This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.
Indulge your sweet tooth and beat the heat with the best ice cream shops in Tampa! Whether you’re craving a classic scoop, an artisanal creation, or a wild new flavor, Tampa’s ice cream scene has something for everyone. So get ready to dig in, because we’re talking about the top spots to grab ice cream in Tampa!
Best Ice Cream in Tampa
1. Chill Bros.
One of my absolute favorite spots for the best ice cream in Tampa is Chill Bros—hands down! With locations in Ybor City, South Tampa, Water Street, and SoHo, you’re never too far from a scoop of their all-natural, made-from-scratch goodness.
What makes Chill Bros. stand out? They use top-tier ingredients from around the world—like Sicilian pistachios and Madagascar vanilla beans—along with local favorites like Plant City strawberries, Buddy Brew coffee, and Polk County orange blossom honey!
Their flavors rotate often, but you can always count on classics like Belgian Brownie and Peanut Butter Cup, plus unique creations like Guava Pastelito and my personal favorite—the seasonal Fluffer Pumpkin. Whatever you choose, Chill Bros. never disappoints!
2. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
If you’ve ever had Jeni’s, you know the hype is real. Founded by Jeni Britton, this ice cream is known for its ultra-creamy texture, buttercream body, and bold flavors that are inspired by art, history, and pop culture.
While Jeni’s isn’t exclusive to Tampa (you can also find it in cities like Austin, Sarasota, and Charlotte, or even in some grocery stores!), their local shops at Armature Works and Sparkman Wharf are worth the visit.
Some must-try flavors include Watermelon Taffy, Brambleberry Crisp, and Powdered Jelly Donut. Plus, they have several dairy-free options, so everyone can enjoy! Can’t decide? Get a flight and try a little bit of everything!
3. Dairy Joy
If you’re looking for an ice cream shop in Tampa that’s truly unique, you’ve got to check out Dairy Joy! This old-school, family-owned ice cream parlor has been serving up sweet treats since 1958, making it a Tampa classic. You can visit them at their locations in South Tampa and Seminole.
For something with a fun twist, try their blue raspberry-dipped soft-serve cone—it’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy. Of course, they have all the classics like banana splits and shakes, but Dairy Joy is always getting creative with their menu. They frequently drop new, exciting creations, so be sure to follow them on Instagram to stay updated!
And don’t leave without snapping a pic with Elvis or inside one of their 1957 Chevys—the perfect way to capture the nostalgic vibes of this Tampa gem!
4. Oddfellows
If you love unique, out-of-the-box ice cream flavors, you HAVE to stop by OddFellows! It’s one of the best dessert spots in Hyde Park! This Brooklyn-based small-batch ice cream shop is known for its wildly creative flavors—they’ve crafted over 500 flavors (yes, really!), including a huge selection of vegan and non-dairy options.
The story behind OddFellows is just as cool as their flavors. It all started when co-founder Holiday Kumar was pregnant and craving something different—so Chef Sam Mason whipped up a batch of pretzel ice cream just for her. From there, OddFellows was born!
Some of their standout unique flavors include Passionfruit Apricot Pistachio, Miso Peanut Butter Brownie, and Smoky Vanilla Bourbon Twist.
I went while they had a collab with St. Pierre, and y’all…their limited-time coffee and brioche waffles ice cream sandwich BLEW. MY. MIND. If you see a special flavor drop—don’t hesitate, just go!
5. Hampton Chocolate Factory
Okay, hear me out—Hampton Chocolate Factory isn’t just about chocolate…their ice cream is some of the smoothest, creamiest soft serve in Tampa! And the toppings and options? Absolutely UNREAL.
This Tampa dessert shop is all about luxurious, over-the-top treats, and they take ice cream to the next level. Whether it’s their homemade ice cream sandwiches, insane sundaes, or waffle creations, you’re guaranteed to find something drool-worthy.
If you’re feeling fancy, get your ice cream on a waffle—I tried their peppermint brownie waffle dipped in white chocolate over the holidays, and y’all…I don’t even like peppermint, but this was NEXT LEVEL.
But my absolute favorite? Their strawberry shortcake ice cream—I think about it WAY too often. If you need proof, check out my viral video on it here!
6. Sea Maid’s Creamery
As soon as you pull up, you’ll immediately fall in love with the charm of this adorable Tampa ice cream shop in Seminole Heights. Sea Maid’s Creamery is bright, colorful, and packed with delicious desserts—they don’t just stop at ice cream! You’ll also find cookies, cupcakes, brownies, and even hot cocoa bombs.
I’ve only tried the ice cream so far, but y’all…it was SO GOOD. I went with their Spongebob ice cream (which is basically cookie dough ice cream but prettier) in a fruity pebbles-dipped waffle cone, and I was beyond impressed. And I’m picky when it comes to cookie dough ice cream!
Next time, I’m going all in and getting a milkshake. If you need proof that this place serves some of the most drool-worthy desserts in Tampa, just scroll through their Instagram—I dare you to look at their over-the-top shakes and sundaes without instantly craving one.
Check out my list of fun things to do in Seminole Heights and fun stuff to do in Tampa!
7. Bo’s Ice Cream
Bo’s Ice Cream is a true Tampa treasure, serving up delicious frozen treats since 1954. This Seminole Heights staple keeps things simple and delicious, and if you’re craving old-school ice cream shop vibes, this is the place to go.
Their thick and chunky strawberry shortcake is what dreams are made of! One bite and you’ll completely understand why this dessert is legendary. They’ve got it all—soft serve, hard ice cream, and even sherbet—so no matter what you’re in the mood for, Bo’s has you covered.
Oh, and if you’re in a hurry? They even have a drive-through so you can grab your ice cream and be on your way. But honestly, you’ll probably want to park and savor every bite.
Which of these best ice cream shops in Tampa are you checking out first?!
Tampa is filled with incredible ice cream spots, and whether you’re craving classic soft serve, wild and wacky flavors, or an over-the-top sundae, there’s a place for you. From nostalgic ice cream stands to creative dessert bars, you really can’t go wrong.
So, which of these ice cream shops in Tampa are you trying first? Or are you making it an ice cream crawl? Either way, I won’t judge!
Before you go be sure to follow @sunkissedintampa_ on Instagram and check out some other Tampa blog posts:
Best restaurants in Midtown Tampa
Amazing Cuban sandwiches in Tampa
Must-visit rooftop bars in Tampa
Leave a Reply