Best Ice Cream Shops in Raleigh
Raleigh, North Carolina — updated April 17, 2026
Discover Raleigh's best ice cream shops, from handcrafted creations to mesmerizing rolled ice cream. A sweet treat awaits!
AI-assisted draft, listings not yet re-verified
1. Two Roosters Ice Cream
Located at 215 E Franklin St #120, Raleigh, NC, Two Roosters Ice Cream has earned a stellar rating of 4.7/5 from over 590 reviews, and it's not hard to see why. This charming ice cream parlor was listed as the best ice cream in North Carolina by Food & Wine Magazine in 2021, and it continues to impress locals and visitors alike with its handcrafted creations. The ambiance is laid-back, perfect for families or anyone looking to treat themselves to something sweet after a long day.
At Two Roosters, the flavors are as imaginative as they are delicious, with both seasonal and permanent selections. You’ll want to try their Earl Grey Lemon Cookie Dough, which marries the fragrant notes of Earl Grey tea with the zing of lemon and the chewiness of cookie dough. Another standout is the Blackberry Hibiscus, offering a refreshing twist that’s ideal for a hot southern day. For those who crave a little kick, the Coffee Bourbon is a must-try, combining rich coffee notes with a hint of bourbon to create a uniquely indulgent experience.
When visiting, consider trying their seasonal flavors, as they often draw inspiration from local events and eateries. There’s no need for reservations, but prepare for a little wait during peak hours; the reward is more than worth it!
2. Howling Cow Dairy Education Center and Creamery
Found at 100 Dairy Ln, Raleigh, NC, Howling Cow Dairy Education Center and Creamery is not just an ice cream shop; it’s an experience! With a remarkable rating of 4.8/5 from over 1,500 reviews, this delightful spot is located on NC State’s campus, where they actually make the ice cream using milk sourced from over 300 NC State cows. As one local expert quipped, "Did you know they make ice cream on NC State’s campus?" This fact alone makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to sample local flavors.
The porch area is a great spot to enjoy your treats while soaking in the campus vibes. The menu features a variety of classic and creative ice cream options, with standout items like the Mud Pit Sundae, which is a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing. The Banana Split is another favorite, showcasing the fresh flavors of bananas and ice cream in a delightful presentation. Don’t forget the Cherry Brickyard, a sweet homage to the classic cherry flavor that’ll leave you craving more.
The casual atmosphere makes it inviting for all ages, and there’s no need for reservations—pop in for a treat anytime! Just be ready for a line; the word is out about this local gem.
3. Raleigh Rolls
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as much about the experience as it is about the flavor, look no further than Raleigh Rolls at 411 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC. With a rating of 4.2/5 from 236 reviews, this shop specializes in rolled ice cream made right before your eyes. As one expert noted, "The process is mesmerizing: they pour the cream base onto a freezing surface, mix in your chosen flavors..." It's a performance as much as a treat!
The atmosphere is lively and fun, perfect for a date night or a family outing. The rolled ice cream allows for endless customization, so you can create your own unique combination. Seasonal combos like Pumpkin Spice and Chocolate Overload are popular choices, but feel free to mix and match to discover an exciting new favorite. Watching your ice cream being made is half the fun, and it's a great opportunity to snap some Instagram-worthy photos!
Raleigh Rolls doesn’t require reservations, making it a convenient stop for an impromptu dessert run. Just be prepared to be dazzled by the rolling process and the delicious flavors that await you!
4. Captain Cookie & the Milk Man
Located inside Transfer Co. Food Hall at 500 E Davie St, Raleigh, NC, Captain Cookie & the Milk Man boasts a rating of 4.1/5 from 108 reviews. This bakery is a delightful spot where you can enjoy made-to-order cookies alongside delectable ice cream. As one local expert puts it, "The chocolate peanut butter ice cream in a warm cookie sandwich is an indulgent classic that never goes out of style." You’ll definitely want to try this indulgent treat!
