Unearth The Voyage
Pennsylvania has a long and delicious history when it comes to ice cream, and the state is home to some of the oldest and most beloved parlors in America. From century-old family recipes to farm-fresh scoops made right on the dairy, these shops prove that tradition and flavor go hand in hand. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, visiting these iconic spots is like taking a sweet trip back in time while enjoying some of the best ice cream you’ll ever taste.
Bassetts Ice Cream – Philadelphia, PA
Founded in 1861, Bassetts Ice Cream holds the title of America’s oldest ice cream parlor, and stepping inside feels like traveling through time. The original marble counter still stands, and the recipes remain unchanged for over a century, preserving a dessert legacy that Philadelphians treasure deeply.
Their vanilla flavor is legendary, crafted from the same formula used generations ago. Locals rave about the butter-pecan as an absolute must-try, rich and satisfying in every spoonful.
Visiting Bassetts isn’t just about enjoying a cone—it’s about experiencing a piece of Philadelphia’s confectionery heritage. Each scoop connects you to over 160 years of sweet tradition and craftsmanship.
Penn State Berkey Creamery – State College, PA
At Pennsylvania State University, the Berkey Creamery has been producing exceptional ice cream since 1865, using milk from the university’s own dairy herds. This unique farm-to-cone approach blends academic excellence with artisan dessert-making, creating flavors that food-science students help develop.
With over 100 flavors available and constant innovation, the creamery serves as both a beloved destination and a learning lab. Every scoop reflects the dedication of students and staff committed to quality and creativity.
Whether you’re a Penn State fan or an ice cream enthusiast, this spot offers an unforgettable experience. It’s where education, agriculture, and indulgence come together beautifully.
Klavon’s Ice Cream Parlor – Pittsburgh, PA
Nestled in Pittsburgh’s Penn Avenue district, Klavon’s Ice Cream Parlor captures the charm of a bygone era while serving up modern, handcrafted treats. The team behind the counter studied at Penn State’s renowned ice cream course, ensuring every batch meets the highest standards of quality and flavor.
Walking into Klavon’s feels like stepping into a time capsule, complete with nostalgic decor and friendly service. Yet the ice cream itself is anything but outdated—fresh, inventive, and deeply satisfying.
For anyone exploring Pittsburgh with a craving for something sweet, Klavon’s delivers nostalgia and innovation in equal measure. It’s a parlor that honors local tradition while keeping things deliciously fresh.
Meadows Frozen Custard – Duncansville, PA
Opening its doors on July 4, 1950, Meadows Frozen Custard has become a cherished institution in western Pennsylvania. Known for its rich, creamy custard—a delightful twist on traditional ice cream—this roadside gem offers a taste of Americana that’s hard to beat.
The charm of Meadows lies in its simplicity and consistency. Generations of families have made it a summer tradition, stopping by for a cone after a long day or celebrating special occasions with a custard treat.
If you’re seeking a nostalgic dessert experience that feels genuine and welcoming, Meadows delivers every time. It’s a place where tradition and taste meet on every spoonful.
Merrymead Farm Ice Cream – Lansdale, PA
Merrymead Farm Ice Cream is a family-run operation where the ice cream you enjoy comes from milk produced right on the property. This farm-to-cone concept makes every scoop feel authentic, fresh, and deeply connected to the land.
Listed among Pennsylvania’s classic ice cream stands, Merrymead maintains a down-to-earth atmosphere that families love. Kids can see where their treats come from, and parents appreciate the quality and care in every batch.
Visiting Merrymead is more than just getting dessert—it’s experiencing agriculture and craftsmanship firsthand. The farm setting adds a peaceful, wholesome touch to an already delicious outing, making it a local favorite for good reason.
Chester Springs Creamery – Chester Springs, PA
Situated on a historic dairy farm, Chester Springs Creamery offers a serene escape from city life while serving some of the finest locally sourced ice cream in Pennsylvania. The rural atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a standout destination for dessert lovers.
VisitPA highlights this creamery as a must-visit spot to satisfy your sweet tooth, and it’s easy to see why. Each flavor reflects the freshness of the farm and the dedication of the people who craft it.
Whether you’re taking a weekend drive through the countryside or planning a family outing, Chester Springs Creamery provides the perfect stop. It’s relaxed, delicious, and rooted in local tradition.
The Franklin Fountain – Philadelphia, PA
Located in Philadelphia’s historic Old City, The Franklin Fountain transports visitors back to the early 1900s with its stunning marble counters, tin ceilings, and authentic soda fountain ambiance. Every detail is crafted to evoke nostalgia and celebrate the artistry of traditional ice cream making.
The hand-crafted ice cream and old-fashioned sundaes are made with care and creativity, offering flavors that honor the past while delighting modern palates. It’s a place where history and dessert blend seamlessly.
A visit to The Franklin Fountain is an experience, not just a treat. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s rich confectionery heritage.
