CHICAGO — If you’re hunting for the best frozen treats this summer, you’re in the right city. The Ultimate Chicago Ice Cream Guide 2025 is out — and it features more than 100 ice cream shops, gelato parlors, and frozen dessert stops across the city. From nostalgic scoops to creative cones, this guide spotlights everything locals and tourists need to sweeten their summer.
Neighborhood Favorites and Hidden Gems
This year’s guide features shops in nearly every neighborhood, from the far South Side to Rogers Park. Whether you’re craving handmade gelato, plant-based options, or a classic banana split, Chicago has a spot for it.
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Margie’s Candies in Logan Square and Bucktown continues to draw fans with its vintage vibes and massive sundaes.
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Paleteria Las Delicias de Michoacan in Little Village offers traditional Mexican paletas and aguas frescas.
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Pretty Cool Ice Cream, founded by Dana Cree, is a Wicker Park favorite with modern flavors like mango lassi and cold brew.
What’s New In 2025
This summer brings fresh entries into the frozen scene:
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Crème Ice Cream, which opened in Lincoln Park, serves small-batch, custard-style scoops with flavors like ube marshmallow.
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Helados Beto has expanded with a new location on the Northwest Side, bringing its signature chamoy-covered paletas to more fans.
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The South Loop saw the launch of Botanical Scoops, offering herb-infused ice cream using ingredients from Chicago community gardens.
Must-Try Gelato, Italian Ice, and Popsicles
Chicago’s global roots shine through its variety:
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Annette’s Italian Ice in Lincoln Park offers more than a dozen rotating flavors, including lemon basil and watermelon.
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Black Dog Gelato continues to impress with artisanal gelato in unexpected flavors like goat cheese cashew caramel.
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La Michoacana Premium chains offer beloved popsicle and ice cream hybrids throughout the Southwest Side.
Family-Friendly Treats Across the City
Planning a summer outing? The guide includes:
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Ice cream spots near major parks like Millennium Park, Humboldt Park, and the 606 trail.
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Shops with outdoor seating, stroller space, and kid-friendly menus.
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Businesses offering dairy-free and allergen-conscious treats, including soy, oat, and almond-based options.
Create Your Own Ice Cream Tour
Looking for an adventure? The 2025 guide includes interactive elements:
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A custom Google map with filters by neighborhood, style (soft serve, Italian ice, paletas), and dietary options.
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Suggested “ice cream trails” — like the North Side Cone Crawl and the Southwest Paleta Path.
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Chicagoans are even encouraged to submit their own favorite stops to keep the list growing.
Have a favorite Chicago ice cream shop that didn’t make the list? Let us know your go-to spot and what you love to order. From tucked-away trucks to beloved corner joints, ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com wants to hear from you!
