There’s truly nothing better than a perfectly chilled, delightfully creamy ice cream on a warm, sunny day. Or, let’s be honest, any day! We are thrilled to share our ultimate guide to the best ice cream Spokane has to offer. We embarked on the delicious mission of visiting every local ice cream shop we could find, taste-testing countless flavors, and savoring every moment to bring you this comprehensive guide. From rich artisan scoops to refreshing frozen yogurt and unique rolled ice cream, we’ve got your sweet cravings covered!

Your Essential Guide to the Best Local Ice Cream Shops in Spokane, WA

Our primary goal with this “Best Ice Cream Shop in Spokane” guide is to shine a spotlight on the incredible local establishments that craft truly exceptional ice cream. While Spokane is home to popular national chains like Dairy Queen, Ben & Jerry’s, and Baskin Robbins, we believe the true heart of our city’s dessert scene lies within its small, independent businesses. These local heroes pour their passion into every scoop, offering unique flavors and experiences that national chains simply can’t replicate.

Supporting these local businesses isn’t just about enjoying fantastic ice cream; it’s about investing in the vibrant spirit of our community. They contribute to Spokane’s unique character, create local jobs, and often use regionally sourced ingredients. Join us as we celebrate the dedication and creativity of Spokane’s finest artisan creameries and sweet shops.

Top Picks: Spokane’s Must-Visit Ice Cream Destinations

The Scoop: Where Innovation Meets Indulgence

Locations: Kendall Yards, South Hill

The Scoop is more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a culinary experience. With an ever-changing menu of house-made ice cream, each visit promises a delightful surprise. Their Instagram feed alone is enough to make anyone drool, showcasing innovative new flavors and exciting specials that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream. What truly sets The Scoop apart is their use of liquid nitrogen in the ice cream-making process. This unique method results in an exceptionally smooth, incredibly creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Beyond the classic cones, The Scoop offers creative twists like bubble waffle cones, a fun and delicious remake of the traditional waffle cone. And for a truly unique treat, keep an eye out for their “Taco Tuesday” specials, featuring ice cream served in waffle cone tacos – an absolute must-try! During our last visit, we indulged in their Twinkleberry Ice Cream, a divine concoction of strawberry ice cream, vibrant sprinkles, and delightful Twinkie pieces. It was pure bliss!

For those seeking dairy-free options, The Scoop also boasts an amazing selection of vegan gelato that is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you visit their bustling Kendall Yards location or their cozy South Hill outpost, you’re in for a treat. Note that each location has its unique offerings: the South Hill shop often features Pineapple Dole Whip, while the Kendall Yards spot is known for its homemade gelato.

• The Scoop South Hill Address: 1001 W 25th Ave, Spokane, WA 99203
• The Scoop Kendall Yards Address: 1238 W Summit Pkwy, Spokane, WA 99201 (formerly Brain Freeze Ice Cream)

Doyle’s Ice Cream: A Historic Taste of Spokane

Nestled in the West Central neighborhood, Doyle’s Ice Cream has been an iconic landmark in Spokane since 1939. Stepping into Doyle’s is like taking a delightful journey back in time. It proudly stands as Spokane’s last working vintage soda fountain, meticulously preserving the charm and authenticity of a bygone era. For over eight decades, Doyle’s has been making its own ice cream, a tradition that continues to draw generations of loyal customers.

Beyond their famous scoops, Doyle’s is renowned for its colossal banana splits, the legendary “Awful-Awful” (a towering vertical banana split that’s a feast for the eyes and the stomach), old-fashioned shakes, and classic sodas and floats. Every single drink is made from scratch, utilizing house-made syrups and carbonated water dispensed from their antique gooseneck fountain. It’s an experience that truly transports you, offering a taste of Spokane’s rich history alongside its delicious desserts.

