Best Ice Cream in the Triangle
Are you looking for the best ice cream spots in the Triangle area? Keep reading to discover the most delicious places to satisfy your sweet tooth.
When you're exploring neighborhoods in the Triangle or already call this area home, there's nothing quite like discovering the perfect ice cream shop for those warm North Carolina days.
Knowing the best spots to go is essential to indulging in your favorite ice cream. Throughout the Triangle, many locally owned shops are a must-visit spot, especially once Memorial Day weekend rolls around and the summer season begins.
Whether you're a longtime resident or considering a move to our vibrant region, these ten exceptional ice cream destinations showcase the sweet side of Triangle living. From university creameries to family-run favorites, each shop offers its own unique flavor of local charm.
Here are the best ice cream spots throughout the Triangle.
1. Howling Cow Ice Cream
Location: 100 Dairy Ln, Raleigh, NC 27603
For over half a century, generations of North Carolinians have loved this premium ice cream on NC State's campus and at the State Fair. Located at NC State's actual dairy farm, Howling Cow Ice Cream offers visitors the chance to see the Holstein and Jersey cows that provide the milk for their premium ice cream.
This working dairy farm produces fresh milk daily, creating a genuine farm-to-scoop experience where you can meet the cows behind your cone. The on-site creamery processes the milk into rich, creamy ice cream using traditional methods.
There's something magical about enjoying ice cream while watching the cows graze in nearby pastures. The farm setting provides a peaceful escape from city life, and the incredibly fresh milk creates noticeably superior flavor and texture.
Howling Cow Ice Cream offers a full menu that includes scooped ice cream, banana splits, sundaes, and milkshakes.
.png)
2. Andia's Homemade Ice Cream
Locations: 1008 Ryan Rd, Cary & 10120 Green Level Church Road, Cary
Andia's Homemade Ice Cream is a local, multi-award-winning, family-run ice cream company that offers many shops all over the Triangle. They offer desserts in Raleigh and Cary in various forms and flavors, as well as vegan and gluten-free options.
With premium ingredients, this shop offers many options of ice cream to fit everyone's preferences and diet. With two locations, this shop is thriving in making their loyal customers happy and wanting more.
Triangle residents love this ice cream shop for their unique flavors and crazy cake shakes that are Instagram-worthy treats. The ice cream flights let you sample multiple flavors in one visit. Their commitment to dietary inclusivity means everyone can find something delicious.
3. Two Roosters Ice Cream
Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh, Durham, Wake Forest, and Cary
With their first brick building that opened in 2017, Two Roosters Ice Cream has been a go-to place for residents of the Raleigh area. Now with locations spanning multiple Triangle cities, Two Roosters gives you a reason to explore different neighborhoods while enjoying consistently excellent ice cream.
The ice cream menu is constantly rotating and offers a mixture of permanent and seasonal flavors. The new flavors are announced on the first of the month on their social media, so do not miss out on the unique and delicious flavors they come up with.
4. Lumpy's Ice Cream
Location: 306 Wait Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Lumpy's Ice Cream is locally owned by a father who wanted to make sweet treats that are simple but delicious. Since 2001, Lumpy's has been making full-flavored, all-natural products from local producers that use hormone-free milk and cream from various family farms throughout the area.
In 2012, Lumpy's became the official Ice Cream of the Carolina RailHawks as well, and they have a place on the shelves at local grocery stores and fresh food markets. With many flavors, Lumpy's is a perfect spot to stop by and enjoy a frozen treat.
This beloved local institution is known for generous portions and classic flavors done exceptionally well. Their old-school approach to ice cream making creates rich, creamy textures that stand the test of time.
5. Goodberry's Frozen Custard
Location: Several locations throughout the Triangle
Goodberry's is a regional chain that originated in North Carolina, giving you a taste of authentic local flavor that you can't find everywhere. Technically serving frozen custard rather than ice cream, Goodberry's offers a denser, richer texture thanks to the addition of egg yolks.
With only natural ingredients and no artificial flavors or chemicals, this custard is a special dessert that many residents love. Their concrete mixers blend in toppings for a customized treat.
Chocolate and Vanilla are offered daily, with the addition of their flavor of the day, which can range from S'mores to Banana Pudding.
6. FRESH. Local Ice Cream
Location: Multiple locations throughout the Triangle
FRESH. Local Ice Cream is Raleigh's mom-and-pop ice cream shop serving up unique ice cream flavors as well as handmade ice cream cakes. As the name suggests, their commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients creates ice cream that truly tastes like the Triangle.
This ice cream is a multi-award-winning spot, made fresh every week with local milk, free-range cows, free of artificial hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides. They prioritize seasonal flavors using ingredients from nearby farms.
The farm-to-freezer philosophy supports local agriculture while delivering exceptional taste. Their seasonal rotations mean there's always something new to try based on what's growing nearby.
