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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Ice cream shops with fun activities in New York

Ice cream shops that offer actual things to do while you eat, rather than just a counter to stand at.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
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Updated April 2026
01
Aubi & Ramsa image 1
Aubi & Ramsa image 2
Aubi & Ramsa image 3
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Ice cream shop

Bar-style setup serves liquor-infused ice cream with top-shelf alcohol in a sleek, sophisticated space. Atmosphere feels serene and jazzy, blending dessert with cocktail lounge vibes. Patrons are adults enjoying unique boozy flavors in a calm, stylish environment.

Aubi & Ramsa serves ice cream in a bar setting rather than a traditional shop. It offers a relaxing spot to take a break, combining elements of bars and ice cream parlors.

Ice cream offers fun flavors with a European vibe. Friendly staff create a fun experience with helpful recommendations and engaging conversation.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so delicious, rich, and creamy."

"The alcoholic ice cream and fun experience here are delicious."

"The ice cream shop's flavors had a noticeable alcohol taste."

Good to know

1

You need to be 21+ to enter this place as all ice cream is infused with liquor.

2

The venue can get quite packed during events like tech meetups.

3

The price of the ice cream is high compared to the quantity.

02
Figo il Gelato Italiano image 1

Small gelato shop offers authentic Italian flavors with vibrant, creamy gelato displayed in a clean, modern space. Outdoor seating includes comfortable tables and heaters, complemented by a live DJ that creates a lively atmosphere. The spot blends Little Italy ambiance with a relaxed yet energetic vibe.

Offers real Italian ice cream with reasonable prices compared to other parlors. Serves first-class ice cream treats that stand out in the area.

Friendly and fun service from Justin, Emon, and George makes activities engaging. Trying unique flavors adds a visually stunning and delicious element that enhances enjoyment.

People are saying

"This is the best gelato I've ever had."

"The ice cream here is amazing with so many great flavors."

"The gelato here is divine; it's the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

There is no public bathroom at this gelato shop.

2

Prices for gelato start around $6 for a single scoop.

3

Vegan and dairy-free options are available.

03
Mimi and Jack's image 1
Ice cream shop

Bright, modern space with colorful decor and a party room creates an inviting, family-friendly vibe. Music plays softly while people enjoy seating inside and outside, adding to the lively atmosphere. Creative frozen yogurt flavors and unique gummy bear toppings complement the overall experience.

Offers handmade ice cream with a variety of novelty flavors that appeal to both kids and adults. The shop stays nice and cool, making it a comfortable spot to enjoy a treat.

People are saying

"The ice cream here has really creative and unique flavors."

"I really enjoyed the good candy here."

"The ice cream shop has so many delicious flavors to choose from."

Good to know

1

The prices for the ice cream are on the pricier side.

2

There is a good selection of ice cream and desserts available.

3

They are adding cookie dough and desserts to the menu this week.

04
Max & Mina's Ice Cream image 1

Walls covered with nostalgic cereal box art create a friendly, casual vibe that feels like stepping into a time capsule. The shop offers unique, rotating ice cream flavors with unlimited sampling, inviting visitors to explore unusual tastes in a lively, upbeat atmosphere.

Offers a unique ice cream experience that stands out from typical shops. Provides a great variety that feels different and refreshing.

Cool and fun flavors stand out, making tasting exciting. Cereal-themed decorations add a childhood nostalgia vibe, while the unique wall dรฉcor creates a welcoming and fun atmosphere inside.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is unbelievably delicious and creative."

"The ice cream flavors here are amazing date spots."

"This ice cream shop's walls are covered in nostalgic cereal box art."

Good to know

1

The establishment closes at 5:50 PM on Tuesday.

2

There is nowhere to sit at the location.

3

You can try any flavor you want before deciding.

05
Venchi Chocolate Bleecker St image 1

Chocolate boutique shines with gold accents and chocolate waterfalls, creating a cozy vibe. Ice cream features Venezuelan and Colombian flavors that delight. Friendly staff and varied gelato flavors make visits fun and welcoming.

Offers a mix of Venezuelan and Colombian flavors in its ice cream. The shop feels nice and lovely with a clearly good reputation among ice cream spots.

