There’s something about getting ice cream on a hot summer day that just hits the spot. From mint chocolate chip to peanut butter fudge, ice cream is a classic treat for all. Thankfully, Greenville has many ice cream establishments for families to enjoy. There are the typical ice cream chains in Greenville, like Kilwins and Spill the Beans, but there are also less known spots. They offer a unique twist on their ice cream creations, like “rolled ice cream” and zany milkshakes. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, check out the list below for the best ice cream spots in Greenville, SC. 

1. River Street Sweets 

Located on Main Street, it’s as if this candy and ice cream shop has always been here. The smell of Southern pralines pulls customers into the store, where shoppers are met with a wide selection of colorful candies, decadent fudge squares, and more. Arguably the best treat in the store is the homemade ice cream and gelato. What is the difference between ice cream and gelato, you may ask? Although similar, gelato typically has a smoother texture because it is made with more milk and less cream. Both are delicious, especially with flavors like Pralines N’ Cream,  Bear Claw, Key Lime Pie, Coffee Crunch, Tiramisu, and more! 

2. The Crazy Mason 

At The Crazy Mason, they believe in having your cake and eating it, too… on top of a milkshake! This milkshake bar serves original, milkshake creations, usually topped with additional desserts like donuts, cookies, waffles, or cake. Originally from Myrtle Beach, they opened a new location in Greenville in 2022, and this relatively new establishment has been thriving ever since. With options like Sweet Cheesus and Mint to Be, the dessert decadence is real. Additionally, they serve cookie ice cream sandwiches, Italian ice, and dressed up waffles. Gluten free and non-dairy options are also available for customers. They may be crazy, but they know what they're doing when it comes to dessert. 

3. Cream Shack 

Looking for ice cream with a twist? Look no further than The Cream Shack, the first rolled ice cream shop in the Upstate. Their cream is mixed daily, and contains no preservatives, emulsifiers, or stabilizers. Customers can choose their own mix-ins, with options like Samoas, nutter butters, banana wafers, and more. Each rolled ice cream is “made to order” in front of each customer; it’s exciting to watch the process of the ice cream being mixed and rolled. Check out the shack today! 

4. Jeni’s Ice Cream 

Located at Camperdown Plaza, Jeni’s Ice Cream is in an ideal spot for a quick pick me up whilst strolling through Greenville’s downtown area. Because they believe that “flavor is everything,” they offer a wide range of ice cream flavors, like Brambleberry Crisp, Fluffernutter Pie, Powdered Jelly Donut, Boston Creme Pie, and so much more. Customers can order ice creams in cones, cups, or by the pint. Thanks to the founder, Jeni Brittin, who won a James Beard Award in 2012 for her ice cream recipes, the company has the inside scoop on flavor. It’s the perfect spot for a midday stroll or midnight snack. 

5. Pop’s Cabin Creamery 

If you’re looking for a sweet, simple ice cream experience, Pop’s Cabin Creamery is just the place. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s located on the serene grounds of the Mauldin Cultural Center. Don Deas opened the shop in 2021, in honor of his grandfather-in-law. Now they serve the public, offering traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, peach, cookie dough, and more. They offer extremely affordable prices, too. Seating is outdoors, furnished by wooden tables and large umbrellas. If seeing a show at the Mauldin Cultural Center, be sure to stop by Pop’s afterward; it makes for a beautiful tradition. 

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