Nothing beats an ice cream cone on these (let’s be honest, unbearably) hot days. With the temperatures rising to what feels like infinity, and of course in honor of National Ice Cream month, it is beyond time to share our favorite ice cream spots in Raleigh and the greater triangle. Do yourself a favor, and make this your summer bucket list because there are so many amazing flavors on this list.
Where? Howling Cow Dairy Education Center and Creamery, 100 Dairy Lane, Raleigh
A product of our very own North Carolina State University, this ice cream is made with the freshest cream and milk by cows that live on the 329 acre farm on campus. With a gigantic wrap around porch and rocking chairs and a giant field where you can see the cows up close, this stop is relaxing for the parents and fun for the kids.
Our favorite flavor: Wolf Tracks - Vanilla ice cream swirled with fudge and peanut butter cup chunks
Where? 1008 Ryan Rd., Cary
A local, family business that is woman-owned and operated, this ice cream parlor is known for its over the top and absolutely delicious creations. They have a ton of flavors including options for vegans and the lactose-intolerant.
Our favorite flavor: We couldn’t pick just one. Tied for first place are Baklava and Ube.
Where? Multiple locations
Greystone Village, 7713 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh
Person St., 215 E Franklin St., Raleigh
Lake Boone Trail, 4025 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh
Golden Belt, 800 Taylor St., Durham
Named the best ice cream in the Tar Heel State by Food and Wine in 2021, Two Roosters lives up to its reputation. The menu is constantly changing so you can enjoy something new every visit or stick to some of the drool worthy permanent flavors.
Our favorite flavor: Sola Cinnamon Donut
Where? 306 East Wait Ave., Wake Forest
Originally a treat that Chef Buck Buchannan made for his kids, they loved it so much he decided to learn all he could about ice cream. We all get to enjoy the results based on his philosophy of keep it simple and keep it local.
Our favorite flavor: Buchanan’s Black and White (whisky ice cream with chocolate chips)
Where? Multiple locations
2421 Spring Forest Rd., Raleigh
9700 Strickland Rd., Raleigh
13260 Strickland Rd., Raleigh
2042 Clark Ave., Raleigh
1146 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary
2325 Davis Dr., Cary
1407 Garner Station Blvd., Garner
11736 Retail Dr., Wake Forest
3906 N Roxboro St., Durham
Ok so this isn’t technically ice cream but it’s so good we had to add it to the list. Their thick and creamy custard is the perfect note to end a hot day on. Their flavors change daily so make sure to check their website before your visit so you know when you can get your favorites!
Our favorite flavor: Jamocha
Where? Multiple Locations
6033 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh
109 North Salem Street, Apex
138 East Chatham St., Cary
Frozen treat entrepreneurs Brett Hillman and his wife took over Fresh Local Ice Cream in 2011 and we couldn’t be happier. Their ice cream base comes from a nearby farm and all flavors are mixed up daily on sight for the freshest local flavors.
Our favorite flavor: Kona Coffee or Midnight Brownie Crunch
Where? 117 Market St., Durham
With unique flavors and seasonal ingredients, we love visiting The Parlour. And if you can’t make it to downtown Durham, you can also find their unique flavors at The Durham Coop Market, Bulldega, Melina’s Fresh Pasta, and Dashi Ramen.
Our favorite flavor: There was no way we could pick just one.
Vietnamese Coffee
Honey Lavender
Fresh Mint
Beet Stacciatella
Where? 240 South Nash St., Hillsborough (ok we know it’s far but it’s also soooooo worth the drive)
A true family business, all of Whit’s flavors are made fresh on site. They feature a signature flavor every week and churn vanilla and chocolate throughout the day. You can create your own custom flavors or try one of their mouth watering combinations.
Our favorite flavor: Hawaiian Lu’au (pineapple, coconut, banana, and macadamias)