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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 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated June 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
The Rainbow Rolls image 1
Ice cream shop

Stone cold, hand rolled ice cream comes in waffle taco cones with vegan options and kiosks for ordering. The space feels quiet and well decorated with plenty of seating and photo spots. Families and kids often visit, enjoying the fresh, imaginative ice cream made in front of them.

Offers a super cute vibe with unique offerings that make it feel like an ice cream store on steroids.

Making rolled ice cream is fun to watch and engages kids well. The place offers a kid-friendly atmosphere that keeps children entertained while teenagers enjoy the goodies brought home.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so delicious and fresh."

"This ice cream shop has cute, hand-rolled creations."

"The ice cream tacos were delicious and huge."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait during busy hours with only one staff member working.

2

Prices for ice cream start at $8, with a small cup costing nearly $12.

3

Only three toppings are allowed per order, despite previous unlimited options.

04
Alkemy Ice Cream image 1
Ice cream shop

Giant tank of liquid nitrogen creates ice cream on the spot with a live show that entertains. Seating spreads across two levels, including an upstairs area with Main Street views. Atmosphere mixes cozy and vibrant with some loud music and a busy, sometimes cramped feel.

Wait times stretch to 20-25 minutes even for a basic ice cream with one add-in. Other shops serve similar orders in about 6 minutes.

Watching the ice cream being made with liquid nitrogen right in front of you adds a fun and unique twist. The process of flash freezing creates a lively and engaging experience, especially for kids.

People are saying

"The ice cream staff here is so friendly and has great energy."

"Watching the liquid nitrogen ice cream being made is a fun activity."

"I got the freshest ice cream here for my money."

Good to know

1

Alkemy Ice Cream offers lactose-free and sugar-free options for dietary needs.

2

Kids aged 5 to 10 enjoy the interactive ice cream-making experience.

3

The ice cream is made fresh on the spot using liquid nitrogen.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

09
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.

10
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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