A fun environment with a variety of Gelato flavors makes the experience lively. Friendly and patient service adds to the enjoyment.

People are saying

"I found the gelato to be the best I ever had."

"The chocolate here is rich, balanced, and layered."

"This is my favorite ice cream shop; I love the flavors and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Customers need to pay first and get a ticket to receive gelato at this store.

2

The establishment stays open till midnight when others close at 9 or 10 PM.

3

The gelato shop offers vegan options for customers.

06
Shh omakase image 1
Japanese restaurant

Hidden behind a soft serve shop, the space offers a cozy, speakeasy vibe with intimate counter seating that invites close interaction with chefs. The atmosphere balances friendly energy and quiet intimacy, making it feel like a small Tokyo eatery. Unique omakase dishes pair with fresh sake slushies, creating a distinctive dining experience.

The spot has a speakeasy vibe that sets it apart. It started purely as an ice cream shop and keeps that focus.

Inventive omakase and unlimited sake create a lively dining experience. Staff engage in fun conversations and share stories about the restaurant's origins, making the visit interactive and enjoyable.

People are saying

"This Japanese food spot feels like a cool, casual local secret."

"The staff here is so friendly and accommodating with great ice cream options."

"It's such a fun experience with inventive food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at set time intervals, so book in advance.

2

The restaurant offers a late seating option on Friday nights.

3

You can enjoy either a 14-course or an 18-course omakase experience.

07
Ice Cream House Borough Park image 1

Wide, sweetly designed space with large seating areas and touchscreen kiosks for ordering creates a fun, efficient environment. Atmosphere feels uplifting and enjoyable despite occasional noise and crowding. Iconic decor and a classic truck display add unique character to the setting.

Offers delicious ice cream with a really nice shop atmosphere. Stands out as an amazing spot for ice cream lovers.

Fun atmosphere and lively design create an uplifting spot for celebrations or casual outings. The place offers a really enjoyable experience that keeps energy high and spirits up.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well priced."

"I found the ice cream here to be the most delicious."

"I thought this ice cream shop was the best ever."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant has a history of serving dairy in non-dairy items, which can lead to health issues.

3

You order at a kiosk and cannot sample any of the flavors before ordering.

08
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Spacious, clean shop with colorful decor and comfortable seating creates a welcoming atmosphere. Taste testing of ice cream flavors adds an interactive element. Bright, vibrant space invites enjoying creative vegan and classic ice cream options.

A really cute ice cream shop with a strong reputation for quality. Known for its distinctive flavors and inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is exceptionally good and flavorful."

"The vegan options here are so good, you can't even tell they're vegan."

"The milkshakes are thick, rich, and incredibly delicious."

Good to know

1

This location refuses cash transactions, which may inconvenience some customers.

2

The prices for ice cream range from $6 to $9 depending on the flavor and scoops.

3

The establishment is open late, until 1am on weekends.

09
Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain image 1

Old-school soda fountain and vintage pharmacy decor create a nostalgic atmosphere filled with knickknacks and collectibles. Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, with board games and picture books adding to a relaxed vibe. Unique offerings include adult ice cream floats featuring beer or rose.

Charm comes from the old school aesthetic and classic ice cream parlor vibe. Quality products match the nostalgic setting well.

Fun comes from the old school atmosphere and unique decorative style. The space offers a quick trip back in time that feels relaxing and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The ice cream and sundaes here are delicious and worth every calorie."

"It's a super quaint, old school ice cream shop."

"It's a fun place with great choices and a unique vibe."

Good to know

1

Customers need to order inside and find a table or seat outside.

2

The restaurant has limited seating for two, which can be an issue.

3

The place gets pretty busy at night.

10
Ample Hills Creamery at The Social Brooklyn image 1

Colorful space combines indoor playground, pinball machines, and board game tabletops for a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic vibe that suits gatherings across generations. Ample seating indoors and outdoors supports both casual hangouts and kids' parties.

Offers ample seating space and wonderful design elements that create a pleasant atmosphere. Serves a variety of ice cream flavors with a focus on quality and taste.