The vibrant atmosphere of Transfer Co. Food Hall adds to the fun as you can explore other culinary delights after your sweet fix. The warm cookie sandwiches are a signature item, where a scoop of their rich chocolate peanut butter ice cream is nestled between two freshly baked cookies. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try their ice cream sandwiches for a classic yet delightful experience.
Since it’s located within a food hall, you can easily grab a seat or take your treats outside for a lovely stroll around downtown. There’s no need for reservations, making it an easy and casual dessert stop for everyone!
5. Videri Chocolate Factory - Chocolate Bean to Bar
At 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC, Videri Chocolate Factory offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream with a rating of 4.5/5 from 1,292 reviews. Known for its artisan chocolate, they also serve soft serve ice cream adorned with housemade toppings. As one expert noted, "We are also a big fan of Videri Chocolate Factory’s soft serve ice cream," and it’s easy to see why!
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a treat. The soft serve comes in rich chocolate or classic vanilla, both of which can be topped with a variety of housemade sauces and toppings, making each visit a customizable experience. The rich, creamy texture of their ice cream is a testament to their dedication to quality ingredients.
Reservations aren’t needed, so swing by whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat. Pair your ice cream with one of their famous chocolates for a truly indulgent experience!
6. Goodberry's Frozen Custard
Goodberry's Frozen Custard is located at 2042 Clark Ave, Raleigh, NC, and it has a commendable rating of 4.4/5 from 590 reviews. Recognized for its creamy and rich frozen custard, this shop is a staple in the Raleigh dessert scene. As one expert put it, "Frozen custard is so creamy, rich, and flavorful that it deserves a spot on any list about frozen treats in North Carolina." And they’re right!
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a perfect stop for families and friends. Goodberry's offers rotating daily flavors that keep the menu exciting for regulars, and their frozen custard is made fresh daily. Popular flavors include the classic Peanut Butter and the Banana Pudding Custard, which is a crowd favorite for its delightful blend of flavors.
No reservations are needed, so feel free to pop in anytime. The delicious, creamy frozen custard is sure to have you returning time and again!
7. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams at 2014 Cameron St, Raleigh, NC, is renowned for its creative flavors and high-quality ingredients, earning a solid rating of 4.4/5 from 117 reviews. As noted by the experts, "Guaranteed frozen delivery. Pints arrive in an insulated box with plenty of dry ice." This commitment to quality makes it a must-visit for serious ice cream aficionados.
The ambiance is modern and chic, making it a delightful place to enjoy a scoop or two. Jeni's specializes in unique flavor combinations, and while they offer a range of classics, don’t miss the opportunity to explore their seasonal offerings. You can order pints of various unique flavors to enjoy at home, making it convenient for those who can’t get enough of their one-of-a-kind ice creams.
Reservations aren’t needed, so drop by whenever you’re in the mood for a treat. Jeni's is a destination that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth!
8. Amorino Gelato - Raleigh
Amorino Gelato at 137 E Davie St, Raleigh, NC, brings a taste of Europe to the city with a rating of 4.7/5 from 1,667 reviews. Known for its stunning presentation, Amorino serves gelato in a beautiful rose shape, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. As one expert noted, "Their signature is the rose-shaped gelato cone, which is as beautiful as it is tasty." This spot is a treat for both the eyes and the palate!
The ambiance is charming and inviting, with a design that transports you straight to a European gelateria. With a variety of flavors to choose from, you can’t go wrong with favorites like Stracciatella and Pistachio, which capture the essence of gelato perfection. Each cone is made fresh, allowing you to experience the true flavors of Italy right in Raleigh.
No reservations are necessary, making it a convenient stop for those seeking a sweet escape. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely dessert date, Amorino Gelato is a fantastic choice!
Conclusion
Raleigh's ice cream scene is as diverse as it is delicious, with each of these shops offering something unique. From the handcrafted creations at Two Roosters to the mesmerizing rolled ice cream at Raleigh Rolls, there is no shortage of options for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you prefer traditional treats or creative concoctions, these ice cream shops are sure to leave you smiling. Don't hesitate to explore each of these local favorites to find your own go-to spot in this vibrant city!