• Doyle’s Ice Cream Address: 2229 W Boone Ave, Spokane, WA 99201

Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Chocolates and Ice Cream: A Richer Experience

Relatively new to North Spokane, having opened just over two years ago, Mrs. Cavanaugh’s quickly carved out its niche as a premier destination for extraordinary ice cream. This Spokane ice cream shop is an extension of a beloved Utah-based chocolate and ice cream company, bringing their legacy of quality and indulgence to the Pacific Northwest. What makes their ice cream exceptionally rich and decadent is its unique blend: half custard and half traditional ice cream, resulting in an incredibly creamy and luxurious texture that surpasses standard ice cream.

Many of their in-store ice cream flavors are crafted using their exquisite house-made chocolates, providing a depth of flavor that is truly remarkable. If you visit, you absolutely *must* try the Penoche Ice Cream – a brown sugar fudge creation that is utterly drool-worthy. Every single flavor we’ve sampled at Mrs. Cavanaugh’s has been a testament to their commitment to quality. The friendly and helpful staff, like Tish who assisted us on an ice cream date, only add to the wonderful experience, making each visit memorable.

Beyond their sensational ice cream, Mrs. Cavanaugh’s is also celebrated for its chocolates, making it a proud inclusion in our guide to the best candy stores in Spokane. It’s the perfect spot to satisfy both your ice cream and chocolate cravings.

• Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Ice Cream Address: 513 E Hastings Rd, Spokane, WA 99218
• Website

Sweet Peaks Ice Cream: Mountain-Inspired Flavors Downtown

Location: Downtown Spokane

Originating in Whitefish, Montana, Sweet Peaks Ice Cream has brought its distinctive mountain-inspired flavors and charm to downtown Spokane. Strategically located just a block from the iconic Red Wagon and the scenic Riverfront Park, it’s the perfect spot to cool down and refuel after a day of exploring the park’s attractions. Sweet Peaks prides itself on using high-quality, often locally sourced ingredients to create their artisanal ice cream.

Their menu features a delightful array of classic and inventive flavors. Signature offerings include the fragrant Lafaza Madagascar Vanilla, rich Chocolate Love, regional favorite Huckleberry, invigorating Espresso, refreshing Mountain Mint, whimsical Cupcake, and the ever-popular Salty Caramel. They also cater to various dietary preferences with a selection of dairy-free sorbets and egg-free sherberts. Additionally, Sweet Peaks keeps things exciting with a rotating selection of seasonal specialty flavors. Past hits have included Lemon Pie, Confetti Cake, Mud Pie, the indulgent Bananas Foster, and the surprisingly creamy Triple Chocolate Vegan.

• Sweet Peaks Ice Cream Address: 415 W Main Ave #0213, Spokane, WA

Pete & Belle’s Ice Cream: A Treasure Trove of Sweetness in Spokane Valley

Locations: Spokane Valley on Argonne and Spokane Valley Mall

Pete & Belle’s Ice Cream stands out as a true gem in the Spokane Valley, offering an expansive variety of ice cream and other delightful confections. Whether you’re craving a single scoop, a pint to take home, or a quart for the family, their selection is sure to impress. Beyond their exceptional ice cream, this wonderful shop also crafts house-made caramel apples in an astonishing array of flavors, alongside a tempting assortment of chocolates and truffles. Every visit presents a delightful challenge in choosing what to get, given the abundance of delicious options.

Their ice cream flavors are particularly noteworthy, boasting creative combinations and playful names. Here are a few must-try flavors that will tantalize your taste buds:

• Fat Elvis: A rock-and-roll tribute in a cone! Sweet banana ice cream is all shook up with a salty peanut butter ripple and rich chocolate chips.
• Heaps of Love: An absolute dream for ingredient lovers – Oreos, brownies, cookie dough, pecans, luscious caramel, and chocolate ripples all packed into smooth vanilla ice cream.
• Kitty Kitty Bang Bang: Irresistibly smooth cheesecake ice cream expertly mixed with a sweet raspberry ripple, crunchy Oreo cookies, and soft chocolate chunks.
• Yippee Skippee: Creamy peanut butter ice cream loaded with salted caramel ripples, soft brownie chunks, and crispy chocolate-covered pretzels for the perfect sweet and salty balance.
• Banana Cream Pie: Your favorite comfort food transformed into a delightful ice cream! Smooth banana ice cream churned with a marshmallow ripple and real Nilla Wafers.

