2 Best Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Bloomington, IL (2026)

1. Carl's Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 601 West Locust Street

🍦 Rate & details 📍 Map

2. Gene's Dairy Delight Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 1019 South Main Street

🍦 Rate & details 📍 Map

Ice cream shops in Bloomington, IL: a local guide

We currently track 2 ice cream shops and parlors serving Bloomington, IL in McLean County.

What ice cream costs in Bloomington

A single scoop in Bloomington usually runs about $4-$7, with specialty sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a little more than soft-serve chains.

What to look for in an ice cream shop in Bloomington

For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — Bloomington shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.
Check for dairy-free, vegan, or no-sugar-added options if you need them.
Ask what's seasonal or local — the best shops rotate flavors and use local dairy or fruit.
Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.

Questions to ask before you go

Do you make your ice cream in-house?
What dairy-free or vegan options do you have?
Which flavors are seasonal or local right now?
Do you sell pints, cakes, or cater events?
What are your hours this time of year?

Many Bloomington listings also serve hand-dipped ice cream, soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and dairy-free options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ice cream cost in Bloomington?

A single scoop in Bloomington usually runs about $4 to $7, with sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a bit more than soft-serve chains.

Where can I find dairy-free or vegan ice cream in Bloomington?

Many Bloomington shops now carry dairy-free, vegan, or sorbet options. Check the listings above and ask, since offerings change with the season.

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato has less fat and less air than ice cream, so it is denser with more intense flavor. Several Bloomington shops serve both.

Are Bloomington ice cream shops open year-round?

Some keep shorter winter hours or close seasonally. Check the hours for the shop you have in mind before you go.

Ice cream in Bloomington: the local scoop

Where's the best ice cream in Bloomington?

The shops above are the independent, small-batch spots in and around Bloomington — no chains. The order reflects community ratings, so the more people rate, the better it gets. Tried one? Give it a rating.

Gelato, custard, or classic scoop?

Use the category chips to filter Bloomington shops by gelato, frozen custard, soft serve, sorbet and dairy-free, and rolled ice cream — whatever you're craving.

Know a spot we're missing?

This directory is built from open data and grows with the community. If a great Bloomington scoop shop isn't listed, add it here.

GelatoFrozen CustardSoft ServeFrozen YogurtSorbet & VeganRolled Ice CreamIce Cream CakesItalian Ice

Own an ice cream shop in Bloomington?

Claim your shop and get featured → Add photos, hours, and your best flavors, and pin to the top of Bloomington.