Ice cream just tastes better when it's served up with a hefty scoop of nostalgia, and these 11 spots surely deliver. Here are some of the very best old-fashioned ice cream shops in Texas:
1. Heritage Creamery (Waco)
Although Heritage Creamery has only been open about four years, its commitment to quality and fresh, local ingredients is timeless. Whether you opt for a malt, cone, scoop, float, or ice cream sandwich, rest assured your taste buds will embark on a one-way trip to Flavortown.
2. Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery & Deli (Fredericksburg)
One look at this retro ice cream parlor will send the bells of nostalgia ringing. Having received numerous accolades over the years, Clear River is the place to go when your sweet tooth strikes in Fredericksburg. All of the ice cream is made onsite in small batches, with love being the #1 ingredient always. 35 flavors are offered each day, including Mexican Vanilla, Red Velvet Cheesecake, Snickerdoodle, and all the classic staples.
3. The Magic Scoop General Store (Sulphur Springs)
Spanning two stories, The Magic Scoop is a delicious gem in the tiny town of Sulphur Springs. Over 150 original flavors such as Sweet Potato Caramel Praline, Vanilla Nutella, and Fudgey Cookie Butter almost guarantee repeat customers -- how else would you try them all? Enjoy your frozen treat while playing throwback board games in this charming time capsule.
4. Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe (Lubbock)
At Holly Hop Ice Cream Shoppe, the 1950s have never left. Pale pink walls covered in vintage memorabilia, an old-fashioned jukebox, and waitstaff dressed in poodle skirts and bowties whisk you back to the good ol' days. As for the ice cream, you'll see traditional flavors much like what could be found in freezers of a bygone era.
5. Henry's Homemade Ice Cream (Plano)
Something of an institution in Plano, Henry's Homemade Ice Cream boasts a plethora of unique flavors like cinnamon and wedding cake. Pro-tip: get yours on a pretzel or chocolate chip cone for maximum deliciousness.
6. Happy Scoops Ice Cream (Burnet)
You could easily walk right past this unassuming little shop, but that would be a crying shame. From refreshing peach and strawberry (with chunks of real fruit, might we add) to indulgent butter pecan and cookie dough, everything is made right here. It doesn't get much better, folks!
7. La King's Confectionery (Galveston)
No list of old-fashioned ice cream parlors in Texas would be complete without La King's. Sporting a 1920s soda fountain vibe, this storied spot is a tourist haven -- and for good reason. Whether you go for a classic hot fudge sundae, fresh salt water taffy, or an array of confections from the candy counter, the experience is one you'll never forget.
8. Mike's Old Fashioned Soda Fountain (Port Neches)
Nestled in the quaint community of Port Neches, Mike's Old Fashioned Soda Fountain is nostalgia at its finest. Nothing quite compares to grabbing a barstool and digging into a classic banana split while jukebox tunes play in the background.
9. Beth Marie's Old-Fashioned Ice Cream (Denton)
Founded in 1998, this retro ice cream parlor is just as delicious as it is charming. Enjoy a scoop (or two) or your favorite flavor, taking comfort in knowing each one is hand-churned right here.
10. Justin's Ice Cream (San Antonio)
Since 1981, Justin's Ice Cream has been delighting the San Antonio River Walk with its indulgent creations. Cookies & cream, rainbow sherbet, and several gelato flavors are just a few of your many options.
11. Howdy Homemade (Dallas)
Known nationwide, Howdy Homemade has a twofold mission: to serve second-to-none ice cream and employ individuals with special needs. It's an amazing place overall, and whatever you do, don't leave without trying a scoop of Dr Pepper Chocolate Chip -- it's the world's first!
How many of these old-fashioned ice cream shops have you visited? Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know, and check out our previous article for more delicious ice cream: Indulge In Over 50 Flavors Of Frozen Custard At Rollie's, A Family-Owned Ice Cream Shop In Texas.
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