Pete & Belle’s is more than an ice cream shop; it’s a destination for all things sweet and indulgent in Spokane Valley.

• Pete & Belle’s Ice Cream Address: 1330 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99212
• Website

Sweet Annie’s Artisan Creamery: Charming & Creative in Liberty Lake

Location: Liberty Lake

Prepare to be charmed by Sweet Annie’s Artisan Creamery! This utterly adorable ice cream shop in the Spokane Valley region (specifically Liberty Lake) is a true delight. With its inviting, family-friendly atmosphere and truly amazing ice cream, it’s a destination for both locals and visitors. The shop itself is incredibly “Instagrammable,” boasting a cute aesthetic that makes for perfect photo opportunities, and their cones are simply fantastic.

Sweet Annie’s offers a fun and sophisticated variety of ice cream flavors, catering to all ages and palates. Their commitment to artisan quality shines through in every scoop. Some of their epic and must-try flavors include:

• The Bee’s Knees: A delightful butter-flavored ice cream swirled with local honey and house-made honeycomb candy for a truly unique sweetness.
• Almond Joy (Vegan): A rich and creamy coconut ice cream featuring a non-dairy fudge ripple and crunchy French almonds, a perfect plant-based indulgence.
• Bourbon Bananas Foster: An elevated classic with a hint of warmth and sophistication.
• Five Star Chocolate: A decadent experience for true chocolate lovers.
• Mint Chip: A refreshing and classic combination done perfectly.
• Strawberry Bubblegum: A playful and vibrant flavor that’s a hit with kids and nostalgic adults alike.
• Coffee Almond Fudge: The perfect blend of rich coffee, nutty almonds, and sweet fudge.
• Malted Milk Jam: A unique and comforting flavor profile.
• Lime in a Coconut: A tropical, zesty, and creamy escape.

They also ensure there’s always something new to discover with frequently rotated seasonal flavors. Sweet Annie’s is more than just an ice cream stop; it’s an experience of artisanal craftsmanship and delightful ambiance.

• Sweet Annie’s Artisan Creamery Address: 1948 N Harvest Pkwy, Liberty Lake, WA
• Website

Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle: An Iconic Landmark with Creamy Shakes

Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a piece of Spokane history and cinematic fame. This beloved establishment boasts its own signature ice cream, specifically crafted for their legendary milkshakes. The result is a super creamy, utterly delicious milkshake that keeps people coming back for more. The unique, instantly recognizable exterior of Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle achieved national recognition when it was featured in the classic movie “Benny and Joon,” starring Johnny Depp. While the exterior shot in the film was indeed Mary Lou’s, the interior scenes were filmed at Ferguson’s Cafe, adding to its intriguing lore.

Visiting Mary Lou’s is a nostalgic experience, offering classic American diner fare alongside their famous milkshakes. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of Spokane’s heritage and a truly satisfying frozen treat.

• Mary Lou’s Milk Bottle Address: 802 W Garland Ave, Spokane, WA

Yummy Ice Cream Rolls: The Art of Rolled Ice Cream in Spokane Valley

Yummy Ice Cream Rolls holds the distinction of being Spokane’s pioneering establishment to serve Thai-inspired rolled ice cream. If you’ve yet to experience this captivating dessert, prepare for a treat that’s as entertaining to watch as it is delicious to eat! The process is mesmerizing: you choose your favorite base flavors and mix-ins, which are then skillfully spread onto a super-cooled metal plate, chopped, and scraped into beautiful, elegant rolls right before your eyes. It’s a truly interactive and engaging experience that kids and adults alike adore.

With a vast selection of base ice cream flavors and an extensive array of toppings, you have complete creative freedom to design your perfect customized treat. Each rolled ice cream creation is not just a dessert but a work of art, making it an ideal “Instagrammable” ice cream sundae. For a memorable and unique ice cream experience in Spokane, Yummy Ice Cream Rolls is a definite must-visit.

