 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $6 – $10 per person
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Lick is a Texas icon that crafts artisanal ice creams with fresh ingredients. Many of the ingredients come from local farms to ensure top quality. All sauces and syrups are made right in the back of the house. Try the “Goat Cheese, Thyme & Honey” for a sophisticated flavor profile.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 12:30 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 1100 S Lamar Blvd #1135, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $7 – $12 per person
Dolce Neve Gelato
Looking for something lighter? Give Dolce a try. This Italian-owned gelato shop makes small batches daily with local ingredients. The shop serves up to 18 flavors, ranging from classic Pistachio to seasonal fruit sorbets.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 12 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 1713 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $6 – $9 per person
Manolis Ice Cream, Pastries & Cakes
Manolis is a family-owned trailer that offers more than just scoops. Their handmade pastries and Italian ice are legendary among South Austin locals.
Insider Tip: Try their ice cream sandwiches, which use freshly baked cookies.
Operating Hours: Daily 2 pm – 11 pm
Where: 8907 Circle Dr, Austin, TX 78736
How Much: $5 – $10 per person
Unique Ice Cream Places in Austin
Bésame
A favorite among the Reddit community and locals looking for artisanal flair. Bésame specializes in complex flavor profiles and high-quality ingredients.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 4 pm – 9 pm | Saturday – Sunday 12 pm – 9 pm
Where: 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744
How Much: $7 – $11 per person
The Yard Milkshake Bar
If you watch Shark Tank, you may have seen The Yard featured on it. This milkshake bar has decadent pint, quart, and bowl-sized creations.
Insider Tip: You can keep the souvenir jar, but be prepared for a long line on weekends!
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 3400 Esperanza Crossing, Austin, TX 78758
How Much: $15 – $20 per person
The Baked Bear
The Baked Bear is famous for its ice cream sandwiches made from artisanal ice cream and warm baked cookies.
Operating Hours: Daily 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 211 Walter Seaholm Dr, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: $8 – $12 per person
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s offers a variety of unique flavors. If you’re looking for high-quality flavor in a cup, this is a must-visit on South Congress.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 12 pm – 12:30 am | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 1 am | Sunday 11 am – 12:30 am
Where: 1208 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $7 – $11 per person
Austin Ice Cream Shops with Specialty Options
D’Lites Ice Cream
If you’re watching your weight, D’Lites is known for its low-carb ice cream with only 50 calories per serving.
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am – 9 pm
Where: 4404 W William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78749
How Much: $5 – $8 per person
Bella Vita Ice Cream
Bella Vita offers artisan ice cream made with natural flavors, yipsy ice cream, and non-dairy sorbets. They also have other sweet treats like coffee, bubble tea, and a variety of pastries
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday 12 pm – 8:30 pm | Wednesday 12 pm – 9 pm | Thursday 11:30 pm – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:30 am – 9:30 pm | Sunday 11:30 am – 8:30 pm
Where: 10515 N Mopac Expy, Suite B215, Austin, TX 78759
How Much: $7 – $11 per person
Know Before You Go
While many of the best ice cream shops in Austin are located near the South Congress (SoCo) or Downtown areas, high-quality scoops are accessible throughout the Greater Austin area. Residents in suburbs like The Woodlands, Katy, and Sugar Land (wait, checking Austin list!)—residents in Round Rock, Pflugerville, and Cedar Park will find locations like Taco Sweets and Amy’s easily accessible within a 20-minute drive.
Common Questions about Ice Cream in Austin
What is the most famous ice cream in Austin?
Amy’s Ice Creams is widely considered the most iconic local chain, specifically for its Mexican Vanilla flavor.
Are there vegan ice cream options in Austin?
Yes, Anti Social Icecream Co. and Lick Honest Ice Creams both offer excellent dairy-free and vegan-friendly selections.
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