Sacramento's Best Ice Cream [Updated 2025]

As I embarked on my sweet quest through the city, I visited 12 incredible spots that each bring their own unique flavor to the table. Trust me, I’ve tasted everything from traditional scoops to some wild, inventive concoctions that could make your taste buds dance. With my years of tasting and exploring, I’ve developed a pretty keen sense of what makes ice cream truly exceptional.

Sacramento’s ice cream scene is bursting with creativity and local charm, and I can’t wait to share the hidden gems and fan favorites I discovered along the way. So, whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, get ready to indulge in some of the best frozen treats this city has to offer!

Yume Gelato

Highlights
Dairy-free options available
Rotating unique flavors
Asian-inspired flavors
Rich and refreshing gelato
Immaculate flavor pairings

Yume Gelato is an absolute gem in the Sacramento ice cream scene, and I couldn't resist diving into their delightful offerings. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the tantalizing aromas of unique Asian-inspired flavors that promise a delightful twist on your typical gelato experience.

One of the standout features of this charming establishment is their dairy-free options, which cater to all kinds of dietary needs without skimping on taste. I decided to indulge in their rotating selection of flavors, and let me tell you, each scoop was a joyous adventure. The rich and refreshing gelato struck the perfect balance between sweet and savory, leaving my taste buds dancing with delight.

What truly sets Yume Gelato apart is their talent for creating immaculate flavor pairings. The fusion of traditional Japanese ingredients with classic gelato methods results in a creamy treat that is simply unforgettable. From matcha to black sesame, every spoonful tells a story, inviting you to explore the depths of flavor in a playful manner. If you find yourself in Sacramento, don’t miss out on this enchanting experience—Yume Gelato is where dreams turn into delicious reality!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in Sacramento.

Boxcar Eats

Highlights
Friendly staff
Clean store
Yummy pineapple whip
Fair seating available
Located in Old Sacramento

Boxcar Eats in the heart of Old Sacramento is truly a hidden gem for ice cream lovers! Upon entering, I was greeted by the friendly staff, who immediately set a warm tone for my visit. The shop boasts a clean and inviting atmosphere, making it a delightful spot to indulge in some sweet treats.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show—the ice cream! I tried their yummy pineapple whip, and it was a game-changer. The tropical notes danced on my palate, offering a refreshing twist that is perfect for those warm Sacramento days. It had just the right balance of sweetness, making each scoop a pure delight.

I also appreciated the fair seating available, allowing guests to sip and savor their ice cream creations at a leisurely pace. Boxcar Eats is not just about ice cream; it’s about creating memorable moments.

Next time you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Old Sacramento, I highly recommend stopping by Boxcar Eats for a scoop or two. You’ll leave with a smile and perhaps a new favorite flavor! Honestly, this spot deserves a spot on every ice cream lover's list.

You might also want to check out the best ramen in Sacramento.

Gunther's Ice Cream

Stepping into Gunther's Ice Cream feels like a delightful trip down memory lane. The vintage charm envelops you as you sample their rich, hand-crafted flavors. My favorite was their signature Chocolate Chip, bursting with real chocolate chunks and a smooth, creamy base that dances on the palate. The seasonal flavors are a must-try, especially the refreshing lemon sorbet—perfect for a warm Sacramento day. The friendly staff are always ready to guide you, making the experience even sweeter. For a true taste of nostalgia and quality, Gunther's is simply a must-visit for ice cream lovers in the city!

You might also want to check out the best coffee shops in Sacramento.

Salt & Straw

On a sunny afternoon, I ventured into Salt & Straw, and my taste buds were instantly enraptured. With quirky flavors like Honey Lavender and Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, there’s no shortage of creativity. Each scoop is a delightful adventure, elevating classic tastes into artful masterpieces. The creamy texture melted smoothly, while the bold flavors danced on my palate. The friendly staff was more than willing to guide me through tastings, making the visit even more enjoyable. If you're on a quest for a truly exceptional ice cream experience in Sacramento, look no further than this gem!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Roseville.

Leatherby's Family Creamery

Leatherby's Family Creamery is a delightful gem in Sacramento that takes ice cream to a whole new level! The moment you step in, you're greeted by a cheerful atmosphere and an impressive display of hand-crafted flavors. I indulged in their signature Butter Pecan, which was rich and creamy, with toasted pecans providing a delightful crunch. The scoops are generous, making it a perfect spot for families to create sweet memories together. If you're looking for a place that combines nostalgia with high-quality ice cream, look no further than Leatherby’s—where every bite feels like a celebration of joy!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in Elk Grove.

