With so many different places to get ice cream in this state, it can be difficult to choose where to go. If you're looking for a memorable spot that has something unique about it, try one of these nine quirky ice cream shops.
Whether you like it soft-served or hand-dipped, this list will have something in store for you. Check it out:
1. Sidney Dairy Barn
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This hometown ice cream stand has been in business since 1964, and there are still locals around who remember when it opened. The store claims to have "The World's Best Ice Cream," and it's certainly at least close. Enjoy soft serve delights at 311 W Main St., Sidney, IL 61877.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.sidneydairybarn.com
2. Tates Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop
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One step inside this cheery place that has been around since 1987, and you'll never want to leave. The walls are lined with fun, vintage images and other old-fashioned decor. In addition to amazing hand-dipped delights, the shop also sells baked goods. Find it all at 25 S Ashland Ave., La Grange, IL 60525.
Learn more on its official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/tatesicecream
3. Aha Rolled Ice Cream
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The most unique thing about this ice cream place is the way it serves its ice cream. A base and pieces (like cookies or fruit) are placed on a cold plate and then mixed together. The ice cream is then smoothed out flat and rolled up to make interesting little ice cream wraps. In Illinois, there are three locations. Find one in Effingham, Shaumburg, or Chicago.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.aharolledicecream.com
4. Dairy Depot
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This seasonal parlor is one of the quirkiest ice cream shops for more reasons than one. Not only does it have a fun and colorful exterior, it also serves super tall soft serve cones. Enjoy one this summer at 5413 N 2nd St., Loves Park, IL 61111.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.dairydepotlovespark.com
5. Emack & Bolio's Ice Cream
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This little-known chain of quirky ice cream shops has three locations in Illinois that are each more intriguing than the last. The most memorable part of a trip to this place is the diverse array of ice cream flavors and cone types. If you love hand-dipped, get yourself to one of these places ASAP. They are located in Peoria Heights and Normal.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.emackandbolios.com
6. The Spotted Cow
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In business since 1987, this nostalgic shop is quirky inside and out. Guests enjoy a wealth of hand-dipped varieties as well as other treats like chocolate strawberries, caramel apples, and more. This place even serves classic American fare for lunch and dinner. Find it at 718 W Glen Ave., Peoria, IL 61614.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.thespottedcow.net
7. Snow Meets Coffee
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This quirky, boutique ice cream parlor knows what people want these days. Get your coffee and ice cream in the same place here. The shop specializes in shaved ice cream, which creates a different texture when you eat it. Try this one-of-a-kind place at 1 E Main St. #108, Champaign, IL 61820.
Learn more on its official website: https://snowmeetscoffee.com/index.html
8. Dairy Delites
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This adorable ice cream shop is the most popular place in town this time of year. It offers more than 40 different soft serve flavors as well as cones, shakes, floats, and more. Find this super cute, kid-friendly place at 815 W Jackson St., Sullivan, IL 61951.
Learn more on its official website: https://dairy-delites.business.site
9. Foxy's Ice Cream
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By way of quirky ice cream shops, this local favorite is certainly the most colorful in the state. It is a wonderful business that supports the community and even has a food truck that appears at local events. Find this top-notch place at 131 E Hydraulic St., Yorkville, IL 60560.
Learn more on its official website: https://www.foxysicecream.com
For more memorable summer treats, check out these eight unique adventures you can only take in Illinois.
What other quirky ice cream shops do you enjoy? Share your favorite places with us in the comments.
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