Due to its geographic location, Philadelphia can be compared to Satan's armpit in the summertime and the ice age in the winter time. Currently, we are being hit with waves of humidity that make it unbearable to be outside. I know Philadelphia is known for its cheesesteaks and pretzels, but it is way too hot outside to eat a piping hot cheesesteak that is dripping grease and cheese. Here are some places where you can get ice cream to keep you cool:
1. The Franklin Fountain
With multiple locations in Old City, The Franklin Fountain pays tribute to old-fashioned ice cream by offering a variety of flavors with fresh ingredients. Some flavors that are unique to the Franklin Fountain include Teaberry Gum, Maple Walnut, and Rum Raisin. They also offer non-dairy flavors for the lactose intolerant people out there.
2. Bassetts
Bassetts Ice Cream is the last of the original vendors in Reading Terminal Market when it opened in 1893. Their ice cream has a timeless taste. Among the most popular flavors are Banana, Guatemalan Ripple, and Pomegranate Blueberry Chunk. They also offer gluten free items.
3. Scoop DeVille
Scoop DeVille is different from the other ice cream shops because they are the only ones that allow you to create your own ice cream blend. Get a scoop on 11th and Walnut!
4. Arctic Scoop
Arctic scoop is unique in that they offer bowls of ice cream mixed with unlimited toppings. They're most famous for scooping their ice cream into cocounts. Located in South Philadelphia on East Passyunk Ave.
5. Little Baby's
Little Baby's "Philadelphia style" ice cream is made with a 16% butterfat dairy base sourced from grass fed cows in rural Pennsylvania. They offer a variety of non-dairy frozen treats which are made with a coconut base. Their flavors never fail to impress with ones like Absinthe Poppy, Ants on a Log, Smoked Cinnamon, and more!
6. Big Gay
Starting out as an ice cream truck in NYC, Big Gay mixes traditional ice cream with fun toppings and flavors blended in. Pick up a Salty Pimp cone on 13th and South streets.
7. Sweet Charlie's
In September 2015, Kyle Billig brought this Thai ice cream method to Philadelphia. Each ice cream or frozen yogurt is made when you order it, you can watch in awe as the milk and cream turn into ice cream right before your eyes!