Sweets & Sugars

At Sweets & Sugars, every scoop is a delightful adventure! Their creamy lavender honey ice cream dances on the palate, perfectly balancing floral notes with sweet richness. I also adored the salted caramel swirl, which tantalizes with its dynamic flavors and velvety texture. The vibrant, cozy atmosphere adds to the joy, making it a perfect spot to indulge. Each bite feels like a celebration of sweetness, and the staff's enthusiasm is contagious. If you're on the hunt for delectable and creative flavors in Sacramento, Sweets & Sugars is not to be missed—an absolute gem in the heart of our city!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Elk Grove.

Licked

At Licked, my taste buds were treated to a playful parade of flavors! I indulged in the Honey Lavender, which was a delightful dance of floral notes and creamy goodness. The texture was luxuriously smooth, making each bite a blissful escape. The quirky ambiance added to the charm, with colorful decor that invites you to stay awhile. I couldn't resist trying their Salted Caramel Brownie, a decadent combination that balanced sweet and savory beautifully. If you’re searching for a scoop of joy, Licked is a must-visit on your icy adventure through Sacramento!

You might also want to check out the best fried chicken in Sacramento.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Natomas

Walking into Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Natomas felt like stepping into a frosty paradise! The vibrant flavors beckoned to me from the extensive menu, each scoop promising a delightful experience. I dove into a generous serving of their signature Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup, and let me tell you—it was a blissful symphony of rich chocolate mingled with creamy peanut butter. The texture was divine, smooth yet delightfully chunky. The staff's enthusiasm and the cozy ambiance added to the charm, making it a perfect spot for ice cream aficionados. If you’re in Sacramento, don’t miss out on this frozen treasure!

You might also want to check out the best burger in Roseville.

Long Island Ice Cream

As I stepped into Long Island Ice Cream, I was greeted by an explosion of flavors that instantly made my taste buds tingle with excitement. Their unique concoctions, like the Mango Tango Swirl, were refreshing and vibrant, perfect for a sunny Sacramento day. The creamy texture melted effortlessly, leaving a delightful aftertaste. I particularly loved the generous mix-ins, which added an extra crunch to each delightful scoop. If you’re seeking an adventure for your palate, this charming spot is well worth a visit. Dive into Long Island Ice Cream — it's a true treat for any ice cream enthusiast!

You might also want to check out the best thai food in Sacramento.

Somisomi

Stepping into Somisomi was like entering a whimsical wonderland of ice cream delights! Their unique Taiyaki ice cream cones shaped like fish are not just Instagram-worthy; they also deliver a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy goodness inside. I savored the matcha and black sesame flavors, both rich and authentic, leaving me craving more. The toppings, especially the sweet red bean and pocky sticks, added a playful twist to every bite. If you're in Sacramento, this enchanting spot is a must-visit for ice cream lovers seeking an extraordinary treat!

You might also want to check out the best soup in Sacramento.

Water & Salt

I recently had the pleasure of indulging in Water & Salt's unique ice cream offerings, and I must say, it was a delightful journey for my taste buds. The salted caramel flavor is an absolute standout, with just the right balance of sweetness and savory depth. Each scoop has a wonderfully creamy texture that melts beautifully. The minimalist aesthetic of the shop creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a treat. Additionally, the rotating seasonal flavors add an exciting twist. If you’re in Sacramento and seeking a playful yet refined dessert experience, Water & Salt should definitely be on your list!

You might also want to check out the best hot dogs in Sacramento.

Rick's Dessert Diner

Stepping into Rick's Dessert Diner feels like a delightful trip back in time! With a playful retro vibe, the atmosphere is as sweet as the treats they serve. I savored the birthday cake ice cream, a heavenly blend of creamy vanilla laced with colorful sprinkles that bursts with nostalgia. The generous scoops are a feast for the eyes and the palate! Each bite was a happy celebration of flavor—rich yet light. Their rich milkshakes are also worth a mention, making it an ideal spot for dessert lovers. Rick’s is a must-visit for ice cream enthusiasts craving a sugary escape!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Davis.