13 Vintage Ice Cream Parlors That Serve Sweet Nostalgia

Ice cream parlors have been a cherished part of American culture for decades, serving up both cold treats and warm memories. Today, many vintage ice cream shops continue this tradition, keeping their classic charm intact while delighting new generations. From checkerboard floors to retro seating, these parlors offer more than just ice cream—they offer a taste of the past.

The Franklin Fountain

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Fountain takes you straight to the early 1900s with its authentic soda fountain, marble counters, and turn-of-the-century charm. Their ice cream is made in-house using traditional methods, with flavors like Black Raspberry and Rocky Road keeping things classic. Sundaes are served in vintage glassware, topped with fresh whipped cream and cherries. The menu also includes old-fashioned sodas and floats that are perfect for pairing with a cone. Walking through the door feels like stepping into a sweet time capsule.

Eddie’s Sweet Shop

Located in Queens, New York, Eddie’s Sweet Shop has been serving up ice cream since 1927. The original counter, wood-paneled walls, and vintage stools make it feel like nothing has changed in almost a century. Every scoop is made on-site, and their sundaes are stacked high with house-made whipped cream and syrup. The old-school milkshakes, malts, and banana splits add to the shop’s nostalgic charm. It’s the perfect place to experience a slice of ice cream history.

Fentons Creamery

Fentons Creamery in Oakland, California, is a beloved parlor that’s been around since 1894. Known for its giant sundaes and homemade ice cream, this historic spot draws crowds with its fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Their signature Black & Tan sundae, loaded with caramel, vanilla, and toasted almond ice cream, is a local favorite. The retro booths and ice cream bar add to the vintage vibe, making it a must-visit for anyone craving both ice cream and nostalgia. It’s a spot where history and dessert meet in perfect harmony.

Cabot’s Ice Cream & Restaurant

Cabot’s Ice Cream & Restaurant in Newton, Massachusetts, has been serving classic ice cream since 1969. This retro diner-style parlor is known for its extensive ice cream menu featuring over 70 flavors. Their sundaes come in sizes big enough to share, with all the toppings you could dream of. From hand-scooped cones to thick milkshakes, every visit feels like a step back into a more relaxed, friendly era. The vintage décor and welcoming atmosphere make it a local favorite for both ice cream lovers and nostalgia seekers.

Margie’s Candies

Margie’s Candies in Chicago is a historic gem that’s been delighting customers since 1921. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a vintage candy shop vibe, complete with retro booths and an old-fashioned counter. Their ice cream sundaes are legendary, served in giant clamshell dishes and topped with house-made fudge, whipped cream, and nuts. Famous for both their ice cream and chocolates, Margie’s has been a favorite spot for locals and celebrities alike. The timeless charm of this parlor makes it a must-visit for anyone craving a sweet taste of the past.

Petersen’s Ice Cream

Petersen’s Ice Cream in Oak Park, Illinois, has been a local institution since 1919. With its classic soda fountain and old-school décor, it’s a throwback to a simpler time. The parlor is known for its rich, creamy ice cream made from original recipes. Their sundaes and shakes are piled high with toppings like hot fudge and whipped cream. The nostalgic feel of the place, paired with the exceptional ice cream, makes it a beloved stop for families and ice cream enthusiasts.

Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Doumar’s is a unique blend of a vintage ice cream parlor and a barbecue joint. Founded by the inventor of the waffle cone, Abe Doumar, this spot has been around since 1904. Their ice cream cones are still made on-site using the original waffle iron from the early 1900s. The parlor’s retro charm and homemade ice cream make it a perfect stop for anyone looking for a taste of history. Enjoying a cone from Doumar’s feels like stepping back to a time when things were just a little bit simpler.

Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

In St. Louis, Missouri, Ted Drewes has been serving frozen custard for over 80 years. This iconic roadside stand is a summer tradition for locals, with its creamy custard being a must-try. The retro signs and small-town vibe give it that vintage ice cream stand feel. Their famous “concretes,” custard mixed with toppings and so thick it’s served upside down, are a crowd favorite. Ted Drewes is a nostalgic, no-frills stop that reminds visitors of the simple joys of summer.

Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain

Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain in South Pasadena, California, brings the charm of a 1950s soda shop to life. With its checkerboard floors, red vinyl booths, and retro signs, this parlor serves up a full dose of nostalgia along with their ice cream. The sundaes and shakes are made the old-fashioned way, topped with whipped cream, cherries, and sprinkles. Their menu includes fun, classic treats like root beer floats and egg creams. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy an ice cream cone while feeling like they’ve stepped back in time.

Sweet Rose Creamery

Sweet Rose Creamery in Los Angeles might be a modern addition to the vintage ice cream scene, but it feels like a throwback with its small-batch, hand-crafted ice cream and nostalgic flavors. The décor is simple, but the taste takes center stage with options like Fresh Mint Chip and Salted Caramel. Their retro ice cream truck also brings that old-fashioned parlor experience to different parts of the city. It’s a mix of old and new that delivers both flavor and feel-good vibes.

The Ice Cream Bar

San Francisco’s The Ice Cream Bar offers a taste of the past with its 1930s-style soda fountain and art deco interior. Their ice cream is made in-house, and they offer everything from classic scoops to egg creams and phosphates. The parlor’s soda jerks serve up treats with a smile, bringing back the fun of a vintage ice cream experience. From their ice cream floats to their retro décor, The Ice Cream Bar is a delightful journey into the past.

Sweet Shoppe

Located in the charming town of Blue Ridge, Georgia, Sweet Shoppe is a vintage-style parlor that serves homemade ice cream with a side of nostalgia. The shop’s décor includes retro signs, vintage candy, and old-fashioned ice cream counters. Their hand-scooped ice cream comes in flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Southern Butter Pecan, perfect for enjoying on their outdoor patio. With its friendly service and timeless feel, it’s a spot where both locals and visitors feel right at home.

Leatherby’s Family Creamery

Leatherby’s Family Creamery in Sacramento, California, has been serving up smiles since 1982, but the old-fashioned parlor feels like it’s been around much longer. With its classic sundaes, rich ice cream, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a place that brings back memories of simpler times. The menu includes towering banana splits, thick milkshakes, and hot fudge sundaes, all made fresh to order. It’s a community favorite that keeps the spirit of traditional ice cream parlors alive.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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