• Yummy Ice Cream Rolls Address: 1509 N Pine Rd, Spokane Valley, WA

Just Chillin Eats and Sweets: Frozen Yogurt and More in Liberty Lake

Location: Liberty Lake

Just Chillin Eats and Sweets is a fantastic multi-faceted dessert shop located in Liberty Lake, offering a delightful combination of frozen yogurt, traditional ice cream, and delectable baked goods. It’s the perfect spot when your group can’t decide between froyo and a classic scoop, or if you simply want a wider array of sweet options. One standout item you absolutely need to try is their incredible Butterfinger ice cream sandwich – a heavenly blend of crunchy, chocolatey, and creamy goodness.

With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu, Just Chillin Eats and Sweets provides a satisfying experience for anyone with a sweet tooth in the Spokane Valley area.

• Just Chillin Eats and Sweets Address: 1322 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake, WA 99019

MiFlavour – Volonti Gelato: Artisanal Gelato from a Beloved Bakery

MiFlavour, already celebrated as one of our favorite bakeries in Spokane, has expanded its exquisite offerings with its new sister company, Volonti Gelato. And let us tell you, it is absolutely divine! You definitely do not want to miss their Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches – a fusion of two incredible desserts that creates a truly unforgettable treat. Hello, yum!

Volonti Gelato excels in crafting delicious gelatos and sorbettos, available in both unique and classic flavors. A fantastic benefit is that all their Sorbettos are vegan, ensuring a refreshing and flavorful option for everyone. Their gelatos and sorbettos are elegantly presented in stunning cups, convenient pints, and even larger bulk 5-liter sizes, perfect for events or stocking up. Here are some flavors you absolutely need to try:

• Passion Fruit Gelato: A perfect balance of sweet and creamy, with delightful swirls of tart passion fruit puree that awaken your senses.
• London Fog Gelato: A sophisticated and unique flavor where the delicate aroma and taste of Earl Grey tea gracefully swirls through the rich gelato.
• Pineapple Mango Habanero Gelato: An adventurous flavor that combines the sweet tropical notes of pineapple and mango with an unexpected, exhilarating punch of habanero – it will make your taste buds rejoice!
• Banana Pudding Gelato: Indulge in rich banana gelato swirled around comforting vanilla wafers, tasting just like the classic dessert.
• Strawberry Basil Sorbet: Super light, incredibly refreshing, and beautifully balanced with the subtle, aromatic hint of fresh basil.

Poppy Unique Frozen Treats: Handcrafted Delights

• Address: 1908 W Northwest Blvd, Spokane, WA 99205

Poppy Unique Frozen Treats offers a charming array of handcrafted frozen desserts that stand out for their creativity and quality. While details on their rotating menu are best found by visiting or checking their social media, their commitment to unique flavors and artisanal preparation makes them a noteworthy stop on your Spokane ice cream tour. This local spot is known for its inventive approach, making it a delightful surprise for those seeking something different.

La Nueva Michoacana: Paleteria y Neveria Homemade Ice Cream

La Nueva Michoacana, conveniently located off Sprague Avenue across from Winco, brings the vibrant and authentic flavors of Mexico to Spokane. This “Paleteria y Neveria” specializes in homemade ice cream, traditional raspados (refreshing shaved ice creations), and an incredible variety of paletas (Mexican popsicles) made with fresh fruit and natural ingredients. Their ice cream flavors are often bold and unique, offering a departure from conventional options and introducing a delightful cultural twist to your dessert experience.

From creamy fruit-flavored ice creams to refreshing water-based paletas bursting with real fruit, La Nueva Michoacana provides a taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. It’s a fantastic spot to explore new flavors and enjoy traditional frozen treats.

