Top 10 Places to Get a Scoop of Ice Cream in California

Looking for something to save your sweet tooth cravings while exploring the great state of California? Well look no further. With sandy beaches, Disney World, and so much more, getting the most out of your trip is a must. On your list of must-do's in California, make sure you add "Get some ice cream!" Just to help you out with that list, we've got the scoop on the top 10 places to get a scoop of ice cream in California!

1. Bi-Rite Creamery

This funky parlor has some pretty out-of-the-box flavors! Check out various flavors, including olive oil, PB & J, and pumpkin cheesecake. The store switches up their flavors every day, so check the website to see what's in store for you before you stop by! If you're tired of classic vanilla or strawberry, this store is guaranteed to excite you!

3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110 | Website

2. Coolhaus

If you haven't already heard of Coolhaus, you need to stop by and see what the hype is about. These gourmet flavors were some of the first to start the unique flavor trend. From Avocado Sea Salt to Beer & Pretzels, these flavors will keep you on your toes! Coolhaus ice cream sandwiches, made from fresh cookies and paired with a yummy scoop of a cool flavor, are available in many grocery stores across the country.

8588 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 | Website

3. Smitten Ice Cream

Ice cream equals joy. There's no arguing with this fact, and the team at Smitten Ice Cream has decided to shape their entire company around it. They have the ideal process to make the highest quality treats for you and the whole family. Try one of these unusual flavors to discover a kind of ice cream that you never even dreamed of.

5800 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618 | Website

4. Mashti Malone's Ice Cream

This shop may look a little basic on the outside, but the flavors are far from basic. With ingredients like rosewater, saffron, and ginger, this Middle-Eastern ice cream shop is sure to excite your taste buds. Located near the Hollywood Walk of Fame, there's no way you can visit L.A. without a trip here. The ice cream is creamy and several of the flavors step away from being sweet and give you a taste of the savory side.

1525 N La Brea Ave, Los Angels, CA 90028

5. Shubert's Ice Cream and Candy

Shubert's has been open for over 75 years, with five generations contributing to the creation of their sweet treats. Located in downtown Chico, this place is a must visit anytime you're anywhere near Chico. With not only their amazing cold treat selections, they also have a wide array of homemade candies to choose from! There's plenty of parking outside and seating inside, so be sure to check out Shubert's whenever you get the chance; it's hands down some of the best ice cream in California!

178 E 7th St, Chico, CA 95928 | Website

6. Gunther's Ice Cream

Looking for a place that gives you that old-fashioned feeling without the old fashioned flavors all the time? Look no further! With flavors like Thai tea and pistachio nut, Gunther's aims to bring modern, unique flavors, while serving in an "old-timey" environment. They provide a unique flavor every month as their "flavor of the month." Gunther's makes ice cream cakes and they even cater. So make sure you stop by for the old fashioned feel without all of the old fashioned taste!

2801 Franklin Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95818 | Website

7. The Parlor Ice Cream Puffs

Ever heard of an ice cream filled doughnut? Well now you have, and The Parlor serves them up just how you like them. You choose between either a glazed or un-glazed doughnut and your choice of ice cream and your on a one way trip to heaven. They have the option to do a cup of ice cream with your choice of churro flavor. And if all that wasn't enough, they have a menu item called "The Works," which is a HUGE milkshake with a nutella filled doughnut on top and a ton of whip cream and toppings pilled on top of that!

1490 Eureka Rd, Roseville, CA 95661 | Website

8. Tucker's Super Creamed Ice Cream

With plenty of flavors to choose from, Tucker's is sure to keep you coming back for more. In what began as a shop barely bigger than a broom closet, this shop has been an Alameda favorite for over 75 years. The line may be pretty long at times, especially during the summer, but the sweet surprise at the end will make it all worth it. They not only serve ice cream but shakes, floats, cakes, and so much more too! So the next time you're anywhere near Alameda, make sure to check out this amazing shop.

1349 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501 | Website

9. McConnell's Fine Ice Creams

McConnell's is a great place if you're looking for a sweet treat with only the best ingredients. With locally obtained ingredients and dozens of options, you won't feel as guilty eating this ice cream. They provide non-dairy options and a variety of flavors to try, including three different types of coffee flavors. You can even take home a pint of your favorite flavor!

728 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 | Website

10. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream and Yogurt

With a window to walk up to and order, this place is perfect for any hot, summer day! Handel's makes their ice cream daily, keeping it smooth with the perfect amount of sweetness. Their ice cream sandwiches are made with actually oreo cookies, so you don't have to make those at home anymore. They have options for your pup as well, so it's perfect for a nice summer day with your pooch. There's plenty of outside seating, so stop by and get the perfect sweet treat to satisfy any sweet tooth!

1882 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 | Website

So the next time you're out in California looking for a way to cool off, make sure you check out these great ice cream shops.

And while you're in California, check out Caramel-by-the-sea, and small town with a huge name talked about in our post on the Best Small Towns to Visit in the U.S.