Find Ice Cream Near Me
Styles  ·  Guides  ·  List Your Shop

Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Chicago, IL

Looking for real ice cream in Chicago? These 320 local ice cream across Chicago and nearby Illinois are the artisan spots — no chains, just the good stuff.

2. Deluxe Foods Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 6342 N Milwaukee Ave

5. Molly And Myles Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

4802 N Central Ave

6. Ix-Chel Artisan Ice Cream

4968 N Milwaukee Ave

8. Mia's Gelateria Gelato

4200 N Central Ave

9. Lovin Scoop Artisan Ice Cream

4032 N Milwaukee Ave

11. Paleteria Reina de Sabores Artisan Ice Cream

3015 W Lawrence Ave

12. La Michoacana Artisan Ice Cream

3509 West Lawrence Avenue

13. La Michoacana Artisan Ice Cream

3443 W Lawrence Ave

15. Servyoself Artisan Ice Cream

2024 W Montrose Ave

16. Market Square Artisan Ice Cream

4701 N Lincoln Ave

20. Scooter's Frozen Custard Frozen Custard

1658 West Belmont Avenue

23. Lickity Split Frozen Custard & Sweets Frozen Custard

6056 N Broadway

24. La Mariposa Michoacana Artisan Ice Cream

5645 N Ashland Ave

25. Miko's Italian Ice Italian Ice & Shaved Ice

2236 North Sacramento Avenue

Ice cream shops in Chicago, IL: a local guide

We currently track 25 ice cream shops and parlors serving Chicago, IL in Cook County.

What ice cream costs in Chicago

A single scoop in Chicago 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 Chicago

  • 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.
  • Check hours and seasonality — many Chicago scoop shops keep shorter winter hours.
  • For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
  • Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — Chicago shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.

Questions to ask before you go

  • 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?
  • Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?

Many Chicago 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 Chicago?

A single scoop in Chicago 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 Chicago?

Many Chicago 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 Chicago shops serve both.

Are Chicago 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.

Own an ice cream shop in Chicago?

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