• La Nueva Michoacana Address: 9827 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Fannie’s Ice Pops: Gourmet Frozen Treats

While technically not ice cream, Fannie’s Ice Pops are an absolutely delicious and refreshing frozen sweet treat that perfectly aligns with our theme! We first fell in love with Fannie’s Ice Pops at the Kendall Yards Night Market, and their exquisite flavors quickly made them a staple. Anyone who can craft a chai ice pop that tastes this amazing instantly earns our admiration!

Fannie’s Ice Pops are made with high-quality ingredients and come in a variety of inventive and classic flavors, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative to traditional ice cream. The great news is that these gourmet ice pops are widely available across Spokane. Here’s a list of various stores where you can consistently find Fannie’s Ice Pops:

• Main Market
• Rocket Market
• My Fresh Basket
• Lucky Vintage and Pretty Things
• 291 Brewhouse (Suncrest)
• Sweet Peaks Ice Cream (WA, ID, MT locations)
• Five North Coffee + Gifts (Deer Park, WA)
• Cherry Hill Orchard (July only)
• The Scoop

They’re the perfect grab-and-go treat for a hot day or a delightful palate cleanser after a meal.

Didier’s: Spokane’s Go-To for Fantastic Fro-Yo

When it comes to frozen yogurt in Spokane, Didier’s is our undisputed go-to destination. They offer a fantastic, rotating selection of fro-yo flavors, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to try. Their epic Tuesday special on Fro-Yo is so good, it’s worth planning a trip around!

Didier’s consistently delivers on both flavor and experience. They always have a great variety of delicious flavors and an extensive selection of mix-ins, allowing you to customize your perfect cup. What truly sets Didier’s apart, beyond their tasty treats, is their fantastic staff who always make the experience enjoyable. We readily admit that we tend to visit Didier’s at least once a week throughout the spring and summer months – it’s simply that good and consistently hits the spot for a refreshing and satisfying dessert.

• Didier’s Yogurt and More Address: 10410 N Division St, Spokane, WA

Our Approach to Curating Spokane Food Guides

Having called Spokane home for nearly two decades, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing its incredible transformation, particularly within its culinary landscape. When we’re not busy exploring global destinations, we dedicate our time to uncovering the hidden gems and popular hotspots right here in our beloved local area. Our Spokane Food Guides are crafted with a singular purpose: to share the absolute best food experiences that our city has to offer, from quaint cafes to bustling eateries.

We are passionate about food, and that passion translates into a commitment to only recommending establishments that genuinely impress us. We understand that when you choose to dine out, you’re investing your hard-earned money and valuable time, and we want to ensure you receive the best possible experience. Therefore, every restaurant and food establishment featured in our guides has been personally visited and thoroughly enjoyed by us.

If you don’t see your personal favorite Spokane restaurant or ice cream shop listed in one of our guides, there could be a couple of reasons. It’s possible we haven’t had the pleasure of visiting it yet, or perhaps our initial experience wasn’t up to our high standards. In the latter case, we make it a practice to revisit establishments after a few months. We believe everyone can have an off day, and we strive not to judge a business by a single less-than-perfect experience. Our goal is always to provide fair, accurate, and truly helpful recommendations.

We are always eager to discover new and exciting places! If there’s a Spokane ice cream shop or any other eatery that you believe we absolutely must try, please don’t hesitate to share your recommendations in the comments or send us a note. We’d love to add it to our must-visit list and continue making our guides as comprehensive and valuable as possible for the Spokane community.

Explore More of Spokane’s Culinary Scene

Our journey through Spokane’s vibrant food scene doesn’t stop at ice cream. Dive deeper into our other curated guides to discover more amazing local flavors:

• Best Pizza Restaurants in Spokane
• Best Bakeries in Spokane
• Best Brunch Spots in Spokane
• Best Donut Shops in Spokane
• Great Outdoor Seating Restaurants in Spokane

And don’t miss out on all the epic things to do in Spokane beyond its fantastic food!

For an even broader culinary adventure, check out our comprehensive Spokane Restaurant Guide for tons of fun places to eat in Spokane and its neighboring cities.