Unearth The Voyage
California is a paradise for ice-cream lovers, with an incredible variety of flavors and styles to explore. From historic parlors to innovative shops, each stop offers a unique experience that your kids will treasure. Here’s a guide to 15 unforgettable ice-cream destinations across the Golden State.
1. Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shop — San Francisco (Original Flagship)
In the heart of San Francisco, Ghirardelli Square beckons with the irresistible aroma of chocolate. Kids are drawn to the flagship shop, where the famous hot fudge sundae awaits. Imagine them wide-eyed, gazing at a sundae as grand as their dreams.
Don’t forget to let them savor the freshly made hot fudge, creating sweet memories that will linger long after the last bite. An iconic spot that blends history with indulgence, this is a must-visit for families exploring the city.
Did you know? Ghirardelli has been delighting visitors since 1852!
2. Fentons Creamery — Oakland (and Vacaville)
At Fentons Creamery, the old-school vibe inspires smiles as big as their skyscraper sundaes. Founded in 1894, this Oakland landmark is a treasure trove of creamy delights. Skyscraper sundaes and thick shakes invite youngsters to indulge in delightful nostalgia.
Children will love the Black & Tan sundae, a towering treat that satisfies both taste and adventure. The parlor’s warm ambiance creates a sense of belonging, making it a memorable family outing.
Don’t miss the delightful spectacle of an ice-cream parlor that’s been serving joy for over a century. A landmark that defines “sweet.”
3. Bi-Rite Creamery — San Francisco
Bi-Rite Creamery offers an adventure of flavors, where every scoop is crafted with love. Kids are enchanted by house-made mix-ins like brownies and toffee, transforming each bite into a magical moment. Seasonal flavors keep things exciting and fresh.
The Salted Caramel with house hot fudge is a must-try for young explorers with curious taste buds. A visit here is a joyful celebration of creativity and taste.
Nestled in San Francisco, Bi-Rite is more than an ice-cream shop—it’s a community hub where memories are made, one delicious scoop at a time.
4. Mitchell’s Ice Cream — San Francisco
Since 1953, Mitchell’s Ice Cream has been a vibrant part of San Francisco, offering rainbow-bright tropical flavors that captivate young palates. Ube and mango are just the beginning of this flavorful journey.
Children will find joy in every scoop, as the beloved neighborhood shop welcomes them with open arms. Experience the delight of ube-macapuno, a combination that sings of the tropics.
Mitchell’s is a place where taste meets tradition, and every visit is a celebration of color and flavor. A beloved family destination that continues to charm generations.
5. Salt & Straw — Multiple CA locations (LA, NorCal, OC, San Diego)
Salt & Straw is where imagination and taste collide. With inventive monthly flavors, it’s a playground for young taste-testers. Friendly scoopers encourage creativity, making every visit a delightful exploration.
Kids can embark on a flavor adventure with Sea Salt w/ Caramel Ribbons or dive into seasonal collaborations. Each scoop is a story waiting to be told.
Spread across California, Salt & Straw is more than an ice-cream shop; it’s a place where dreams are scooped into cones. A must-visit for those seeking whimsical flavors and joyful experiences.
6. McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams — Santa Barbara (State St. flagship)
In Santa Barbara’s charming downtown, McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams stands as a testament to creamy perfection. Since 1949, this storied brand has been delighting families with its rich, indulgent flavors.
The flagship store on State Street invites kids to savor the Eureka Lemon & Marionberries or classic Vanilla Bean, with each bite a taste of tradition.
McConnell’s is more than just a shop; it’s a piece of California’s culinary heritage, offering a creamy escape to remember. A sweet stop where history meets flavor, perfect for family adventures.
7. Rori’s Artisanal Creamery — Santa Barbara (and beyond)
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery offers a cozy corner of sweetness inside the Santa Barbara Public Market. Small-batch scoops invite children to discover their new favorite flavors.