Fox Meadows Farm Ice Cream – Lititz, PA
Fox Meadows Farm Ice Cream operates on a working dairy farm, where the milk for every scoop comes directly from the farm’s own herd. This farm-fresh approach ensures quality and flavor that you can truly taste in every bite.
Located in beautiful Lancaster County, Fox Meadows offers a peaceful, authentic experience for visitors. Watching the cows graze while enjoying a cone adds a wholesome, grounded touch to your dessert outing.
For travelers passing through or locals seeking a genuine farm experience, Fox Meadows is a delightful stop. It’s simple, honest, and rooted in the agricultural traditions that make Pennsylvania special.
Rollin Creamery – Lancaster, PA
Rollin Creamery has earned its spot in Pennsylvania’s ultimate guide to the best ice cream shops by offering both classic favorites and inventive new flavors. Located in Lancaster, this welcoming storefront attracts locals and visitors who appreciate quality and creativity.
The menu balances tradition with a playful twist, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer tried-and-true vanilla or want to explore unique seasonal offerings, Rollin Creamery delivers with style.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to return again and again, trying something different each visit. For those who love ice cream that honors tradition while embracing innovation, this is a perfect pick.
The Tiny Ice Cream Parlor – Philadelphia, PA
Described as a time-portal experience, The Tiny Ice Cream Parlor in Philadelphia combines vintage charm with adventurous flavors like Hydox Cookie and green tea. This small, quirky shop feels like a hidden gem tucked away in the city, offering something truly unexpected.
The handcrafted approach and unique menu set it apart from typical ice cream spots. Every visit feels special, like discovering a secret that only locals know about.
If you’re looking for an ice cream experience that’s a little offbeat but deeply rooted in Philadelphia’s creative spirit, The Tiny Ice Cream Parlor won’t disappoint. It’s small in size but huge in flavor and personality.
Turkey Hill Experience – Columbia, PA
Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia offers more than just ice cream—it’s an interactive journey into how one of Pennsylvania’s most famous brands creates its beloved treats. Visitors can explore exhibits, taste new flavors, and even create their own virtual ice cream combinations.
This attraction is perfect for families, combining education with delicious fun. Kids love the hands-on activities, and adults appreciate learning about the history and science behind ice cream production.
Whether you’re a Turkey Hill fan or just curious about the ice cream-making process, this experience is both entertaining and tasty. It’s a unique stop that celebrates Pennsylvania’s dairy industry in a fun, engaging way.
Meyer Dairy – Linglestown, PA
Meyer Dairy is a small, family-owned operation near Harrisburg that’s been serving fresh ice cream for decades. The milk comes from local farms, and the recipes are simple, honest, and full of flavor—exactly what you’d expect from a true Pennsylvania dairy tradition.
The charm of Meyer Dairy lies in its unpretentious approach. There’s no fancy marketing or elaborate menu—just great ice cream made with care and served with a smile.
For anyone seeking an authentic, low-key ice cream experience, Meyer Dairy is a hidden treasure. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why simpler is often better, especially when it comes to dessert.
Leiby’s Ice Cream – Tamaqua, PA
Leiby’s Ice Cream has been a beloved fixture in Tamaqua for years, serving as a community gathering spot where neighbors meet and families create memories. The menu features classic flavors made fresh, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
What makes Leiby’s special is its role in the community. It’s not just a place to grab dessert—it’s a local institution where everyone feels welcome and traditions are passed down through generations.
Visiting Leiby’s feels like coming home, even if it’s your first time. The friendly service, quality ice cream, and small-town charm make it a must-visit for anyone exploring northeastern Pennsylvania.
Hershey’s Ice Cream – Harrisburg, PA
Not to be confused with the chocolate company, Hershey’s Ice Cream is a separate Pennsylvania institution that’s been producing premium ice cream since 1894. Based in Harrisburg, this brand is a staple across the state, known for consistent quality and a wide variety of flavors.
Their ice cream is sold in shops, restaurants, and grocery stores throughout Pennsylvania, making it accessible to everyone. The commitment to tradition and quality has kept Hershey’s Ice Cream a favorite for over a century.
Whether you enjoy it at a local parlor or at home, Hershey’s Ice Cream represents Pennsylvania pride. It’s a brand that’s woven into the state’s dessert culture and continues to deliver delicious scoops.
Woodside Farm Creamery – Hockessin, DE (Near PA Border)
Just across the Pennsylvania border in Hockessin, Delaware, Woodside Farm Creamery is worth the short trip for ice cream lovers in southeastern Pennsylvania. The farm produces its own milk and turns it into creamy, flavorful ice cream that rivals any parlor in the state.
The farm setting is picturesque, and the ice cream is made fresh daily using traditional methods. It’s a favorite among families who appreciate the farm-to-cone experience and the quality that comes with it.
Though technically in Delaware, Woodside Farm Creamery is a beloved spot for Pennsylvania residents nearby. It’s proof that great ice cream and tradition know no borders, especially when the scoops are this good.