Games, pinball machines, and toys create a space full of fun activities for kids and families. Creative events and unique ice cream flavors add to the lively, hip vibe.

People are saying

"I found the ice cream here to be amazing and delicious."

"The kids' area was very thoughtful and the ice cream is amazing."

"The Ice Cream Shop has so many unique and delicious flavors."

Good to know

1

Customers can try a small sample of the flavors before choosing.

2

Customers may have to wait in line for 10 minutes even with only 2 people in front of them.

3

Doughnuts are only available on the weekends.

11
Tipsy Scoop image 1
Ice cream shop

Tiny ice cream shop with a boozy flair and cozy ambiance offers alcohol-infused flavors and interactive sundae classes. Space feels cramped but comfortable, with indoor bar stools and limited outdoor seating. Atmosphere suits casual dates or small groups enjoying unique, spirited ice cream experiences.

Non-alcoholic ice cream here matches the feel of any other shop, letting you pick your own toppings. The shop draws people willing to travel long distances for its unique offerings.

The Tipsy Scoop concept adds a playful twist to enjoying ice cream. Taking your scoop to go and walking around the neighborhood makes for a relaxed, casual activity.

People are saying

"I loved the boozy ice cream making class; it was so fun!"

"You have to try the liquor-infused ice cream here."

"I loved the fun cocktail making class with Angel!"

Good to know

1

You need your ID to purchase ice cream infused with alcohol.

2

Samples of ice cream are free, but customers are only allowed 2 samples.

3

The space is cramped, so large groups should consider getting takeout.

12
Chelsea Market image 1

Large covered market inside a restored industrial factory blends historic architecture with modern culinary culture. Vibrant atmosphere fills the space with diverse shops and food stalls, attracting many visitors. Outdoor heated booths offer comfortable spots to eat despite the busy, sometimes warm environment.

An ice cream parlor inside an air-conditioned indoor market offers various flavors. Staff behavior includes racist treatment, which affects service quality.

Fun comes from exploring a historic and eclectic spot packed with great food options. The seafood selection adds a tasty twist to the experience.

People are saying

"This market has endless food options and great shopping."

"I found the fun activities here involved lots to explore and taste."

"I found numerous ice cream shops inside this indoor market."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half price on oysters and beers/wine.

2

Chelsea Market hosts various events, including cooking classes and pop-up shops.

3

Expect a 20-minute queue outside every restaurant during peak hours.

13
Serendipity 3 - Upper East Side image 1

Whimsical and iconic atmosphere fills a tiny, tightly packed space with nostalgic charm. Delightful photo service and outdoor terrace add unique touches. Heat can be intense, but the vibe remains adorable and fanciful.

Known for its lively atmosphere, this ice cream shop serves standard flavors similar to other parlors. The place often fills with kids, adding to the noisy environment.

Atmosphere feels intense and exciting, making every visit greatly enjoyable.

People are saying

"The frozen hot chocolate was fantastic and creamy."

"The frozen hot chocolate is iconic and exceeded my expectations."

"The ice cream shop servers are so kind and helpful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at Serendipity 3 to avoid long wait times.

2

There is a minimum spend of $19 per person to enter.

3

Expect a long line if you visit without a reservation.

14
UES. image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop fronts a hidden speakeasy bar with creative cocktails and ice cream-infused drinks. Speakeasy features spacious seating and a high ceiling, contrasting with the small, close tables in the ice cream area. Atmosphere shifts from casual ice cream vibes to a fun, date-friendly bar scene.

A unique feature is the ice cream shop transforming into a nightclub. Friendly staff create a cool and fun atmosphere. Drinks often include ice cream, adding a distinctive twist.

Entering the backroom bar involves finding a hidden switch, making the experience itself fun and exciting. Drinks are creative and strong, adding to the great vibes that suit a lively date night or events like drag bingo.

People are saying

"This speakeasy's concept and charming decor make it feel special."

"It's a fun speakeasy experience with a secret phrase to get in."

"It's a cool ice cream shop with a hidden speakeasy in the back."

Good to know

1

Come with a reservation to avoid a long waitlist.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Thursday.

3

Walking in without a reservation resulted in a 45-minute wait.

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