Now that the warm weather is here to stay, it’s officially ice cream season!
Whether you’re looking for some classic cones or a more unique frozen treat like a cake shake, ice cream flight or ice cream sammie, you are guaranteed to find a delicious spot in this guide.
You’ll also find recommendations for nearby parks so that you can make the most of your ice cream adventure.
Meltbox
1599 Iron St., North Kansas City
Located inside the Iron District, Meltbox is the perfect spot to go enjoy some ice cream. They have several different flavors as well as fun toppings like cereal, cookies and candy. My son and I both got birthday cake ice cream; I topped mine with Fruity Pebbles, he topped his with sprinkles, and we both loved it! The color-changing spoon made it even more fun to eat. You can enjoy your ice cream at any of the picnic tables at this fun, outdoor food court.
Nearby Parks: Macken Park, Dagg Park
Summersalt Ice Cream Co.
4051 Somerset Dr., Prairie Village • 3808 W. 95th St. Leawood
Summersalt has such a charming vibe and is a go-to spot. They always have delicious flavors and plenty of toppings to choose from. You can even choose special desserts, such as their ice cream sammies, from their grab-and-go freezer. If you find yourself at their Prairie Village location, you can enjoy your ice cream outside on their spacious patio.
Nearby Parks: Harmon Park, Franklin Park, Meadowbrook Park
One More Scoop
3522 NE Vivion Rd., Kansas City, Mo. • 803 E. North Ave., Belton
If you’re wondering what sets One More Scoop apart from other ice cream shops, it’s their ice cream flight! You don’t have to decide on a single flavor here; instead, you can choose up to six different flavors to try. My son and I filled our flight container with vanilla bean, lemon bar, oatmeal cream pie, mint chocolate chip, birthday cake and strawberry. It was nearly impossible for us to choose which flavor we liked best! If you want to try another fun treat, you can also create an ice cream sandwich out of their delicious cookies and any flavor of ice cream.
Nearby Parks: Penguin Park
Alice Scooper’s Ice Cream Co.
10207 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, Mo.
Alice Scooper’s is serving up some delicious small-batch, homemade ice cream made with high-quality ingredients. If you’re searching for keto, dairy-free or vegan options, you definitely have to visit as they have several different flavor options. Besides ice cream, they also have a full menu of bubble tea, boba, iced coffees and energy drinks. If you are bringing your furry friend along, you can get a pup cup — all of the profits go toward local animal shelters.
Nearby Parks: Fox Hill Park, Romey Hills Park
Clinton’s Soda Fountain
100 W. Maple Ave., Independence
Clinton’s has been in business since 1988, and they have it all: a vintage ice cream parlor, retro soda fountain and nostalgic candy shop, all of which make it the perfect spot to go with your kids this summer. Their ice cream menu features the usual cups, cones, shakes, malts and delicious classic flavors, including a couple of sugar-free flavors. However, if you want something a bit more unique, you can order a coffee latte or a milkshake with an entire piece of cake or pie! You can enjoy your frozen treat at their iconic marble bar or take it with you while you walk around and explore the rest of Independence Square.
Nearby Park: McCoy Park
Hey Sugar on Strawberry Hill
426 N. 6th St., Kansas City, Kan.
It’s impossible to miss Hey Sugar’s adorable pink building with sprinkles on Strawberry Hill. Once inside, you’ll be able to feel the charm throughout the entire shop. It’s clear this spot is meant for kids — they have a special seating area with books and toys for them to read and play with while everyone enjoys their ice cream. If you’re not in the mood for ice cream, you can also order shaved ice or Italian soda, or you can choose from their delicious and unique candies.
Nearby Park: Waterway Park
Pop’s Sweet Shop
13446 Santa Fe Trail Dr., Lenexa • 115 S. Main St, Spring Hill, Kan.
There are so many delicious choices at Pop’s Sweet Shop. You can choose to have your ice cream in a cup or a cone, or you can get a sundae, milkshake, float or malt. They also have some other favorites such as homemade fudge, cannolis and cookies! While you enjoy your treat, you can choose from one of their several board games to make your visit even more fun. Make sure you snap a photo next to their giant ice cream cone outside before you leave.
Nearby Parks: Scouting Park, Sar-Ko-Par Park
Howdy Homemade
921 NE Woods Chapel Rd., Lee’s Summit
If you are looking for a spot to enjoy some delicious homemade ice cream while also supporting a wonderful cause, then Howdy Homemade is the place for you. They serve several core flavors all year long, and they also have seasonal flavors that rotate throughout the year. The best part is that they are dedicated to creating a space and jobs for people with disabilities, who they call their “heroes”!
Nearby Park: Howard Park