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Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Chicago, IL

Looking for real ice cream in Chicago? These 209 local ice cream across Chicago and nearby Illinois are the artisan spots — no chains, just the good stuff.

3. Milk And Wood Artisan Ice Cream

2529 N Milwaukee Ave

4. Pretty Cool Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

709 W Belden Ave

5. Margie’s Candies Artisan Ice Cream

1813 West Montrose Avenue

6. Titos Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

1340 N Western Ave

7. Quari Handcrafted Ice Artisan Ice Cream

Fulton Market Kitchen, 311 N Sangamon St

8. VinnyD's Artisan Ice Cream

1709 W Division St

9. Rakki Cafe Artisan Ice Cream

1375 N Milwaukee Ave

10. Eli's Ark Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 1843 W North Ave

11. Cameron's Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 1401 W Diversey Pkwy

14. Paleteria La Plaza Artisan Ice Cream

3046 N Cicero Ave

16. Ix-Chel Artisan Ice Cream

4968 N Milwaukee Ave

17. Lovin' Scoop Artisan Ice Cream

Store Front, 4032 N Milwaukee Ave

18. La Michoacana Artisan Ice Cream

3509 West Lawrence Avenue

19. La Michoacana Artisan Ice Cream

3443 W Lawrence Ave

23. Paleteria Reina de Sabores Artisan Ice Cream

3015 W Lawrence Ave

24. Market Square Artisan Ice Cream

4701 N Lincoln Ave

25. Servyoself Artisan Ice Cream

2024 W Montrose Ave

Ice cream shops in Chicago, IL: a local guide

We currently track 25 ice cream shops and parlors serving Chicago, IL in Cook County.

What ice cream costs in Chicago

A single scoop in Chicago 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 Chicago

  • Ask what's seasonal or local — the best shops rotate flavors and use local dairy or fruit.
  • Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.
  • Check hours and seasonality — many Chicago 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 — Chicago shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.

Questions to ask before you go

  • 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?
  • What are your hours this time of year?
  • Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?

Many Chicago 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 Chicago?

A single scoop in Chicago 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 Chicago?

Many Chicago 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 Chicago shops serve both.

Are Chicago 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 Chicago?

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