7. Sunni Sky's Homemade Ice Cream
Location: 8617 NC-55, Angier, NC 27501
Sunni Sky's Homemade Ice Cream is a beloved local shop that offers more than 130 homemade flavors. This family-owned business is renowned for its affordable prices, fast and friendly service, and its appeal to both human and furry customers.
The incredible variety of flavors means you could visit dozens of times and still discover new favorites. Their homemade approach and friendly service create a true small-town ice cream parlor experience.
This shop may be located in the middle of nowhere, but it is a cute little place with plenty of outdoor seating. Please note that the shop accepts cash only, so make sure you have enough on hand when you visit.
This small shop can get very busy during the season, but don't worry; they are quick and efficient. You can even sample as many ice cream flavors as you like since there are so many unique options available.
Please note that the shop is temporarily closed every year from December 1st until March 1st.
8. Maple View Farm Ice Cream
Location: 6900 Rocky Ridge Rd, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Maple View Farm Ice Cream is home to the Triangle's highest quality, farm-fresh milk and ice cream, as well as milk and other dairy products from their country store. Maple View Farm has won awards at the local, regional, and even the national level.
Maple View has hundreds of delicious flavors and unique ice cream creations. Serving a mixture of permanent and seasonal flavors, there is something for everyone. There are also No Sugar Added sorbets for people with dietary preferences.
The farm setting provides a peaceful escape from city life, while the quality of ingredients ensures exceptional flavor. All milk and ice cream come from Jersey cows, free from added hormones and antibiotics.
The country store also has many events throughout the year, such as live music, activities, informational booths, and so much more. So, if you are searching for some homemade ice cream and an experience, check out Maple View Farm Ice Cream.
9. Mama Bird's Ice Cream
Location: 304 N Main St, Holly Springs, NC 27540
Mama Bird's Ice Cream is a popular ice cream destination in Holly Springs. Whether it's your first Mama Bird's experience or you're a regular, you're in for a symphony of unique, rotating flavors featuring quality, creamy, hand-made ice cream, served with a smile.
The rotating flavors keep things interesting, while the consistently high quality and friendly service create a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. Sorbets, ice cream cakes, cookies, brownies, and homemade ice cream cones are also on the menu.
10. MILKLAB
Location: 6418 Tryon Rd, Cary, NC 27518
MILKLAB brings the trendy rolled ice cream experience to Cary, where fresh ice cream is made to order right before your eyes on a frozen metal plate. This interactive dessert experience combines premium ingredients with theatrical preparation, creating Instagram-worthy treats that taste as good as they look.
The made-to-order process means every serving is perfectly fresh, while the customizable toppings and mix-ins allow for endless creativity. The modern, clean aesthetic and bubble tea options create a contemporary dessert destination that appeals to all ages.
This ice cream shop represents Cary's reputation as a forward-thinking community that embraces food innovation while maintaining family-friendly appeal. The interactive experience makes it a great spot for entertaining visitors or celebrating special occasions.
Methodology
In order to determine the best local ice cream shops in the Triangle, factors such as local experience, reviews, and ratings, were considered.
FAQs
Which place in the Triangle has the nation's best ice cream?
Andia's Ice Cream holds the standing as the Triangle and nation's best ice cream spot and has been ranked as one of the top 10 best places in the United States for Ice Cream.
Are there many things to do in Raleigh, NC?
There are many things to do in Raleigh, whether it be checking out local museums, parks, or restaurants; Raleigh has so much for everyone. If you are looking for a sweet treat that is not ice cream, check out Videri Chocolate Factory.
Are there many local farms in the Triangle?
There are many local farms and farmers markets all throughout the Triangle. Many local places get their ingredients from these local farms and markets.
What is the best ice cream flavor in the world?
According to much research, America's favorite ice cream flavor is Vanilla, and thankfully, all of these ice cream shops in the triangle all offer this flavor in many ways: dairy-free, gluten-free, and locally fresh.
Best Ice Cream in Triangle - The Bottom Line
These ten ice cream destinations are among the best in the Triangle. From university traditions at Howling Cow to farm experiences at Maple View, each shop contributes to the Triangle's unique character.
For families considering a move to the area, these shops offer insight into what makes Triangle living special: the blend of innovation and tradition, the support for local businesses, the embrace of both classic American treats and international influences, and the underlying sense of community that makes newcomers feel welcome.
Knowing the best places to go for indulging in your favorite ice cream is essential. Some of these spots have even been nominated for the best ice cream, so you must give them a try.
Whether you're cooling off after a day at the park, celebrating a successful house hunt, or simply exploring your new neighborhood, the Triangle's ice cream scene provides the perfect excuse to discover what makes each community unique.
Are you ready to find your dream home in Raleigh? Contact the experts at Raleigh Realty today to discover what makes the Triangle such a sweet place to call home.
