As the summer heat rises, there’s no better way to cool off than with a delightful ice cream tour around Charlottesville. This charming city offers an array of delightful ice cream spots that cater to all tastes, from classic flavors to creative concoctions. Here’s your guide to the best ice cream Charlottesville has to offer this summer.
Chaps Ice Cream
Located on the historic Downtown Mall, with an additional new location on the UVA Corner, Chaps Ice Cream is a long-time local favorite. Chaps is known for its vintage 1950s diner atmosphere and timeless ice cream flavors. Established in 1985, Chaps uses a 75-year-old family recipe to create its rich, creamy ice cream. The nostalgic decor, complete with neon signs and bar stools, enhances the overall experience. Must-try flavors at Chaps include Strawberry Cheesecake, Raspberry Coffee, and Birthday Cake.
Moo Thru
Moo Thru, located at The Dairy Market, is a favorite stop for its rich and creamy ice cream made from all-natural ingredients sourced from local Virginia dairy farms. Originally starting as a beloved roadside stand, Moo Thru has become a staple in Charlottesville’s ice cream scene, offering a variety of delightful flavors. They have recently expanded to a new location within Pro Re Nata Brewery, providing even more opportunities to enjoy their delicious ice cream. The must-try flavors here include Cinnamon, Cotton Candy, and Raspberry Sorbet.
La Flor Michoacana
For a taste of Mexican ice cream tradition, head to La Flor Michoacana on Cherry Avenue. Specializing in “paletas” (Mexican popsicles) and traditional ice creams, this spot offers a vibrant array of flavors that highlight the authenticity and creativity of Mexican desserts. Must-try flavors include Mamey, Yellow Cherry, Cream Cheese, and Fruity Pebbles.
Splendora’s Gelato Café
Splendora’s Gelato Café, now located at the Shops at Stonefield Commons, offers a unique variety of gelato flavors that rotate regularly. Known for its creamy texture and bold flavors, Splendora’s uses both local ingredients and imported Italian components to create its delicious treats. Must-try flavors at Splendora’s include Pistachio, Espresso, Lavender Honey, and Stracciatella.
Crozet Creamery
Located in the heart of Crozet at Piedmont Place, Crozet Creamery offers handcrafted, small-batch ice cream made daily. This creamery is perfect for a quaint date or a family outing, providing a range of artisanal flavors that delight the palate. Must-try flavors include Lemon Sorbet, Crozet Trails Mix, and various Girl Scout Cookie flavors when available.
Chiles Peach Orchard
Chiles Peach Orchard, located just outside Charlottesville in Crozet, offers a delightful ice cream experience with a focus on fresh, orchard-grown ingredients. Their ice cream shop serves up delicious seasonal flavors, milkshakes, and slushies that highlight the best of their peach and other fruit harvests. Must-try flavors include Peach Ice Cream, Strawberry Ice Cream, and seasonal slushies.
Kline’s Dairy Bar
Just a quick drive from Charlottesville, Kline’s Dairy Bar in Waynesboro, VA, is a classic stop for anyone on an ice cream tour. Known for their simple yet delicious ice cream, Kline’s has been serving up smiles since 1943. Their ice cream is made fresh daily, and they offer a range of rotating flavors. Must-try flavors include their weekly specials and Banana Pudding. The drive to Kline’s not only offers a delightful treat but also a scenic route through the Virginia countryside, making it a perfect addition to your summer ice cream tour.
Charlottesville’s ice cream scene is diverse and rich, offering everything from traditional American ice cream and Mexican paletas to Italian gelato and farm-fresh creations. Each spot has its unique charm and specialty, ensuring that every ice cream lover finds something to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, embarking on this ice cream tour will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also give you a delightful taste of Charlottesville’s vibrant community and culinary creativity.
To make your ice cream tour even more enjoyable and hassle-free, consider booking a ride with Ambassador Limousine. Our comfortable and stylish vehicles ensure you can relax and savor every stop without worrying about parking or navigation. Let Ambassador Limousine handle the driving so you can focus on enjoying the best ice cream Charlottesville has to offer.