Spring is finally in the air in Washington, DC, and it’s a great time to start enjoying your favorite frozen treats again! DC is a paradise for ice cream lovers, packed with creative scoops, bold flavors and dessert spots that turn a simple cone into a full experience. From inventive gelato and handcrafted small-batch ice cream to boozy barlours and loaded sundaes, the area delivers treats that go far beyond the ordinary.
Whether you are strolling through historic neighborhoods or hopping between museums and shops, there is always a sweet stop nearby ready to impress. This guide highlights some of the most over-the-top ice cream spots in and around DC, where dessert becomes an experience all its own. These are the places known for wild flavors, fun toppings and creative presentation that make every visit memorable.
Everyday Sundae
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This beloved neighborhood shop is known for rich, creamy ice cream and rotating seasonal flavors that keep locals coming back. The menu blends comforting classics with playful twists, making it easy to find something for every taste.
- Address: 713 Kennedy St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 3-9 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday
- Phone: (202) 723-0159
Here’s the Scoop
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Here’s the Scoop serves generous portions of hand-dipped ice cream, milkshakes and creative sundaes in a bright, welcoming space. The shop rotates its flavors regularly, so there is always something new to try alongside favorites like chocolate and vanilla. It also offers dairy-free options, making it easy for everyone in the group to find something they love.
- Address: 2824 Georgia Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 1-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Sunday, 1-8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Phone: (202) 629-4040
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s is famous for pushing flavor boundaries with combinations like goat cheese with cherries, brambleberry crisp and seasonal fruit sorbets. The shop also offers several dairy-free options, perfect for anyone with dietary needs.
- Address: 1925 14th St. NW and 526 8th St. SE, Washington, DC
- Hours: 1 p.m.-midnight Monday-Thursday, noon-1 a.m. Friday-Saturday, noon-midnight Sunday
- Phone: (202) 621-8625
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream
This small-batch ice cream shop brings bold, inventive flavors to DC, like Vietnamese coffee and berry-swirl creations. The cozy shop in Mount Pleasant gives it a neighborhood feel that pairs perfectly with its creative menu. It is a great place to step outside your usual order and try something unexpected. Locals love it for both its flavor, originality and friendly atmosphere.
- Address: 3110 Mt. Pleasant St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 2-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 1-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday, noon-9:30 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (240) 804-7038
Ice Cream Jubilee
Ice Cream Jubilee is known for its ever-changing lineup of playful, seasonal flavors inspired by everything from childhood treats to global desserts. You can even pair your scoop with hot mini donuts for an extra-indulgent experience.
- Address: 3333 M St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 2-9 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 299-9042
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Van Leeuwen serves rich, premium ice cream with flavors that range from classic vanilla to wildly creative combinations like churros and fudge or praline butter cake. The shop is especially known for its smooth texture and indulgent toppings. There are also vegan options, making it easy to bring a group with varying preferences.
- Address: 3245 Prospect St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 1-11 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-midnight Saturday, noon-11 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (202) 464-0310
Happy Ice Cream
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Happy Ice Cream is a walk-up style shop that serves dense, creamy scoops with a rotating selection of flavors. Its simple setup and high-quality ice cream have made it a favorite among locals. The changing menu keeps things exciting, especially for repeat visitors.
- Address: 1509 17th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 12:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, noon-8:30 p.m. Friday
D/Lai Ice Cream
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This newer boutique ice cream shop has quickly earned a loyal following for its rich, well-balanced flavors. Located near major DC attractions, it is an easy stop for a treat after sightseeing.
- Address: 2000 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: Noon-9:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday, noon-7:30 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (786) 218-8616
Don’t miss these Washington Parent Picks
Each year, Washington Parent asks readers to vote on their favorite businesses throughout the city. These are the top readers’ choices!
Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream – Washington Parent Picks winner
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A longtime local favorite and just a short drive from DC, Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream is beloved for its ultra-creamy texture and nostalgic, small-batch flavors. The River Road location is especially popular with families and regulars who appreciate the cozy atmosphere and consistently high quality.
- Address: 5241 River Road, Bethesda, MD
- Hours: 11-9 p.m. daily
- Phone: (301) 652-6823
Ben & Jerry’s – Washington Parent Picks finalist
Ben & Jerry’s may be a nationally known brand, but the Wharf location makes it a standout stop for an over-the-top ice cream break in DC. The shop serves the iconic, cleverly named flavors fans love, along with generous scoops and indulgent mix-ins. Located along the waterfront, it’s an easy dessert stop while exploring the Wharf or enjoying a stroll by the water.
- Address: 705 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Phone: (202) 290-1277
