There’s something magical about the last days of summer in Chicago—the air is a little warmer, the sunsets stretch just a bit longer, and the craving for that one last indulgent ice cream treat feels almost irresistible. As the city hums with late-season festivals, lakeside picnics, and walks through bustling neighborhoods, ice cream becomes more than a sweet treat—it’s a way to savor the fleeting moments of summer. Whether you’re in search of old-school charm, adventurous flavors, or Instagram-worthy creations, Chicago’s ice cream shops offer a variety of cold delights perfect for closing out the season with a smile. Let’s take a delicious dive into the best spots to satisfy your sweet tooth before autumn sets in.
1. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Location: Various Locations (Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, West Loop)
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has become a household name in artisanal ice cream. Founded by Jeni Britton Bauer, this shop delivers unique, hand-crafted flavors made from whole ingredients and dairy sourced from family farms. Jeni's is known for its creativity, offering flavors that challenge the norms of traditional ice cream.
Must-Try Flavors:
- Brambleberry Crisp: A perfect balance of tart berries with a rich oat streusel.
- Brown Butter Almond Brittle: A nod to Scandinavian candy with caramelized nuts and a velvety butter finish.
For those late-summer days, Jeni’s serves scoops that are as exciting as they are indulgent. Plus, their waffle cones are made in-house, offering a crunchy companion to every dreamy scoop.
2. Margie’s Candies
Location: Bucktown (1960 N. Western Ave)
Open since: 1921
Stepping into Margie’s Candies is like stepping into a time capsule. This iconic ice cream parlor has been serving Chicagoans since the 1920s and is beloved for its old-school charm. Known for massive sundaes, decadent toppings, and homemade candy, Margie’s is the place to go if you're in the mood for nostalgia and indulgence.
Must-Try Treats:
- The Turtle Sundae: Piled high with buttery caramel, hot fudge, pecans, and a cherry on top.
- Banana Split: A towering classic that could easily be shared—or not!
Margie’s isn’t just a place to grab ice cream; it’s an experience. You can cozy up in one of the vintage booths and dive into a sundae that could easily pass for a work of art.
3. Pretty Cool Ice Cream
Location: Logan Square (2353 N. California Ave)
Instagram-Worthy: Definitely!
Pretty Cool Ice Cream is known for its colorful popsicles and ice cream bars, which are as photogenic as they are tasty. Founded by award-winning pastry chef Dana Cree, this shop focuses on small-batch, hand-dipped treats that are fun, vibrant, and made with quality ingredients. Their seasonal flavors are always a hit, and their frozen bars are perfect for eating on the go.
Must-Try Flavors:
- Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Bar: A tangy, refreshing treat for warm afternoons.
- Malted Milk Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bar: This nostalgic flavor is everything you loved about cookie dough in ice cream form.
Pretty Cool Ice Cream specializes in playful, hand-held treats, making it the ideal stop for an on-the-go summer adventure.
4. Original Rainbow Cone
Location: Beverly (9233 S. Western Ave) and Navy Pier
Chicago Staple Since: 1926
When it comes to legendary Chicago ice cream, Original Rainbow Cone is king. Famous for its iconic five-flavor cone, this spot is a staple for summer festivities in the city. The classic cone includes chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with walnuts and cherries), pistachio, and orange sherbet, stacked in perfect harmony.
Must-Try Flavor:
- The Rainbow Cone: Why settle for one flavor when you can have five? The rainbow-colored cone has been a symbol of Chicago summers for nearly a century.
This is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike, offering a piece of Chicago history with every lick.
5. Sugar Shack
Location: Bridgeport (630 W. 26th St)
For those looking for a hidden gem, head over to Bridgeport’s beloved Sugar Shack. This unassuming neighborhood shop serves up soft-serve, hand-dipped cones, and freshly made funnel cakes, perfect for a casual summer evening.
Must-Try Treats:
- Strawberry Shortcake Sundae: A towering cup of strawberry soft serve, fresh strawberries, cake pieces, and whipped cream.
- Chocolate-Dipped Soft Serve Cone: The perfect mix of crunchy shell and creamy ice cream.
Sugar Shack may not have the fame of some other Chicago shops, but its friendly atmosphere and delicious treats make it worth the trip.
6. BomboBar
Location: West Loop (832 W. Randolph St)
For the Adventurous: Yes!
If you're craving something beyond the standard scoop, BomboBar offers a whole new level of indulgence. Known for its "hotter chocolates" and outrageous dessert creations, BomboBar serves up bombolini (Italian donuts) stuffed with gelato, as well as gelato shakes and extravagant sundaes. It's an Instagram-lover’s dream!
Must-Try Treats:
- Gelato Bombolini: Warm, fluffy donuts stuffed with gelato and covered in toppings of your choice.
- S'mores Gelato Shake: A rich chocolate gelato shake topped with torched marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate drizzle.
If you're looking for a little extra excitement in your ice cream adventure, BomboBar will certainly deliver.
Closing Out Summer with Sweetness
As the sun begins to set on another Chicago summer, there’s no better way to celebrate the season’s end than by indulging in some of the city’s finest frozen treats. Whether you're after a nostalgic banana split, a colorful popsicle, or an adventurous flavor, Chicago’s ice cream scene has something for everyone. So, grab your spoon (or cone), gather your friends, and make the most of these last days of summer. Your taste buds will thank you!
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