Find Ice Cream Near Me
Guides  ·  List Your Shop

Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Merced, CA

Looking for real ice cream in Merced? These 7 local ice cream across Merced and nearby California are the artisan spots — no chains, just the good stuff.

1. Yogolicious Artisan Ice Cream

3110 R Street

2. La Crema De Cotija Artisan Ice Cream

1950 E Yosemite Ave

3. Yogolicious Artisan Ice Cream

3110 R St B

4. Frozen World Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 779 East Yosemite Avenue

5. Tony J Machado Dairy Artisan Ice Cream

2222 Healy Rd

6. Vanessa's Ice Cream - Merced Artisan Ice Cream

710 Carol Ave

Ice cream shops in Merced, CA: a local guide

We currently track 7 ice cream shops and parlors serving Merced, CA in Merced County.

What ice cream costs in Merced

A single scoop in Merced usually runs about $4-$7, with specialty sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a little more than soft-serve chains.

What to look for in an ice cream shop in Merced

  • Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.
  • Check hours and seasonality — many Merced scoop shops keep shorter winter hours.
  • For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
  • Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — Merced shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.
  • Check for dairy-free, vegan, or no-sugar-added options if you need them.

Questions to ask before you go

  • Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?
  • Do you make your ice cream in-house?
  • What dairy-free or vegan options do you have?
  • Which flavors are seasonal or local right now?
  • Do you sell pints, cakes, or cater events?

Many Merced listings also serve hand-dipped ice cream, soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and dairy-free options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ice cream cost in Merced?

A single scoop in Merced usually runs about $4 to $7, with sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a bit more than soft-serve chains.

Where can I find dairy-free or vegan ice cream in Merced?

Many Merced shops now carry dairy-free, vegan, or sorbet options. Check the listings above and ask, since offerings change with the season.

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato has less fat and less air than ice cream, so it is denser with more intense flavor. Several Merced shops serve both.

Are Merced ice cream shops open year-round?

Some keep shorter winter hours or close seasonally. Check the hours for the shop you have in mind before you go.

Own an ice cream shop in Merced?

Claim your shop and get featured → Add photos, hours, and your best flavors, and pin to the top of Merced.

Scoops near Merced

Handy links for Merced and the surrounding area.

Ice cream in nearby towns

Atwater, CA
6 ice cream · 8 mi
Livingston, CA
2 ice cream · 15 mi
Chowchilla, CA
3 ice cream · 18 mi
Turlock, CA
8 ice cream · 25 mi
Los Banos, CA
6 ice cream · 27 mi

About Merced

Merced official website
Town hall, permits, events
Merced on Wikipedia
History, population & landmarks

Things to do in Merced

Spas in Merced
43 listed on StressBalans
Estate & Elder Law Attorneys in Merced
27 listed on Estate & Elder Law Attorney Directory
Estate Cleanout in Merced
25 listed on Estate Cleanout Directory