The sprinkle-topped cones and Cookie Monster-style flavors are a hit with the young and young at heart. The welcoming counter creates a sense of community, making every visit special.
More than just ice-cream, Rori’s is a place where smiles are made, one scoop at a time. A delightful destination for families seeking quality and creativity in every bite.
8. The Baked Bear — San Diego (Pacific Beach)
The Baked Bear in San Diego is a playground of possibilities, where kids can build their own ice-cream sandwiches. Imagine the delight of choosing mix-and-match cookies, brownies, and toppings, then warming them to perfection.
A cookie-and-brownie “split” sandwich with rainbow sprinkles is a favorite, turning dessert into a creative adventure. It’s like dessert Legos for the imaginative eater.
This Pacific Beach spot is more than a treat; it’s an experience that lets children’s creativity shine. A fun and flavorful way to enjoy ice-cream, perfect for family outings.
9. Afters Ice Cream — SoCal (multiple)
Afters Ice Cream revolutionizes dessert with the viral Milky Bun—a warm donut stuffed with ice-cream. It’s a sweet surprise that delights young fans across Southern California.
Kids love the whimsical flavors like Cookie Monster and Jasmine Milk Tea, turning each visit into a tasty adventure. The lively atmosphere adds to the excitement, making it a favorite family stop.
Afters is a place where tradition meets innovation, offering a unique twist on ice-cream that’s sure to impress. A must-try for those seeking a fun and memorable treat.
10. Creamistry — Statewide
At Creamistry, ice-cream becomes a science show, with scoops frozen before your eyes in clouds of liquid nitrogen. This unique approach captivates kids, turning dessert into an educational adventure.
Custom creations allow young minds to experiment with flavors, making each scoop a personal masterpiece. It’s part treat, part science, and all fun.
With locations across California, Creamistry is a favorite for families who love to mix learning with indulgence. A fascinating and delicious way to explore the world of ice-cream.
11. Fosselman’s Ice Cream Co. — Alhambra (Greater LA)
Fosselman’s Ice Cream Co. is a nostalgic journey into the past, where a century-old soda fountain serves up classic delights. Kids are charmed by floats, banana splits, and even ice-cream “clowns.”
The classic banana split and old-school malt are favorites, bringing smiles to young faces. It’s a place where tradition and flavor blend seamlessly.
More than just a shop, Fosselman’s is a piece of history, offering a taste of simpler times. A delightful destination for families seeking timeless treats and old-fashioned fun.
12. Diddy Riese — Westwood (UCLA)
Diddy Riese in Westwood is a haven for ice-cream sandwich lovers, where fast-moving lines lead to sweet satisfaction. Kids enjoy choosing cookies and ice-cream flavors, crafting iconic sandwiches.
The wallet-friendly prices make it a popular spot for families and students alike. It’s a place where value meets flavor, bringing joy to every visitor.
Diddy Riese is more than just a shop; it’s a beloved tradition that continues to delight generations. An essential stop for those exploring the Westwood area.
13. Gunther’s Ice Cream — Sacramento
Gunther’s Ice Cream in Sacramento is famous for its signature fruit freezes, a perfect blend of slushy and creamy delight. Kids love the real fruit flavors and the option of adding a scoop in the middle.
The 50/50 Freeze is a highlight, offering a refreshing twist on a classic treat. With over 40 flavors, there’s something for every young palate.
Gunther’s is a Sacramento staple, providing a sweet escape for families since 1940. A must-visit for those seeking a unique and flavorful ice-cream experience.
14. Marianne’s Ice Cream — Santa Cruz
Marianne’s Ice Cream in Santa Cruz is a local legend, boasting a wall of flavors that sparks wonder in young hearts. With 80 daily flavors and 100+ in rotation, the choices are endless.
Kids love sampling and picking new favorites, embracing the joy of discovery. It’s a place where taste meets tradition, creating unforgettable memories.
Since 1947, Marianne’s has been a Santa Cruz staple, offering a delightful journey through flavor and fun. A beloved stop for families exploring the coast.
