Charleston, SC, is famous for its rich history and a food scene that’s honestly hard to beat. If you’re out wandering the city, ice cream is one of those treats that just hits the spot—locals and tourists both seem to agree on that. There’s no shortage of options, whether you’re craving a classic scoop or something a little more offbeat.
Some of the best ice cream in Charleston comes from small shops that really care about what they’re serving. You’ll find everything from old-school favorites to vegan creations, so pretty much anyone can find something to love on a hot day.
1) Off Track Ice Cream
Tucked downtown just off King Street, Off Track Ice Cream goes all-in on both traditional and vegan ice cream, making everything from scratch. They lean into local ingredients, pulling flavors from the Lowcountry and beyond.
Their classic ice cream is made with milk, cream, egg yolks, and cane sugar—nothing too fancy, but it works. For the vegan crowd, they use raw cashews, organic coconut cream, and avocado oil, which somehow gives it that creamy, satisfying feel you’d expect.
If you’re after something different, check out flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Stout, Nutella Brownie, or Salted Bourbon Honey and Fig. There’s also a Vegan Brown Sugar Oat Milk and Cookies that’s surprisingly rich. Coconut Cold Brew Honeycomb and Salted Caramel Stracciatella are other standouts. Honestly, their menu’s a mix of nostalgia and wildcards.
Location: 6 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC
2) Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has made a name for itself with unique ice cream and frozen yogurt. They’re always experimenting, but keep things rooted in good local ingredients.
It’s a laid-back spot, good for families or just anyone who wants to try something new. You’ll find some pretty out-there flavors right next to the classics. Sometimes you just want vanilla, but hey, why not try something you can’t pronounce?
Right on King Street, it’s easy to pop in while shopping or wandering around. You can eat there or take your cone to go. The staff actually seem to care about what they’re scooping, which is nice for a change.
Location: 501-A King St, Charleston, SC 29403
3) Freddo Charleston
Freddo Charleston brings Argentinian flair to the city’s ice cream scene, using fresh ingredients for a seriously creamy result. Their menu highlights traditional recipes, and you can taste the difference.
This isn’t just a dessert stop—they’ve got coffee, breakfast, and even brunch. It’s a pretty relaxed spot, perfect for a quick indulgence or a longer hangout if you’re in the mood.
People seem to rave about the friendly staff and the cozy vibe. And if you’re hungry, you’ll find fast food and lunch options too, so it’s not just for your sweet tooth.
Located right on King Street, it’s easy to find whether you’re walking or driving. Check their website for hours and the latest menu.
Location: 239 1/2 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
4) Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream
Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream is a bit of a throwback, with classic flavors and a retro vibe that’s honestly kind of charming. It’s more than just an ice cream shop—you’ll find sandwiches, sides, and plenty of quick bites.
It’s a solid pick for families, offering good value and a no-fuss atmosphere. People keep coming back for the friendly service and those thick shakes.
The Savannah Highway spot gets plenty of foot traffic, and it’s earned its reputation the old-fashioned way: consistency and a simple, straightforward menu. Oh, and if you’re looking for a job, they’re usually hiring.
Location: 474 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407
5) Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar
Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar is a chill spot for ice cream, but honestly, there’s a lot more going on here. Besides scoops, you’ll find sandwiches, Italian desserts, charcuterie, and even a solid wine and cocktail list.
Their sandwiches come on housemade Italian ciabatta, stacked with classics like salami and provolone. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Cannoli Cake is a must—layers of vanilla and chocolate cake, filled with cannoli cream. And don’t skip the Espresso Martini if you’re feeling fancy.
It’s the kind of place where you can linger over dessert or grab a light meal. People seem to love the mix of dessert options and savory bites. Carmella’s manages to blend the old-school with a modern cafe vibe.
Location: 198 E Bay St STE 100, Charleston, SC 29401
6) Buzzed Bull Creamery – Charleston, SC
If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, Buzzed Bull Creamery uses liquid nitrogen to freeze your order right in front of you. It’s a bit of a show, and the ice cream ends up extra creamy.
There are over 30 flavors, including alcohol-infused options with 5% ABV or more—so yeah, adults, this one’s for you. Everything’s made fresh, and you can customize your dessert however you like.
They rotate monthly flights, so you can sample new buzzed flavors if you’re indecisive. The whole vibe is about making ice cream fun and a little unexpected.
Location: 595 King St Suite 130, Charleston, SC 29403
7) Ye Ole Fashioned Cafe & Ice Cream
Ye Ole Fashioned Cafe & Ice Cream is another local favorite, and the retro feel is part of its charm. The menu’s got a bit of everything: ice cream, shakes, burgers, sandwiches. It’s a laid-back spot for a quick meal or just dessert.
Started as a neighborhood joint with hot dogs and ice cream, now it’s a go-to for locals. Their BLT is kind of legendary—ten slices of bacon, no joke.
You can order online for pickup or delivery, and they cater events too. Reviews mention the speedy, friendly service, which is always a plus.
Location: 1319 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407
8) The Pineapple Hut
The Pineapple Hut is for anyone craving a tropical, dairy-free treat. Their main thing is pineapple whip—vegan, fat free, low calorie, gluten free, packed with vitamin C and probiotics. If you want a healthier option, this is about as guilt-free as it gets.
You can get it as a float or a chunky whip with real pineapple pieces. The Paradise Whip, served in a fresh pineapple, is the showstopper.
They keep things interesting by rotating a second flavor every week—check Instagram if you want the latest. With locations in Charleston, Folly Beach, and Myrtle Beach, it’s easy to find that tropical fix.
