Happy National Ice Cream Day on July 18th!

The Valley of the Sun, located in Arizona, is a haven for ice cream enthusiasts. With a wide range of local ice cream shops, each offering its own twist on the classic frozen treat, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In celebration of Ice Cream Month, take a tour of these must-visit spots and rate your favorite flavors. From Italian ice and gelato to artisanal creations and nostalgic soda fountain experiences, let’s explore the best ice cream shops in the Valley of the Sun.

1. Jeremiah’s Italian Ice: “Living Life to the Coolest”

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice has been delighting customers since 1996 with their motto of “living life to the coolest.” Offering a diverse selection of flavors, from everyday classics to the most unique and eccentric choices, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice is a must-visit. Their specialty, the Gelati, featuring layers of Italian ice and soft ice cream, is a crowd favorite. With multiple locations across Arizona, it’s easy to find a Jeremiah’s Italian Ice near you.

Locations: 20784 E. Victoria Lane, Suite 107, Queen Creek; 4980 W. Ray Road, Suite 16, Chandler; 4050 S. Alma School Road, Chandler; 85 E. Warner Road, Suite 104, Gilbert

2. Winters Quarters Water N Ice: Hidden Gem with Old-Fashioned Charm

Step into the past at Winters Quarters Water N Ice, a hidden gem that serves Queen Creek’s best thrifty ice cream. In addition to over 20 flavors of ice cream and snow cones, this old-fashioned-themed store offers an array of snacks, candies, and a new hot menu featuring hot dogs, barbecue, and pretzels. With games and entertainment for the whole family, Winters Quarters Water N Ice is more than just an ice cream stop.

Location: 19011 E. San Tan Blvd., Queen Creek

3. Twisted Sugar: Your One-Stop Shop for Sweet Delights

Craving something sweet? Twisted Sugar has got you covered. This one-stop shop offers a wide variety of treats, including different cookies, flavored soda, water and energy drinks, twisters (ice cream-based blended drinks), and ice cream. With multiple locations across the Valley, Twisted Sugar is your go-to destination for all things sweet.

4. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream: World-Class Ice Cream Since 1945

For over 75 years, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving up the best ice cream in the world. Made fresh daily with top-quality ingredients, Handel’s offers over 100 flavors and a variety of treats, including cones, dishes, Handel Pops, hurricanes, shakes, and ice cream sandwiches. With locations across the U.S., Handel’s has become a beloved ice cream institution.

Locations: 1672 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert; 9784 W. Northern Ave., Peoria; 6137 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 15681 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 15240 N. Cotton Lane, Surprise

5. Sugar Bowl: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time

Step into the past at Sugar Bowl, a designated Founding Business of Scottsdale. Operating since 1958, this iconic spot on Scottsdale’s Historic Preservation Register offers a nostalgic atmosphere where you can relive the memories of lazy days enjoying ice cream with friends. Enjoy their soups, sandwiches, salads, and end your meal with an ice cream cone, sundae, or float while immersing yourself in Scottsdale’s history.

6. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream: Freshly Made on-Site Every Day

Experience the freshness of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, where all ice cream selections are made fresh on-site daily. This counter-serve chain offers a wide variety of flavors and delicious frozen treats for every palate. Located in Chandler, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is a must-visit for those seeking a delectable ice cream experience.

7. Sweet Republic: Artisanal Ice Cream with All-Natural Ingredients

Sweet Republic is a local favorite known for its unique ice cream flavors inspired by the owners’ worldwide travels. Made with all-natural ingredients sourced from independent Arizona dairy farms, their artisanal ice cream has garnered recognition from Time Magazine and Bon Appetit. With three locations in the Valley, Sweet Republic offers a delightful selection of flavors, both unique and classic, catering to all ice cream lovers.

8. Novel Ice Cream: Handcrafted Artisan Ice Cream in Unique Desserts

At Novel Ice Cream, prepare to indulge in handcrafted, artisan ice cream like no other. Their warm doughnut buns or waffles filled with delicious ice cream are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With staple flavors and a rotating selection of unique creations, Novel Ice Cream offers a playful twist on traditional ice cream desserts. Don’t miss out on their waffle cones with candy eyes for a whimsical touch.

Locations: 40 N. Macdonald St., Mesa; 1028 Grand Ave., Suite 6, Phoenix

9. Dessert in Desert: Create Your Own Soft Serve Adventure

Dessert in Desert allows you to unleash your creativity by creating your own soft serve ice cream delights. Choose between a fish cone (homemade taiyaki) waffle cone or cup, and fill it with your favorite flavor and toppings. Alongside soft serve, they offer an array of delightful treats such as parfaits, homemade cotton cheesecake, snowmilk flaked ice, shakes, and more. With a diverse menu, Dessert in Desert is a paradise for ice cream enthusiasts.

Location: 18511 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale

10. Fatty Daddy’s: Delight in Signature Creations and Local Partnerships

Fatty Daddy’s is more than just an ice cream parlor; it’s a labor of love. Partnering with a local creamery, Fatty Daddy’s creates its own ice cream mix, offering dozens of gelato, sorbet, and ice cream flavors. Indulge in their signature Fatty Daddy’s Cookie Cup, featuring a scoop of gelato, sorbet, or ice cream topped with a macaroon and toasted marshmallow. With locations in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Fatty Daddy’s is a treat for the taste buds and the soul.

Locations: 1608 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale; 888 N. First Ave., Suite 105, Phoenix

11. Luna Gelateria: Authentic Italian Gelato in the Heart of Arizona

Luna Gelateria, an extension of Pomo Pizzeria, offers authentic Italian gelato made by an Italian family in the Valley. Watch as the gelato churns in their machine right at the counter, ensuring freshness and quality. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, including their signature Luna flavor, a delectable mixture of chocolate, caramel, and pistachios, Luna Gelateria brings a taste of Italy to Arizona.

Locations: 8977 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 705 N. First St., Suite 120, Phoenix.

12. Papa Ed’s Ice Cream: A Garden Oasis with Old-Fashioned Flair

Papa Ed’s Ice Cream is not just an ice cream parlor; it’s an oasis of tranquility. Located in a garden area behind Packer Family Photography, this 1951 garage turned old-fashioned ice cream parlor offers a serene setting to enjoy your sweet treat. Voted Best Ice Cream of Glendale for three consecutive years, Papa Ed’s supports local agencies and nonprofits. Delight in their wide range of flavors and make a positive impact with each visit.

The Valley of the Sun is home to a vibrant ice cream scene, with each shop offering its own unique flavors, ambiance, and experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional favorites, artisanal gelato, or a nostalgic soda fountain experience, these ice cream parlors will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you with lasting memories. Celebrate Ice Cream Month by embarking on a delicious journey through Arizona’s Valley of the Sun.