You Must Visit This Historically Accurate Ice Cream Parlor in Missouri That Makes Its Own Ice Cream

If you're looking for a nostalgic trip back in time mixed with the freshest and tastiest homemade ice cream, then SugarBot Creamery, Home of Little O's Old Time Soda Fountain in St. Charles, Missouri, is a must-visit destination. This locally owned gem isn’t just an ice cream parlor - it’s a walk through history. Its heartwarming story starts with founder Jackie Huebbe baking from her home kitchen and has evolved into a beloved community treasure. This has got to be at the top of the list of best ice cream shops In Missouri!

Located in Old Town St. Charles, SugarBot Creamery is housed in a beautifully restored building that fits seamlessly into the charm of St. Charles' Historic Main Street. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a classic soda fountain of yesteryear, complete with a functioning, stainless steel fountain. The place is dripping with vintage touches like stained glass, globe light fixtures, and antique-looking serving dishes. The attention to detail is stunning, and that’s thanks in no small part to co-owner Mark Huebbe, whose passion for historical woodworking can be seen throughout the shop.

The best part? The ice cream. Every flavor is made right in-house, using the highest quality ingredients. No artificial flavors here - just pure, homemade goodness that will remind you of the ice cream you loved as a kid, only better. There are a surprising number of flavors, given the ice cream is scratch-made on site. From rich chocolate to fruity seasonal flavors, there’s something for every palate. And it’s not just the ice cream that is special; you can also indulge in handmade confections like marshmallows and crispy treats. It is hard to ignore the candy case packed with nostalgic favorites. Anyone else grow up on candy cigarettes and brightly colored candy buttons (who really knows the candy-to-paper ratio I ingested over the years)?

My husband ordered the gooey butter cake malt. Gooey butter cake has deep culinary roots in St. Louis, dating back to the 1930s. Little touches like these local favorites are things you just won’t find at brand-name ice cream shops.

I got the salted caramel ice cream and was delighted to find it served with a waffle cone “chip.” I had not expected it. Everything was delicious. 

We had another experience that surprised us when we walked in. The staff SMILED at us. That is so rare in customer service these days! The staff were all the more charming in their antiquey uniforms, complete with adorable bow ties. We sat at the bar and observed the team working together; they looked like they genuinely liked their jobs. No doubt, their time there is sweetened by an ice cream discount - count me in! 

But SugarBot isn’t just about the ice cream. Jackie has created a full experience, including cookie decorating classes with her sister business, SugarBot Sweet Shop, that are perfect for anyone who’s ever wanted to create edible art. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled home baker looking to refine your skills, Jackie’s classes are the perfect way to spend an afternoon. You’ll find a huge variety of classes for the holiday season with themes like “Sweater Weather” and “Is it Christmas, Yeti?” Adorable. Maybe you’re inspired to explore other classes and workshops hosted by locals; I’ve had nothing but good times with AirBnb experiences.

With its deep roots in the community, SugarBot Creamery, Home of Little O's Old Time Soda Fountain, is more than just a place to grab a scoop - it's a place to make memories. This one-of-a-kind ice cream parlor is definitely worth the trip, and in my humble opinion, it is one of the best ice cream shops in Missouri. Looking for other indulgent culinary experiences in Missouri? Check out our other favorites here.