Location: 99 S Market St Suite 5, Charleston, SC 29401
9) Turbo Cone
Turbo Cone’s got a fun mix of soft serve flavors—some classics, some that change with the seasons (see here). They don’t leave anyone out, with both dairy and non-dairy options, so folks with different diets can usually find something. The menu covers cones, cups, shakes, malts, and floats, which is always a plus.
What really sets Turbo Cone apart, though, are the homemade waffle cones and bowls. If you’re up for trying something quirky, there’s the Hurricone, plus slushies and these “Icebergs” that are hard to describe but fun to eat. Oh, and they sell their own t-shirts and hats—because why not rep your favorite ice cream spot?
They’re open mostly in the afternoons and evenings, staying open a bit later on Fridays and Saturdays. Right on St Andrews Blvd in Charleston, so it’s easy to swing by whether you’re a local or just passing through.
Location: 828 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407
10) Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe
Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe is one of those cozy places that feels like a hug after a long day. Their menu of house-made desserts rotates, so you never really know what you’ll find—sometimes it’s a classic you grew up with, sometimes it’s a creative twist you didn’t see coming. Everything’s made fresh, which you can totally taste.
They whip up thick milkshakes and have a solid lineup of specialty coffees. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, there are cold drinks and even dessert martinis (yes, really).
Not just about sweets, Kaminsky’s also pours beer, wine, and liquor—hot toddies, spirited coffees, you name it. It’s kind of a dessert shop, cafe, and cocktail bar mashed together, which is honestly pretty cool.
Location: 78 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401
What Makes Charleston’s Ice Cream Scene Unique
Charleston’s ice cream is different—there’s just something about the local ingredients (like these) and those Southern-inspired flavors you don’t really find elsewhere. The city’s long, layered history seeps into dessert menus, shaping what ends up in your cone. It all adds up to a scene that’s got its own vibe, not just a copy of what you’d see in other towns.
Local Ingredients and Southern Flavors
A lot of the ice cream shops here lean hard into fresh, local stuff. Fruits, honey, and dairy come from nearby, so you’re not just getting a treat—you’re supporting local farmers too. Some spots serve up flavors like honey fig, peach leaf fig, and bourbon caramel. I mean, how often do you see those outside the South?
The local batches tend to be softer and creamier, probably because they’re made in smaller quantities and served fresh. Shops love mixing old-school Southern ingredients with new ideas, which keeps things interesting for both locals and out-of-towners who want a real taste of Charleston.
Historical Influences on Dessert Culture
You can’t really talk about Charleston desserts without mentioning the city’s history. A lot of flavors nod to the region’s agricultural roots and even colonial days, but with a twist—think classic recipes reimagined with local fruits, nuts, or spices.
Being a port city, Charleston’s always had a mix of cultures passing through, and you see that in the ice cream scene. There’s a blend of traditional and new, and somehow it all just works. It’s a little bit old, a little bit new, and a lot Southern.
When to Enjoy Ice Cream in Charleston
Ice cream’s pretty much a year-round thing in Charleston, but let’s be honest—there are times when it just hits better. Local festivals and that infamous heat definitely influence when people flock to the shops. If you’re planning a little ice cream adventure, it helps to keep these in mind.
Seasonal Events and Traditions
Charleston throws some fun events that are basically excuses to eat more ice cream. The Strawberry Festival at Boone Hall Plantation every May is a good example—fresh berries and cold treats everywhere you look.
Farmers markets and fruit festivals inspire shops to roll out special, seasonal flavors. Locals and tourists both seem to love these limited-edition options, and honestly, who can blame them?
Tips for Beating the Charleston Heat
Charleston summers? Hot and sticky. Ice cream is the unofficial solution. Most people pop into shops during the late afternoon or early evening, when it feels like the sun’s sitting on your shoulder.
Soft serve or gelato can be lighter and melt fast (so eat quick!), but they’re perfect for cooling off. Turbo Cone does great soft serve, if you’re curious. If you can, find a spot with shade or good AC—you’ll thank yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Charleston’s got a handful of ice cream shops that really stand out, whether it’s for their flavors, atmosphere, or just the local buzz. Here’s a quick rundown of what folks usually ask.
What are the top-rated ice cream shops in downtown Charleston?
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams on King Street is a crowd favorite. Off Track Ice Cream is another spot that gets a lot of love for their creative flavors. Both places pull in rave reviews from locals and tourists.
Where can I find unique ice cream flavors in Charleston?
Off Track Ice Cream is where you’ll probably find something you haven’t tried before. Jeni’s is known for mixing things up too, always using top-notch ingredients. If you’re after something different, these are solid bets.
Which ice cream parlors in North Charleston are considered local favorites?
Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream is the go-to for a lot of folks in North Charleston. It’s got that old-school vibe and a loyal crowd. Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar is close by and draws a good mix of residents as well.
Are there any award-winning ice cream places in the Charleston area?
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has snagged some awards for their quality and flavors. Off Track gets a ton of praise too—maybe not trophies, but the reviews speak for themselves.
Can you recommend family-friendly ice cream spots in Mount Pleasant?
Freddo Charleston is a great pick for families. It’s got a welcoming vibe, classic treats, and enough room that you won’t feel rushed if you’ve got kids in tow.
What are the must-visit ice cream shops near King Street in Charleston?
If you’re wandering around King Street craving something sweet, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is probably the first spot that comes to mind. It’s right in the mix and, honestly, their flavors rarely disappoint. Not far off, Off Track Ice Cream has its own charm—especially if you want to try something a bit less mainstream but still delicious. Both spots have their own vibe, so it kind of depends on what you’re in the mood for, but either way, you’re not likely to regret stopping in.
