While many people associate ice cream with summertime, we'd be lying if we said we didn't crave this frozen treat year-round. That's especially true here in North Carolina, where delicious ice cream shops seem to be located on every corner. This relatively short road trip to the best ice cream in North Carolina can be done in particular areas in a day (say, the triangle and then move on to the Charlotte region, next, the mountains) or, if you find yourself driving across the state for a beach or mountain trip, include a couple of these on your way.
From chocolate to vanilla, strawberry, coconut cream, and more, it's about to get extra sweet on this road trip to the best ice cream in North Carolina.
1. Sunni Sky's Homemade Ice Cream, Angier
Our road trip to some of the best ice cream in North Carolina starts at Sunni Sky's Homemade Ice Cream. You might want to come to this one more than once, and with over 120 homemade flavors to choose from, there's no shame in wanting to try them all! (Ice cream bender, anyone?) With that being said, Sunni Sky's is so amazing we did a whole feature article on it,
2. The Parlour, Durham
Everything deserves a fancy side, including ice cream! If you want to take your sweet treat up a level, The Parlour in Durham is an amazing experience. From classic to inventive (beet ice cream, for example), The Parlour is an absolute must-try.
3. Homeland Creamery, Julian
Reserve a whole day for this one because not only are you eating ice cream, you'll also get to take an entire tour of the farm! From a hayride to petting the cows to getting to peep behind the scenes, there's a lot of fun to be had here. Read what to expect on this one-of-a-kind trip here.
4. The Berry Patch, Ellerbe
Home to the "World's Largest Strawberry," The Berry Patch serves some delicious, homemade ice cream right from inside their landmark! Don't forget to browse the fresh produce and assorted goodies to take home.
5. Tony's Ice Cream, Gastonia
Throughout the years, Tony's Ice Cream has developed a loyal following, and for good reason! From travelers to locals, everyone loves Tony's. If you're there, make sure to try their famous grape milkshake. Learn more about Tony's Ice Cream by visiting the website.
6. Harry's Grill and Piggy's Ice Cream, Hendersonville
Part novelty part ice cream part experience, this destination is one of the quirkiest places you'll visit in North Carolina. What seems almost like an ode to every fast food statue known to man, Harry's Grill and Piggy's Ice is an unbeatable experience. Read about it
7. Dolly's Dairy Bar & Gift Shop, Pisgah National Forest (Transylvania County)
Just when you leave the thick brush and winding roads through the mountains of the Pisgah National Forest, you'll see Dolly's appear like a beacon of light. From people renting tubes to a long line waiting for ice cream, it's hard to miss. If you're coming to or from a mountain adventure in this area, definitely stop by! You'll find it about 30-45 minutes from Looking Glass Rock Overlook and Skinny Dip Falls off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
8. Rocky's Grill & Soda Shop, Brevard
Since 1955, Rocky's has been a staple of downtown Brevard. In the beginning, it was part of Varner's Drugs and today still retains the original vintage vibes. From delicious ice cream to the old-school soda fountain and even an original pimento cheese sandwich from Mrs. Varner's recipe, Rocky's is a pretty 'sweet' blast from the past. You might want to have more than just ice cream here!
Click here for a full road trip map, directions, etc.
What are your thoughts on this road trip to the best ice cream in North Carolina? How many of these places have you tried? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
You may have noticed that none of these places are on the coast. Don't worry; we've got you covered with our road trip to the best ice cream in North Carolina coastal edition.
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